North Hills
November 5, 2023
View Available Listings in North Hills
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 North Hills transform into one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Raleigh. Let me take you on a journey through this dynamic community that I've called home for the past three decades.
North Hills Overview
History and Development of North Hills
North Hills has a cool story. In the 1960s, North Hills was just an indoor shopping mall, known as the North Hills Shopping Center. At that time, the area around it was mostly empty land. But, it sat at a prime location, where Six Forks and Lassiter Mill Roads crossed. This made it a perfect spot for future growth. For many years, this shopping center was the top choice for shoppers in Raleigh. Imagine this - a bustling hub filled with people, bags in hand, going from shop to shop, looking for the best deals. It was a place where the community came together, where memories were made. Then, in the early 2000s, things started to change.
The shopping center was getting old, and it was time for a makeover. That's when Kane Realty Corporation stepped in. They bought North Hills, with a grand vision in mind - to turn it into a trendy urban village. To bring this vision to life, they started a massive renovation project in 2005. This wasn't just a small touch-up. It was a $200 million project, led by famous developers, John Kane and Henry Kaestner. They had a plan and were ready to transform North Hills.
Parts of the old mall were torn down, making way for new developments. In place of the old structures, they built a pedestrian-friendly street. This wasn't just any street, though. It was lined with shops and restaurants, creating a lively, walkable space for people to enjoy. But they didn't stop there. They added tall residential towers, providing homes for people right in the heart of the city. They built office buildings, attracting businesses and creating jobs. They also added hotels, a luxury movie theater, and public green spaces.
North Hills was turning into a place where people could live, work, and play. Finally, in 2007, after years of hard work and planning, the new and improved North Hills opened. It was no longer just a shopping center. It was a vibrant, bustling urban village, filled with life and energy. It quickly became the hottest spot in Raleigh, a place where people wanted to be. And that's the story of how North Hills became the thriving community it is today.
Distinguished Features of North Hills
What sets North Hills apart is its unique blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort. It's a place where you can live, work, and play without ever having to leave the neighborhood. The community's walkability is a huge draw for residents and visitors alike.
One of the things I love most about North Hills is its commitment to green spaces. Despite its urban feel, you'll find plenty of parks and tree-lined streets that give the area a refreshing, natural ambiance.
North Hills Home and Lot Sizes
North Hills offers a diverse range of housing options to suit various lifestyles and preferences. You'll find everything from cozy apartments and townhomes to spacious single-family homes.
- Apartments: 600 - 2,000+ sq ft
- Townhomes: 1,500 - 3,000+ sq ft
- Single-family homes: 2,000 - 5,000+ sq ft
Lot sizes for single-family homes typically range from 0.2 to 0.5 acres, providing enough space for private yards without the burden of extensive maintenance.
Notable Neighborhoods Near North Hills
St. Albans
A residential area west of North Hills with mostly single family homes built in the 1950s-60s.
North Hills Estates
A small suburban neighborhood north of North Hills.
North Hills Park
A neighborhood centered around the North Hills city park, just northeast of North Hills.
Anderson Heights
Anderson Heights is a fabulous residential community east of North Hills. The community is central to North Hills, The Village District, Five Points and Downtown Raleigh.
Country Club Villas
Located just west of North Hills, Country Club Villas is a small, intimate golf course neighborhood with a mix of amazing luxury homes.
Drewry Hills
Drewry Hills is a charming neighborhood located to the east of North Hills. It features a variety of home styles, from mid-century modern to traditional brick houses.
Ramblewood
Ramblewood, situated to the west of North Hills, is a neighborhood known for its townhomes and apartments, offering a more urban lifestyle.
Bellevue Terrace
Just south of North Hills, Bellevue Terrace is a quiet, residential neighborhood with a mix of homes, from older, charming bungalows to newer constructions.
Chestnut Hills
Chestnut Hills, located to the northwest of North Hills, is a well-established neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a variety of home styles.
Hickory Hills
Hickory Hills is a small neighborhood nestled to the northeast of North Hills. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses.
Farrior Hills
Farrior Hills, located to the west of North Hills, is a neighborhood known for its spacious lots and traditional homes.
Nine North
Nine North, located directly north of North Hills, is a newer neighborhood featuring modern townhomes and apartments.
Woods of St Albans
The Woods of St Albans, located to the northwest of North Hills, is a quiet residential neighborhood with a mix of traditional and contemporary homes.
Builders in North Hills
North Hills has attracted some of the finest builders in the Triangle area. The Community offers homebuyers the unique opportunity to build a fully customized dream home within this amenity-rich community. Luxury custom home builders like Curtis Custom Homes and Trinity Custom Homes have developed stunning bespoke residences throughout North Hills, especially in the Bedford neighborhood. Homeowners work directly with architects and designers to create a one-of-a-kind home tailored to their lifestyle. From gourmet chef's kitchens to home theaters and wine cellars, no detail is overlooked in these multi-million dollar custom estates.
List of Builders in North Hills
The North HIlls community has been a premier community for decades but has had a major facelift in the past 10 years. The real estate climate is very unique in North Hills compared to the national average.
Infill is the norm in this community. In many cases a strip of dirt in North Hills is worth more without the house that sits on it. Here is a list of builders in North Hills:
- Allure Homes
- Herring Homes
- Homes By Dickerson
- Thorne Construction
- MBM Builders
- JR Huntley Homes
- Waters Construction
- Mangrum Building
- Raleigh Custom Homes
- Custom Estate Homes
- Dougher Construction Company
- Homestead Building Company
- Marlowe Builders
- AR Homes- Monterey Bay
- Arthur Rutenberg Homes
- Homescapes Builders
- DJF Builders
- Southern Heritage Residential
- Dixon/Kirby & Company
- Medallion Construction
- Tuscany Construction Group
- L and L of Raleigh
- Duncan Ray
- Revolution Homes
- Legacy Custom Homes
- JW2 Building Co
- Aiken Construction
- Midtown Custom Homes
- Concept 8
- Hearthstone Luxury Homes
- Crane Building
- Cambridge Classic Homes
North Hills Market Overview
The real estate market in North Hills has been consistently strong, with property values appreciating steadily over the years. As of 2023, the median home price in the area is around $550,000, but prices can range from the high $300,000s for a condo to over $2 million for a luxury single-family home.
The demand for homes in North Hills remains high due to its prime location, excellent amenities, and the overall quality of life it offers. It's not uncommon for properties here to sell quickly, often receiving multiple offers.
North Hills' Amenities
Community Lifestyle
Living in North Hills is all about embracing an active, social lifestyle. The community is designed to encourage interaction, with numerous gathering spaces and events that implies a semi-urban lifestyle.
Vibrant Festivals and Nightlife
Beyond its shopping and dining, North Hills hosts exciting community events year-round. The Midtown Music Festival also known as "North Hills Beach Music Series" takes place every summer with live concerts under the stars. Foodie events like the North Hills Restaurant Week showcase the district's culinary offerings. Holiday celebrations like the North Hills Tree Lighting and Menorah Lighting bring residents together. For nightlife, the restaurants and bars offer live music on weekends and popular clubs like Babylon Lounge draw crowds late into the night. The buzzing social scene makes North Hills a highly desirable destination to call home.
Parks, Outdoor Spaces, Recreational Amenities
While North Hills is known for its urban vibe, it doesn't skimp on green spaces. Here are some notable outdoor amenities:
- Midtown Park: A central green space that hosts concerts and events
- North Hills Club: A private swim and tennis club
- Cycling paths: Miles of bike-friendly roads and paths
- Fitness trails: Perfect for jogging or walking
Community Events, Points of Interest
There's always something happening in North Hills. Some popular annual events include:
- Midtown Beach Music Series: Weekly summer concerts
- Midtown Farmers' Market: Fresh local produce and crafts
- Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: A festive community gathering
Schools and Educational Institutions
Families in North Hills have access to some of the best schools in Wake County. Here's a list of schools near North Hills:
Public Schools:
- Douglas Elementary School
- Joyner Elementary School
- Daniels Middle School
- Broughton High School
Private Schools:
- St. Timothy's School
- Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School
- Montessori School of Raleigh
Charter Schools:
- Endeavor Charter School
- Longleaf School of the Arts
Daycare:
- Primrose School of North Hills
- KinderCare Learning Center
- Goddard School
Top Local Restaurants in North Hills
While the North Hills Main District contains most of the restaurants and retail, excellent dining options also exist across Six Forks Road in the Midtown East District.Wherever you are in North Hills, mouthwatering cuisine is never far away.
Here is a list of establishments worth checking out in North Hills:
Coquette
French brasserie serving seafood, steak, and other classic French cuisine in an upscale setting.
Las Ramblas
Lively Spanish tapas restaurant offering paella, sangria, and other traditional dishes in a charming atmosphere.
STIR
Contemporary American restaurant with an eclectic menu and craft cocktails in a stylish space.
Vivace
Authentic Italian eatery serving house-made pastas, Neapolitan pizzas, and more in a modern trattoria.
Giorgio's Pizza
Casual pizzeria dishing up New York-style pies along with subs, salads, and other standard fare.
Capital City Grille
Upscale steakhouse serving aged steaks, fresh seafood, and specialty cocktails.
Yard House
Spacious gastropub with an extensive beer list, classic American fare, and outdoor seating.
Rosewater Kitchen and Bar
Southern-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails and extensive wine list in an upscale setting.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Polished chain serving wood-fired steaks, seafood, and classic American fare in a stylish atmosphere.
Bartaco
Hip, upscale taqueria featuring tacos, margaritas, and other Mexican-inspired bites in an industrial-chic space.
The BBQ Lab
Laid-back barbecue joint offering smoked meats, sandwiches, sides and local beer on tap.
CO
Chic Australian-inspired eatery and bar serving brunch, lunch, and dinner fare in an airy, modern space.
Another Broken Egg
Upscale breakfast and lunch cafe' dishing up eggs benedict, pancakes, sandwiches and more.
Chuy's
Lively Tex-Mex restaurant chain offering enchiladas, fajitas, margaritas and more in a funky setting.
Cow Bar
Burger bar and ice cream shop with specialty burgers, shakes, floats and sundaes.
Shopping, Entertainment
The center of North Hills has an outdoor shopping district with over 60 stores. You'll find big national brands like Anthropologie and MAC Cosmetics. But there are also local boutiques. Fashion lovers flock to high-end stores like Arhaus and Restoration Hardware.
Shopping Centers, Restaurants near North Hills
- North Hills Shopping Center: Features high-end retailers like Anthropologie, Lululemon, and REI
- The Lassiter at North Hills: Home to boutique shops and fine dining establishments
- The Park at North Hills: Offers a mix of retail and office spaces
- Renaissance at North Hills: Features a movie theater and additional shopping options
Hotels in North Hills
For visitors looking for upscale accommodations in North Hills, there are two excellent hotel options:
- The AC Hotel North Hills is a stylish European-inspired hotel offering sophisticated modern rooms and convenient access to North Hills. Guests praise the chic decor, rooftop pool, and proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- The Renaissance North Hills Hotel is a contemporary high-rise hotel with spacious, modern rooms, an indoor pool, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It's connected to the North Hills shopping and dining district. This pet-friendly hotel is known for outstanding service and luxury amenities.
Both the AC Hotel and Renaissance North Hills deliver exceptional hospitality experiences, offering modern amenities and prime locations within the vibrant North Hills community. These upscale accommodations cater to both business travelers and tourists, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options right at their doorstep.
Healthcare Facilities and Emergency Services
- Duke Raleigh Hospital: Full-service hospital just minutes away
- WakeMed North Hospital: Emergency and specialty care nearby
- North Hills Urgent Care: For non-emergency medical needs
- Raleigh Fire Station 9: Serving the North Hills area
Location and Proximity
As a local real estate expert and a former Midtown resident, I understand the importance of commute times and convenience for residents of North Hills. Whether you're a professional with a job in the Research Triangle Park, a frequent traveler, or someone who enjoys the downtown lifestyle, knowing the best routes and average travel times is crucial.
While the above-mentioned routes are the most straightforward, it's important to consider factors like time of day, weather conditions, and any ongoing roadworks. Using real-time traffic updates from apps like Google Maps or Waze can significantly enhance your commuting experience by providing the best possible route at any given time. Remember, Raleigh is actively working to improve its major highways to alleviate congestion, so keep an eye out for infrastructure updates that might affect your daily commute. With a little planning and flexibility, you can enjoy a smooth drive to and from North Hills, no matter your destination.
Crime Data and Neighborhood Safety
North Hills is generally considered a safe area with lower crime rates compared to the Raleigh average. The community's design, with its emphasis on walkability and public spaces, contributes to a sense of safety and community vigilance.
The Raleigh Police Department maintains a strong presence in the area, and many residents participate in neighborhood watch programs. As with any urban area, it's always wise to take standard precautions, but overall, North Hills is a secure and family-friendly community.
Conclusion - Expert Advice from Tim Clarke
As a Triangle resident for over 30 years and a real estate agent with 17+ years of experience, I've seen North Hills evolve into one of Raleigh's most desirable neighborhoods. Its blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of homebuyers.
For those looking to buy in North Hills, my advice is to act decisively. The market here moves quickly, so when you find a home you love, be prepared to make a strong offer. Work with a local agent who knows the area well and can guide you through the nuances of each sub-neighborhood within North Hills.
If you're already lucky enough to call North Hills home, take full advantage of all the community has to offer. Attend the local events, support the small businesses, and get to know your neighbors. The strength of North Hills lies in its sense of community.
For sellers, North Hills properties are in high demand. Highlight your home's proximity to amenities, emphasize any unique features, and consider professional staging to showcase your property's potential.
Remember, North Hills isn't just a place to live – it's a lifestyle. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or an empty nester, this vibrant community has something for everyone. It's a place where you can truly live, work, and play without ever feeling the need to leave.
Ready to make North Hills your home? Don't wait – this dynamic community is always in demand. Contact the Tim M. Clarke Team today, and let's find your perfect place in Raleigh's Midtown. Your dream home in North Hills is just a phone call away!
Frequently Asked Questions about North Hills
What kind of homes can you find in North Hills?
North Hills is a mixed-use community offering a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and apartments.
Styles range from mid-century modern to traditional and contemporary.
What amenities are available in North Hills?
North Hills offers a wealth of amenities, including a wide array of dining and shopping options, fitness centers, parks, and entertainment venues.
The community also hosts various events throughout the year.
How far is North Hills from Downtown Raleigh and Downtown Durham?
North Hills is approximately 10 minutes from Downtown Raleigh and about 20 minutes from Downtown Durham, offering easy access to both cities.
Can I build a custom home on a lot in North Hills?
Yes, depending on the availability of lots, you can build a custom home in North Hills.
It's recommended to work with a local real estate agent to understand zoning laws, building restrictions, and to find a reputable builder.
What is the North Hills Music Festival?
The North Hills Music Festival, also known as "Midtown Beach Music Series," is a popular summer event that features live beach music.
It's a great opportunity for community members to come together and enjoy good music and good company.
How is the nightlife in Raleigh?
Raleigh offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of entertainment options. From cozy wine bars and craft breweries to lively music venues and dance clubs, there's something for everyone.
North Hills itself is home to several popular nightspots, making it a great place for those who enjoy an active nightlife.
What are some popular neighborhoods within a 0.5-mile radius of North Hills?
Popular neighborhoods within a 0.5-mile radius of North Hills include Lassiter Place, Drewry Hills, Ramblewood, Bellevue Terrace, Chestnut Hills, Hickory Hills, Farrior Hills, Nine North, and Woods of St Albans.
What are the educational facilities near North Hills?
North Hills is near several top-rated schools, including Lacy Elementary and Martin Middle.
There are also prestigious private schools like Ravenscroft School and colleges like Meredith College nearby.
What healthcare facilities are available near North Hills?
Top-ranked hospitals like Rex Hospital and Duke Raleigh are located near North Hills, offering residents access to excellent healthcare services.
How far is North Hills from the RDU airport?
North Hills is conveniently located about a 15-minute drive from the Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Listings in North Hills
**NOTE: If you're not seeing any listings, then currently there are no available homes in this community.**
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