Located just outside of Wilmington, Wrightsville, North Carolina is a hidden gem of the East Coast. It offers a small-town feel with proximity to the beach and a vibrant downtown area with a variety of amenities. If you’re thinking about buying a home in Wrightsville, read on to learn what this town has to offer and how to find the right house for a good price.
Why should you buy a house in Wrightsville
If you're looking for a place where you can build a life, make memories, and enjoy all that life has to offer, consider buying a home in Wrightsville.
Beautiful beaches
Wrightsville is the perfect place to live for people looking for property near the ocean. Wrightsville Beach is one of the town’s main attractions, which features plenty of parking, a boardwalk, and proximity to nearby shops and restaurants.
Strong sense of community
Wrightsville has a strong sense of community and a calendar full of exciting events throughout the year. The Wrightsville Beach Farmers' Market takes place every Monday from May through September.
Another popular Wrightsville event is the annual Flotilla, a tradition that has been going strong for more than 30 years on Thanksgiving weekend.
Excellent school system
Wrightsville boasts an excellent school system, with a variety of top-rated public and private schools to choose from. Plus, Wrightsville offers a variety of programs and extracurricular activities to meet students' needs and interests.
Top 4 neighborhoods in Wrightsville
Are you considering buying a home in Wrightsville? Whether you’re looking for property in the bustling beachfront community or something quieter, this town offers a variety of neighborhoods to choose from.
Harbor Island
Located near Wrightsville Beach, Harbor Island is a beautiful waterfront community that features homes with boat docks and access to the Intracoastal Waterway. This neighborhood is perfect for people who enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.
Wrightsville Beach
While Wrightsville Beach is a popular tourist, it's also a popular place to live for those who enjoy being close to the water and all the activities that come with it, like surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing. Despite its popularity, Wrightsville Beach still maintains a small-town feel.
North Shore
North Shore is a quiet residential neighborhood located on the north side of Wrightsville Beach. The community is known for its beautiful homes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. In addition to its scenic beauty, North Shore also offers easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and other amenities.
Duneridge Estates
Duneridge Estates is a prestigious neighborhood located on the southern end of Wrightsville Beach. It is known for its large, luxurious homes, with ocean views. The community is surrounded by sand dunes and other natural features and is just a short drive from downtown Wrightsville.
What kind of homes can I buy in Wrightsville?
No matter what type of home you’re looking for, you can find plenty of suitable options in Wrightsville. Here are the most popular types of homes the town has to offer.
Bungalows
Bungalows are a popular housing style in Wrightsville, NC. These homes are typically small, one-story structures that often feature a front porch, gabled or hipped roofs, and a simple yet elegant floor plan. Bungalows are perfect for small families or retirees who want a low-maintenance home.
Craftsman
Craftsman-style homes are another popular housing option in Wrightsville. These homes are known for their handcrafted details, including exposed beams, custom woodwork, and intricate tilework. They typically feature large front porches, low-pitched roofs with wide eaves, and a mix of natural materials like stone, brick, and wood.
Condos
Condo homes are a popular choice for those who want a low-maintenance home in Wrightsville. These homes are typically located in multi-unit buildings and offer a variety of amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and 24-hour security. Many of them have balconies or patios with views of the ocean or other scenic areas.
Housing costs
Like many other coastal towns in North Carolina, determining the cost of housing in Wrightsville can be a bit of a challenge.
All real estate transactions include closing costs that cover taxes, insurance, legal fees, and other expenses accrued during the closing process. The exact amount can range from around 2% to 6% of the purchase price of the property.
Property taxes are collected by the local government to fund public services, such as schools, roads, and public works. The property tax rate in Wrightsville is 9.23 cents per $100. Homeowners can usually expect to receive a tax bill once or twice a year.
Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for your home and personal property. It typically covers damage to your home and personal property caused by events like fire, theft, and natural disasters.
In North Carolina, the average cost is $1,294 per year, which comes out to $108 per month.
Types of home loans
If you're in the market for a new home, chances are you'll need to take out a loan to finance the purchase. Below, you’ll find details on each loan type, as well as eligibility requirements.
Conventional loans
Conventional loans are home loans that are typically offered by private lenders like banks and credit unions. To be eligible for a conventional loan, you must meet certain credit and income requirements.
FHA loans
FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans are government-backed loans that help borrowers purchase homes when they don’t earn enough to qualify for a conventional loan. These loans are insured by the FHA, which means that lenders are more willing to offer them to borrowers who may not qualify for conventional loans.
VA loans
VA (Veterans Affairs) loans are offered to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses who wish to purchase or refinance a home.
Money-saving tips
If you plan on purchasing a home, you may be looking for ways to keep your costs down. Here are some tips that can help you buy property without breaking the bank.
Find the best mortgage rate
Don't settle for the first mortgage rate you see. Do your research to find the best rate possible. There are also many different types of mortgages, including fixed-rate and adjustable-rate. Do your research to find the type that's best for you.
Get pre-qualified for a mortgage
Before you look for a home, get pre-qualified for a mortgage. To get pre-qualified, you’ll need to gather your financial information, find a lender, submit your application, and wait for your pre-qualification letter.
Make a bigger down payment
Making a small down payment can leave more money in your bank account in the short term. But a bigger down payment can save you money in the long term. For example, you could end up with lower monthly mortgage payments and interest rates and greater equity on your home.
Search for the perfect home in Wrightsville
So, you’ve decided to take the leap, and you plan on buying a home in Wrightsville. The Waller Team can help you shop for the perfect house. Contact us to set up a consultation and begin your search for your dream home.
*Header photo courtesy of The Waller Team
