1357 Ellsworth Drive, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469

This home is serving coastal cottage chic with a side of ''why would I ever leave?'' Welcome to The Retreat at Ocean Isle Beach, where this darling Helmsley plan by Bill Clark Homes sits pretty like it knows it's the favorite. Just 6 years young and meticulously cared for, it feels brand new but comes with all the resale wins buyers actually want. Think custom window treatments already done, lush landscaping already established, an enclosed sunroom already perfected... and then there's the mic-drop moment: a heated saltwater pool with waterfall. New construction nearby? Cute. But they're still writing $75,000-$100,000 checks to add a pool while you're already floating with a cold drink in hand. The exterior color is an absolute vibe. Coastal getaway without screaming beach cliché. Warm, welcoming, vibrant, and fun. The kind of house that makes people slow their car down and say, ''Wait... which one is that?'' Out back is your private oasis: fenced yard, firepit glowing under the stars, outdoor bar with TV for game days, propane gas heating the pool and lighting the firepit. And the privacy? Love it! HOA-owned land to the left and behind means no future neighbors creeping in. Just peace, palm trees, and pool days. Inside, you'll find 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, with a huge bonus living space upstairs plus a private bedroom and bath that's perfect for multi-generational living or hosting multiple families without stepping on each other's flip-flops. Walk-in attic storage keeps everything tidy, and the whole-house generator gives you that extra layer of comfort coastal buyers love. Location-wise, it's the sweet spot. Only 4 minutes from the beach, close to grocery stores, pharmacy, coffee, dining, and entertainment. Golf cart-friendly neighborhood and yes, you can even cart over to the island. Plus, you're outside the flood zone, no required flood insurance, and safely off-island for hurricane peace of mind. HOA covers yard maintenance too, so your second home stays picture-perfect while you're away. The community amenities seal the deal: a resort-style pool, shuffleboard courts, grilling area, and a neighborhood vibe that actually feels like a neighborhood. Walking paths, golf carts everywhere, and easy access to all the essentials. And listen... if you see me cruising by in a golf cart, I'm probably headed to Causeway Gourmet. My order never changes: salmon sandwich on rosemary focaccia, a side of their potato salad, sweet tea, and yes... blueberry cheesecake for the ride home. Retirement requires standards. No city taxes here either, just county taxes, which feels like a quiet little victory every year. This home is perfect for the buyer dreaming of retiring on the coast or snagging a second home that's effortless, fun, and fully dialed in. And if you're comparing it to nearby new construction and thinking, "I wish I had some closing costs covered..."  just ask. We're here to compete and make this the easiest coastal yes you'll ever say. Coastal living without the compromises. Just show up, unpack, and start living your best beach-adjacent life.