Step into North Carolina’s storied past with a 1920 Murphy farmhouse boasting original hardwood floors, a new HVAC, and a wraparound porch that whispers rustic charm. A few hours away in Wilmington, a 1915 Craftsman bungalow—rebuilt down to the studs near the Cargo and Castle Arts Districts—offers modern upgrades on 1,084 square feet of bright living space. Equally captivating is a 1900 American cottage featuring granite countertops, a remodeled bathroom with a 48-inch vanity, and a new roof, while a 1901 Folk Victorian in Richlands seduces with light blue siding, a vintage soaker tub, and flexible bonus space.
1. 1920 Farmhouse in Murphy
Steeped in rustic charm, this historic 1920 farmhouse sits on 0.68 acres in the heart of Murphy, North Carolina. Recently renovated while preserving its heritage, the two-bedroom, two-bath home boasts a total of 1,327 square feet. The refinished original hardwood floors reflect the home’s storied past, while modern updates—such as a new HVAC system—offer contemporary comfort. Listed at $218,900, it’s an affordable piece of local history, blending classic architecture with today’s conveniences. From the welcoming wraparound porch to the cozy interior, this home is a testament to timeless craftsmanship.
Where is Murphy?
Nestled in southwestern North Carolina’s Cherokee County, Murphy sits near the borders of Tennessee and Georgia, surrounded by the scenic Appalachian Mountains. Founded in the 1830s, this quaint town bears a rich Native American heritage, reflecting its deep Cherokee roots. Today, Murphy charms visitors with outdoor adventures, like hiking and fishing along the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers, and cultural landmarks, including the historic downtown district. Located roughly two hours from Atlanta and Chattanooga, Murphy offers a peaceful mountain retreat with easy access to urban amenities.
Wraparound Porch
This spacious, covered porch circles the home, providing ample room for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. Sturdy wooden railings and posts frame the wraparound design, offering charming curb appeal. From here, you can enjoy tranquil views of the surrounding yard, perfect for sipping morning coffee or hosting a summer gathering. The elevated structure, complete with lattice detailing below, not only enhances the home’s classic farmhouse style but also helps with drainage on the gently sloping lot. A timeless spot to savor North Carolina’s mild seasons.
Kitchen
Bright and modern, this renovated kitchen combines warm wooden upper cabinetry with sleek black lower cabinets for a striking two-tone look. Crisp white countertops and updated LVP flooring create a clean, contemporary feel, while a central window above the sink welcomes natural light. Stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, add convenience and style. The open layout offers plenty of room for cooking and conversation, making it an ideal spot for everyday meals or entertaining. A subtle blend of historic charm and modern functionality.
Living Room
Bathed in natural light, this cozy living room showcases the home’s original hardwood floors, restored to a warm, polished finish. Neutral walls and white trim create an airy, inviting atmosphere, while the simple ceiling fan overhead offers gentle circulation. A nearby exterior door and well-placed windows bring in fresh mountain breezes, linking indoor comfort with outdoor living. With ample open space for seating, the room can easily accommodate family gatherings or quiet relaxation. An ideal backdrop for personalized decor, it seamlessly blends historic character with a refreshed, modern feel.
Bathroom
This bright, updated bathroom pairs a crisp white vanity with black hardware for a clean, modern look. The spacious layout features a tub-shower combo, framed by neutral walls and a sleek shower curtain. Updated LVP flooring provides both durability and style, while the large mirror and overhead lighting fixture ensure plenty of illumination. A simple, cohesive color scheme keeps the space feeling open and refreshing. Thoughtful touches, such as ample storage and contemporary fixtures, make this bathroom both functional and inviting.
Bedroom
Warm pine paneling lines the walls of this inviting bedroom, giving it a cozy, rustic vibe. The updated LVP flooring contrasts nicely with the rich wood tones, while two windows let in gentle natural light. Overhead, a modern ceiling fan keeps the room comfortable year-round. Despite its vintage character, the space has been thoughtfully renovated to provide contemporary convenience. Neutral trim and simple accents allow the wood’s natural beauty to stand out, creating a calm retreat that’s both charming and functional.
Source: Great Mountain Properties, Inc. via Zillow
2. 1915 Craftsman Bungalow in Wilmington
Built in 1915 and meticulously renovated in 2024, this three-bedroom, two-bath Craftsman home combines historic charm with modern updates. Listed at $379,000 and set on a 5,227-square-foot lot, the house offers 1,084 square feet of bright, functional living space. Recent renovations included taking the structure down to the studs and rebuilding with contemporary finishes, ensuring long-term comfort. Located near the vibrant Cargo District and Castle Arts District, this home captures the essence of Wilmington’s architectural heritage while offering easy access to local shops and cultural attractions.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington is a historic port city in southeastern North Carolina, situated along the Cape Fear River and close to the Atlantic coastline. Known for its rich Civil War history and charming Riverwalk, it’s about a two-hour drive southeast of Raleigh. Wilmington boasts a thriving arts scene, the nearby Wrightsville Beach, and the Battleship North Carolina as major draws. Its mild climate and coastal culture make it a popular destination for both tourists and new residents.
Aerial View
From above, you see a tidy row of neighboring homes and a clear view of each fenced backyard. The property’s rectangular lot extends behind the house, providing space for outdoor activities or a small garden. This vantage point highlights the home’s proximity to local amenities, with streets and sidewalks that encourage walkability. The neat alignment of roofs and driveways emphasizes a well-established neighborhood, offering both community charm and convenient urban living.
Backyard
A gently sloping backyard features a newly built wooden ramp leading to the rear entrance, offering convenient accessibility. A privacy fence runs along both sides, while the air-conditioning unit sits neatly on the lawn. The home’s dark exterior siding contrasts with the warm wood tones of the ramp, creating a clean, modern look. This outdoor space provides a modest area for gardening, grilling, or simply enjoying the sunshine, blending functionality with understated style.
Bedroom
Step into a tranquil space with vaulted ceilings and soft cream walls that reflect natural light. A single window on the far wall brightens the room, while newly installed wood-look flooring adds warmth and continuity. Clean white trim frames the window and baseboards, creating a crisp contrast. This versatile bedroom feels airy yet cozy, perfect for relaxation or a quiet workspace. Its simple design and neutral palette allow for personalized décor choices.
Living Room
Bright and inviting, the living room features a glass-paneled front door that lets sunlight spill onto the light-toned flooring. Soft, neutral walls create a warm backdrop, while the ceiling fan above adds both style and comfort. Windows on two sides ensure ample natural light throughout the day. The open layout offers flexibility in furniture placement, making it easy to entertain guests or enjoy a quiet evening. It’s a comfortable, modern space with a welcoming atmosphere.
Bathroom
This updated bathroom boasts a deep soaking tub surrounded by square, textured tiles in a clean, white finish. A sleek, black faucet and showerhead complement the geometric tile pattern, adding contemporary flair. The modern vanity features a vessel sink and a round mirror above, accented by a minimalist black faucet. Soft, neutral walls keep the space bright and calming, while open shelving provides a spot for towels or décor. It’s a stylish, spa-like retreat.
Kitchen
A modern blend of dark cabinetry and butcher-block countertops creates a striking contrast in this open kitchen. The neutral backsplash and walls brighten the space, reflecting light from the nearby window and back door. New appliances, including a black range and matching microwave, maintain a cohesive look. Generous storage and ample counter space make meal prep a breeze, while the warm wood floors tie the room to the rest of the home. It’s both functional and welcoming.
Source: Intracoastal Realty Corp via Zillow
3. 1900 American Cottage in Wilmington
Built in 1900, this charming American cottage seamlessly blends historic character with modern updates. Listed at $259,700, it offers 500 square feet of living space on a 3,049-square-foot lot in the heart of Wilmington. Recent renovations include fresh paint, LVP flooring, new interior and exterior doors, and upgraded black hardware. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a deep sink with push-button disposal, while the remodeled bathroom boasts a 48-inch vanity for ample storage. A new roof was installed in 2019, and the fenced HVAC unit provides added privacy and protection. With a cozy front porch, decorative vinyl fencing, and a versatile backyard pad, this historic gem marries turn-of-the-century charm and contemporary comfort.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington lies in southeastern North Carolina, perched along the Cape Fear River and just a short drive from the Atlantic coast. About 130 miles southeast of Raleigh, this historic port city was founded in the 18th century and played pivotal roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Today, it’s known for its scenic Riverwalk, antebellum architecture, and thriving film industry. Visitors can explore nearby beaches like Wrightsville and Carolina, tour museums and historic homes, or immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant arts scene. Wilmington’s coastal charm and rich heritage make it a unique destination for both tourists and residents.
Side Yard
This grassy side yard showcases a cozy single-story exterior with light-gray siding and a pitched roof. Mature trees along the fence line offer dappled shade, while a newly installed vinyl fence encloses the property for added privacy. A small concrete pad near the back provides a spot for a potential storage unit or a standalone fire pit. The fenced HVAC system remains easily accessible, and the compact layout allows for simple maintenance. With ample space for gardening or relaxation, this outdoor area offers a peaceful retreat amid the home’s historic charm.
Living Room
A bright, inviting space greets you in this living room, where newly installed LVP flooring and neutral walls create a sleek backdrop. A large sectional sofa in a soft gray hue faces a wall-mounted TV, paired with a minimalistic console for storage. Natural light filters in through the windows, highlighting a potted plant and simple décor. A ceiling fan with a remote ensures comfortable temperatures year-round. The open layout, modern furnishings, and understated color palette evoke a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere, perfect for unwinding or hosting friends.
Bedroom
Soft neutral tones and crisp white trim define this tranquil bedroom. A queen-size bed dressed in layered gray and cream linens rests against the wall, flanked by matching nightstands. Sunlight streams through two windows, brightening the space and reflecting off the new LVP flooring. A ceiling fan overhead keeps the air fresh, while the minimal décor and clean lines contribute to a calming, uncluttered feel. This cozy retreat offers an ideal spot to rest and recharge at day’s end.
Kitchen
Bright and functional, this kitchen features new white cabinetry, sparkling granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. A deep stainless sink with push-button disposal, black cabinet hardware, and matching door fixtures lend a sleek, contemporary vibe. Natural light from a nearby window complements the overhead lighting, illuminating the smooth LVP floors and freshly painted walls. Designed with efficiency in mind, the layout maximizes counter space and storage. Whether preparing a quick meal or entertaining guests, this updated kitchen combines modern style with everyday convenience.
Dining Nook
Tucked near the entry, this cozy dining nook features a compact two-seater table in white with built-in shelving for extra storage. The light-gray walls and matching LVP flooring create a cohesive, airy feel. Simple décor, including colorful mugs and a playful “Relax” sign, adds a personal touch. A door with black hardware opens to the exterior, offering easy access for al fresco dining or morning coffee on the porch. Perfect for casual meals or a quiet workspace, this corner epitomizes the home’s thoughtful use of space and welcoming ambiance.
Source: Atlantic Real Estate, Inc. via Zillow
4. 1901 Folk Victorian Home in Richlands
Built in 1901, this two-bedroom, two-bath Folk Victorian gem spans 1,554 square feet on a 0.39-acre lot. Listed at $129,999, it offers original hardwood floors, a wrap-around porch, and a charming soaker tub. A bonus room adds flexible living space. Partially updated yet brimming with vintage allure, it stands as a piece of local history, reflecting the craftsmanship of the early 20th century while inviting modern touches.
Where is Richlands?
Richlands is nestled in Onslow County, in southeastern North Carolina. It lies just northwest of Jacksonville and within driving distance of the Atlantic coastline. With roots tracing back to the 18th century, Richlands blends agricultural heritage with a friendly, small-town vibe. Nearby Camp Lejeune and coastal beaches draw visitors and new residents alike. Richlands’ historic downtown, community festivals, and proximity to nature preserves make it a notable stop in this region of the state.
Side Exterior
A sweeping wrap-around porch highlights this home’s Victorian influence, showcasing ornate columns and ample space for outdoor seating. Light blue siding complements the white trim, creating a classic, inviting facade. The yard, dotted with mature trees, offers shade and a sense of privacy. Natural light filters through the porch’s open design, making it a perfect spot to relax with a morning coffee or greet neighbors. Its nostalgic charm welcomes you home.
Living Room
This cozy living room features rich, original hardwood floors that exude a sense of history. Painted in soft blue hues, the walls create a serene atmosphere, while white trim adds a fresh accent. A comfortable sofa and armchair frame a central seating area, complemented by shelves and a TV stand. Natural light pours in from windows and a nearby door, brightening the space. It’s a casual, family-friendly spot for relaxation.
Kitchen
Stepping into the kitchen, you’ll notice its galley-style layout with light-colored cabinets and countertops. An electric cooktop, built-in oven, and microwave offer modern convenience, while the dark fridge adds contrast. The space retains vintage character with original hardwood floors, and a rear door leads outside, letting in fresh air and natural light. Clean lines and neutral tones invite your personal touches, making it a functional area ready for culinary creativity.
Bedroom
This bedroom showcases the home’s historic wood flooring and beadboard wainscoting. Soft pastel walls brighten the space, and a small fireplace with a decorative mantel stands as a charming focal point. Sunlight streams through the large windows, the open layout connects seamlessly to adjacent rooms, preserving the home’s classic, airy flow.
Bathroom
Featuring a vintage-inspired soaker tub and pedestal sink, this bathroom blends old-world charm with modern utility. Blue floral wallpaper and white beadboard wainscoting create a light, cheerful ambiance, while a small storage cabinet keeps essentials neatly tucked away. The deep tub invites long, relaxing baths, and natural light from a high window enhances the cozy space. This thoughtfully designed bathroom embraces the home’s historic character while catering to everyday comfort.
Source: Real Broker LLC via Zillow