If you’ve been watching the Wilmington market this year, you’ve probably noticed two things at once: inventory has been more plentiful than in the post-pandemic frenzy, and the best listings still move quickly when they’re priced and prepped right. That combination gives buyers real options—especially in planned communities where amenities, architectural style, and location all come bundled together.

To see where the action truly is, we looked at closed sales recorded in 2025 for properties with a Wilmington address and grouped them by subdivision, excluding listings not in a subdivision (as identified by the listing agent). Five communities rose to the top for the sheer number of homes that changed hands: Riverlights, Blake Farm, Landfall, East and Mason, and Northchase. Below you’ll find a deep dive into each—its overall vibe, typical housing styles, a quick market snapshot based on 2025 year-to-date closings, and the amenities that draw buyers.

Notes on the numbers: Market stats below reflect 2025 closed sales through mid-September and are rounded for readability. Metrics like “median sale price” and “median days on market (DOM)” are descriptive—not predictive—and can change as new closings post. Always verify details that matter to you (HOA fees, amenity access, boundaries, etc.) with the association or property management before you buy.

1. Riverlights

Vibe: Modern coastal and outdoorsy—with a lively, “always something happening” energy. Riverlights hugs a scenic stretch of the Cape Fear River, and much of the lifestyle here orbits the water. There’s a waterfront boardwalk, a lakeside loop for morning jogs, and a central commercial hub that gives you coffee, dinner, and errands without hopping on a highway. Even when you’re not on the river, you feel near it; sunsets glow from the west across the water and the community design invites you out of the house.

Housing styles: Riverlights showcases contemporary Lowcountry and modern-coastal architecture—think broad porches, metal roof accents, and light, breezy color palettes. You’ll find a range of home types within the master plan: single-family cottages with alley-loaded garages, larger two-story homes on tidy streets, and lock-and-leave townhomes near the action. Many offerings prioritize indoor-outdoor living, with sliding doors to covered patios, screened porches, and modest, easy-to-maintain yards.

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(all data current as of 9/16/2025)

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

2025 market snapshot (YTD):

• Closed sales: 128 (the most in Wilmington this year)

• Median sale price: ~$554,000

• Median days on market: ~40

• Median sale-to-list price ratio: ~99%

• New construction Vs. resale: 84 new vs. 44 resale (65.6% / 34.4%)

What this says: Riverlights has both volume and velocity. With more than a hundred closings in 2025 so far, buyers benefit from choice—different builders, sections, floor plans—while the near-list sale prices show demand remains consistent for well-presented homes. Closings are driven primarily by ongoing builder releases, with a healthy resale pipeline giving buyers a second lane of options.

Amenities and everyday conveniences: The signature perk is proximity to the Cape Fear River. Residents enjoy a waterfront boardwalk, pocket parks, lakeside trails, and community gathering spaces. There’s an amenity center with a pool and clubhouse, playgrounds, and frequent programmed events. The mixed-use Marina Village area brings restaurants, retail, and services right into the neighborhood fabric. Quick access to Independence Blvd., River Road, and Carolina Beach Road makes commuting and beach days straightforward.

Who tends to love it (in terms of lifestyle, not people): Buyers who prioritize an active, outdoors-forward routine and a “park once and enjoy” neighborhood center typically put Riverlights on their short list. If you want modern coastal style, organized amenities, and that riverfront atmosphere, Riverlights delivers.

2. Blake Farm

Vibe: Resort-casual and amenity-driven. Blake Farm leans into a relaxed, “weekend at home” rhythm: wide sidewalks, green space, and community facilities that feel like a private club. The master plan emphasizes recreation and convenience as much as curb appeal, which means it’s easy to spend your afternoons in-neighborhood without sacrificing access to shopping corridors and commuter routes.

Housing styles: You’ll see a mix of new-construction single-family homes and townhomes with clean lines, open floor plans, and thoughtful storage. Elevations range from coastal craftsman to simplified farmhouse—board-and-batten accents, gables, and welcoming front porches. Most homes are designed for efficient living: flexible bedrooms for offices or hobbies, generous kitchen islands, and garages with space for gear.

See all Real estate matching your search.
(all data current as of 9/16/2025)

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

2025 market snapshot (YTD):

• Closed sales: 122

• Median sale price: ~$417,000

• Median days on market: ~21

• Median sale-to-list price ratio: ~100%

• New construction Vs. resale: 122 new vs. 0 resale (100% / 0%)

What this says: Homes at Blake Farm have been trading briskly at or right around their list prices. The median price point broadens the pool of buyers who can enter a master-planned community without leaping to seven-figure budgets, and the consistent turnover means new opportunities appear regularly. All year-to-date closings are builder-new in the records, underscoring Blake Farm’s active build-out and steady flow of inventory.

Amenities and everyday conveniences: Blake Farm is known for robust recreation. Amenities typically include resort-style pool facilities, walking paths, pickleball or tennis courts, fitness spaces, and a community clubhouse for gatherings. Pet owners often appreciate open greens and designated areas for four-legged friends. Commuters like that major corridors are nearby, and day-to-day errands—groceries, coffee, casual dining—are an easy drive.

Lifestyle fit (again, focused on activities): If your ideal Saturday is a long walk, a swim, and a late lunch without leaving your neighborhood, Blake Farm’s amenity package will be a standout. Buyers who value new construction warranties and low-maintenance finishes also gravitate here.

3. Landfall

Vibe: Private, polished, and classically coastal. Landfall is one of Wilmington’s flagship gated communities, set across thousands of acres with winding roads, lakes, and gracious streetscapes. Mature landscaping lends an established feel you can’t replicate overnight. It’s peaceful without being sleepy, and its scale makes it feel like a town within the city.

Housing styles: Architectural diversity is a calling card here. You’ll find custom residences ranging from low-slung brick traditional homes to shingle-style coastal retreats, Mediterranean-inspired villas, and modern interpretations with glass and steel. Many homes are sited to capture fairway or lake views, and lots are generous relative to many newer subdivisions. Expect bespoke finishes—coffered ceilings, built-in libraries, chef kitchens, and purpose-built spaces for wellness, studios, or workshops.

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(all data current as of 9/16/2025)

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

2025 market snapshot (YTD):

• Closed sales: 82

• Median sale price: ~$1.395M

• Median days on market: ~20

• Median sale-to-list price ratio: ~96%

• New construction Vs. resale: 4 new vs. 78 resale(4.9% / 95.1%)

What this says: Landfall remains one of Wilmington’s top luxury addresses. Homes move steadily when aligned with market expectations, and the price spectrum runs wide because of the community’s size and custom nature. Buyers here often prioritize lot position, privacy within the neighborhood, and proximity to club facilities. As a mature custom community, Landfall trades mostly through resales; buyers focus on lot position, updates, and view.

Amenities and everyday conveniences: Within Landfall, membership (separate from HOA) provides access to private club facilities such as golf, tennis, fitness, dining, and social programming. Non-club amenities include trails, parks, lakes, and security-controlled gates. The neighborhood borders shopping, restaurants, salons, and services along Military Cutoff and Eastwood, and the beach is a simple drive over the bridge. It’s an everyday-convenient address that still feels tucked away.

Lifestyle fit: If you want an established, large-lot community with custom architecture and access to private country-club options, Landfall checks those boxes. It’s ideal for buyers who value space, mature landscaping, and a polished environment close to city conveniences.

4. East and Mason

Vibe: Stylish and close-in—modern coastal living right in the heart of Wilmington’s east side. East and Mason is a newer infill master plan that feels intimate compared with some larger communities. It puts you near Masonboro Sound, key roadways, shopping, and restaurants while maintaining a neighborhood-scale streetscape with sidewalks and a central amenity hub.

Housing styles: Expect fresh coastal architecture with elevated details: metal roof accents, carriage-style garages, brick or tabby shell touches, and carefully curated exterior colors. Floor plans favor generous kitchen-living areas, main-level suites in many models, and transitional indoor-outdoor spaces like screened porches and covered lanais. Townhome offerings provide options for buyers seeking low-maintenance living with the same design language as the single-family sections.

See all Real estate matching your search.
(all data current as of 9/16/2025)

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

2025 market snapshot (YTD):

• Closed sales: 42

• Median sale price: ~$739,000

• Median days on market: ~14

• Median sale-to-list price ratio: ~100%

• New construction Vs. resale: 41 new vs. 1 resale(97.6% / 2.4%)

What this says: East and Mason has been a strong performer in 2025. Short market times and sale-to-list ratios right at 100% indicate that buyers are responding to the architecture, location, and amenity mix. Inventory appears in bursts as builders release homes and resale opportunities pop up; when they do, they go. 

Amenities and everyday conveniences: Community offerings typically include a pool, clubhouse, and sidewalks that tie the sections together. The location is a major amenity by itself—close to grocery stores, boutique fitness, casual and upscale dining, and arterial roads to the beach or downtown. Buyers who want “newer build, central location” see East and Mason as a smart play.

Lifestyle fit: If you’re drawn to modern-coastal architecture and want a turnkey home close to daily conveniences, put East and Mason on your tour list. The community’s scale and design create a polished, neighborhood-forward feel without sacrificing access to the rest of Wilmington.

5. Northchase

Vibe: Established, practical, and friendly to everyday routines. Northchase is a long-running planned community noted for its lakes, mature trees, and straightforward access to major roads. It has that “classic subdivision” cadence—quiet residential streets, community amenities, and a location that makes commuting, campus access, or trips to the airport simple.

Housing styles: Because Northchase has been growing for decades, you’ll see a range of eras and elevations. One-story ranch plans and traditional two-stories sit alongside later phases with updated exterior palettes and open-concept interiors. Some pockets include attached or low-maintenance options. Yards tend to be usable and manageable, and many homes add screened porches, workshops, or sheds to extend everyday living.

See all Real estate matching your search.
(all data current as of 9/16/2025)

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

2025 market snapshot (YTD):

• Closed sales: 33

• Median sale price: ~$310,000

• Median days on market: ~19

• Median sale-to-list price ratio: ~97%

• New construction Vs. resale: 4 new vs. 29 resale(12.1% / 87.9%)

What this says: Northchase remains a reliable value play, with price points that open doors for a wide range of buyers. Homes that are well prepared and clearly priced see near-list outcomes and stable time on market, while properties in need of updates still move given the neighborhood’s location and amenities. An established neighborhood where value and location keep resale activity steady.

Amenities and everyday conveniences: Community perks often include a pool, tennis or pickleball courts, walking paths, lakes with fountain features, and playgrounds. The internal road network weaves around preserved green areas, and neighborhood entries connect you quickly to major corridors for work, errands, and regional travel.

Lifestyle fit: If you want an established subdivision with useful amenities and a practical location—often at approachable price points—Northchase offers a lot of value for the dollar.

New Construction vs. Resales: The Top 5 Subdivisions in Wilmington Where Buyers Are Moving in 2025

How to Use These Insights as a Buyer

1) Start with lifestyle, not just price. Price is important, but how you plan to live matters just as much. Do you want a neighborhood center that lets you grab coffee and dinner without leaving the community (Riverlights)? Do you dream of resort-style recreation where “staying in” feels like a vacation (Blake Farm)? Is a polished, custom environment with large lots and private club options your ideal (Landfall)? Are you after newer construction close to everything (East and Mason)? Or does a practical, established community with a great location check the boxes (Northchase)? When you map your daily rhythms to the vibe of a neighborhood, the best-fit homes rise to the top faster.

2) Focus on the “why” behind the data. For example, East and Mason’s short DOM suggests buyers respond quickly to listings that are aligned with the market; if you love the neighborhood, be ready with pre-approval so you can act at pace. Landfall’s spread in price points reflects its size and custom builds; in a community like this, lot and position can drive value as much as bedroom count. Riverlights and Blake Farm show how master-planned amenities plus fresh inventory can keep sales brisk year-round.

3) Understand each HOA and what your dues cover. Amenities, maintenance packages, and access rules can vary even within the same master plan. Some offerings are included in your HOA dues; others may require optional memberships or separate fees. Confirm details with the association and review the covenants so you know exactly what you’re getting.

4) Think about resale before you buy. In every one of these communities, the homes that show best—fresh paint, tidy landscaping, easy-to-understand floor plans—tend to command stronger sale-to-list ratios. Choose a layout and location that will appeal broadly when it’s your turn to sell.

5) Use new-construction and resale to your advantage. Communities like Riverlights, Blake Farm, and East and Mason can offer both builder-new and gently lived-in options. New homes may come with warranties and up-to-date energy features; resale homes might deliver immediate landscaping, window treatments, and post-closing flexibility on move-in dates. Compare total cost of ownership, not just initial list price.

Final Thoughts

Wilmington’s master-planned communities capture so much of what makes coastal North Carolina appealing: easy access to water and green space, architecture that celebrates indoor-outdoor living, and amenities that support an active, convenient lifestyle. In 2025, the five subdivisions above—Riverlights, Blake Farm, Landfall, East and Mason, and Northchase—are where the most buyers have been moving based on closed sales. Each offers a distinct flavor of coastal living, from resort-casual to custom luxury, all within reach of Wilmington’s beaches, historic riverfront, and growing business corridors.

If you’re comparing neighborhoods, consider touring a few back-to-back. Walk the streets at different times of day, explore the amenity centers, and take a short drive to see how each community connects to your everyday routine—groceries, dining, fitness, the office, and your favorite weekend spots. Then let the data narrow the field: how quickly homes sell, how close sale prices are to list prices, and what features the most in-demand homes share.

Every buyer’s priorities are different, and Wilmington’s variety is the point. With a clear sense of the lifestyle you want and a close look at the neighborhoods above, you’ll be well positioned to make a confident 2025 move.