The Southport Area is home to a diverse and thriving real estate market, offering options that range from affordable single-family homes to luxury beachfront estates. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful retreat in Boiling Spring Lakes or a waterfront property in Bald Head Island, the Southport Area has something for every type of buyer.
The real estate landscape across the five towns—Southport, Oak Island, Bald Head Island, Boiling Spring Lakes, and St. James—varies significantly based on location, amenities, and proximity to the water, making it important to understand the unique features of each market. Below is an overview of the market trends, typical home prices, and property types available in each town.
Southport: Historic Homes and Waterfront Charm
- Home Prices: The median home price in Southport ranges from $350,000 to $750,000, with waterfront properties and historic homes in the downtown area commanding higher prices. Homes with scenic views of the Cape Fear River or Intracoastal Waterway can exceed $1 million.
- Market Trends: Southport’s real estate market is highly desirable due to its historic charm and waterfront access. Homes tend to sell quickly, especially those in the historic district or with direct water access.
- Property Types: Southport offers a mix of historic homes, new construction, and waterfront properties. There are also townhomes and condos for buyers seeking lower maintenance living.
- Investment Opportunities: Vacation rentals are a viable investment in Southport due to its appeal to tourists, especially in the downtown area.
Oak Island: Beachfront Living
- Home Prices: Oak Island is known for its beachfront properties, with prices ranging from $300,000 for smaller homes further inland to over $1 million for oceanfront homes. Homes with water views typically fall in the $600,000 to $900,000 range.
- Market Trends: Oak Island has a strong second-home and vacation rental market, driven by its miles of sandy beaches and easy access to outdoor recreation. The market is highly competitive, with homes selling quickly during peak seasons.
- Property Types: Oak Island primarily offers single-family beach cottages, vacation homes, and condos. Inland properties provide more affordable options, while oceanfront homes represent the higher end of the market.
- Investment Opportunities: Vacation rentals are a significant part of the market here, and short-term rentals are common. The proximity to the beach and vacation demand make Oak Island a solid investment area.
Bald Head Island: Exclusive and Luxurious
- Home Prices: Bald Head Island is known for its high-end real estate, with home prices typically starting at $700,000 and reaching well over $2 million for luxury waterfront properties. Oceanfront estates and homes with private docks command premium prices.
- Market Trends: The real estate market on Bald Head Island is unique due to its exclusivity and limited access. With no cars allowed on the island, the focus is on luxurious, eco-friendly homes that blend with the island’s natural beauty. The market tends to be stable, with demand outstripping supply for premium properties.
- Property Types: Properties on Bald Head Island consist mostly of large, single-family homes, many of which are custom-built. These homes often feature environmentally conscious designs, with many located near the beach or forest preserves.
- Investment Opportunities: Because of the island’s exclusivity, vacation homes and short-term rentals can generate substantial income during peak seasons. However, managing a rental remotely can present logistical challenges due to the island’s ferry access.
Boiling Spring Lakes: Affordable and Nature-Focused
- Home Prices: Boiling Spring Lakes is one of the most affordable areas in the Southport region, with home prices typically ranging from $200,000 to $400,000. Vacant land is also available for under $100,000, providing opportunities for custom home building.
- Market Trends: The real estate market in Boiling Spring Lakes is less competitive than in neighboring coastal towns, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those seeking more affordable options. The area is known for its serene, nature-centric setting.
- Property Types: Boiling Spring Lakes features primarily single-family homes, many of which are nestled in wooded areas near the lakes. There are also opportunities for new construction on larger lots.
- Investment Opportunities: Boiling Spring Lakes offers great value for those looking to invest in a quiet, nature-focused setting. While vacation rentals are less common, the area’s affordability and peaceful atmosphere appeal to retirees and families.
St. James: Resort-Style Living
- Home Prices: St. James is an upscale, gated community with home prices starting around $450,000 and exceeding $1 million for properties with golf course views or access to the marina. The average home price in St. James is around $600,000 to $800,000.
- Market Trends: The market in St. James remains competitive, particularly for homes with premium amenities like golf course access, private marina docks, or ocean views. The community is highly sought after by retirees and second-home buyers.
- Property Types: St. James offers luxury single-family homes, townhomes, and condos, many of which are located near golf courses or the marina. The homes are typically newer and feature modern designs with resort-style amenities.
- Investment Opportunities: While St. James caters more to full-time residents or retirees, there is potential for vacation rental income, especially for golf enthusiasts or those seeking an upscale vacation experience.
Comparing Real Estate Across the Southport Area
Each town in the Southport Area offers a distinct real estate experience, from the affordable, nature-centric homes in Boiling Spring Lakes to the luxury properties on Bald Head Island. Here’s a quick comparison of real estate across the five towns:
- Median Home Prices:
- Southport: $350,000 – $750,000
- Oak Island: $300,000 – $1,000,000+
- Bald Head Island: $700,000 – $2,000,000+
- Boiling Spring Lakes: $200,000 – $400,000
- St. James: $450,000 – $1,000,000+
- Market Trends: Oak Island and Bald Head Island have the most competitive markets due to their beachfront and luxury offerings. Southport also has a fast-moving market, especially for historic or waterfront homes. Boiling Spring Lakes offers the most affordability, while St. James stands out for its resort-style community.
- Investment Potential: Oak Island and Bald Head Island offer the best opportunities for vacation rentals, while Southport provides a mix of investment opportunities through both rentals and primary residences. Boiling Spring Lakes is ideal for budget-conscious buyers, and St. James is attractive for luxury buyers seeking a long-term residence or second home.
