For many residents in Southport, Wrightsville Beach, and Hampstead, the decision to move often comes down to one feature: stairs. As our region continues to attract retirees and multi-generational families, the "forever home" is only feasible if you can access the second floor comfortably.

In 2026, adding an elevator is no longer just a luxury for the ultra-wealthy in Landfall; it is a strategic renovation for aging in place. However, retrofitting an elevator in a coastal home involves unique challenges regarding flood zones, piling foundations, and CAMA permits.

The "Shaftless" Revolution

The biggest barrier to entry has traditionally been the space required for a hoistway (shaft) and a machine room. For existing homes in Carolina Beach or Surf City with limited square footage, traditional hydraulic elevators are often impractical.

Enter the pneumatic vacuum elevator (PVE) and "shaftless" lifts.

Feasibility: These self-contained units can often be installed directly on existing floors without digging a pit. They are ideal for "reverse floor plan" beach cottages where the kitchen is on the top floor.

Cost Reality: While a traditional enclosed elevator can run $65,000–$100,000+ (especially with necessary structural framing), pneumatic or shaftless models often range from $35,000 to $60,000 installed. They are smaller (often a 2-person capacity) but solve the mobility problem without a major addition.

The Coastal "Gotchas": Floods and Foundations

If you are retrofitting an elevator in Onslow or Brunswick counties, you must navigate two specific hurdles that generic contractors often miss.

1. The Flood Zone Trap
If your home is in a VE or AE flood zone (common in Oak Island and Topsail), the elevator mechanics cannot sit on the ground floor if it is below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE).

• Strategy: You must install a "stop" mechanism that keeps the cab above the flood line when not in use, and all electrical/hydraulic machinery must be elevated.
• De-Watering: If a pit is required, digging into the high water table near the coast requires expensive de-watering pumps during construction, which can add $3,000–$5,000 to your quote unexpectedly.

2. The Impervious Surface Limit
If you plan to build an external elevator shaft because you lack interior space, you are adding to your lot's "impervious surface."

In towns like Wrightsville Beach or Ocean Isle, where lot coverage limits are strictly enforced (often capped at 30–40%), a 25-square-foot shaft addition could trigger a requirement for a major stormwater permit or be denied entirely.

Insider Tip: This is where CAMA comes in. While CAMA regulations generally prohibit new structures in the 30-foot buffer zone, there are rare exceptions for accessibility needs—but they are difficult to secure.

ROI: The "St. James" Standard

Is it worth it? In communities like St. James Plantation or Compass Pointe, resale data indicates that homes with elevators (or at least "stacked closets" framed for future elevator shafts) sell faster and at a higher premium. Buyers are looking for "future-proofed" homes. Even if they don't need the lift today, knowing the infrastructure is there provides peace of mind that protects the asset's value.

Your Next Step

Before you call a contractor, you need to know if your floor plan allows for an internal retrofit or if you are facing a complex external addition that battles CAMA setbacks.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we are experts in listening and communicating people's wants into homes that work for them. We can help you analyze a property's potential for aging in place, connecting you with trusted local vendors who understand the nuances of coastal construction. Let us help you ensure your home serves you for the long haul.