Located 30 minutes north of Wilmington NC is the barrier island of Topsail. Due to the islands more isolated location from any major city or towns, this popular vacation beach maintains a low key, family atmosphere with a small beach town charm. The island itself is notably larger than any of its southerly sister islands Wrightsville Beach (4 miles) and Carolina Beach (7 miles), boasting 26 miles total from tip to tip. There are more than 1,200 homes on the island but the year round population is only about 500 residents, however peak season can bring in over 7,000 visitors weekly.
Going back to the 1700’s, Topsail Island earned its name from North Carolina’s rich pirate history. Pirates hid behind the island waiting to attack passing merchant ships stocked with goods. As warnings got out, mariners became more vigilant watching for the “top sails” of pirate ships sticking up behind the islands dunes, hence the name Topsail Island.
Up until World War II, access to the island was only by boat and was largely undeveloped. The US Military decided to occupy the island during WWII and changed its future destiny by dredging channels, building roads and connecting water utilities. After the war, the Military released the island to the public and the town was incorporated in 1963.
Topsail actually comprises three townships: North Topsail, Surf City and the Town of Topsail. North Topsail occupies the northern section with extensive marsh and estuary environments. The residences are mostly single family homes but one of the only high rise condos on the island can be found here. Surf City is the center of the island where the island connects to the mainland from the classic “swing bridge” along the intracoastal. Surf City is the commercial hub for restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Located at the southern tip is the Town of Topsail. Mostly residential cottages, the vibe is quiet and laid back. Boaters will enjoy some of the most beautiful cruising water behind the island in the wide sound.
In terms of real estate for sale, there were 514 sales recorded in 2011. This is up from only 458 sales in 2010. Prices are very favorable and interest rates continue to be historically low which is kicking off a strong start in 2012. A current client of mine has been able to make an offer in the lower $400,000 price range for a newer built beach front home on South Shore Dr, just south of the Surf City Pier. Along the island, various condos and town homes can be found from $100,000-$300,000. Beach front town homes and single family homes will start in the $400,000 price range and can easily exceed a million dollars. Investors looking to make money on their beach properties can expect rental income between $30,000-$50,000 dollars during peak season weeks for a typical 3-4 bedroom.
If you are in the market for a beach home on Topsail Island, be sure to give me a call. I live for the beach and I hope to meet you soon.
Ben Szafran, Broker, 910-713-9323, Ben@BlueCoastRealEstate.com