Life is ‘grand’ for owners of 1,000th property sold in Brunswick Forest
Star News
By: Brunswick Forest
For Anna and Jimmy Oberto, purchasers of the 1000th property sold in Brunswick Forest, life in the coastal South’s fastest growing community is, indeed, grand.
The Chicago couple has owned a vacation home in Brunswick Forest since 2010, so they are well acquainted with the community. What is new for them is their elegant, soon-to-be-completed residence on the Cape Fear National golf course. Built by Logan Homes, it will become the primary residence for the couple and their sons Chris, 18, and Corey, 15, in July.
“There used to be a Brunswick Forest billboard on Highway 17 that read ‘Welcome Home,’” said Anna, “and every time we came into the community, I would read it aloud. Now, after being part-time residents for years, it feels good to be making the transition to calling Brunswick Forest home full time.”
Successful From The Onset
Launched in 2007, Brunswick Forest defied the national real estate downturn and became an immediate success. The community welcomed its 500th family in just two years, and has continued to grow over the past four years, despite the persistence of a slow market.
“Brunswick Forest boomed during the bust, and so far in 2013, our sales are 50% better than they were in 2012,” said Jerry Helms, Director of Sales for Brunswick Forest. “Both consumer confidence and builder confidence continue to increase as sales remain strong and the developer delivers on every commitment made.”
Living and Loving The Lifestyle
Helms points out that Brunswick Forest’s amenities are not just on the drawing table; they are the center of a very active lifestyle for its residents. “We have approximately 20 homes available right now, from town homes to single family, ranging from 1,600 to 3,300 square feet,” he said. “Even better, we also offer a lifestyle people can start living today.”
While every area of Brunswick Forest has its charms, the decision to build on Cape Fear National was an easy one for the Obertos. “We are all golfers,” explained Anna. “Our motto is: A family that plays together stays together.”
Anna said the family has played numerous golf courses in the area, including many in Myrtle Beach, “however, nothing compares to Cape Fear National,” she said. “The impeccable design provides amazing views throughout the 18 holes, and it is wonderfully well maintained.”
Anna said the family also enjoys the impressive community pool, and the fullservice Fitness and Wellness Center’s extensive exercise equipment, up-to-date classes and social offerings. “Taking advantage of all the center offers will be key to our healthy lifestyles in Brunswick Forest,” said Anna. “There is absolutely something for everyone in this great community.”
Location, Location, Location
Helms said proximity to Wilmington is another of Brunswick Forest’s biggest amenities, a statement that Anna affirms. “There is so much to love about this area,” she said. “The draws were many— great beaches, golf courses galore, ample shopping, excellent healthcare, terrific dining and many cultural activities and community festivals. Other attractions include the overall healthy, outdoor lifestyles and my favorite– the southern hospitality.”
Anna said the family is excited to get involved and meet more of their neighbors. Brunswick Forest has residents from more than 20 states, plus several countries, creating a unique blend of interesting people and perspectives. Helms commented that local interest has been increasing, as well, with more than 25% of Brunswick Forest’s sales in 2012 coming from North Carolina.
“Brunswick County is hot,” he said, “especially as Wilmington has become saturated. When people compare Brunswick Forest with similar communities in New Hanover County in terms of amenities and lifestyle, they see Brunswick Forest as a tremendous value.”
Helms said the development strategy at Brunswick Forest also attracts buyers. “We build in small villages so people are not constantly living in a construction zone,” he said. “It takes more restraint to pursue such controlled growth, but Brunswick Forest has a commitment to show concern for the overall quality of living.” This dedication extends to the preservation of natural areas, as well. Of the 4,800 acres, a large percentage has been set aside as parks and natural areas.
“We feel the lively spirit of Brunswick Forest is a great fit for our lifestyle,” said Anna. “We will retire here for sure and look forward to those years. In the meantime, we can be active year-round, which is a huge benefit of moving south. I remember coming down one winter break and playing football on the beach on New Year’s Day in 70-degree weather. Sure, tradition in Chicago is football in the snow, but we will take beach football any day. Time to break tradition!”
And Brunswick Forest, by all measures, is a grand place to establish new ones.
