Ocean Isle Beach continues to draw attention from buyers seeking a coastal lifestyle, whether that means moving in right away or building their dream home from the ground up. The current market features a mix of move-in ready homes and new construction opportunities, each appealing to different buyer needs.
But inventory moves fast here. When a well-priced home in a desirable location hits the market, it rarely lasts long. That’s why understanding the difference between available move-in ready properties and new builds is key to making a confident decision, before the right opportunity slips away.
In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each property type using current Ocean Isle Beach listings as real examples. Whether you’re looking to settle in now or plan ahead for the perfect custom home, the time to act is now.
Featured Listings: Move-In Ready Homes
For buyers who want to settle into Ocean Isle Beach without the wait of a build, move-in ready homes offer comfort, convenience, and immediate lifestyle upgrades. One standout example is 1721 Windward Place SW, Shallotte, NC, a stunning Victorian-style waterfront retreat.
Offered at 3,325 sqft with 3 beds and 3 baths, this home is move-in ready and unfurnished; ideal for buyers who want a seamless transition into coastal living. The setting is remarkable: perched above Saucepan Creek with expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, Shallotte Inlet, ICW, and marshland. You get the tranquility of nature with the proximity to Ocean Isle Beach, Shallotte, and Holden Beach just minutes away.
The interior blends timeless charm with functional upgrades: high ceilings, central vacuum, walk-in closets, a large kitchen island, and high-end appliances like a gas cooktop and convection oven. The home also includes bonus space for an office or playroom, and multiple areas designed to capture panoramic water views, from the sunroom to the expansive back porch.
There’s no HOA, and the large, beautifully landscaped lot offers endless potential. Homes like this, where you can enjoy the view and lifestyle on day one, don’t stay on the market for long. If a turnkey property is your priority, now is the time to act.
Featured Listings: New Construction Opportunities
For buyers drawn to the clean lines, energy efficiency, and customization of brand-new homes, Ocean Isle Beach offers a range of exceptional new construction options. These properties not only deliver modern design and elevated finishes, but often include builder warranties, resort-style amenities, and the chance to be the first to call the home your own.
One standout is 1708 Oakbrook Drive SW, a 3-bed, 3-bath home in the gated Brick Landing Plantation community. With over 2,100 square feet, this residence sits on a premium corner lot overlooking the golf course. The open floor plan, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and spa-style primary suite make it an ideal blend of elegance and function. Residents here enjoy access to tennis, pickleball, walking trails, and a clubhouse, minutes away from Ocean Isle Beach.
In the nearby Waterway Cove community, 1665 Butterfly Knot Drive SW offers a newly completed 3-bed, 3-bath modern farmhouse with over 1,970 square feet. This home boasts waterfront views, engineered hardwoods, granite counters, and both front and screened rear porches. Two spec homes are available now, and there’s an option to build custom, a great opportunity for buyers looking to personalize their home in a resort-style setting.
Just around the corner, 1649 Butterfly Knot Drive SW is another Waterway Cove gem completing in July 2025. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,620 square feet, it offers an open layout, luxury vinyl floors, a gas fireplace, and beautiful pond views, all in a low-maintenance, brand-new package.
If size and space are top priorities, 355 S Middleton Drive NW in Calabash offers over 2,600 square feet in Brunswick Plantation, a golf course community. Estimated to complete in September 2025, this home includes 3 beds, 3 baths, a heated attic bonus space, and stylish finishes throughout.
Lastly, in the tranquil waterfront neighborhood of Tidewater, 1668 Back Bay Drive SW brings laid-back elegance to Shallotte. This 1,830-square-foot home has 3 beds, 2 baths, an 11x7 walk-in closet, and outdoor living spaces, perfect for anyone drawn to kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a quiet evening breeze near Saucepan Creek.
Which is Right for You? Key Considerations
Choosing between a move-in ready home and new construction in Ocean Isle Beach comes down to your timeline, preferences, and long-term goals.
If you’re looking to settle in quickly, move-in ready homes—like the Victorian waterfront retreat at Windward Place—offer immediate access to the lifestyle you want, without the wait or uncertainty of a build timeline. These homes are ideal for buyers relocating soon, retiring, or eager to start enjoying the beach and local amenities right away. You’ll often find established landscaping, character-rich architecture, and mature communities with proven appeal.
On the other hand, new construction offers the latest in design, materials, and efficiency. Many buyers love the idea of being the first owner, having modern layouts, and enjoying builder warranties. Communities like Brick Landing Plantation and Waterway Cove also offer enhanced lifestyle amenities like pickleball courts, walking trails, clubhouses; appealing to those seeking resort-style living. While you may need to wait for construction to complete, the ability to customize or choose finishes makes that timeline worthwhile for many.
Budget flexibility is also a factor. While move-in ready homes may command a premium based on location or features, new builds often provide clearer pricing structures and long-term savings through energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.
Ultimately, it's about aligning your priorities: speed and convenience, or personalization and long-term planning. Either way, opportunities are available now, but not for long.
Why Now Is the Time to Act
The Ocean Isle Beach market continues to move quickly, especially as we enter the peak summer buying season. Well-priced homes, whether move-in ready or new construction, don’t sit on the market long. It’s important to emphasize that serious buyers shouldn’t wait, as inventory can shift week to week and desirable properties can go under contract within days.
Seasonal buyer activity also plays a role. Summer brings more out-of-town interest, increased showing traffic, and stronger competition for coastal homes. This uptick can push prices up and reduce negotiating power for buyers who delay.
For those considering new construction, builder timelines are another critical factor. Even spec homes nearing completion can require 30–60 days to close, and custom builds often take much longer. Securing a land/lot or homes now helps you lock in current pricing, avoid future delays, and take advantage of any builder incentives still on the table.
Whether you're aiming to be settled in before the fall or planning ahead for 2026, now is the right moment to move, from scheduling tours to reserving a home under construction.
Schedule a Showing With The Cheek Team
Whether you're ready to step into a move-in ready coastal retreat or want to explore the possibilities of new construction, the best way to move forward is with expert guidance. The Cheek Team is here to help you navigate current inventory, compare your options, and secure the right property for your goals and timeline.
Don’t wait for the perfect home to be gone; schedule a private tour or consultation today. View Current Listings or Contact The Cheek Team to get started.
