For years, the "dream home" in Southeastern North Carolina was often defined by square footage or water views. But a quiet shift is happening in the real estate market across New Hanover, Pender, Onslow, and Brunswick counties. Today, the smartest buyers—and the most savvy investors—are prioritizing livability.

"Aging in place" isn't just a buzzword for retirees; it is a design philosophy that ensures a home remains functional regardless of life’s changes. Whether you are a retiree looking for your forever home or an investor seeking a property with low tenant turnover, accessible, single-story homes are among the most stable assets in our region.

The "Universal Design" Advantage

In real estate, we often talk about "Universal Design." This means a home is designed to be used by everyone, regardless of age or ability. These features are subtle, but they make a massive difference in daily life and resale value.

When touring properties, look for these "future-proof" features:

• Zero-Step Entries: A smooth transition from the driveway to the front door (or from the garage into the mudroom).
• Wider Doorways (32-36 inches): Standard doors are often too narrow for walkers or wheelchairs.
• Lever-Style Handles: Easier to operate than round knobs for anyone with arthritis or full hands.
• Walk-In Showers: Curbless showers are safer, easier to clean, and highly desirable for all generations.

Where to Look: Neighborhoods That Work

While many people immediately think of 55+ communities, you don't have to live in an age-restricted zone to find accessible housing. Our region is full of established neighborhoods with ranch-style inventories that are perfect for aging in place.

Onslow County (Jacksonville & Hubs)

In Jacksonville, the older, established neighborhoods are gold mines for sturdy, single-story brick ranches.

Northwoods: Known for its mature trees and classic mid-century ranch homes, this area often features solid layouts that are easily renovated for accessibility.

Stateside: For newer construction without the steep HOA fees of a retirement resort, this area offers modern slab-foundation homes that are naturally step-free.

Pender County (Hampstead)

Hampstead is a haven for those who want space without stairs.

Golf Course Communities: Areas like Castle Bay or Olde Point have a significant inventory of custom ranch homes. These lots are often larger, allowing for ramps or extensive gardening without navigating steep grades.

New Construction: Keep an eye on communities like Southwater Village, where builders are increasingly offering "primary suite on first floor" floor plans.

New Hanover & Brunswick (Wilmington & Leland)

Leland: This is the epicenter of the "patio home." Neighborhoods like Brunswick Forest and Magnolia Greens were practically built on the concept of low-maintenance, single-story living.

Wilmington: Look toward the Pine Valley area for classic sprawling ranch homes, or the newer corridors off Middle Sound Loop for custom builds that prioritize main-level living.

The Investor Angle: Why Accessibility Pays

If you are an investor, an accessible home is a competitive advantage. Tenants stay longer in homes that are easy to live in. A property with a walk-in shower and no stairs appeals to a massive demographic: from young families with strollers to retirees downsizing. It is a property that never goes out of style.

Finding the Right Fit

It is easy to find a house with a first-floor bedroom; it is harder to find a home where the flow, the thresholds, and the hallways truly work for the long haul.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we look at homes through a different lens. We don't just see a hallway; we see the turn radius. We don't just see a bathroom; we check the clearance. Whether you are planning for your own future or building a resilient investment portfolio, we can help you identify the properties that will serve you well for decades to come.