5 Distinctive North Carolina Properties, from Waterfront Retreats to Acreage

Along the water’s edge in Hickory, Henry River Mill Village offers a rare opportunity to steward a storied Historic Village just off I-40—one mile south of Exit 119. Set across two parcels on the west side of Henry River Road, the property encompasses prime land bordered by the Henry Fork River, with the developing North Carolina Wilderness Gateway Trail planned to take advantage of the river corridor. Several charming, though abandoned, homes remain on site, awaiting renovation—an evocative canvas for restoration enthusiasts or developers drawn to places with narrative and potential. Many will recognize the setting as the 2012 filming location for the original *Hunger Games*. Here, history, landscape, and possibility converge, inviting a thoughtful next chapter shaped by your vision.

Size: 42.92 acres

Along the water’s edge in Sunset Beach, North Carolina, this lakefront residence offers a calm, nature-forward rhythm of daily life with tranquil Sunset Lake as its backdrop. Mature landscaping frames the approach, guiding you along a gentle path to the front door as the sounds of nature set an easy, welcoming tone. Inside, expansive living spaces are bathed in sunlight, and every window is positioned to capture postcard-worthy views. The thoughtful floor plan balances privacy with togetherness, creating intimate nooks for quiet reflection alongside generous areas designed for gathering. Set within a sought-after waterfront community, the home supports both relaxed weekends away and a more rooted pace, where comfort, functionality, and natural beauty shape the experience. Mornings begin with light on the lake; evenings settle into stillness just beyond the glass.

A study in contemporary comfort, this just-completed 1.5-story all-brick residence sits in NE Hickory’s North Pines Subdivision with timeless curb appeal and a thoughtfully executed split-bedroom plan. The private primary suite, complete with an en-suite bath, is tucked away for quiet retreat, while a spacious guest suite with a full bath rests on the opposite side—well suited to visitors or multi-generational living. At the center, a chef’s kitchen pairs quartz countertops with a tile backsplash, soft-close cabinetry, and premium stainless appliances including a gas cooktop, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator. A large island with breakfast bar connects effortlessly to the breakfast area and an impressive great room crowned by soaring two-story coffered ceilings and a modern fireplace. A formal dining room adds a polished setting for gatherings, from casual weeknights to celebratory dinners.

Set on 5.7 acres of cleared, level land zoned General Business, 117 Garrenton Rd offers a rare mix of space, visibility, and a renovated residence in Grandy. Positioned for easy entry from Garrenton Road with sightlines from Caratoke Highway, the setting supports a range of future uses while remaining in the X flood zone. The ranch-style home, originally built in 1950, retains a historic feel while benefiting from thoughtful updates throughout, including brand new central HVAC, a new kitchen and bathroom, new flooring and paint, and a new hot water heater. A large one-car detached garage adds everyday utility with a new garage door and a new concrete slab—ideal for a vehicle, tractor, or lawn mower. It’s a flexible property where daily living and work can share the same address.

Along the tranquil Pamlico River, 315 E Water St. offers a waterfront retreat in the sought-after Moss Landing neighborhood of Downtown Washington. Inside, spacious living areas are filled with abundant natural light, paired with detailed molding, hardwood floors, and a thoughtfully designed floor plan suited to both everyday living and entertaining. Mornings begin on the rocking chair porch, coffee in hand, with harbor views setting an unhurried tone for the day. Just steps away, the historic Washington Harbor District adds an easy rhythm to daily life, with parks, playgrounds, restaurants, boutique shopping, and marina access all within walking distance—along with the energy of Downtown Washington. It’s a setting that balances timeless charm and modern convenience, inviting you to settle into a simple, active riverfront routine.