Northchase offers appealing homes and amenities north of Wilmington
Northchase is an appealing destination in the suburbs north of Wilmington. The multi-use community is split in half by College Road. The east side features contemporary single-family homes and townhouses that make up a planned residential development built from the mid-1980s through the late 1990s. The west side features a park, two schools, shopping and dining. Residents also enjoy proximity to the amenities and attractions of Wilmington, the region’s premier city.
Different styles, sizes spread across neighborhoods large and small
“Northchase has different neighborhoods within it,” says Zulima Devia of Keller Williams Innovative-Wilmington, who has sold several homes in the community. “There are large developments, small developments, and different styles of homes.”
The majority of homes here are single-level contemporary designs, but window-heavy Colonial Revival homes stand out among larger options. Driveways and attached garages are standard. Front yards are spacious, and back yards are large enough for pools.
Prices range from the high $200,000s to $500,000-plus. Monthly HOA fees are typically between $45 and $145, with most on the lower end of that range. Townhomes are also available. They range from roughly $200,000 to $300,000, with HOA fees below $200 per month. Flooding is not an issue for homeowners, but the community is close enough to the coast for hurricanes to be a concern. Proximity to the coast results in hot, humid summers.
Olsen Park features recreational amenities for all levels of ability
Olsen Park is home to The Miracle Field and Kiwanis Miracle Playground. The field is specifically designed with a synthetic surface to allow sports participation by those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. The playground is one of the largest all-access play spaces in the region. The park’s traditional amenities are anchored by several ballfields. The community pool is a popular seasonal gathering place. Northchase has its own swim team, the Piranhas. “It’s got great amenities – the pool, a pavilion, tennis courts and walking trails,” says Devia, who adds that Northchase is “very community-oriented,” and residents gather regularly for events that include a popular food truck event every Thursday night in the summer.
Smith Creek Park is a nearby waterfront green space with a small lake that can be used for fishing and kayaking. Boaters and anglers can take advantage of the nautical adventures provided by the nearby Cape Fear River, which empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Wilmington.
The community is one of the few to employ crossing guards
Emma B. Trask Middle School and Elmsley A. Laney High School, both rated B-plus by Niche, are just on the other side of College Road. “They have a crossing guard for the kids to safely walk across the street,” Devia says. “They’re one of the few places in New Hanover County that still uses them.” The schools are part of the New Hanover County district, which earns an A-minus from Niche. Younger students can attend Castle Hayne Elementary, also rated B-plus. Providence Preparatory Academy is a small, private Christian K-12 school in Northchase.
Residents can shop for groceries, dine out within the community
A centrally located shopping center along College Road is a highlight of the community’s commercial options. Customers can shop for groceries and choose from restaurants serving pizza, Mexican favorites and fast food. America’s Choice Gourmet is a popular meat market nearby. Big-box retailers are concentrated nearby along the Interstate 40 corridor. Historic Downtown Wilmington is known for its collection of boutique shops and restaurants.
Airport, university, beach are easily accessible
Northchase Parkway loops through the community, connecting residents and nearby amenities. Interstates 40 and 140 intersect just outside of the community, providing convenient travel throughout the region. Wilmington is easily accessible. “It’s very convenient,” Devia says. “You’re outside the city limits, so you only have to pay county taxes, but Wilmington and everything it has to offer is 15-20 minutes away – downtown, the airport, UNC-Wilmington and the beach.” In addition, Wilmington is home to New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Written By
Matt Pallister
