Outer Banks real estate market reports show a promising start to 2016. To summarize, we're seeing a significant decrease in foreclosures, increase in average home prices, and increase in listings placed under contract as compared to Q1 of last year. Read on below for the full report!
Interested in getting in on the action? Search Outer Banks properties here or call Connie today at 252-202-8979.
When I think about the Outer Banks experience, my mind conjures endless beach days, sand between my toes, and cool blue ocean waves. Even as an OBX native, I find myself forgetting how much more our little island has to offer. Enchanting maritime forests and estuaries rich in biodiversity make this the perfect place to explore nature.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a strenuous hike, before summer rolls into one long beach day, check out a few of my favorite OBX trails below!
Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary
Hours: dawn to dusk, daily
Take a beautiful stroll in a sanctuary that protects marshes along the Currituck Sound and provides habitats for 170 bird species, 350 plant species, and countless other animals. This is truly a nature-lover’s paradise.
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve
Park Map
Hours: dawn to dusk, daily
Boasting 1,824 acres of maritime forests and swamplands, Kitty Hawk Woods offers numerous trails perfect for off-the-beaten-path exploration. Waterfowl and migrating birds and mammals like gray foxes are just a few of the animals you might see while out on your hike.
Jockey’s Ridge Self-Guided Hiking Trails Park Map
Hours: 8am-8pm
Jockey’s Ridge state park includes three hiking trails that showcase the dunes, soundside, estuary and scrub thicket ecosystems. Ranging from 360 ft to 1.5 miles long, these hikes offer something for everyone. Check out the full blogpost on our beautiful dunes for more info on the site.
Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
Park Map
Hours: dawn to dusk, daily
Nags Head Woods offers 7 trails ranging from easy to strenuous hikes. The trails cover 5 miles of maritime forest with lushly wooded dunes and 100-year-old trees, brimming with plant and animal life.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Park Map
Hours: grounds - daylight / visitor center, daily - 9am-5pm
The 1.25 mile Freedom Trail leads from near the Elizabethan Gardens through the park grounds to the west side of the island. You can hike or bike on the trail, where you’ll be surrounded by some of the richest history the Outer Banks has to offer — the storied Lost Colony and birthplace of Virginia Dare.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Park Map
Hours: dawn to dusk, daily
Pea Island offers two trails, the most popular being the 1/2-mile-long North Pond Wildlife Trail. The trail features a boardwalk over a turtle pond, three observation decks, and one double decker tower with mounted binocular spotting scopes.
Pine Island, one of my favorite beach-luxe communities, accounts for just 3.5 miles of the 200 mile-long string of peninsulas and barrier islands that make up the Greater Outer Banks. Within these 3.5 miles, however, you’ll find 4 out of 5 of the most expensive residential OBX real estate transactions thus far for 2016.
Other commonalities for these opulent home sales: all of them boast oceanfront-row seats and annual rental incomes topping $100k. Take a closer look at the sold homes below. And don’t worry about missing these beauties… you can check out similar active homes here.
SOLD in 156 days — $2,500,000 193 Hicks Bay Lane, Corolla / Pine Island
This 8 BR, 8 BA home is the perfect investment with annual rental income of more than $215,000.
SOLD in 508 days — $2,275,000 100 S Baum Tr., Duck Oceanside
This 6 BR, 5 BA, 1 partial BA home located in the exclusive Palmer's Island community showcases unsurpassed views of both the sound and sea.
SOLD in 155 days — $2,110,000 381 Deep Neck Road, Corolla / Pine Island
Floor-to-ceiling windows, a gourmet kitchen and a ships watch with ocean views are just a few of the flourishes that helped this beauty fly off the market.
SOLD in 95 days — $1,966,250 459 Pipsi Point Road, Corolla / Pine Island
With a game-room, private balconies, and 2-story windows, it's no surprise this 8 BR, 8 BA home generates more than $220k in rental income each year.
SOLD IN 303 days — $1,700,000 441 N Cove Road, Corolla / Pine Island
A fun Caribbean theme that includes a tiki bar and custom murals make the inside of this home as beautiful as its ocean views.
Thinking of buying or selling on the OBX? Call Connie today! 252-202-8979.
With a few days of beautiful weather under our belts, my Spring fever is in full effect — time to plan a stay-cation! My favorite local getaway, hands-down, is Ocracoke Island. With 16 miles of undeveloped beaches and a year-round population of under 1,000, a visit to Ocracoke makes me feel transported to an isle all its own.
Ocracoke may be a small, remote island, but it is rich in history. Some fun facts:
Ocracoke is an ideal destination for rest and relaxation. When I visit, I hang up my car keys — you can stroll the whole community in 30 minutes, and everything you need is a walk or bike ride away. Admittedly, swinging in a hammock with a glass of crisp white wine and a book is my favorite way to enjoy the island, but for the more ambitious visitor, there are some great activities packed into 10 sq. miles.
It takes a little planning and motivation. Here are the two options for getting to Ocracoke:
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It would be hard to be an Outer Banks native without fond memories of Jennette’s Pier. Raising my children here, we spent countless beach days at Jennette’s — babies sheltered from the sun by the pier’s generous shade, children running back-and-forth to play arcade games and use pocket money for Nutty Buddy ice-cream cones. For me, it’s an iconic Outer Banks structure, one that represents the sand, salt, and family days our beach is made of.
Jennette’s Pier was built more than 75 years ago in 1939 by Warren H. Jennette Sr. As the first fishing pier on the Outer Banks, it served as a blueprint for similar piers all along the East coast. Initially taking only two months to construct, the original structure held strong for more than 60 years, weathering many storms with only maintenance and repairs.
Hurricane Isabel delivered a severe blow to Jennette’s when it tore through the Outer Banks in September, 2003. 540 feet of the original 754 foot all-wooden structure crumbled into the stormy sea, leaving the pier as we knew it unrecognizable.
Due to its historical significance and its potential as a marine-life education center, the NC Aquarium took the reigns at rebuilding the storied facility in 2009, this time with hurricane-resistant concrete pilings and reaching 1,000 feet long. Jennette’s Pier reopened its doors to the public in 2011.
Today, anglers still visit the pier to catch local favorites like flounder, black drum and mahi mahi. But now, the pier provides much more than arcade games and ice cream. Jennette’s offerings now include sea life exhibits, surf and paddle board lessons, and private fishing lessons, among others.
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With OBX home sales up 12 percent in the last year, it is undoubtedly a great time to put your home on the market. Use my tips below to maximize home value, increase volume of prospective buyers and most importantly, sell your home FASTER.
This report gives you a side-by-side comparison of your home to three similar active homes and three similar recently sold homes in your market, helping you determine the perfect price point for a speedy sale.
92% of people now use the web in the their home search. Here at Island Crest, we employ a savvy digital marketing strategy that includes placement on all major real estate websites, e-marketing campaigns, the Native Knowledge blog, and online advertising campaigns via Google and Facebook.
By depersonalizing your space and sprucing up, you make it easier for a prospective buyer to imagine themselves living in the home. You can do this by:
Spring! For buyers looking to relocate, Spring is a great time to move families, and here on the Outer Banks, Spring gives second-home investors a full summer of rental income to look forward to.
Once you have a buyer through your doors, immediately impress them with a thoughtful entryway. Flowers and freshly baked cookies are great way to make a home feel inviting.
As much as we love our fur-babies, it’s important to remember that not everyone does. Make sure Fido is out of site during a showing, as well as any of his toys, dishes or paw prints.
Agents of course understand it’s not always possible to prepare for a showing on short notice — but for a quick sale, being as flexible as possible means getting your home in front of the maximum number of prospective buyers.
Small upgrades, such as a coat of paint, refinishing floors or upgrading outdated hardware can go a long way, while you’re not as likely to see ROI on that kitchen soup-to-nuts overhaul.
Start a listing with Island Crest OBX Realty today!
From my Manteo home, I’m fortunate to wake up every morning to a view of Jockey’s Ridge from across the Roanoke sound. Always beautiful, always changing, it is truly one of the most awe-inspiring sites on our beach.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the home of the highest living sand dune on the East Coast with peaks at more than 90 feet and enough sand to fill up 6 million dump truck loads.
While much attention is given to the famous dunes, the park is also home to three distinct ecological environments:
The dunes of Jockey’s Ridge have three peaks. Due to harsh conditions, they harbor no vegetation aside from the American Beach Grass at the base, which is anchored by 40 ft long roots.
While the dunes are always moving, they stay with us due to the push and pull of Northeast and Southwest winds.
Due to the protection of the dunes, a thicket of live oaks, persimmons and red cedar, plus many more trees and plants grow in the area.
But because of the wind and sand, they look more like shrubs than trees. Foxes, deer, and raccoon abound in this environment.
This rich habitat produces plant life that is both ecologically and economically important for our local fisherman as it’s perfect for fish nurseries and blue crabs.
Love our beaches? Become an OBX native today!
*source http://www.jockeysridgestatepark.com/
With peak season just around the corner and the market already heating up, I wanted to take a quick moment to reflect on 2015 market happenings. To summarize, we saw HUGE improvements over 2014, making me even more excited for what's to come this year. Use our property search tool to find your beach oasis today.
Enjoy the full analysis below!
Few experiences compare to waking up to the sound of ocean waves or ending the day with a sound front sunset. Think these front row seats are out of reach? Not with this top ten list of OBX waterfront properties, all under $800k. Check out my picks below for water views that won’t break the bank.
This 5 BR, 5 BA oceanfront has views and amenities at an unbeatable price. With extras like a game room, media room and hot tub, and private decks off master suites, this home hits all the right notes.
Price: $589,000
Annual Rental Income: $74,950
This 4 BR, 3 BA sound-front home features custom craftsmanship throughout. Mint-condition white oak floors and built-in shelving and cabinetry add to the character. Perfect access for kayaking, paddle boarding and boating make this a top ten pick.
Price: $514,900
This 10 acre 3 BR, 2 BA home tucked away in Nags Head Woods is a nature lover’s oasis. Beautiful pine floors, screened in decks, and a boat lift and dock fill this top ten home with possibilities.
Price: $650,000
This newly renovated 3 BR, 2 BA home is the perfect location to enjoy an OBX sunset over the Currituck sound. The home is set on beautiful, wooded grounds that include an expansive oak tree in the backyard.
Price: $475,000
Annual Rental Income: $34,700
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION — Sound front views, ocean access a walk away, and directly across from a community pool and tennis court. This 4 BR, 3 BA home is in mint condition with a recent remodel, and boasts a reliable rental history for guaranteed ROI.
Price: $585,000
Annual Rental Income: $41,181
This 5 BR, 2 BA oceanfront home is the epitome of Old Nags Head charm. New decking, a beach-casual open floor plan, and of course, unbeatable views, land this home on my top ten list. And with more than $50k in rental income, you’re looking at a great investment.
Price: $439,000
Annual Rental Income: $51,000
This 4 BR, 4 BA home features spectacular views of the Roanoke Sound. Outside decks showcase passing boats and sunrises. A 35’ dock, fish cleaning table and outside shower are perfect for boating enthusiasts and fishermen.
Price: $650,000
Annual Rental Income: $25,000
Enjoy ocean views from every angle of this 5 BR, 5 BA home. Complete with luxe amenities like an elevator, private pool, game room with wet bar, and 3 levels of wide decking.
Price: $795,000
Annual Rental Income: $110,000
Detailed craftsmanship, indoors and out, make this 4 BR, 4 BA home a top ten must. Grand picture windows offer 180 degree views of the exclusive boating community. A fish cleaning station, outdoor shower, and 35’ boat dock make this home a fisherman’s dream.
Price: $650,000
This 3 BR, 2 BA home is a top ten pick for its private location and expansive sound front lot. Beautiful wood finishes like custom hardwood oak flooring, cedar ceilings and pine trim add to its charm, and meticulously planned lighting highlights the details.
Price: $450,000
Connie Gray, co-owner and broker-in-charge at Island Crest Realty, is a Dare County native and an Outer Banks investor. Connie offers more than 20 years of experience to homeowners and buyers, including rental strategies, strong negotiations, and excellent customer service.
Dear Friends of Corolla,
As an OBX native and lover of all things real estate, I have always held a special interest in the Northern Outer Banks both for the deep history and its impressive, continual growth.
Corolla as it's known today started in the mid-1800s as a modest settlement of fishermen, hunters and whalers, and has since flourished into a community of some of the most breathtaking and serene homes on the East Coast.
Below you'll find some fast-facts on Corolla's current residential listings and 2015 real estate market activity. Some highlights:
Enjoy the full analysis!
How can I help you achieve your OBX-estate goals? Sign up for our newsletter below or give me a call!
Connie Gray, co-owner and broker-in-charge at Island Crest Realty, is a Dare County native and an Outer Banks investor. Connie offers more than 20 years of experience to homeowners and buyers, including rental strategies, strong negotiations, and excellent customer service.
Thought my $1-2 million OBX property round-up was luxe? Things get even swankier below with my Top 10 series picks for best-in-class luxury Outer Banks homes above $2 million.
Some highlights:
8 BRs, 10 BAs, 3 partial BAs
Inspired by the Trump Mar-a-Lago, this estate tops my list for its endless flourishes — think marble, mahogany & Corinthian capitals for days.
Price: $4,690,000
Annual Rental Income: $390,000
Hand-carved solid Honduran Mahogany Wood Double Doors showcase a dual winding staircase and Italian marble flooring.
Hand-painted murals on the walls and ceilings, like in this gentleman's study, add to the artistry of the estate.
A gorgeous custom gazebo makes a perfect venue for events and weddings.
5 BRs, 5 BAs, 1 partial BA
This unique, contemporary floor plan features stunning exposed pilings from foundation to ceiling, an Eagle's nest and an Audobon sanctuary.
Price: $3,250,000
Annual Rental Income $125,000
A central atrium offers open views of juniper clad ceilings through four levels from top to bottom.
The great room features views of both the sound and the ocean. The exposed pilings offer the perfect mix of classic and contemporary.
The large kitchen with bar counter has additional prep area with multiple pantry height cabinets, perfect for party prep.
8 BRs, 7 BAs, 3 partial BAs
As the last Corolla home before reaching the wildlife preserve, this estate with unmatched privacy makes the list for location, location, location.
Price: $6,250,000
Annual Rental Income: $272,000
The great room boasts panoramic ocean views. Cypress ceilings and maple floors give additional warmth and light.
Two additional lots come with the property. Currently a volleyball and bocce court, it's the perfect space for a guest house as well.
A regulation sized lap pool offers the perfect morning workout with views of the sea.
5 BRs, 5 BAs, 3 partial
This estate compound comprises three buildings surrounding a pool area. Located 2 miles into 4-wheel-drive territory, wild horses frequently rome the property.
Price: $3,058,084
Annual Rental Income $200,000
The great room pictures floor to ceiling picture windows and exquisite furnishings.
An English-style game room/pub boasts slate floors and copper ceilings and includes a half bath, full size pool table, poker table, game table & bar area with fantastic views.
The pool area includes a life-sized chess board and serves as a perfect meeting and common area for the compound.
18 BRs, 18 BAs, 2 partial BA
Expecting company? This house sleeps 44 guests. Exquisite details like bamboo cane flooring, hand-painted columns and coffered ceilings add depth to breadth.
Price: $4,500,000
Annual Rental Income: $524,000
The theater Room features 119" projection screen with an HD projector, fiber optic twinkling star tray ceiling and reclining over-sized theater seating.
The gentleman's sports bar features hand painted ceilings, mahogany paneled wainscoting, a billiard table, game table, 3 Flat screen TVs, karaoke player and surround sound.
The pool house includes a flat screen TV, ample seating and a fireplace.
18 BRs, 12 BAs, 2 partial BA
This 18 bedroom stunner makes the list for the perfect combo of luxury and seclusion.
Price: $2,995,000
Annual Rental Income $347,525
The gourmet kitchen has granite counters & stainless steel appliances, two cooktops, three ovens, three refrigerators, three dishwashers, three microwaves, & a restaurant steamer
The wedding suite includes a bath with whirlpool tub & over-sized shower with nine (yes, nine!) shower heads, a private deck, and laundry room.
Extensive sun decks easily accommodate generous guest lists.
6 BRs, 6 BAs, 1 partial BA
Pirate's Cove is one of my favorite OBX communities, and this home is a premier example of why. Views of Jockey's Ridge and access to recreation makes this a top pick.
Price: $2,250,000
As one of two separate kitchens. this area provides open, casual living space and unbeatable views.
The master suite is beautifully furnished and features high picture windows for ultimate relaxation.
A custom-built pool seamlessly extends the careful craftsmanship from indoors to outside.
8 BRs, 9 BAs, 4 partial BA
This estate brings a little piece of the Caribbean to the OBX. Standout features like a glass elevator and a dune-top cabana elevate an already spectacular property.
Price: $2,599,000
Annual Rental Income: $271,030
The great room offers sweeping views of the ocean and lovely Caribbean-themed decor.
The recreation room is fully equipped with a pool table, foosball and air hockey table.
Extensive decking provides front row seats to the Atlantic.
8 BRs, 8 BAs, 2 partial BAs
This new construction home blends classic Nags Head design with modern features and trend setting amenities.
Price: $2,275,000
Annual Rental Income $240,000
The impressive outdoor amenities include a custom pool and event area with outdoor grilling and dining facilities.
Entertainment options are endless with a state-of-the-art recreation room, home theater, and game lounge.
7 BRs, 8 BAs, 1 partial BA
Nestled in the Four Seasons community with its impressive amenities, this house stands out due to an extensive remodel and updates that cover counter tops to luxe linens.
Price: $2,699,000
Annual Rental Income $222,000
Clean and elegant decor provide the perfect frame for ocean views from the master suite.
The recent remodel is evident in this modern-classic kitchen with beautiful granite countertops and custom cabinetry.
The superb views even extend to the recreation room, where a game of pool can be enjoyed with an ocean backdrop.
Did I miss your favorite OBX estate? Leave a comment and Like us on Facebook!
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Connie Gray, co-owner and broker-in-charge at Island Crest Realty, is a Dare County native and an Outer Banks investor. Connie offers more than 20 years of experience to homeowners and buyers, including rental strategies, strong negotiations, and excellent customer service.
We’ve all moved past searching the classifieds for our dream homes. But with so many available online tools, it can be hard to choose how to power your search. Here, I’d like to share the apps that have made my job as a realtor easier — and hopefully they will improve the home buying process for you as well!
FREE — With many online listing search tools available, Realtor.com’s Real Estate app tops my list for its up-to-date and accurate listings. It is the only app that pulls directly from MLS systems with listings refreshed every 15 minutes. Other helpful features include:
FREE — So you’ve found your dream house but before you fall in love too deeply.. what about the numbers? This is my go-to calculator for helping my clients crunch numbers on-the-go. You can’t beat the user-friendly interface, and it offers four easy options for payment calculation:
$0.99 —It’s every homebuyers worst nightmare — you find the perfect family home, later to learn your neighbors are rowdy fraternity brothers.
Avoid this snafu with Sitewise. Backed by U.S. Census data, Sitewise creates a demographic report that provides details like population by age, household income, and transportation to help you evaluate personal fit and market potential.
FREE — Wondering whether you’ll be able to stroll home after an evening cocktail? AroundMe provides a quick assessment of how far away the nearest essentials — including supermarkets, banks, restaurants, and more — are from your home-of-choice.
Easy to navigate business categories and walking/driving routes make this app a must-have for property visits.
FREE — The neighborhood is perfect, but the house needs some work. How to decide if those popcorn ceilings, faux-wood paneling and grandmotherly shag carpets are worth the upgrade?
ZillowDigs gives you the information you need to determine project cost estimates on the spot to help you decide if that fixer-upper is worthy of investment.
What are some of your favorite real estate apps? Let us know — Leave a comment and like us on facebook!
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It’s easy to associate the Outer Banks with summer time fun — we all love a good long day at the beach. But as a lifelong, year-round OBX native, I’ve found so much to love in the off-season too, especially around the holidays.
With December flying by, I wanted to share my list of the top three not-to-be-missed holiday festivities.
Dec 12 & 19 — My love for Outer Banks real estate collides with my zeal for the holidays at the Whalehead's Candlelight tour. One of the most storied estates in the areas, the 21,000-square-foot mansion was constructed as a wedding gift from groom to bride. Original Tiffany’s fixtures & a restored Steinway piano are just a couple named luxuries. Add a little Christmas sparkle, and it’s a truly unbeatable holiday event. Only two dates have remaining tickets, so act fast.
December 9-12, 16-19, 23, 26, 30 — Get tickets for this illuminated winter wonderland, and one visit will provide a heavy dose of Christmas cheer to sustain you through the busiest holiday shopping and preparation days. Stroll through the glowing gardens then warm your hands by a crackling open-air fire on the Great Lawn. It’s a perfect holiday tradition!
Now - Dec 31 — For us, it’s a family event — kids, grandkids, and large mug of hot cocoa. Featured on the Today Show and HGTV, the endless lights create a true wonderland, but for me, it’s all in the details — animal figurines making their way to Noah’s arc two-by-two, a garage remade into Santa’s Workshop, and a living room filled to the brim with collectible Santa’s. After a decade of visits, I still notice something new each year!
What are your favorite OBX-mas traditions? Leave a comment and Like us on Facebook!
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I am a sucker for a good beach house. And while I don't discriminate between shapes and sizes, who doesn't love a little luxury?
Some highlights:
Our Top 10 series continues with my round-up of OBX homes in the $1-2 million price range ...
6 BR, 6 BA, 2 partial BA
This oceanfront home has stunning ocean views from every floor. Beautiful decking & a private 1/3 acre lot make this one of my top picks.
Price: $1,049,000
Price/HtdLvArSF: $240.05
Annual Rental Income $95,613
The top floor features a large open living room with tall picture windows, a kitchen, dining room, and master suite.
Spacious bedrooms also feature beautiful sound and ocean views.
Special amenities include a hot tub, game room, wet bar and pool.
8 BRs, 7 BA, 2 Partial BA
This semi-oceanfront home is located in exclusive Pine Island. It makes the list with a winning combo of in-home and community amenities.
Price: $1,090,000
Price/HtdLvArSF: $248.01
Annual Rental Income $92,490
The kitchen is equipped with a disposal, 2 dishwashers, range oven, and refrigerator with ice-maker + an island.
In-home extras include game room with pool table, kitchenette, and volleyball court.
Private and community pools are just steps away from back decking. Owner also has access to tennis courts, clubhouse and beach boardwalk.
5 BRs, 4 BAs
Sweeping panoramic water views and private sandy beaches are the backdrop for this dream home. set on 2.65 acres.
Tasteful luxury is evident throughout this home with Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, cherry cabinetry and custom finishings.
Water views like this one are featured throughout the house. The master bedroom is the entire top floor, complete with walk-in wardrobe for ultimate privacy.
An in-home theater means you never have to leave this truly one-of-a-kind retreat.
5 BRs, 3 BAs, 1 partial BA
This home makes my list for its creek-to-canal lifestyle provisions — paddle-boarding, skiing, fishing and kayaking, and the perfect place for your boat and jet skis with over 100 ft of docking on the Ginguite Creek.
Price: $1,095,000
Price/HtdLvArSF$269.90
The newly renovated kitchen spares no expense and opens to a living, dining, great room and master suite for one-floor living.
The master suite features a sitting area with beautiful views of the estate. Master bath includes a custom high-rise tub.
Outside you'll find an expansive, high quality deck and top of the line awning that also features a sun shield flap. Professionally landscaped exterior with landscape lighting and irrigation.
5 BRs, 6 BAs, 1 partial BA
This semi-oceanfront in Buck Island (a personal fav community!) was used as a second home and makes the perfect worry-free investment.
Price: $1,139,900
Price/HtdLvArSF: $371.06
Annual Rental Income: $103,065
The top floor features an open floor plan and the kitchen was recently renovated with top-of-the-line appliances and custom, quality finishes.
Beautiful hardwoods are carried into the spacious bedrooms.
This cozy nook features a piano and sitting area with a panoramic view.
9 BRs, 9 BAs, 2 partial BAs
This new construction home is perfect for any investor looking for a turnkey property. A finishing allowance is included for buyer to choose everything from paint colors to cabinets.
Price: $1,175,000
Price/HtdLvArSF: $227.05
Annual Rental Income $147,160
Home design offers a great flow between bedroom suites and multiple gathering areas for indoor entertainment. All bedrooms are master suites with private baths.
Outdoor amenities include a custom concrete pool, hot tub and Tiki Bar, and the beach access is located directly across the beach road.
6 BRs, 6 BAs, 1 partial BA
This gorgeous home is a favorite for its fresh take on a classic style. Custom built in the exclusive Summer Place community and beautifully furnished.
Price: $1,450,000
P rice/HtdLvArSF: $262.54
Annual Rental Income $142,348
Enjoy breathtaking views by the fireplace in the great room. Home also features home theater, elevator, and 3 levels of decks.
Open floor plan includes a kitchen with new appliances and beautiful granite countertops.
A stunning pool area overlooks the ocean, and there is also a hot tub to enjoy on the decks.
6 BRs, 6 BAs, 2 partial BAs
A true estate-level property, its 6 master suites sleeps up to 18 guests. The large trees and superb professional landscaping have a unique English countryside appeal.
Asking Price: $1,480,840
Price/HtdLvArSF: $205.67
Annual Rental Income $175,000'
The Old English-style bar with 2nd fireplace & custom cherry finishes is the perfect place to pour a scotch. Home also includes a game room with a 3rd wet bar & big screen TV.
Gourmet Kitchen comes fully stocked & has a commercial gas range, 2 ovens, 6 burners & grill, 3 full size refrigerators, breakfast bar, desk & large work area.
Outside, relax at the pool or in the built in pool Jacuzzi and hot tub. Enjoy refreshing beverages at the outdoor bar.
8 BRs, 9 BAs, 2 partial BAs
Outfitted with top-of-the-line furnishings and finishes, this home features a great location that promises a great return on investment in a rental program.
Price: $1,745,000
Price/HtdLvArSF: $363.84
Annual Rental Income $203,000
The light-filled great room is an oasis of tranquility that offers unparalleled views of the Atlantic coastline.
The pool is outfitted with multi-colored underwater lighting. A poolside deck offers an enclosed shower for your convenience and an outdoor bar with under-counter refrigerator/icemaker and seating for easy meal cleanup.
Ample decking offers more space to enjoy the unbeatable views.
10 BRs, 8 BRs, 1 partial BA
This beauty was built in the classic Nags Head tradition with cedar shakes and spacious covered decks to take in the ocean views. As a short sale, it also has a place on our Top 10 Bang-For-Your-Buck List!
Price: $1,699,000
Price/HtdLvArSF$408.61
Annual Rental Income $150,000
The large great room includes professionally selected high-end furnishings, a large screened-in porch, sun decks and postcard worthy ocean views.
The gourmet kitchen includes stainless steal appliances, an island bar, and custom cabinetry.
The first floor social center comes with a large flat screen, pool table, vintage video game machine, and kitchenette along with several over sized bedrooms.
Am I missing your million dollar baby? Leave a comment and Like us on Facebook!
Think these places are nice? I can't wait to show you how swanky things can get in the next couple top ten round-ups ... You can sign up below if you'd like to get the lists by email.
Connie Gray, co-owner and broker-in-charge at Island Crest Realty, is a Dare County native and an Outer Banks investor. Connie offers more than 20 years of experience to homeowners and buyers, including rental strategies, strong negotiations, and excellent customer service.
I am a real-estate junkie. As an OBX realtor, one of my absolute favorite parts of the job is driving around the beach, checking out the latest and greatest market finds. I love finding a property that is the best in its class, has unique features, or is just a plain good deal.
In this Top Ten Properties blog series, I'd like to share the fruits of my labor with you!
This week, we're focusing on bang-for-your-buck. The property round-up below ranges in price from $40k - $1.375mm — but they all have one thing in common. Each of these properties is an incredible steal, giving homebuyers a real chance to maximize their investment.
Have I missed any great OBX deals? Leave a comment below!
-Connie
Buy into beautiful Corolla at an unbeatable price with this 3 BR, 3 BA home located in the award-winning Corolla Light Resort. Easy stroll to the sound side pool and observation deck. Recent updates include a new roof, 2 new heat pumps and handlers, and a freshly painted exterior.
Price: $219,000
Price/HtdSqFt: $131.14
Master bedroom features in-suite bathroom with jacuzzi tub + a private deck.
The open floor plan is perfect for beach-casual living and entertaining.
One of the most affordable condos on the market, this 1 BR condo + 25’ boat dock offers maximum privacy. As a Pirate’s Cove resident, you’ll gain access to a full service marina, restaurant on site, two swimming pools, tennis courts, and volleyball and basketball courts .
Price: $139,999
Price/HtdSqFt: $193.37
The living room furniture is new and kitchen is spotless.
Take in views of the tennis courts and canal from the private deck, and enjoy easy access to the boat docks.
This oceanfront 8 BR, 9.5 BA also includes an elevator, sports bar and a game room. With annual rental income of $150k, this home is one of the best bang-for-buck investments on the market.
Price: $1,375,000 (foreclosure)
Price/HtdSqFt: $267.35
Enjoy a private oceanfront heated concrete pool with a built in kiddie pool. Boardwalk to beach, covered decks, outdoor shower, poolside bath, state-of-the-art security system.
Kitchen includes 6-burner stove, large center island, and ample cabinet space.
Master bath features jack-and-jill sinks and large jacuzzi tub with a picture window for perfect lighting.
This turn-key, fully-furnished 3 BR 2 BA beach cottage is one of the most affordable on the market. Unbeatable location — across the street from public beach access and close to Nags Head Pier. Views of causeway bridge and sound.
Price: $215,000
Price/HtdSqFt: $185.99
Living room is open to kitchen, perfect for beach-casual living.
Bedrooms are beautifully & functionally furnished.
This 60' x 18.2 foot boat slip is priced way below tax assessment, making it the perfect place to dock your boat. Pirate's Cove offers a full time marina on site and is conveniently located by Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar. Enjoy easy access to fishing in the sound or ocean.
Price: $57,900
This updated classic beach cottage is located just 3 lots from oceanfront. The cottage is just a short walk to the community beach access path.
Price: $212,500
Price/HtdSqFt: $174.04
The first floor features a living room, dining area, kitchen, a breakfast bar, two bedrooms & a full bath, spiral staircase to second floor.
The second level features one bedroom, 1/2 bath and laundry room.
TO BE BUILT.
Owners will enjoy a fluid design with craftsmanship and quality at an excellent price in this 3BR, 2BA, Half-bath, single-dwelling home in the Cedar Bay Community .
Price: $193,400
Price/HtdSqFt: $180.41
Designed for family living with an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings in the dining and living areas, centralized galley kitchen with eat-on Bar and a Dutch gable roof.
Bedrooms are a good size throughout.
This 2 BR, 2 BA potential short sale is located on a quiet cul-de-sac.
Price: $175,000
Price/HtdSqFt: $133.18
The back entry features two quaint porches.
The kitchen features ample counter and cabinet space, plus updated appliances.
On the lookout for a fixer-upper? This 3 BR, 2.5 BA custom built home sits on large corner lot with covered front, side and rear decks is an absolute steal. This property has both a 2 car detached and a 2 car attached garage.
Price: $255,000 (foreclosure)
Price/HtdSqFt: $135.21
It has a traditional floor plan with a formal living and dining room. The kitchen has a breakfast nook and there is a large family room. The floor plan includes a separate laundry room and 1/2 bath on the main living area.
Master bath includes a jacuzzi tub flanked by two picture windows.
This 1 acre site is in pristine community, close to golf courses, shopping and restaurants. Architectural covenants ensure beautiful homes. Enjoy direct sound access a live affordably just 8 miles from Outer Banks beaches, comparable to Albemarle Estates. Priced to move — same owners for site next door.
Price: $40,000
Look no further than our OBX beaches. Dubbed the “Kiteboarding and Windsurfing Capital of the East Coast,” the Outer Banks offer some of the best kiteboarding conditions in the world.
Kiteboarding is an extreme water sport that leverages a large kite to propel the rider across the water. It’s like sailing, wake boarding and surfing – combined.
And it can be a workout, so technique is important. The kite’s 100-ft strings are connected to a control bar, which the rider uses to steer the kite. The rider wears a harness with a hook that attaches to the bar, allowing the rider to lean against the force of the kite with body weight. Meanwhile, footwork controls the direction and angle of the rider’s board.
It’s easy to learn, and it doesn’t take long to progress skills – especially on the OBX. A beginner may choose to cruise with the breeze, however, it’s not uncommon to see a seasoned kiteboarder jumping 20 or 30 feet in the air.
It’s not just our consistent wind that leads kiters here in flocks. From buttery flat water to peeling waves, the OBX offers a fantastic patchwork of kiting venues. The sound side boasts miles of shallow, open water for learning the ropes or speeding across flat water. And wave-seekers find ideal ocean-side conditions no matter the swell direction, thanks to the shape of the coastline and easy access to the beach.
And since the OBX is replete with other opportunities to explore, family members can have an epic adventure of their own when they’re not watching from shore.
This rare combination of natural resources is another reason so many people choose the OBX for their vacation home or investment property. Many Outer Banks properties are the perfect haven for kiting. With fantastic sound access, canal access with bulkheaded lots and private or public dock access, you’ll find a multitude of OBX investment properties perfect for kite launching and other water sports. (picture and link to one of Mom’s listings here)
From Corolla to Ocracoke, these shops can help you get started today.
Corolla — Corolla Kiteboarding
Nags Head — Kitty Hawk Kites, Whalebone Watersports
Waves — Kitty Hawk Kites, Waves Village Watersports resort
Cape Hatteras — REAL Water Sports
I love our beach. It’s a love that runs deep. My family history here dates back to the late 1800s when my great grandfather settled on the island. Some of my most treasured childhood memories include Sunday trips to the Nags Head Snow Bird for ice-cream. My brother and I often did overnights on the Alligator River Bridge with my grandfather, who was the bridge tender. We learned how to swim in the Croatan Sound.
It should come as no surprise then, that I love what I do. As a real estate agent serving buyers and sellers on the Outer Banks, I wake up everyday to share my passion with people who also feel the pull of the ocean tides, who understand the allure of southern living.
When I sell on this beach, it’s about more than just selling houses — it’s a lifestyle that includes endless sunsets, a good day of fishing, dolphins jumping, wild horses running. I am helping my clients achieve their coastal living and investment dreams.
I believe the Outer Banks is a one-of a-kind place. Named one of the top resort beaches in the country, we have preserved a friendly, small-town feel. Our growth feels organic.
I’m an Outer Banks lifer, and I’d like to help you become one too.
