Are You Moving to the Carolina Coast from Up North?

You've done your research. You know the winters are done with you. Now you're trying to figure out exactly where you want to land and what it actually costs to buy here.

This page is for you.


Why Buyers from the Northeast Choose Brunswick County NC and Horry County SC

These two coastal counties sit right next to each other and together they cover more ground than most people realize. Brunswick County, NC stretches from Sunset Beach up through Leland. Horry County, SC includes Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and everything in between.

Most buyers from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut tell me the same thing: they want coast without the chaos, and they want their money to go further than it did back home.

Here's the short version of what they find:

  • No state income tax on Social Security in either NC or SC
  • North Carolina has a Homestead Exemption for homeowners 65 and older
  • Brunswick County has no personal property tax on vehicles
  • Property taxes here are a fraction of what most Northeast counties charge
  • Median home prices are well below what you'd pay in coastal NJ, Long Island, or Fairfield County

What Does It Actually Look Like to Buy Here from Out of State?

Moving from another state is a different kind of transaction. You may only be able to visit once or twice before making a decision. You're trying to get a feel for multiple towns, run financial comparisons, and figure out if you actually want to live somewhere before you commit.

That's exactly what I help people work through.

I offer a Concierge Relocation Package for out-of-state buyers. That means if you need help coordinating your trip down here, I can assist with booking your flights and hotels so your visit is focused and productive, not chaotic. We'll schedule showings around your time here and make sure you're seeing the right neighborhoods for what you're looking for, not just whatever happens to be available.

This isn't a service I advertise to everyone. It's something I do because moving across state lines is a lot, and the details matter.


What Is the "Meet Your New Neighbors" Event?

Once you've closed and you're getting settled, I host a Meet Your New Neighbors event to help you connect with the community right away.

Moving somewhere new is exciting. It can also feel isolating at first, especially if you don't know anyone yet. This event is designed to change that from day one. You'll meet other people who've made the same move, get introductions to locals who've been here a while, and start building the community connections that make a place feel like home.

I'm not here to close a transaction and disappear. The goal is that you feel genuinely settled, not just moved.


What Kind of Buyer Am I Working With?

I work with people buying their first home down here, people selling everything up north and moving for good, and people buying a second home they plan to retire into later.

If any of these sound like you, you're in the right place:

  • You want to be close to the beach without paying oceanfront prices
  • You're comparing multiple towns and want someone who actually knows the difference between them
  • You want to understand what you're buying before you make an offer, not after
  • You'd like help with financing, inspectors, and attorneys who know this market

What Working Together Actually Looks Like

I'm a solo agent. You get me, not a team member you've never met.

I've been in real estate since 1995, starting in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania before moving to the Carolina coast. I know what people coming from the Northeast need to understand about buying here because I've lived both sides of it. Before coming back to real estate full time, I managed a dental practice where I negotiated insurance contracts and advocated directly for patients. I bring that same approach to representing buyers: clear information, honest advice, no runaround.

When you're ready to look at homes, I'll make sure you're not walking in blind. Flood zones, HOA rules, insurance costs, short-term rental restrictions, seasonal vs. year-round markets, all of that gets covered before you're under contract.


Where I Work

Brunswick County NC: Sunset Beach, Calabash, Holden Beach, Shallotte, Bolivia, Supply, Carolina Shores, Ocean Isle Beach, Southport, Wilmington

Horry County SC: North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Carolina Forest, Forestbrook, Conway, Little River, Aynor, Surfside, Cherry Grove, Loris, Longs, Georgetown

If you're looking somewhere nearby that's not on this list, ask and if I don't service it, I will have someone who does.


Ready to Start the Conversation?

You don't need to have everything figured out. Most buyers I talk to are still comparing towns, running numbers, and trying to picture what their day-to-day life looks like here.

That's exactly the right stage to reach out.

Call or text: 843-997-2744 Email: danielle@yourkeytorealty.com Browse listings: yourkeytorealty.com


Danielle King | REALTOR® NC/SC | Realty ONE Group Dockside Equal Housing Opportunity


 

New Construction in the Carolinas

$398,655
3 Beds 2 Baths 100593333 MLS
NEW LISTING!!! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to purchase one of our best selling plans the Everest. This home is on a spacious lot with lots of greenspace. As you walk through the front door, your eyes are instantly drawn to the windows in the family room. Plenty of natural sunlight brings life to this space and spills into the open floor plan kitchen. Preparing food is a joy with abundant counter space and modern appliances. The sliding glass door in the breakfast nook lets in even more light and makes it easy to enjoy your morning coffee indoors or outdoors. The main-level primary suite is situated adjacent to the family room and the primary bathroom has a grand feel with dual sinks and roomy closet. Two more bedrooms, a full bath and laundry room complete the well-designed main floor. But for those who want that little something extra, the second-level flex room is the gem you've been looking for. Would you use it as a home office? Yoga studio? Movie theater? Make it your own by making The Everest your home. Don't forget, Pinewood's amenities will make it easy to meet all your neighbors and make new friends! Sitting by the pool and clubhouse, working out in the fitness center, play a game of pickleball, or practice your putting skills. Plenty of open space throughout the community including sidewalks. Contact us to schedule a tour or stop by the model home today and ask about our current incentives! The Beaches are calling your name! Some photos are virtually staged for illustrative purposes

6251 Raystone Way Unit 125, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

$319,990
3 Beds 2 Baths 100593331 MLS
Brand new single-family home in a master planned neighborhood with resort-style amenities! Step into The Atkinson, a stylish 3-bedroom, 2 bath, 1,347 sq. ft. home thoughtfully crafted for modern convenience. Being a single story home, this layout ensures both privacy and ease of access. At the front, two spacious bedrooms share a hall bath, perfect for guests or family members. The primary suite, tucked away at the back, offers a tranquil escape with a private ensuite bath and roomy walk-in closet. The heart of the home features an open-concept living space, highlighted by a kitchen with a generous island, spacious cabinets and quartz countertops, seamlessly connecting to the dining area and a welcoming family room - ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. Outside, the rear covered patio invites you to unwind in the fresh air, and the extended patio space is great for a fire pit or grilling area. Enjoy the wooded views on this large home site. The Pinewood neighborhood has something for everyone. Enjoy a relaxing pool and cabana, putting green, pickleball court, green space, and more. You'll have easy access to beaches and golf courses, making every day feel like a vacation. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, Pinewood has something for everyone. Live a practical lifestyle filled with value in this charming community.

7454 Linda Vista Ln Unit 276, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

$529,370
4 Beds 3 Baths 100593328 MLS
The Saluda II, a stunning two-story plan offering four bedrooms, three bathrooms and an impressive three-car garage. From the moment you step into the dramatic two-story entryway, you'll be captivated by the open, flowing layout and high-end details throughout. The main living area is a true showstopper, featuring an expansive great room with a decorative ceiling, and an abundance of natural light. The eat-in dining area and gourmet kitchen seamlessly connect the space, highlighted by a large, beautiful island that's perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Just beyond the kitchen, a sunroom leads to a patio ideal for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The main floor includes a versatile flex room that can easily serve as a secondary bedroom, home office, or playroom. Upstairs, retreat to the luxurious primary suite with a spacious walk-in closet that connects to the laundry room and a spa-like bathroom featuring a free-standing soaking tub, walk-in shower, dual vanities, and a linen closet. A cozy loft provides additional living space, while two generously sized secondary bedroom each featuring walk-in closets complete the second floor. Located just minutes to shopping and dining as well as Historic Downtown Wilmington, Welcome to Grand Park. This Master Planned community will offer amenities such as a swimming pool, covered outdoor pavilion and walking paths. *Photos not of actual home. Virtually staged. *

9255 Salty Breeze Pl, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hunter Cribb () from Listing Office: Mungo Homes.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hunter Cribb () from Listing Office: Mungo Homes.

$464,790
4 Beds 3 Baths 100593323 MLS
NEW construction single-family home in a master-planned neighborhood with desirable amenities! Welcome to The Easton at Pinewood, a beautifully designed 4 bed, 3 bath home that perfectly blends comfort, style, and affordability. As you enter through the foyer, you'll find an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the kitchen, family room, and dining room. Whether you're cooking in the gourmet kitchen or hosting a dinner party, this space is sure to become your favorite gathering spot. Step outside onto your screened patio and picture yourself enjoying a morning coffee amidst serene surroundings or hosting a BBQ on the extended patio. The main level features a primary suite with a spacious layout, a large walk-in closet, and an ensuite bath with dual sinks and a shower, offering you a personal retreat. For families or guests, there are two additional bedrooms and a full bath conveniently located on this level. The second floor has a large loft area, 4th bedroom and bath. Enjoy the short walk to the impressive amenity area, which includes a pool, cabana, pickle ball, putting green, and more. The Easton is designed with your comfort and budget in mind. Don't miss the chance to make this stunning home yours today! Photos shown are from a similar home. Contact us to schedule a tour or visit the model home today, and don't forget to ask about our current incentives!

6279 Raystone Way Unit 27, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Kathryn P. Willis () from Listing Office: SM North Carolina Brokerage LLC.

$274,990
3 Beds 2 Baths 100593267 MLS
Experience the Kerry floor plan offering an open layout and single level living. The kitchen boasts a large island with breakfast bar and opens to the casual dining area and spacious living room. Granite countertops, 36'' cabinetry and stainless steel appliances including a refrigerator finish off the kitchen with beautiful and durable finishes. The primary bedroom suite is located at the back of the home with a generous size bathroom with a 5' shower, double vanity, and walk-in closet. Two secondary bedrooms are at the front of the home providing separation from the primary suite. 2'' faux wood blinds on all standard windows. Enjoy your morning coffee on the covered back porch. This is America's Smart Home! Each of our homes comes with an industry leading smart home technology package that will allow you to control the thermostat, front door light and lock, and video doorbell from your smartphone. *Photos are of a similar Kerry home. (Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change prior to sale at any time without notice or obligation. Square footages are approximate. Pictures, photographs, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Equal housing opportunity builder.)

2012 Snipe Ln, Shallotte

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Lisa M Lang () from Listing Office: D R Horton, Inc..

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Lisa M Lang () from Listing Office: D R Horton, Inc..

$474,826
4 Beds 3 Baths 100593263 MLS
MOVE IN READY! Welcome to the Nelson floor plan in the highly desirable Terrapin community, a beautifully designed two-story home that seamlessly blends dedicated workspaces with open, connection-minded living areas. Immediately off the entrance sits a private double-door office, creating a quiet, light-filled environment for working from home or managing household tasks completely separate from the main living zones. Just past the office, the main level expands into a formal dining area that transitions naturally into an open-concept great room and kitchen setup, completely grounded in premium luxury vinyl flooring. The kitchen is highly functional, centered around a large island with a built-in sink and offering a walk-in corner pantry alongside plenty of counter space. A convenient powder room and integrated storage closets are tucked near the garage entry, keeping the daily flow organized. Upstairs, the home transitions to comfortable plush carpeting and centers around a massive open media room that offers an exceptional second living area, playroom, or home theater space. The second level features a total of 4 bedrooms, including an expansive primary suite that serves as a quiet retreat at the front of the home. The primary bath offers a spa-like setup with a dual-sink vanity, a private linen closet, a walk-in shower with a built-in seat, and a generous walk-in closet with excellent storage. The two additional well-proportioned secondary bedrooms share a central full bathroom complete with its own dual-sink vanity, making morning routines easy for family or guests. For added convenience, a dedicated laundry room is centrally located right on the second floor. Outside, a spacious covered rear patio, perfect for relaxing or dining outdoors. Enjoy a true low-maintenance lifestyle with HOA lawn care, and irrigation included all just minutes from downtown Leland, the historic riverfront of Downtown Wilmington, and Brunswick County beaches. [Terrapin] [Nelson]

2004 Red Woodpeckers Ct Unit Lot #38, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Rokoski Real Estate Group () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Rokoski Real Estate Group () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.

$254,990
3 Beds 3 Baths 100593215 MLS
Welcome to the Filmore plan in the desirable Calabash Palms community, perfectly situated in scenic Calabash, North Carolina. This thoughtfully designed 2-story townhouse offers a comfortable blend of style and function with 3 bedrooms, including a main-level primary suite, 2.5 baths, and a 1-car garage -- all for an amazing price! Step inside to discover an open-concept layout ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. The primary suite on the main floor provides added convenience and privacy, while two additional bedrooms and a 1 full bath upstairs offer space for family or guests. A modern kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, laundry closet and a half bath on the main level adds everyday practicality. Located in the growing Calabash Palms community, you'll enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle with proximity to local beaches, golf courses, shopping, and dining. Whether you're searching for yourself or a investment, this home checks all the boxes. Don't miss your chance to own a stylish, affordable home in one of coastal Photos are representative of the Filmore floor plan and are for illustrative purposes only. Actual home, features, finishes, colors, options and elevations may vary. Please see Sales Consultant for complete details Carolina's most inviting neighborhoods! Agent Remarks: Use Broker Bay or call 843-960-3112 for appointment Photos are representative of the Filmore floor plan and are for illustrative purposes only. Actual home, features, finishes, colors, options and elevations may vary. Please see Sales Consultant for complete details

846 Palm Frond Way Nw, Calabash

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Betty S Moyer () from Listing Office: Dream Finders Realty LLC.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Betty S Moyer () from Listing Office: Dream Finders Realty LLC.

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