ideal-LIVING's Top Communities in NC and SC

Discover Top Communities in NC and SC

From mountain towns to coastal retreats, explore hand-picked communities built for comfort, connection, and lifestyle. Find your next home and start living the Carolina way.

Find Your Ideal Community in the Carolinas

Anderson Farms

Aiken, SC
Homes: Priced from $400,000 - $1 million+ and Lots: Priced from $80,000 - $200,000+

Augmented by our hometown’s mild climate, advantageous tax haven status, and stunning natural
beauty, this private woodland agrihood offers a variety of 2+ acre homesteads located at the
intersection of pastoral charm and urban convenience.

Located just 11 minutes outside of Aiken, SC, a familiar name on Southern Living Magazine’s list of
“South’s Best Small Towns,” amenities at Anderson Farms include a barn-style community center with a
shared chicken coop, produce garden, and equestrian training arena. On top of Aiken’s thriving
downtown avenues filled with eclectic restaurants, art galleries, designer boutiques, and antique shops, Anderson Farms also enjoys close proximity to a variety of breathtaking local scenery and nature
preserves, including Hitchcock Woods, Aiken State Park, and our neighboring Hollow Creek Land
Preserve, a 110-acre nature sanctuary filled with scenic nature trails plus dock access for fishing,
kayaking, and canoeing.

Social butterflies can even take advantage of an optional membership to The Reserve Club at Woodside
for tiered membership access to 2 championship golf courses, a racquet pavilion, resort-style pool,
country club dining, over 60 member-led social groups, and more.

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Resort Community on the Albemarle Sound | Occano | Coastal NC

Occano

Merry Hill, NC
Lots will range from $50K - $250K and homes from $300K - $1.2M

Life is better on the Sound.

Paradise awaits on the Inner Banks of North Carolina within the gates of Occano. This fully amenitized resort-style community on the Albemarle Sound boasts over 800 acres of residential waterfront and vast opportunities to connect with water, nature, and those you love most.

See the beauty in every swing.
Occano is home to an award-winning Arnold Palmer Signature golf course that covers 7,262 yards with 5 sets of tees-perfect for any skill level. Although Occano is a private community, it offers public play. Come experience a round and take in the impressive water views throughout the course.

Play on the Sound.
As Occano grows, so will the amenities designed specifically for an easy-flowing life near the water. Highlights include a clubhouse and pool, bar and restaurant, tennis courts, boat launch, day dock, and more. With luxury amenities set against the stunning Albemarle Sound, Occano has something for everyone.

Plan a visit today and discover why life is better on the Sound.

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River Landing

Wallace, NC
Homes and lots $300K - $750K+

Tucked away near the coast of Eastern NC is a picture-perfect community, complete with world-class club amenities while still maintaining the charm and ease of a small hometown. River Landing’s two championship golf courses are ideal for working on your game. Or perhaps you prefer exploring the outdoors along the scenic walking and biking trails? Whether you are starting a family or starting your retirement, River Landing has something for everyone. From enhancing your golf game to exploring the outdoors, the River Landing community offers a wide variety of activities for residents of all ages. A grand Clubhouse, Outdoor Pool, and expansive homesites are just some of the things you’ll find to enjoy.

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Homes in Lake Lure NC | Rumbling Bald | Mountain Community

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

Lake Lure, NC
Homes starting at $400K • Condos from $130k • Homesites from $10k

Nestled amid dramatic bluffs and lush forests, the picturesque Lake Lure is a jewel in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Here, you’ll find Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, a premier golf community at heart offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, luxury living, and serene relaxation for all ages. Now, with high-speed fiber internet connectivity, you can enjoy all the comforts of modern living while surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Though just an hour from Asheville, NC, and Greenville, SC, Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure spans over 3,000 acres of pristine wilderness, making it easy to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available. The area features abundant hiking and biking trails, and the iconic Chimney Rock is just beyond the community. Enjoy exploring the 720-acre Lake Lure by kayak, canoe, SUP board, or your own boat. For golf enthusiasts, there are two uniquely different championship golf courses, Bald Mountain and Apple Valley, to challenge all skill levels. Families can also enjoy the community pool with a lazy river or relax on the private white sand beach complete with a children’s play area.

Indulge in relaxation at The Spa & Salon at Rumbling Bald, which offers a comprehensive spa menu alongside amenities like a dry sauna, steam room, indoor pool, and whirlpool. Also, enjoy our well-appointed Wellness Center, including Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment, featuring weekly classes and four lit racket courts for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts. As evening falls, savor unique dining options overlooking Lake Lure or the golf courses, or enjoy a Starbucks coffee at The Bear’s Cup Café Bar.

Rumbling Bald offers a diverse range of real estate options to match your lifestyle. Choose from charming mountain homes, spacious two-to-four-bedroom condos, cozy two-bedroom villas, or intimate studios perfect for couples. Seasonal “Stay & Play” golf packages allow you to experience the community firsthand before making a purchase. Additionally, a selection of undeveloped properties, including larger estate lots are available for sale.

The surrounding area of Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure is North Carolina’s take on a high Alpine lake village, complete with enchanting amenities, local attractions, and close proximity to surrounding entertainment and shopping.

To discover more about life at Rumbling Bald, sign up for their e-newsletter for the latest updates and information.

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Wendell Falls

Wendell, NC
New Homes from $350K - $900K+

Wendell Falls is where small-town community meets big-city urbanity. With a fresh mix of homes, conveniences and exciting amenities in one amazing location, just 15 miles from downtown Raleigh. It’s where you’ll find new ways to live and work, learn and play… along with a little bit of the unexpected along the way. Here, homes and townhomes by Brookfield Residential, Garman Homes, Homes by Dickerson, McNeill Burbank and David Weekley offer a variety of options for every age and stage in life — including a neighborhood exclusively for those 55+. And beyond places to live, there are spaces to enjoy life, too. Like 10+ miles of trails. Two refreshing pools. And the Farmhouse Cafe, where you can grab a smoothie or salad or sandwich (with a side of beer). There’s also Treelight Square, a town center with more ways to spend your days (and nights), including shops, restaurants, services and a Publix. And soon, the Collective will join it — bringing another destination for shopping, working, eating, drinking and gathering. All right in the neighborhood. It’s Creatively. Crafted. Community. And 11 models are open for you to tour daily. See you soon.

Additional Amenities Include:

• A vibrant all-ages community, including a neighborhood just for residents 55+ now open!
• Zero-entry saltwater pool with lounge area, waterslide and kids’ splash zone
• An onsite community cafe, serving handcrafted food, coffee and more
• Over 10 miles of trails
• Fitpod outdoor workout spaces, with climbing wall, stair workout area and balance station
• Treelight Square, a town center that includes dining, shopping and services
• Multiple parks for gathering, relaxing, playing a game of cornhole or sitting around a firepit
• Wendell Paws, a dog park for your four-legged family members
• A Publix grocery store, recently opened

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Nexton gated community
FEATURED

Nexton

Summerville, SC
New Homes from Mid $300Ks - $800K+

Welcome to Nexton, a neighborly Lowcountry community located in Summerville, SC. Where everything's all here. This national award-winning community has its own trails, parks, open spaces, shops, and highly sought-after restaurants. Not to mention a deep commitment to the very best part of 55+ living: choice. Because finally, home gets to be all about you. What's nearby? Well, in the morning, you're collecting seashells at quirky Folly Beach, and lunch can be along the foodie-loving cobblestone streets of nearby Charleston (just 25 miles away). Not to mention an international airport just 20 minutes from your doorstep.

At Nexton, you can choose from two exclusively 55+ neighborhoods. Or, you can opt for one of Nexton's all-age villages, where you'll find plenty of 55+ friendly homes. Either way, you'll access amenities that are perfect for keeping you active and connected.

One of our just-for-you neighborhoods is Del Webb 55+. This well-established community of one-and two-story single-family homes is now adding even more options to its existing amenities, which already offer a resort pool, tennis, and pickleball all connected to miles of parks and trails. Or there's Hammock Walk, a new 55+ enclave by Ashton Woods, featuring low-maintenance ranch-style villas and amenities like trails, ponds, and pickleball, plus easy access to all of Nexton's shops and restaurants. If mixing it up is more your style, check out the all-age village of Midtown, which offers a great selection of single-story homes and homes with main-floor primary suites. (Their Midtown Club has to be seen to be believed, offering a resort-style lagoon, fitness options, event spaces for food trucks and movie nights, and much more.)

At Nexton, there's always something to do and someone new to meet. Because no matter where you live, you'll be surrounded by interesting ways to connect. Priced from the $300s to over $1 million.

What else to know:

  • Five miles from charming, historic downtown Summerville (aka "Flowertown in the Pines")
  • Parks and trails — 25 miles of them — within walking/biking distance of every home
  • World-class and casual dining right in the community (there are even hotels where your
  • guests can stay)
  • Easy access to nearly 90 miles of South Carolina coastline and beaches
  • Healthcare and wellness services are conveniently located within the community
  • A new expansion of Del Webb 55+ amenities, including more pickleball, basketball, an
  • event space, private bar and grill, and more.

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Hampton Hall Club

Bluffton, SC
Homes and lots $60K - $1M

Imagine for a minute you’re visiting the private club community of Hampton Hall in Bluffton, SC. You’ve gotten over the awe of the dramatic and picturesque Lowcountry landscape, and you’re starting to take in your surroundings. The first thing you’re probably going to hear is laughter. Depending on where you’re standing, it could be coming from the lakeside resort pool, or the Pete Dye golf course, or maybe one of the various dining venues. For while everything here is beautiful to look at and expertly maintained and cared for, the key component is fun and enjoyment.

We thought you should be prepared for that because, sure enough, the tennis pro will coax you on to the courts, or the threesome about to tee off will enlist you into completing their group. You see, the minute you pass through the gates at Hampton Hall, something changes. You are at once connected with this club and community. A place you may have never known existed, right up until the moment you fall in love with it.

We invite you inside the gates to tour Hampton Hall. Come see if you feel a connection with this Lowcountry private club community. Come see if Hampton Hall feels like home.

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Lakefront Homes McCormick SC | Savannah Lakes Village Community

Savannah Lakes Village

McCormick, SC
Homes: $200s to $900K plus, Lots from $20K - $300K

Savannah Lakes Village is on the 71,000-acre freshwater Lake Thurmond in McCormick, South Carolina with 1,200 miles of shoreline. The community boasts two championship lakefront golf courses with restaurants and pro shops, fiber-optic Internet to each homesite, a 23,000 square foot recreation center with 6 lighted tennis courts (4 HarTru and 2 hard surface), pickleball, bowling alley, indoor & outdoor pools, sauna, fitness room, private card rooms, library, 50+ social clubs, yoga studio, Rod & Gun Club, and so much more. This is active retirement in its truest form…

We are a short 45-minute drive to Augusta and a 2-hour drive from Atlanta. The community abuts three state parks and offers 100+ miles of hiking and biking trails. With no initiation fees or monthly minimums, low property taxes, and no special assessments, you can live an unexpectedly affordable luxury lifestyle.

Our preferred builders offer many custom home plans and lot-home packages to choose from at whatever price point and product type you may desire.

Come stay and play at Savannah Lakes Village. 2 nights for $199. Visit SavannahLakesVillage.com or call 864-391-5259 to book your tour.

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Cresswind Charleston

Summerville, SC
Homes from the $400s to $700s

Cresswind Charleston brings the award-winning Cresswind active adult lifestyle to the Charleston area. This gated community is integrated within the thriving community of The Ponds while maintaining its own privacy. Cresswind features a full list of resort-style amenities, all located within a natural, Lowcountry setting.

Residents can take a short walk to the 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, enjoy pickleball and tennis or participate in activities at the event lawn and amphitheater. Additionally, homeowners have the opportunity to enrich their lives with cooking and yoga classes or bocce ball. Residents also can nurture their talent in the art room, play pool, swim in the resort-style pool, fish or kayak – and stay fit and healthy at a well-equipped fitness center.

Cresswind Charleston offers spacious homes featuring a wide range of personalization opportunities, designer choices, uniquely designed with careful attention to details. Single-family, ranch-style homes will include designer features, energy efficiency and designs complementary to active living. Tour nine designer-decorated model homes, open daily.

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Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach FL | Minto Community Jimmy Buffett

Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head

Hardeeville, SC
Homes starting at the $300s.

**Turn the Key to Paradise, Make the Move Today! Why delay the fun? Limited time offers make it easy to start now!**

Your Latitude! You’ve earned a life where every day feels like an escape. Find your paradise at Latitude Margaritaville, the 55-and-better lifestyle where fun and relaxation meet.

Inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, this is where life rolls easy, neighbors are friends and the party never ends. Awesome recreation, FINtastic dining and entertainment will make the town center the place to be and just a golf cart ride away. Masterfully crafted new Latitude homes let you hang your hat where your heart is.

Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head is located on Highway 278, 2.5 miles east of I-95 in the city of Hardeeville, South Carolina – the scenic gateway to world-famous Hilton Head Island. The area is steeped in natural beauty, with an abundance of golf courses, pristine beaches and waterways for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Nearby are the historic cities of Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC filled with museums, cultural arts, shopping and dining.

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Best Sunsets - River Bluffs Community Wilmington NC

River Bluffs

Castle Hayne, NC
Homes from the high $600s

A Unique Waterfront Community with New Homes from the $500s – $2.5M+ and available homesites starting at $150k.

Located just 10 minutes north of Downtown Wilmington, NC (by boat or car) sits River Bluffs, a gated community that overlooks the Northeast Cape Fear River. River Bluffs offers a wide variety of home plans, including affordable cottage-style homes for a growing family, single-level homes with retirement-smart features, low-maintenance townhomes, and even fully custom homes built by the area’s most prestigious builders. River Bluffs boasts a variety of luxurious amenities such as a 2,700-foot river walk with covered gazebos, 188 slip marina, miles of walking trails and parks, luxury pools, high-end fitness centers, tennis and pickleball courts, over 30+ resident clubs including kayaking, boating, an onsite restaurant, and much more.

Enhance Your Quality of Life by Moving to River Bluffs:

• No city tax and no traffic!
• Low county & state taxes. North Carolina residents enjoy some of the lowest cost of living expenses on the Eastern seaboard!
• Enjoy low HOA dues which include yard maintenance, trash service, recycling, and access to all community amenities.
• 4.75% flat income tax and 0% estate or inheritance tax.

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Riverlights

Wilmington, NC
Single-family, active-adult, and luxury: $400s - $1M+

Nestled along the Cape Fear River in the coastal town of Wilmington, NC, Riverlights is a vibrant, master-planned community full of small-town charm. The perfect location makes all the difference – along the Cape Fear River and just five miles from historic Wilmington, rated the most charming beach town on the East Coast with award-winning restaurants and shops. When you live in Riverlights, your days radiate with the positive energy that happens when you live on the water in the Carolina sunshine.

 

There are plenty of opportunities to walk, run, or ride bikes along miles of trails, kayak in the 38-acre freshwater lake, or roam free in any one of the community’s many parks. Whether enjoying a riverfront walk along the boardwalk and dock, gathering with neighbors for an oyster roast, or watching the sunset on the waterfront, exploration happens here daily. Our Lakehouse clubhouse includes a zero-entry pool with lap lanes, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, including a firepit overlooking the lake. Coming soon in 2026, our brand-new Riverhouse clubhouse will feature another pool and fitness center, plus gathering spaces with a scenic backdrop.

 

Riverlights has home options suited to any stage of life – from new families to active adults easing into retirement – from nine quality homebuilders. The coastal North Carolina community offers 10+ beautifully decorated model homes open daily for walk-ins allowing home shoppers to get a feel for the lifestyle that awaits in Riverlights.

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keowee key

Keowee Key

Salem, SC
Homes, Townhomes, Condos: $200K - $1.5M

Looking for the perfect lifestyle community for retirement or to raise your family? Keowee Key has more of what you love. Golf, tennis, fitness center, swimming, boating and pickleball are just a few of the amenities this active, gated, lakeside community offers.

Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Salem, SC, and surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Keowee, Keowee Key is a 1,600-acre community carved out of a forest of hardwood and pines. You’ll find a wide variety of home styles and price points available in a natural setting with mild seasons and an abundance of local adventure.

All homes in Keowee Key are custom-built, including lakefront, mountain or golf-course views. For a maintenance-free lifestyle, you’ll find ample condominiums, town homes and cottages. Choose a lakefront home with private dock or use one of 5 community docks with 324 boat slips, pontoon and kayak rentals, and a supply store.

The challenging 18-hole, par 72 George Cobb Golf Course, features four tee boxes to match all skill levels. A clubhouse with award-winning chef, lakeside leisure trail, three swimming pools, and a dog park, contribute to Keowee Key’s country club lifestyle.

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River Dunes

Oriental, NC
Homes: $225K - $1.1M Lots: $90K - $585K

River Dunes is an award-winning coastal retreat on the coast of North Carolina. You’ll find big water, big views, and big adventure here. River Dunes offers the best in coastal living and year-round boating, set in an unparalleled location with fourteen miles of shoreline on the big waters of the Pamlico Sound, Intracoastal Waterway and Neuse River. The award-winning master plan embraces gathering spaces, spectacular water views, and outdoor living. Traditional coastal architecture and a bustling Harbor Village draw upon the rich heritage of life on the coast. River Dunes is a place for enjoying the back porch with neighbors, the peace of an early-morning kayaking trip and fellowship on the docks in the afternoon. Enjoy luxurious guest accommodations, live music at the Pavilion and dining with friends.

The 400 slip Marina features floating docks, fuel, dockage and deep water access for boats up to 150′. The Harbor Village in the heart of the community offers dining, shopping, provisions, fitness, tennis courts, a day spa, accommodations, bikes, kayaks, trails and the new Design Center. The Harbor Club has a spectacular clubhouse with waterfront dining, pool, and hot tubs.

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Planned Community near Raleigh NC | Flowers Plantation | Amenity Rich

Flowers Plantation

Clayton, NC
Homes from low $190K - $700K+

Located just minutes from Raleigh yet tucked away from the hustle of the city, Flowers Plantation continues to thrive as Johnston County’s premier master-planned community. Bordered by US Hwy 42, Buffalo Road, and the Neuse River in Clayton, this award-winning development was the first of its kind in the region and earned back-to-back honors as North Carolina’s Community of the Year by the North Carolina Home Builders Association in 2013 and 2014.

Today, Flowers Plantation is home to more than 40 unique neighborhoodstwo on-site elementary schools, and a private Thales Academy, along with over 10 miles of scenic walking trails and 50 acres of peaceful lakes. The community blends residential charm with everyday convenience thanks to two commercial districts: Flowers Crossroads, featuring a Harris Teeter, medical offices, dining, and boutique retail; and Flowers Marketplace, the newest retail hub anchored by Publix.

The community also offers luxury apartment living, townhomes, and newly built single-family homesites, providing flexible options for residents at every stage of life. With homes available for immediate move-in or purchase, there’s something for everyone. At full buildout, Flowers Plantation will include nearly 7,800 homes, with pricing ranging from the mid-$200s to over $700K.

Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle enriched by exceptional amenities. The clubhouse, fitness center, and resort-style pool—operated by the East Triangle YMCA—serve as a central hub for recreation, wellness, and community programs, right within the neighborhood.

Exciting new growth is on the horizon with the addition of The Waterfront District, a dynamic mixed-use area that will offer walkable access to dining, retail, recreation, and potential future residential opportunities—all centered around a scenic waterfront setting.

“You don’t need a car here. The streets are all golf-cart friendly,” says Reid Stephenson, Flowers Plantation’s Chief Executive. “You can get your kids to school, come home from work, enjoy our parks and recreation, and make convenient runs to the grocery store—all without ever leaving the community.”

Whether you’re raising a family, enjoying retirement, or somewhere in between, Flowers Plantation offers a connected, comfortable lifestyle with something for everyone to call home.

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Gated Community near Wilmington NC | The Bluffs on the Cape Fear

The Bluffs on the Cape Fear

Leland, NC

Gated Riverfront Living, Boundless Joy in Nature

The Bluffs on the Cape Fear is a vibrant, master-planned community perched on a pristine stretch of the Cape Fear River. Just 15 minutes from the classic waterfront hometown of historic Wilmington, NC, The Bluffs is a private, coastal haven for the families who call it home.

The unique vision of The Bluffs is realized every day: natural woodlands and the unspoiled riverfront landscape are preserved and celebrated. Classically-styled coastal homes exist in harmony with lush woodlands, and the riverfront.
Our visionary developers created The Bluffs with access and abundance in mind. Accordingly, residents here enjoy a close-knit, active lifestyle with total access to the riverfront and an impressive collection of amenities. We invite you to experience the joy of our authentic riverfront community, The Bluffs on the Cape Fear, with our 3 day-2 night Discovery Package.

Amenity List:
– 50-Slip Marina with Scenic Boardwalk
– 2-Acre Riverfront Park with Boat & Kayak Launch
– Lakefront Clubhouse with Resort-Style Salt Water Pool
– Private Beach Club on Oak Island – with Full Ocean Access
– Winding Walking & Biking Trails
– Golf Cart Friendly Community
– Tennis & Pickleball Courts
– Fully-Stocked Lake
– Community Boat & RV Storage
– And soon, a New State-of-the-Art Fitness & Wellness Center

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The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, NC
Homes from the mid $400s

The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach, located in the southernmost area of Coastal North Carolina, is the epitome of beach living with the added convenience and low maintenance of a planned community. Located steps away from local shops and restaurants, you can enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle Sunset Beach is known for. The resort-inspired amenities will make a weekend at home feel like a vacation getaway. Amenities within the community will include a resort-style pool with tanning ledge and lap lanes, coastal clubhouse, fitness center, open air cabana, outdoor fireplace, grilling stations, outdoor lounge area, golf cart parking, and miles of sidewalks & walking paths. The Sanctuary is only minutes from the beach (1.5 miles) and the intracoastal waterway, in close proximity to a variety of restaurants, beach shops, boutiques, the Sunset Beach Fishing Pier, bars & pubs, concerts at The Village Park COA Gazebo, golf courses, The Ingram Planetarium, local markets, and public parks. Well-appointed single family home and land package, both pre-designed and build to suit, are offered from the mid $400’s to $800’s. As one of the area’s premier new home communities with a color palette inspired by the sand, sun, salt, and sea, let The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach be your oasis at home!

Visit www.billclarkhomes.com to explore your new home options today!

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osprey landing

Osprey Landing

Southport, NC
Homes from the mid $300s

Welcome to Osprey Landing, a new single-family home community in charming Southport, North Carolina. In one of the most desirable coastal areas, Osprey Landing offers residents a relaxed lifestyle with a blend of seaside living and everyday convenience. Named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” by Coastal Living Magazine, Southport is a historic city abundant with charming streetscapes and coastal beauty. The area offers stunning beaches, marinas, boating, fishing, shopping, exceptional dining, art galleries, golfing, and more! Within the community, Osprey Landing features an outdoor lap-size pool with a water slide, an open-air pool house Cabana, lawn maintenance, and more! Offering multiple home designs and types, single family land and home packages range from the mid $300’s to the high $600’s.

Visit www.billclarkhomes.com to explore your new home options today!

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North Carolina Coastal Communities | Compass Point Lanai Night Pool Fountain
FEATURED

Compass Pointe

Leland, NC
Homesites from $200K. Homes from $500K.

Located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, only 10 minutes from Wilmington, Compass Pointe is a gated, private community that offers an unmatched resort lifestyle. Every day feels like a vacation where you can relax by our award-winning pool, float along the lazy river, join one of 100+ community clubs, or get some exercise at our fitness center, indoor pool, or golf club. Come see for yourself why Compass Pointe was honored with the 2020 Best Health & Fitness Community and America’s Best Places to Live 2021.

Amenities:

  • Private, Gated Entrance
  • The Grand Lanai
  • Resort Oasis Pool
  • Compass Pointe Golf Club
  • Clubhouse (under construcion) & Pro Shop
  • The Pointe Wellness Center & Spa
  • Indoor Pool
  • Lazy River
  • Tennis & Pickleball Courts
  • Recreation Lawn
  • Putting Greens
  • Latitudes Restaurant and Bar
  • Dog Park
  • Cardinal Lake with Canoe & Kayak Launch
  • Outdoor Amphitheater
  • Sidewalks Throughout for Walking and Biking
  • Golf Cart Paths Throughout

Future Amenities:

  • Club Member Pool & Bar
  • Club Member Fitness Center
  • Club Member Golf Simulator

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Dataw Island

Dataw Island, SC
Homes: $375K - $2M Lots: $35K - $200K

There is a place off the South Carolina coast, near the charming town of Beaufort, where nature and luxury share center stage. Shaped by the Intracoastal Waterway and a rich Southern history, the SC gated golf community of Dataw Island is a pristine parcel of 870 acres waiting to be discovered. 

The Dataw Island Club is the perfect choice for you. Golf and Social memberships are available for island residents. If you live in the area and are interested in joining the club. For membership information, call (843) 838-3838. 

 

  • “Top 100 Amenity Communities” – ideal-LIVING Magazine
  • “Best in Value Golf Community” – Links Magazine
  • “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” – The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses 

Their two championship golf courses, by Tom Fazio and Arthur Hills, wind their way through stunning Lowcountry landscape, complete with historic ruins, moss-draped oaks, and tidal marsh. Complemented by an array of sports amenities (Tennis, Pickleball, Croquet, Bocce) and social clubs too numerous to mention (arts clubs, yoga and fitness, special interest groups), members of Dataw Island find their days full of friendship, philanthropy, and fun!


Dataw Island is a luxurious and private residential golf community nestled in an unrivaled South Carolina landscape. Within the gates, there is 24-hour security. There’s vibrancy there, a constant bustle of activity that reflects the area’s rich wildlife and Dataw’s collaborative culture. Residents can walk, bike or travel by golf cart to social gatherings, functions and meetings. 

From deepwater slips that lead to blue waters to the manicured golf courses named for legends; from an indoor lap pool to a whirlpool spa; from tennis lessons to Spanish lessons, Dataw Island is humming with leisure. Start the day sunny side up in your Lowcountry residence. Uncover cozy, shaded nooks perfect for soaking in the coastal breeze. Join neighbors for a Yacht Club meeting or challenge friends to a game of croquet on the lawn. From a calendar of social events to thoughtful gathering spots woven throughout, Dataw Island’s connected community is inspired by you.

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Brunswick Forest NC | Best Places to Live in North Carolina

Brunswick Forest

Leland, NC
Homes & Townhomes: $300K - $800K, Homesites From $100K - 300K

Brunswick Forest, the Coastal South’s fastest growing community, is located on North Carolina’s Cape Fear coast, just minutes from historic Wilmington. This 4,500-acre retreat features a wide features a wide array of
neighborhoods, architecture, and price points.

World-class amenities include:
• 18 holes of golf at Cape Fear National
• Clubhouse, Restaurant & Pro-shop
• Fitness & Wellness Center with Indoor & Outdoor Pools
• Hammock Lake Park, Pool, and Fitness Center
• Reflections Fitness Center & Pool
• Town Creek River Launch
• Nearly 100 Miles of Walking, Biking & Nature Trails
• Tennis & Pickleball Courts
• Community Town Center with Shopping, Medical & Restaurants

If you would like to learn more about this vibrant, coastal community in North Carolina, you can request more information and compare this community with many others to find your ideal lifestyle, all you have to do is request more information. Discovery packages are available.

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South Carolina Gated Community | Woodside | Best Places to Retire in SC
FEATURED

Woodside

Aiken, SC
Homes: Priced from $500,000 - $1 million+ and Lots: Priced from $60,000 - $150,000+

Enhanced by the region’s lucrative cost of living, mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and charming
Southern hospitality, Woodside’s 3,000-acre community is ideally located in one of the Southeast’s best-kept secrets, Aiken, SC.

Meticulously designed from concept to creation for discerning active-active adults, downsizing retirees, and anyone else with a taste for the finer things in life, Woodside’s location in one of Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best Small Towns” offers residents walkable access to the best of both worlds. On top of Woodside’s world-class amenities, including 4 championship golf courses, 2 clubhouses, more than 60 member-led social groups and clubs, 2 resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, over 21 miles of hiking and nature trails, 7 landscaped parks and green spaces – including a Certified Butterfly Park – Woodside residents enjoy 10-minute access to downtown Aiken’s Gilded-Age avenues filled with exceptional local restaurants, designer boutiques, art galleries, and more.

Whether you envision yourself perfecting your swing on our Nicklaus Design course, dozing by the pool,
or creating new memories with friends you’ve yet to meet, life at Woodside is designed to deliver you a
home that extends far beyond your property line!

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St. James Properties

Southport, NC
Townhomes and Condos: $350K+, Homes: $600K+, and Homesites: $200K+

St. James Plantation, located along Southeastern North Carolina’s Intracoastal Waterway near the charming towns of Southport and historic Wilmington, remains one of the most desirable communities in the region. The community boasts over $100 million in top-tier amenities, including a private oceanfront beach club, a 475-slip marina with dry stack options, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, including the Signature Wellness Center, four welcoming clubhouses, and 81 holes of championship golf. Residents can also enjoy 36+ miles of biking and walking routes, five dining options, Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball, parks, community gardens, and over 100 social clubs.

With a mild Carolina climate offering four distinct seasons, the area is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring nearby antique shops, boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and historical landmarks dating back to the 1700s. Additionally, the region is home to well-equipped adult educational institutions and first-class medical centers. Real estate options in St. James include spacious custom homes, new cottage homes, and condominiums, with single-family homes ranging from the $600,000s to over $1 million, and homesites starting in the $200,000s.

Plan your visit right now! Call 800-245-3871 or visit our website: www.StJames-Properties.com.

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Albemarle Plantation

Hertford, NC
Homes from the $400,000 & Homesites from $30,000

Albemarle Plantation

On North Carolina’s Inner Banks

 

In the private, gated sound front community of Albemarle Plantation, the waterfront lifestyle abounds. Set on the pristine waters of North Carolina’s sparkling Inner Banks, Albemarle Plantation is the perfect blend of nature, big water, resort amenities, and beautiful homes.

The community is known for its vast waters, 166-slip Private Marina, acclaimed golf, and nature-centric lifestyle. Walking and biking trails ribbon past nature sanctuaries and waterways. Raised boardwalks wind along, perfect for a stroll to the marina. On the waterfront, Marina Park with its great views and manicured lawn is the ideal gathering place for friends and is home to many a community event. The grand, waterfront Clubhouse offers indoor and outdoor dining with incredible water and fairway views. Near the marina, Dockside Café offers outdoor dining and is home to the Albemarle Wine Shop.

Residents also enjoy daily amenities like a fully outfitted fitness center, resort-style Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, bocce courts, gathering and activity spaces and even community garden plots. Winding through the community is the award-winning Dan Maples-designed golf course. Widely acclaimed, it offers world-class play for golfers of all levels and provides breathtaking views. Here, you can enjoy every amenity you would expect from a private waterfront community—plus, all amenities are complete and owned debt free by the Property Owner’s Association.

With a focus on nature’s beauty, Albemarle Plantation is a scenic and welcoming place to build the home of your dreams, too. With a large selection of home plans and a trusted group of preferred builders, creating your retreat at Albemarle can be easy and exciting. Living here offers a perfect balance: residents are wonderfully tucked away from the hustle and bustle of metro areas yet have easy access to Tidewater Virginia and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. At Albemarle, you can savor the small-town waterfront charm of Edenton and Hertford, and quickly access big city luxuries with Virginia Beach and Norfolk only about an hour north.

Whether setting out by boat to explore the Sound and nearby small towns, kayaking, going fishing with friends on the protected waters of the Sound or in the Intracoastal Waterway, jet skiing, sailboat racing, or just watching the sun go down over the water…living at Albemarle Plantation is a soul-stirring experience.

Homes from the $400,000.

Homesites from $30,000

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Callawassie Island

Callawassie Island, SC
Homes: $165K - $1.5M Lots: $10K - $300K

Callawassie Island, located in the heart of the Lowcountry, is a private, gated island community offering world-class Tom Fazio golf and a full complement of amenities including a tennis center, clubhouse, pools, fitness center, and River Club. Secluded from the noise and congestion of the highway, Callawassie lies miles from Hilton Head and is also convenient to Beaufort and Bluffton (15 minutes away); historic Savannah, GA (a 30-minute drive); and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (40 minutes away). A half-mile causeway provides a relaxing, slow-paced approach to the island, where peace and quiet are as plentiful as vibrant activity.

The community hosts numerous social events, activities and clubs connecting members by their passions for nature, art and giving back locally. Members take full advantage of the island parks, historical sites and recreation areas for enjoying remarkable views of undisturbed nature. Island dwellers have access to four community docks providing leased slips, kayak launches and excellent opportunities for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. The River Club, overlooking the Colleton River, is a warm gathering center with a library and fireplace, family swimming pool, and offers seasonal dining.

For those seeking a golfing experience like no other, the 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course is truly spectacular. Voted one of South Carolina’s top 50 courses, Callawassie recently enhanced the design with a four-million-dollar renovation in 2014. This renovation resulted in a brand-new pro shop with three Class A PGA Golf Professionals. The courses meander intimately along the waterways and salt marshes in a way that environmental regulations have made difficult for newer courses; visual interest is natural not manmade.

Callawassie Island is the first South Carolina gated community to have been designated a “Community Wildlife Habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation. This coexistence brings a true community balance with nature. The island is covered with live oaks and palmettos, egrets and herons, and encompasses a thriving salt marsh ecosystem.

Today, Callawassie is one of only four South Carolina communities holding this distinguished designation. The homes and homesites, including waterfront property, are among the best values in the area.

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Bike path fun

Daniel Island

Daniel Island, SC
Homes from $350K - $7M
A glamorous golf community, Daniel Island is surrounded by beautiful rivers and creeks where residents enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking. Featured amenities include two golf courses, swimming, tennis, fitness, and miles of biking and walking trails.
Intracoastal Waterway

Delamar

Delamar, NC
Welcome to Delamar, a brand-new waterfront community nestled in Hampstead, NC. This isn't just a place to live; it's a lifestyle crafted for those who long for the peaceful rhythm of coastal living without sacrificing convenient access to the lively city of Wilmington. Imagine waking up to serene water views and having vibrant city experiences just a short drive away.
Coosaw Point

Coosaw Point

Coosaw Point, SC
Enjoy the Lowcountry lifestyle in this 400 acre community along the Coosaw River on beautiful Lady's Island in South Carolina. Fall in love! Settle into your very own home by the River. Feel the breeze, breathe in the ocean air, slow down time and know you're home at Coosaw Point.
Kiawah

Kiawah

Kiawah, SC
Kiawah Island, nestled off the coast of South Carolina, is a barrier island paradise. Ten miles of sandy beach give way to lush landscapes with biking and hiking trails. World-class golf courses, designed by legends like Pete Dye, attract golfers worldwide. Kiawah boasts a rich history, once inhabited by Kiawah Indians and even pirates! Five-star accommodations and natural beauty make Kiawah ideal for a luxurious and unforgettable escape.
Terrapin

Terrapin

Terrapin, NC
Just 10 minutes from historic Downtown Wilmington, and a short drive from area beaches, Terrapin offers the ideal blend of charm, convenience, and luxury living. Stunning water and nature homesites await, all within a master-planned community that celebrates the coastal lifestyle. Enjoy a range of exceptional amenities in this golf cart-friendly neighborhood. Discover the perfect place to call home at Terrapin, where luxury and coastal living come together.

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The Carolinas: Your East Coast Sweet Spot

The east coast states that serve as the sweet spot between the North and South, the Carolinas should never be passed by.

Discover South Carolina's Southern Charm and Vibrant Cities

The Palmetto State is full of small towns with Southern charm like Aiken, with its equestrian heritage, or Greenville, known for its gorgeous walkable downtown and outdoor pursuits.

And you can’t forget about the big cities that make South Carolina a destination.

Myrtle Beach: Fun, Golf, and Ocean Views

Myrtle Beach is known for its fun, easygoing atmosphere with plenty of golf, ocean view hotels, and entertainment options.

Charleston: Historic, Cultural, and Culinary Delights

Charleston is unforgettably colorful. Its historical, cultural, and culinary delights bring visitors to the state year-round.

North Carolina: Mountains, Culture, and Coastal Beauty

The larger of the two Carolinas offers plenty of opportunities to take a dip in the ocean, climb a mountain, or just sit with a beer in hand, looking at the view.

North Carolina is known for its incredible universities, arts and cultural opportunities, and scenic locales.

North Carolina Cities: From Mountains to Coast

You’ve got incredible cities from Asheville to Charlotte to Wilmington, all with different offerings but the same welcoming spirit.

The Carolinas: More Than Just a Stop

With plenty of beaches, trails, barbeque, and basketball, the Carolinas are more than just a stop along the way; they are the destination.

Why Choose a Planned Community in the Carolinas.

Whether you're looking for planned communities in North Carolina or South Carolina, the choices are diverse and cater to a wide range of lifestyle preferences. These communities offer a mix of amenities, activities, and services that promote a well-rounded and enjoyable retirement.

From Bustling Cities to Charming Small Towns

Charlotte and the Research Triangle are centers of innovation, and Wilmington and Charleston are historical coastal cities with offerings like walking tours, festivals, boutique shops, and farmers' markets.

Plus, there are so many quaint small towns to discover. Wherever you choose to explore, you will surely experience a warm, welcoming atmosphere full of good food, beautiful scenery, and Southern charm. Sunrise to sunset, the Carolinas are just simply a beautiful place to be.

Find Your Ideal Community in the Carolinas

From sunrise to sunset, the Carolinas remain a truly beautiful place to be. Experience the good life in master planned communities that not only offer you a residence but also a rich, fulfilling lifestyle. Get in touch with us at ideal-LIVING and let us guide you to your ideal retirement in the Carolinas.