Real Estate Isn’t Just About Listings—It’s About Strategy

Historic Wilmington

 

 

Wilmington, NC is home to one of the most charming and well-preserved historic districts on the North Carolina coast, offering a unique blend of architectural character, coastal lifestyle, and walkable downtown living. From classic Southern homes beneath moss-draped oaks to beautifully restored residences near the Cape Fear River, historic homes in Wilmington reflect a rich heritage paired with modern updates. Located in and around downtown Wilmington, these properties provide convenient access to local shops, restaurants, riverfront parks, and cultural attractions.

 

Historic homes for sale in Wilmington, NC range from Victorian and Colonial-style residences to early 20th-century cottages, each offering distinctive details like original hardwood floors, wraparound porches, and period craftsmanship. Buyers are drawn to the area for its timeless appeal, strong property values, and proximity to Wrightsville Beach and surrounding coastal communities. Whether you're searching for a primary residence, second home, or investment property, Wilmington’s historic homes offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of coastal North Carolina history within the vibrant Cape Fear real estate market.

 

 

 

The Historic Wilmington Foundation is the steward of many of these homes, and you can learn more here!

Historic Wilmington Foundation

 

Meanwhile, take a look at some of the homes available for purchase now!

Historic Wilmington Homes

$765,000
4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths
Welcome to 109 Church Street, a rare downtown duplex offering timeless character, exceptional flexibility, and an unbeatable location. The property features two separate 2-bedroom, 1-bath residences, one upstairs and one downstairs, making it ideal for multi-generational living, long-term rentals, or future short-term rental opportunities. Whether you're looking to owner-occupy while generating rental income or add a prime investment property to your portfolio, this charming residence checks all the boxes. Inside, you'll find beautiful hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and the kind of historic charm that simply can't be replicated. Every room reflects the warmth and character that make Wilmington's historic homes so desirable. Step outside and discover your own private urban oasis. Relax downstairs on the inviting rocking chair front porch, unwind on the upstairs screened porch, or enjoy the secluded deck nestled beneath a canopy of mature trees. Meandering brick walkways lead through beautifully landscaped grounds, highlighted by a tranquil koi pond that creates a peaceful retreat just steps from the vibrant downtown scene. Best of all, you're within an easy distance of everything historic Downtown Wilmington has to offer including award-winning restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, boutique shopping, live music, the Riverwalk, theaters, galleries, and year-round festivals. Whether you're searching for a home with built-in income potential or a standout investment in one of Wilmington's most sought-after neighborhoods, 109 Church Street offers a rare combination of location, versatility, and undeniable charm.

109 Church St, Wilmington
$1,599,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths
A rare opportunity to own one of downtown Wilmington's most iconic historic residences! Originally built in 1900 for William Dick, this extraordinary 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers more than 4,100 square feet of beautifully preserved living space and is being offered for only the third time since its construction--a true once-in-a-lifetime chance to become the steward of a remarkable piece of Wilmington history. From the moment you arrive, the home's stately Neoclassical architecture and commanding curb appeal create an unmistakable sense of grandeur. Meticulously preserved and thoughtfully restored, the residence showcases timeless craftsmanship and elegance throughout. As you enter the home you step into the formal receiving room that is nothing short of exceptional. This remarkable room is anchored by the prominent staircase with a built in fireplace nook; a unique feature rarely seen in other historic homes. Other grand living spaces include a impressive parlor, formal dining room, butler's pantry, library, and five decorative fireplaces that highlight the home's historic character. Generously sized bedrooms, a charming second-floor balcony overlooking the backyard, and exquisite architectural details make this a residence unlike any other. The current owners undertook an extensive restoration and renovation, including the addition of an oversized kitchen and light-filled sunroom that seamlessly blend modern convenience with the home's historic integrity. Outside, the expansive English-style garden provides a private oasis in the heart of downtown, complete with mature landscaping and a beautiful fountain. Three distinct patios and a spacious deck flow seamlessly from the home, creating exceptional spaces for outdoor entertaining, dining, and relaxation while enhancing the property's connection to its beautifully landscaped grounds. Adding to the property's exceptional appeal, the sale includes an adjoining lot fronting S. 2nd Street. Currently utilized for additional parking, this highly desirable parcel offers endless possibilities for future use, including an ADU, pool and pool house, detached garage, guest quarters, or additional outdoor living space. Opportunities to acquire a historic downtown residence with a separate buildable lot are exceedingly rare. Properties of this caliber, history, and significance rarely become available. This truly special offering presents a unique opportunity to own an irreplaceable piece of Wilmington's architectural heritage while enjoying the space, elegance, and flexibility that today's buyers desire.

113 Nun St, Wilmington
$1,175,000
6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths
Look no further for a fabulous place to call home, generate income with an investment property, or both! Located in the heart of the Historic District, this architectural gem has been thoughtfully renovated to preserve its original charm. Each unit in this beautifully restored duplex boasts three spacious bedrooms with decorative fireplaces and two new amazing bathrooms with fully tiled walk-in showers. The stunning kitchens, complete with ceramic tiled backsplashes, are sure to please with all new stainless steel appliances. Every room in this stunning duplex has been freshly painted and new LVP flooring installed throughout (ProFloor by ProSelect Design.) No detail has been overlooked! Make this home yours and soon you'll be sitting on the spectacular front porch watching the horse-drawn carriages pass by. Just steps from Wilmington's vibrant Riverwalk, restaurants, and shops, this home is perfectly situated for those who want to immerse themselves and their guests in the best of downtown living.

403 Dock St, Wilmington
$1,160,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths
Welcome to the Bell House, a stunning 1893 Queen Anne-style home in the heart of Wilmington's Historic District. Nestled on an oversized lot along the charming cobblestone section of 4th Street, this exceptional property is just blocks from the Riverwalk, local shops, restaurants, churches, and schools. This beautifully maintained home offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths and welcomes you with a traditional vestibule, leading into a grand foyer with a striking staircase. The elegant parlor features impressive 12-foot windows overlooking the street and is separated from the living room by an original 9-foot pocket door, while the kitchen retains its original swinging door--preserving the home's historic character. Throughout the home, you'll find six operable fireplaces with gas inserts, including one in each bedroom, with the downstairs fireplaces showcasing original French tile. Additional highlights include a cellar for storage, a fully fenced backyard with an outbuilding, and the rare convenience of both off-street and ample on-street parking. Blending timeless elegance with modern comfort, this distinctive home also carries a touch of local notoriety as a filming location for the TV show The Runarounds. A truly rare opportunity in an unmatched downtown location. Seller now offering a $10k use as you choose credit for the buyer. *See Features & Upgrade sheet for full details.

306 S 4th St, Wilmington
$1,075,000
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths
Unique opportunity to own a three unit investment property in historic downtown Wilmington. Timeless charm meets modern updates in the Cumming-Taylor House, a stunning Queen Anne residence built in the late 1800's and ideally situated on a quiet brick-lined street in the heart of the historic district. Rich in character and thoughtfully updated, the home welcomes you with a wraparound front porch leading into a formal foyer. Inside, you'll immediately notice soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, and intricate trim work that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. The property is configured into three separate units: the first and second floors each offer spacious two bedroom, one bath apartments, while the third floor features a charming one bedroom, one bath unit. An ideal set up for maximizing rental income and cash flow. Each unit enjoys access to private outdoor spaces, including porches or decks, along with a generously sized fenced backyard. Off-street parking, a rare find in downtown, adds to the property's rental appeal for both short-term and vacation guests. Located just blocks from the riverwalk, restaurants, shops, and local attractions, this property presents an excellent opportunity as an high-income producing asset for either short term or long term rentals with an established rental history and strong guest reviews.

308 Church St, Wilmington
$1,250,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths
Five-property income portfolio in downtown Wilmington -- offered as a single transaction. All homes leased and currently producing $96,000 in annual gross rent. Seller has completed significant system upgrades across the portfolio in recent years: new roofs (4 of 5), new HVAC, new windows, new flooring. Concentrated in Wilmington's most active rental corridor -- walking distance to the Cargo District, Castle Street, and the Riverfront. Combined ~5,000 sq ft / 14 BR / 9 BA across five separate parcels. Est. cap rate ~6.9% at asking on current rents. Sold as-is.

1220 Queen St, Wilmington
$1,019,999
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths
Fabulous INVESTMENT property! Off-street parking! Top 10-percent Airbnb Rated property generating over $110k in 2025! Amazing 2025 Occupancy Rates: Unit A (2 bedroom) 93%, Unit B (1 Bedroom with balcony) 92%, Unit C (1 bedroom) 81%. This turnkey Triplex beautifully updated with modern amenities while keeping its historic charm. Original heart pine floors, fireplace mantels, crown moldings and solid wood doors take you back in time. Separate Laundry room located on the 1st floor for the Cleaning Service. Each unit comes fully furnished and accessorized to accommodate future bookings already in place (as of July 2nd: over 300 days booked for the remainder of 2026!). Added benefit: 2 car garage plus off-street parking! Located in Wilmington's Historic District and in walking distance riverwalk, restaurants and shops. Don't miss out on this spectacular opportunity!

317 S 3rd St, Wilmington
$900,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths
Recipient of the 2019 Preservation Award for Rehabilitation, the historic Parsley-Wiggins House seamlessly blends timeless character with refined modern updates. This turn-of-the-century Queen Anne residence sits on a picturesque brick-lined street in the heart of downtown Wilmington, offering a rare combination of charm, versatility, and income potential from it's accessory apartment. (500 SqFt of living space not included in the listed square footage.) A welcoming covered front porch leads into a grand foyer, where high ceilings, rich hardwood floors and a stunning staircase immediately set the tone. The thoughtfully updated kitchen features quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and recessed lighting, with direct access to a brand-new wraparound deck overlooking the yard and gardens. Just off the living room, a flexible space serves beautifully as a first-floor primary suite, guest quarters, formal dining room, or home office. This area includes custom built-ins and a well-appointed en suite bath with laundry. Upstairs, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, each with access to its own full bath. The impressive owner's suite is a true retreat, featuring its own sitting room with built-in bookcases and a newly renovated spa-like bath with marble tile floors, sky light, dual vanity and a curb-less walk-in shower with tile surround. Beautiful wood windows with plantation shutters let in an abundance of natural light and charming details like picture rail molding, stained glass accents and six fireplaces enhance the homes historic character. Walk along the brick garden path, through the side gate and down to the back patio, it is here that you will find the private entrance to a modern efficiency apartment with its own kitchen, full bath and laundry. This space would make an excellent in-law suite or income producing rental. The professionally landscaped backyard feels like a private oasis-fully fenced, serene, and unexpectedly quiet for its central location. Perfectly positioned on a sought-after block in the heart of historic downtown, you're just steps from the Riverwalk, dining, shopping, and all the vibrant culture that defines downtown Wilmington. Additional upgrades include an encapsulated basement/crawlspace with ample bonus storage (be sure not to miss it during your tour!)

215 Ann St, Wilmington
$1,099,000
High profile corner location in downtown Wilmington. 20,000+ cards daily. Executive multi-tenant building with 12 suites (11 occupied). Listing includes 82x60 adjoining lot providing off street parking. Recent renovations include newer roof, newer hvac and recent upgraded plumbing and electrical. Four restrooms, full kitchen and large covered terrace. Suite 821 is a private suite offering open office, restroom and private patio. Great property to add to diversify your portfolio!

803 Dawson St, Wilmington
$1,299,000
8-unit mixed-use property located near Wilmington's Historic District, Downtown, and the Soda Pop District. Built in 1900 with extensive renovations completed 2021-2022. Updates include full interior improvements with each residential unit uniquely finished. Property is in the UMX zoning district. Configuration includes 1 retail space, 4 one-bedroom units, 2 studio units, and 1 two-bedroom unit. Annual rental income approx. $124,000. Strong rental history and turnkey investment opportunity in a high-demand urban location.

719 Princess St, Wilmington
$895,000
6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths
This beautifully renovated duplex in Historic Downtown Wilmington offers the perfect blend of character, flexibility, and investment potential. With over $420,000 invested in high-quality renovations, the property is move-in ready and zoned for both residential and commercial use—ideal for investors, business owners, or anyone seeking a dynamic live/work opportunity. The residential layout features three spacious bedrooms and two updated bathrooms, with modern finishes that complement the historic charm of the property. For commercial use, the flexible floor plan allows for private offices, meeting rooms, a break area, and two restrooms—suitable for uses such as professional offices, art galleries, or financial services. This versatile property allows for multiple income-generating options: live in one unit and rent out the other, use both as residential or commercial rentals, or create a hybrid setup to suit your needs. Located just steps from Downtown Wilmington, and within walking distance to the vibrant Soda Pop District and Castle Street Arts District, this property is perfectly positioned for convenience, visibility, and lifestyle. Whether you're looking to invest, run a business, or settle into one of Wilmington's most sought-after neighborhoods, this renovated duplex offers an unmatched opportunity to live, work, and play in the heart of the city.

8 S 7th St, Wilmington
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