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Enjoy the small-town charm of this North Carolina town, which offers a suburban feel that will make you feel right at home. This is a place where you can get it all – the natural beauty of NC, picturesque views of Lake Norman, and short commutes to amenities and entertainment. With a resilient economy and a high rate of homeownership, this community offers stability and encourages you to set down roots.
Overview of the Real Estate Market in Denver, NC
Denver, NC is located in Lincoln County on the west side of Lake Norman. Although Denver has a continually growing population, those who live here are surrounded by canopies of trees and a wide range of real estate options, including waterfront homes, new construction developments and multiple acre parcels. Formerly known as “Dry Pond”, the community is situated on what many consider to be the quieter side of Lake Norman.-
Denver, NC Real Estate Trends
North Carolina is one of the top destinations for millennials relocating across the United States, according to a 2021 SmartAsset report. It was also the 6th most popular state for millennials pre-pandemic, welcoming over 8,700 new residents between the ages of 25 to 39 in 2019.
The influx of new residents is expected to drive the demand for housing in Denver and other NC towns and cities. Remote work and the desire for more space in less densely populated areas have urged buyers across the board to consider looking into suburban and semi-rural areas with larger properties and more affordable prices.
As with most states in the U.S., many renters are making the transition to first-time homebuyers during the pandemic, dipping into their savings and looking into housing markets like Denver, NC to find larger homes with more outdoor space. This is expected to play out in Denver, which already has a high rate of homeownership.
As states reopen, and with vaccination rollout allowing for domestic travel, those who invest in Denver, NC real estate can entertain the possibility of renting out their homes during peak season.
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Average Home Prices
As of March 2021, the median home price in Denver, NC was $379,521. However, luxury homes can cost an upwards of $1 million while some vacant lots can sell for as low as $75,000. No matter your budget, you’ll find something in your price range in this town. According to Zillow, median home values have increased 6.7% in the past year, making Denver an attractive prospect for property investors. Homes in the area tend to retain their value fairly well, and those planning to re-sell their property later can look forward to good returns, depending on how well they maintain and market their homes. -
Property Types
The Denver, NC housing market is remarkably diverse, offering a range of housing options for those who want to live close to its nature preserves and the pristine North Carolina coastline. Your choices include single-family homes, townhomes, and modular or manufactured homes. Vacant lots on which to build your dream home are also available.
Some of the most in-demand property types in and around Denver, NC include:
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Single-Family Homes
– Buyers can choose from a wide range of site-built houses for sale in Denver, NC, which offer more space and privacy than townhomes. Most single-family homes are situated on spacious lots with lush greenery, making them an excellent choice for buyers in search of more outdoor space. The majority of site-built homes in Denver have three to four bedrooms along with large kitchens and living areas. Oversized windows, skylights, porches, and patios make it easier for homeowners to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds them. -
Luxury Homes
– No other town does laid-back luxury quite like Denver, NC. Here you’ll find sprawling mansions with luxurious finishes and manicured lawns. Some of the high-end homes in the area have four to five bedrooms in addition to spacious gourmet kitchens and extensive views of Lake Norman or the surrounding woods. -
New Construction Homes
– Most homes in Denver, NC were built between the late 1970s and the early 2000s, but buyers will find an excellent selection of new construction homes in town. These homes are constructed by reputable builders offering the latest in home design. If you’re in the market for a turnkey-ready newly constructed property, Denver, NC should be on your radar.
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Lakefront Homes
– Denver, NC is situated on the western shores of Lake Norman, and some of the most coveted homes in the area provide access to the water. Enjoy lakeside living with private piers, boat slips, outdoor living space, and a luxurious pool and spa. -
Waterfront Homes
– You’ll find Denver, NC waterfront homes for sale in neighborhoods like Lake Shore and Westport, which provide direct access to Lake Norman and offer countless opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. These stunning homes are situated on landscaped lots overlooking the water. Buyers can look forward to massive properties with four to five bedrooms, large kitchens, and plenty of outdoor space.
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Getting to Know Denver, NC
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Communities
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right home. Denver, NC communities offer a diverse selection of property types, architectural styles, and amenities to suit each taste. Moreover, each community has its own distinct identity and character to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Notable Denver, NC communities include:-
Westport
– The highly sought after Westport community is Denver, NC’s secret gem. With the winding waterfront roads of Lake Shore Drive, Westport is an established neighborhood with no Home Owner’s Association. Denver residents love Westport for its laid back feel. For Denver residents who don’t live on the water, the Westport Marina offers year round boat storage as well as convenient access to the lake. Residents can also become members at Westport Golf Club, which offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities outside of enjoying the lake. This multiphase golf and tennis community located near Lake Norman offers the ultimate vacation lifestyle. Residents have exclusive access to an 18-hole golf course, pool, clubhouse, and fitness center among other first rate amenities. The community notably has an Active Adult section to encourage physical exercise among older adults. Buyers can choose from a stunning collection of single-family homes, patio homes, and townhomes depending on their preferences. Prevalent architectural styles include Cottage and Craftsman, though buyers have plenty of custom options. -
Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club
– This prestigious golf course community is located on more than 500 acres of gently rolling hills, offering massive home sites and luxury homes in the $300K range up to $1.5 million and higher. Buyers can look forward to plenty of custom options with featured builders like Arthur Rutenberg Homes, David Stevens Construction, and more. The most coveted home sites in the community command stunning views of the fairways and the surrounding hills. But the crowning jewel of the community is undoubtedly the 18-hole championship golf course, which is considered one of the finest golf courses in the Greater Charlotte Area. Other amenities include on-site restaurants, tennis courts, swimming pool, pro shop, and clubhouse. -
Norman Pointe
– Denver’s foremost luxury community is synonymous with waterfront real estate ranging from $300K to upwards of $3 million. But the true luxury on offer is the array of custom options available for each home, allowing buyers to design their dream home according to their specifications. The homes in this community are best known for their extensive living space and gorgeous brick exteriors. The housing stock includes mostly single-family homes that are either full-on waterfront properties or command partial views of the lake. Phase One has been fully built out and comprises mainly estate-style waterfront homes while Phase Two is underway with luxury properties at a lower price range. Norman Pointe also offers an excellent selection of new construction homes for buyers who want to be the first occupants of their chosen property. The community is located across the Westport Golf Club, providing access to recreational facilities like golf and the clubhouse. The Trump National Golf Club is located across the NC 150 Bridge, offering additional opportunities for world-class golf, tennis, and socials. Norman Pointe also provides access to the water and the pristine shores of Lake Norman, which allows residents to enjoy boating, paddle boarding, fishing, and other water-based activities. -
Harbor Oaks
– Widely considered one of Denver’s finest communities, Harbor Oaks offers an excellent mix of waterfront and off-water homes with four to six bedrooms. As one of the newer communities in town, Harbor Oaks offers plenty of opportunities for custom-built and new construction homes with plenty of optional features. Featured builders include Nest Homes, which has a reputation for quality. -
Norman Estates
– This gated waterfront community offers an exclusive selection of luxury homes ranging from $1.25 million to $7 million. It offers a limited collection of 30 estate-style waterfront homes, which are considered some of the finest properties in Denver. Located within proximity of Uptown Charlotte, residents enjoy direct lake access in addition to first-rate amenities like a massive RV parking area and storage lot. -
Governors Island
– Nothing says luxury like living on a gated private island with bridge access and an exclusive collection of 40 massive home sites overlooking Lake Norman. Governors Island is located 20 miles northwest of Charlotte and within close proximity of Westport Club and Verdict Ridge Golf & Country Club.
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Stillwater
– This small but upscale waterfront community offers a limited number of mid-sized lots, so buyers should seize the rare opportunity when a home site or property hits the market. Existing homes feature gorgeous brick façades, outdoor pools, and mature landscaping. Stillwater’s amenities include a gated RV parking area, boat lunch, and children’s playground. The community provides direct access to Lake Norman and its water activities. -
Killian Crossing
– This community has several phases and is home to subdivisions like The Retreat at Killian Crossing by Greybrook Homes. Here you’ll find larger homes on mid-sized lots. Prevalent architectural styles include Ranch and Contemporary. Killian Crossing is within proximity of NC Highway 16. -
Webbs Chapel Cove
– This gated community offers large home sites with multiple acres that can be subdivided. There are available lots for new home construction but buyers should act quickly. Located in the middle of town, Webbs Chapel Cove offers privacy and exclusivity in the midst of Denver’s shops and restaurants. Buyers will find a fine selection of Traditional and Contemporary-style single-family homes with plenty of outdoor space. -
Cobblestone
– This small but exclusive community spans an entire street lined with luxury homes on oversized lots offering plenty of options for customization. Prevalent architectural styles include Tudor and Contemporary. Nearby amenities include the Village at Sherrills Ford which features a collection of shops, offices, and restaurants. -
Lakewood
– Also located near the town center, this sought-after community offers large home sites, some with wooden canopies. The most coveted home sites are located along the water, though buyers will still find some excellent inland lots. The community’s custom-built homes often feature exquisite brick exteriors, oversized windows, and spacious lawns. Nearby amenities include a public boat launch and the Village at Sherrills Ford. -
Sailview
– Located close to the center of Denver, this multi-phase community offers a diverse mix of waterfront homes and inland lots ranging from $400K to more than $3 million. The most coveted homes are undoubtedly the waterfront properties that offer panoramic views of Lake Norman. Amenities include a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and boat slips. Residents enjoy lake access and unobstructed views of the water. -
Willow Farms
– Located further from Denver’s town center, Willow Farms offers privacy in a more peaceful and secluded environment. This luxury community is known for estate-style homes on large wooded lots with long and spacious driveways. Amenities include an elegantly appointed clubhouse, pool, tennis courts, children’s playground, and picnic tables. Residents also have access to the Westport Club and its recreational facilities as well as NC Highways 150 and 16, which are lined with shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants. -
James Plantation
– This gated community offers both privacy and convenience with beautiful custom-built homes on sprawling lots within proximity of Lake Norman and NC Highway 16. Buyers can choose a homesite and bring their own builder. Existing properties include Craftsman and Barn-style homes. A local board screens architecture and design proposals. The community offers access to the shops and restaurants on St. James Road and NC Highway 16.
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Upcoming or New Developments
Buyers have more choices with new and upcoming real estate developments in Denver, NC, including:
- Bella Vista by KB Home – One of the most reputable builders in North Carolina offers an array of single-family homes with different floor plans to suit each taste. Buyers can look forward to 1,500 to 2,700 square feet of living space. Once built out, the community will have amenities including a swimming pool, cabana, children’s playground, and walking trails.
- Canopy Creek by Meritage Homes – This community champions low maintenance living and offers a wonderful selection of Ranch-style homes with up to 2,412 square feet of living space. Amenities include two swimming pools, BBQ areas, and walking trails.
- Stratford by Stanley Martin – Buyers can choose from a selection of Ranch and Contemporary-style homes with three to four bedrooms and two-car garages. Located near Lake Norman and NC Highway 16, the community has its own pool and clubhouse.
Essential Tips in Investing in Denver, NC Real Estate
Denver, NC is located within the Greater Charlotte Area, which is being touted as one of the best real estate markets in the Southeast for property investment in 2021. Industry experts are looking forward to a combined growth rate of 19.0%, accounting for the growth of home prices as well as sales growth. The economy is showing signs of recovery following the pandemic, with construction, finance, trade and transportation, and professional and business services showing the most progress. The Charlotte Metro Area is also home to several Fortune 500 companies as well as the second largest banking center in the United States after Wall Street. With more buyers moving away from densely populated urban centers to suburban and semi-rural areas with larger homes and more outdoor space during the pandemic, Denver, NC has tremendous potential for re-selling and rentals. Those planning to invest in Denver, NC real estate can reap the benefits by following these tips:- Know what you want – It’s easy to get carried away when viewing properties in Denver. Creating a list of must-haves and non-negotiable home features will help you stay on budget and on schedule. From location to square footage, knowing what you want will make it easier for you to compromise and make a purchasing decision that you can be happy with.
- Be prepared to move quickly – Once you do find a home that ticks all the boxes, be prepared to act quickly and decisively. Make sure that you have all the necessary documentation beforehand and be ready to negotiate with the seller. This entails proper planning, gathering all the necessary documents ahead of time and setting a timeline and action plan with your Realtor. This can help you avoid delays in the buying process, or worse, lose out on your dream home. Being prepared is especially important when buying in Denver, where the best waterfront homes rarely hit the market and the more affordable properties go under contract relatively fast.
- Look at the lifestyle, not just the home – Denver lets you enjoy lakeside living in a beautiful environment, so think of the lifestyle you envision for yourself and your family when looking at homes for sale. Living in a waterfront community lets you enjoy boating and kayaking at a whim while buying property in a golf community grants access to recreational facilities and social events.
- Work with the right team – There’s no substitute for professional guidance when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Work with an agent who will help you make timely decisions based on relevant market data and years of experience.
- Chris Sheridan (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist) is a NC & SC Realtor with over twenty years of living in the area. He’s also a professional photographer and certified drone pilot, so our firm can provide all listing and marketing services under one roof.
- Lauren Sheridan (Strategic Pricing Specialist) worked for NASCAR, Inc. for more than 11 years. Her extensive business network and marketing background allows her to provide the best assistance to clients.