As a seasoned real estate agent with over 17 years of experience in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area, I've had the pleasure of watching Devon grow into one of Raleigh's most sought-after neighborhoods. Let me take you on a journey through this charming community that I've come to know like the back of my hand.
Nestled in northern Wake County off Leesville Road, Devon is an exclusive private community developed by Curtis Properties beginning in the late 1990s. The heavily wooded rolling hills were purchased to construct a luxury enclave with scenic views. Only 150 home sites across 530 acres were platted. The first homes built were primarily large brick Georgian, Colonial, and European-inspired designs on 1-3 acre lots tucked back into the pine and hardwood forests. Home sizes range from 4,000 to over 8,000 square feet. An active homeowner's association maintains standards and gates the entrance.
Today, Devon contains a mix of completed luxury homes and vacant home sites available for custom builds. The lush landscape and limited number of homes provide a private, secluded feel minutes from major Raleigh thoroughfares. This unique blend of natural beauty and upscale living has made Devon a standout in the North Raleigh real estate market.
FeatureDescriptionLocationNorth Raleigh, ZIP code 27614, off Leesville RoadDeveloperCurtis PropertiesHome StylesCustom-built luxury homes (Georgian, Colonial, European-inspired)Lot Sizes1-3 acresHome Sizes4,000 - 8,000+ square feetTotal Area530 acresNumber of Home Sites150Price Range$800,000 - $3,000,000+Community FeaturesGated entrance, active HOALandscapeHeavily wooded rolling hills, pine and hardwood forests
Devon is a relatively young community in North Raleigh, having been established in the late 1990s by Curtis Properties. The neighborhood was conceived as a luxury development, offering residents spacious lots and custom-built homes in a serene, wooded setting. The developers had a clear vision: to create an exclusive enclave that would preserve the natural beauty of the area while providing high-end living spaces.
Over the years, I've watched Devon blossom into a thriving community that perfectly balances natural beauty with upscale living. The careful planning and limited number of home sites have ensured that Devon maintains its exclusive and private atmosphere, even as the surrounding areas of North Raleigh have seen significant growth.
What sets Devon apart is its commitment to preserving the area's natural beauty. As you drive through the neighborhood, you'll notice how the homes are nestled among mature pine and hardwood trees, creating a sense of privacy and tranquility that's hard to find in many newer developments. The winding roads and cul-de-sacs add to the peaceful atmosphere, making it feel like you're miles away from the city, even though you're just a stone's throw from all the amenities Raleigh has to offer.
The gated entrance adds an extra layer of exclusivity and security, while the active homeowner's association ensures that the community maintains its high standards. This combination of natural beauty, privacy, and well-maintained properties contributes to Devon's reputation as one of the most desirable neighborhoods in North Raleigh.
One of the things that draws folks to Devon is the generous lot sizes. Most properties sit on 1-3 acre lots, giving homeowners plenty of space to create their own private oasis. The homes themselves are equally impressive, typically ranging from 4,000 to over 8,000 square feet. These aren't your cookie-cutter houses, folks – each home in Devon is a unique, custom-built masterpiece.
The architectural styles in Devon are diverse but cohesive, with many homes featuring Georgian, Colonial, and European-inspired designs. Large brick facades, grand entrances, and meticulous landscaping are common sights throughout the neighborhood. The combination of spacious lots and substantial home sizes allows for luxurious features like multi-car garages, expansive outdoor living areas, and even private pools on some properties.
Devon has attracted some of the area's most respected custom home builders. Here's a rundown of the builders who've helped shape this exceptional community:
Each of these builders brings their own unique style and expertise to Devon, contributing to the neighborhood's diverse architectural landscape. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail is evident in every home they construct, ensuring that Devon maintains its reputation for luxury and excellence.
The real estate market in Devon has remained strong over the years, with home values consistently appreciating. As of 2023, homes in this exclusive community typically range from $800,000 to over $3,000,000. The high-end finishes, spacious lots, and desirable location all contribute to Devon's enduring appeal in the Raleigh luxury real estate market.
What's particularly interesting about Devon is that it still offers opportunities for new construction. With some vacant lots still available, buyers have the unique chance to build their dream home from the ground up in an established, prestigious community. This mix of existing luxury homes and potential for new custom builds adds an exciting dynamic to the Devon real estate market.
Life in Devon is all about enjoying the finer things in a relaxed, natural setting. Residents here value their privacy but also appreciate the sense of community that comes from living in such a special place. It's not uncommon to see neighbors chatting during evening walks or gathering for impromptu cookouts.
While Devon itself doesn't have a community pool or tennis courts, it more than makes up for it with its natural beauty and proximity to outdoor recreation. The neighborhood is surrounded by green spaces, and many homes back up to wooded areas or small creeks.
Just a short drive away, you'll find:
While Devon doesn't host formal community events, the close-knit nature of the neighborhood means that impromptu gatherings and block parties are not uncommon. Residents often come together to celebrate holidays or simply enjoy each other's company on warm summer evenings.
Families in Devon have access to some of the best schools in Wake County. Here's a list of nearby educational options:
Residents of Devon have access to top-notch healthcare facilities:
For emergencies, the Raleigh Fire Department Station 22 and Raleigh Police Department's Northeast District are nearby, ensuring quick response times.
One of the things I love about Devon is its convenient location. You're never far from where you need to be:
Here are some estimated commute times from Devon:
Safety is always a top concern for my clients, and I'm happy to report that Devon is considered one of the safer neighborhoods in Raleigh. The area has lower crime rates compared to the city average, thanks in part to its location and the vigilance of its residents. Many homes in Devon also feature security systems for added peace of mind.
As the founder of the Tim M. Clarke Team, one of the top real estate teams in The Raleigh-Durham Triangle area, and a Triangle resident for the past 30 years, I've seen my fair share of neighborhoods come and go. But Devon has consistently stood out as a gem in North Raleigh's crown.
For those looking to buy in Devon, my advice is to be patient and act decisively. Homes in this community don't come on the market often, and when they do, they tend to move quickly. Work with a realtor who knows the area well and can alert you to new listings as soon as they become available. Don't be afraid to make a strong offer if you find a home you love – the quality of life in Devon is well worth the investment.
For current residents or those looking to sell, remember that Devon's appeal lies in its natural beauty and custom homes. Keep your property well-maintained and consider updates that enhance these features. Landscaping that complements the wooded setting or high-end finishes that align with the luxury market can go a long way in attracting buyers.
To enhance community engagement and quality of life, I encourage residents to get involved. While Devon doesn't have a formal HOA, there's nothing stopping neighbors from organizing community events or starting initiatives to preserve and enhance the neighborhood's character. Something as simple as a neighborhood email list or social media group can help foster connections and keep everyone informed about local happenings.
In my 17 years as a licensed NC agent, I've seen many beautiful communities, but Devon truly stands out. Its blend of natural beauty, custom homes, and convenient location make it a rare find in today's real estate market. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply enjoying life in Devon, you're part of something special.
Ready to make Devon your home or need help navigating the local real estate market? Don't hesitate to reach out. With the Tim M. Clarke Team, you're not just getting a realtor – you're getting a partner who knows and loves this community as much as you do. Let's work together to make your Devon dreams a reality.
