Wilmington, N.C. – In what is traditionally the slowest month of the year, the Cape Fear luxury housing market outperformed expectations by posting its most profitable February ever.
In the combined areas of New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties, a total of 52 luxury homes (homes with a final closing price of at least $1 million) sold in February. The closings added up to a combined value of $85.2 million. That compares to February 2024, when 40 transactions were recorded for a total of $60,964,820.
And while the strong performance is encouraging news for the entire region’s real estate market, a closer look at the numbers shows that last month’s sales are particularly good news for Brunswick County. Already the fastest-growing county in the state—and the seventh fastest-growing county in the nation—it’s now clear that the growth includes many high-dollar new residents. Brunswick County outpaced the other two counties in total number of sales, volume, and currently leads in inventory, with just under 200 luxury homes on the market.
“But it’s not just the numbers that are impressive—it’s the appeal,” said Scott Saxton, a local real estate expert. “Buyers across all price points are falling in love with Brunswick County because it offers an unbeatable mix of coastal beauty, small-town charm, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for a luxury waterfront estate or a charming cottage near the golf course, there’s something for everyone here.”
However, New Hanover County took the lead for the most expensive individual sale. The six-bedroom, 6,700-square-foot estate located at 120 Parmele Blvd. on Wrightsville Beach was on the market for only two days before going under contract. It closed on February 26 for $7 million. The home was listed by a non-member broker, meaning it was represented by someone from outside the area.
| New Hanover County
FEB 2025 / FEB 2024 |
Brunswick County
FEB 2025/ FEB 2024 |
Pender County
FEB 2025/ FEB 2024 |
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| Newly Listed | 84 | 40 | 83 | 59 | 17 | 13 |
| Went Under Contract | 36 | 34 | 23 | 36 | 11 | 6 |
| Closed # Homes Sold | 17 | 23 | 29 | 15 | 6 | 3 |
| Total Closed $ Volume | $29.8M | $37.7M | $46.6M | $20.4M | $8.7M | $2.8M |
| Total Current Listings | 157 | 132 | 199 | 145 | 51 | 39 |
*Luxury homes are defined as those priced at $1,000,000 or higher. Statistics are from the North Carolina Regional Multiple Listing Service.
This report is presented by Just for Buyers Realty. As the name implies, Just For Buyers Realty serves only buyers. In a state where buyers purchase real estate at their own risk, the company’s mission is to serve as Superheroes for Buyers, using all of the secrets of the trade to protect buyers at every stage of the process. Contact Just For Buyers Realty by calling 910-202-4813 or by e-mail at info@JustForBuyersRealty.com, or visit www.JustForBuyersRealty.com