A welcoming community of newcomers
The community of New Hill has, for many years, had expansive land and a secluded rural feel but has seen a recent boom in development due to its prime location near Apex. Martin Burke is a real estate agent with NorthGroup Real Estate who lives in New Hill, he says living in the area gives people a chance to get back in touch with nature and small-town living. “Sometimes you’re making dinner and you’re like, ‘Oh, man, I need cream of mushroom soup, but I don’t want to drive all the way to Apex,'” he says. “I can jump on one of our online community groups and say, ‘Hey, does anyone have a can of soup I can borrow?’” Because it’s such a new community, Burke estimates the longest a resident has lived in New Hill is about 10 years, with the average time being three years. “We all know that we're out of the way, so we take care of each other,” he says.
New neighborhhood and more to come
While a few of the older homes dating back to the early 1900s still stand, newcomers will also see custom builds with open floor plans and townhouses between $500,000 and $1.4 million. The most common styles here are Craftsman and traditional. “You can get a little bit more bang for your buck as far as housing and the space,” says Beth Marks, Realtor with Compass. Yard space is commonly found in the back end of these homes and may include covered patios or decks. With new subdivisions popping up left and right, buyers will be able to take advantage of exclusive amenities, including pools, playgrounds and dog parks. “We currently have six new neighborhoods,” Burke says. “We plan to have probably 7 to 8 more within the next couple years.” He says homes in New Hill can go under contract in just a few days.
Driving out of town for shopping
New Hill residents will find their nearest shopping destinations in Apex and Holly Springs. “You’re 15 to 20 minutes away,” Burke says. “If you’re going somewhere, you might as well as commit to an hour. 30 minutes going, 30 minutes coming back.” In Holly Springs, Towne Center lodges more than 50 retailers and restaurants like Marshalls, Bath & Body Works or DICK’S Sporting Goods. Fast casual food is served at Tijuana Flats or a beer from Carolina Brewing Company can be enjoyed on their outdoor patio. Just 2 miles south of the shopping complex are two grocery stores, Harris Teeter and Walmart. Beaver Creek Commons in Apex is another option, with major department stores like Target.
Overflow schools in Wake County
Part of the Wake County School System, zoning depends on where homes are located in the neighborhood. Another factor is if an assigned base school has a cap, which causes some students to attend overflow schools. For example, in the Jordan Point subdivision, students will begin their education at Baucom Elementary — scoring an A overall on Niche. Apex Middle and High School also earn A scores. The Academy of Information Technology program allows Apex High students the chance to learn about computer science, including programing and web design.
Pontoon boats and kayaks on the lake
Harris Lake County Park is where locals gather to hike or bike, go for a stroll along serene trails with views of the shimmering waterway or take off on a relaxing boat ride. Similar amenities can be found around Jordan Lake, which boasts a canoe launch, fishing pier and Ebenezer Beach, a small sandy strip lining the water. “It’s so peaceful,” Burke says. “You get to see some of the egrets and amazing birds and wildlife we have out there.” The American Tobacco Trail’s 22 miles of walkable and bikeable pathways stretch from New Hill to Durham, the shaded trail crosses scenic areas like Beaver Creek and Reedy Branch. Many of the subdivisions in New Hill have their own pools, "There are definitely plenty of places to cool off when it gets hot in the summer here,” Burke says. “Because it gets hot.”
Events and festivals in Apex
Every May, the streets of Downtown Apex because the grounds for PeakFest. It features vendors, food, music and more. "Downtown Apex is only 5 miles away,” Burke says. “So, we’re still tight with Apex, we all still participate in a lot of Apex functions.”
About 22 miles to downtown Raleigh
Conveniently located near U.S. Highway 1,it’s an easy route to the nightlife, culture and more in downtown Raleigh. For work or leisure, New Hill is within 20 miles or a 30-minute drive to hubs like the Research Triangle Park or Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Photography Contributed By
Lawrence Hiatt
