Welcome to March—the official start of spring! After a long and chilly winter, we’re all looking forward to warmer temperatures and clear skies. With spring break just around the corner, excitement is in the air. The winter blues are fading, making way for sunshine and a fresh season of renewal. As we embrace this new month, we extend our best wishes to everyone celebrating—whether you’re Irish or simply enjoying the festive spirit—may your St. Patrick’s Day be filled with joy, good fortune, and a little extra luck!
The proposed Mid-Currituck Bridge project remains a major topic in local news, gaining traction each year. As part of our commitment to keeping Outer Banks homeowners informed, we wanted to bring this to your attention. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Coastal Management (DCM) will hold a public hearing on March 18 from 5-7 p.m. at the Town of Duck’s Town Hall to gather public input on the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and North Carolina Turnpike Authority’s (NCTA) Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) application for the project. This may be of interest to property owners who wish to voice their opinions.
This follows a recent public hearing in Barco regarding the project’s 401 water quality certification, where many expressed opposition. The public can review NCDOT’s CAMA application at the DCM office in Morehead City or online. Those wishing to speak at the hearing must register onsite beginning at 4 p.m., and speaking time may be limited based on turnout. Written comments will be accepted until April 17, 2025, via mail or email, with all feedback considered in the final permit decision.
In local real estate news, the Outer Banks market continues to show positive momentum, mainly in the southern portion of OBX, with overall sales in 2025 increasing by 22% compared to the same period in 2024. Residential sales have risen by 6%, while single-family detached homes saw a remarkable 57% surge. Median sale prices have also climbed, with residential properties up 14% and lots/land up 8%. Inventory levels have grown significantly, with residential inventory increasing by 56%, providing more options for buyers.
However, not all areas are experiencing the same upward trend. Corolla, Duck, and Southern Shores stand out as exceptions, with year-to-date sales declining by as much as 31% in a couple of towns. While Duck’s median sale price has increased by 18%, Southern Shores saw a notable 19% drop, and Corolla’s prices remained stagnant. These areas contrast with the broader market’s positive trajectory, signaling potential localized challenges. That said, we have noticed a strong uptick in buyer activity since the beginning of the month, which could signal the start of a spring rally for the northern beaches. It’s possible that buyers are emerging a bit later this year due to the prolonged cold winter, but recent activity suggests momentum is building as we head into the prime spring season. Given current economic conditions, including interest rate trends and the potential for increased rental demand in the coming months, this could be a strategic time for investors and second-home buyers to assess opportunities in the Outer Banks market. Thoughtful planning and market awareness will be key to making the most of the evolving landscape.
Hope to see you here at the beach very soon!
Heather and Mandi
