Step back in time with four beautifully preserved historic homes, each offering its unique charm in the heart of Wilmington, North Carolina. From a vibrant 1875 restoration in the downtown historic district to a pastel-hued 1903 bungalow brimming with character, these properties prove you don’t need to break the million-dollar mark to own a piece of Southern history. Explore the stories and architectural beauty behind the 1912 Cottage Home, 1903 Bungalow, 1903 Historic District gem, and 1875 Historic Home, each thoughtfully restored and priced under $ 1M.
1. 1903 Historic District Home in Wilmington
Built in 1903, this charming two-story home in Wilmington’s Historic District showcases timeless architecture and local legacy. Known as the A.M. Wilson House, it holds landmark status and ties to Dolly Humphrey Pearson. With 1,576 sq ft of living space on a 2,178 sq ft lot, it features a remodeled kitchen, three porches, and original details. Listed at $465,000, it’s a rare blend of elegance, history, and investment potential.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington is a coastal city in southeastern North Carolina, nestled along the Cape Fear River and just inland from the Atlantic. It’s roughly 80 miles from Myrtle Beach and 130 miles from Raleigh. Known for its well-preserved Historic District, the city offers cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and a vibrant riverwalk. Wilmington thrives on arts, history, and coastal living, drawing visitors with its charm, gardens, museums, and historic maritime landmarks.
Neighborhood View
This bird’s-eye view reveals a picturesque block in Wilmington’s Historic District, filled with early 20th-century homes and lush trees. The A.M. Wilson House sits on a corner lot with proximity to shopping, dining, and nightlife. Wide sidewalks, front porches, and mature landscaping evoke a timeless neighborhood feel. The community is walkable and welcoming, ideal for residents and vacationers seeking charm, accessibility, and a rich architectural setting near downtown.
Front Porch
The wide, covered front porch is anchored by classic white columns and a historic plaque designating the home’s significance. Wicker chairs with bright floral cushions and a rocking chair create a cozy, Southern-style sitting area. Painted in traditional haint blue, the ceiling reflects a regional custom meant to ward off spirits. This peaceful porch offers a shaded retreat for morning coffee or evening relaxation, just steps from the lively downtown scene.
Foyer
Stepping inside, the foyer welcomes guests with intricate wainscoting, gleaming hardwood floors, and a gracefully turned staircase. Original wood trim frames the vintage windows and entryway, while soft lavender walls add a touch of charm. A frosted transom window above the solid wood door lets in natural light. This beautifully preserved entry space highlights the craftsmanship of the home’s 1903 construction and sets an elegant tone for the rooms beyond.
Bathroom
The bathroom pairs classic design with modern touches, featuring a deep gray upper wall, light blue lower paneling, and crisp white trim. An ornate vintage mirror hangs above a curved pedestal sink, complemented by intricate wall decor. Subway tile surrounds the shower-tub combo, which includes a rainfall showerhead for a luxurious feel. Warm tile flooring and soft lighting complete the space, balancing charm and functionality in this thoughtfully updated room.
Source: Bryant Real Estate Via Zillow
2. 1875 Historic Home in Wilmington
Built in 1875, this stunning single-story residence in Wilmington’s Historic District has undergone a meticulous renovation, blending modern comfort with historic preservation. Listed at $719,000, the 1,580 sq ft home sits on a 4,791 sq ft corner lot with off-street parking. Highlights include restored wood siding, the original front door, a reglazed clawfoot tub, and a wraparound porch with period-accurate hardwoods. This official historic home honors its past while offering luxurious, turnkey living.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a historic port city located in the southeastern coastal region of the state. Just 80 miles from Myrtle Beach and 130 miles from Raleigh, it’s renowned for its preserved riverfront and cobblestone-lined Historic District. The city offers a vibrant mix of antebellum architecture, cultural festivals, and scenic beauty. Key attractions include the USS North Carolina, Airlie Gardens, and a lively downtown filled with award-winning restaurants and shops.
Front Entrance
This inviting front entrance features a bold red exterior and a wide, welcoming staircase framed by manicured landscaping. The expansive wraparound porch is lined with white columns and railings, perfectly complementing the home’s historic style. A restored original front door anchors the center, while crisp white trim around the windows adds charm. The layout provides both street appeal and a sense of arrival, setting the tone for the thoughtfully updated interiors inside.
Porch Swing
This cozy porch nook captures classic Southern charm with its white slat-back swing, wood-paneled ceiling, and vibrant red siding. Two white wicker chairs and a small table with a potted plant create a cheerful sitting area, ideal for morning coffee or afternoon reading. Natural light spills through the windows, and the swing gently sways beside views of the mature trees lining the sidewalk. It’s a serene retreat with timeless appeal.
Wraparound Porch
Extending along the front and side of the home, the wraparound porch showcases beautifully restored tongue-and-groove hardwood flooring beneath a warm pine-paneled ceiling. Crisp white railings and bold red siding give the space vibrant character, while yellow planters offer a playful touch. This wide corridor invites leisurely walks or relaxed seating with garden views. Designed for Southern living, this porch is both a visual statement and a functional outdoor extension of the home.
Street View
From the opposite curb, the home’s full façade commands attention with its symmetrical front, period details, and striking color palette. The metal roof and centered cupola nod to its 19th-century roots, while extensive gardens and mature trees soften the edges. Located on a brick-paved street in Wilmington’s historic core, this property blends seamlessly with its storied surroundings while offering modern convenience and rare off-street parking—an exceptional find in the district.
Source: BlueCoast Realty Corporation Via Zillow
3. 1912 Cottage Home in Wilmington
This charming 1912 cottage in Wilmington, NC, offers a unique blend of historical character and modern restoration. Perched high on a wooded lot under a century-old live oak, the 1,229 sq ft home sits on a 3,049 sq ft lot. Completely restored in 2006, the residence includes a recent HVAC system (2023) and a water heater (2024). Listed at $399,000, it features Urban mixed-use zoning, a fenced backyard, and off-street parking with alley access.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a coastal city rich in history and culture, located in the southeastern part of the state. Nestled between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic beaches, it lies 130 miles from Raleigh and 80 miles from Myrtle Beach. Wilmington boasts a nationally recognized Historic District, scenic waterfront, and vibrant arts scene. Key attractions include Greenfield Lake, the Riverwalk, and a variety of historic homes, museums, and performing arts venues.
Front Porch
A stone stairway leads to this elevated front porch, giving the home a treehouse-like feel among towering oaks. The porch features dark green floors, deep gray siding, and rich red trim framing the windows and doors. Sturdy posts support the covered structure, creating a shaded space perfect for relaxing. Nestled into the natural slope of the lot, the home enjoys both privacy and an impressive street presence in this wooded setting.
Entry
The inviting entryway sets a warm tone with its stained-glass-accented front door framed in rich red. A black iron chair with a colorful cushion, a small lantern, and potted greenery decorate the porch corner, offering a pop of personality. Green-painted wooden decking contrasts beautifully with the home’s muted exterior, while tall sidelights and transom windows bring natural light through the front, creating a welcoming first impression for residents and guests alike.
Bedroom
This cozy bedroom exudes charm with soft blue-gray walls, a ceiling fan, and layered textiles. The plush bed is dressed in pale teal bedding with a mix of decorative pillows, adding color and texture. A sunburst mirror and large wall art provide visual interest, while an antique wooden armoire anchors the space. Natural light filters in from a nearby window, casting a gentle glow that complements the warm tones of the wood floor.
Dining Room
The dining room features a blend of classic and eclectic design. A round pedestal table with upholstered chairs sits on a patterned rug, framed by soft gray walls. Built-in open shelving adds storage and display space, while a unique vintage light fixture hangs above the table. A mid-century style black sideboard and metallic sunburst mirror add contrast, while warm wood flooring ties the room together in an inviting, layered aesthetic.
Source: Sold Buy the Sea Realty Via Zillow
4. 1903 Bungalow Home in Wilmington
This charming 1903 bungalow in Wilmington, NC, offers classic Southern appeal and a fully renovated interior. Featuring 964 sq ft of living space on a 0.6-acre lot, the home boasts original hardwood floors, high ceilings, arched doorways, and a 14×6 covered front porch. Renovated in 2022–2025 with new insulation, siding, windows, and doors, it blends historic character with modern comfort. Listed at $349,000.
Where is Wilmington?
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a coastal city in the southeastern region of the state. Known for its historic downtown and riverfront, it lies just minutes from Atlantic beaches and is a short drive from Raleigh and Myrtle Beach. The city boasts 18th-century roots, a rich Civil War history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Highlights include the Riverwalk, Airlie Gardens, and the Castle Street Arts & Antique District.
Living Room
The living room offers a bright and inviting space, bathed in natural light from three front-facing windows. Soft white curtains frame the views, while warm wood flooring anchors the space. A navy blue sofa and white armchairs provide cozy seating. The light fixture is a whimsical white chandelier, and the oversized wall-mounted TV and turquoise distressed dresser add a modern flair to this vintage-inspired setting.
Dining Room
This formal dining room features dark accent walls contrasted by bright white trim and colorful, floral-patterned curtains. A classic black round dining table is surrounded by mint green and white slip-covered chairs. A white chandelier adds elegance, while arched doorways and open sightlines to the kitchen offer charm and flow. Perfect for entertaining, the room combines playful decor with period character and thoughtful design details.
Kitchen
The spacious kitchen features white cabinetry, black countertops, and a classic mint green and white palette. Hexagon tile flooring and open shelving create a timeless farmhouse feel. Natural light streams through the windows and French doors, which lead to the backyard. A central island adds function and display space, while vintage-inspired touches like pendant lighting and a white hutch round out the cheerful, inviting atmosphere.
Bedroom
This serene bedroom features soft beige walls, white curtains, and a dark arched headboard for contrast. Golden wall sconces frame the bed, while natural wood flooring enhances the warmth of the room. The window invites soft daylight, creating a restful retreat. A vintage yellow vanity adds character and charm, paired with modern touches like a white ceiling fan and neutral-toned bedding for a calm, classic space.
