Outer Banks Home That Was ‘Lifted Out of Flood Zone’ Is Listed for Under $350K

An adorable Outer Banks cottage on the island of Hatteras has just hit the market in North Carolina for $349,500—nearly 10 years after it was raised onto towering stilts that elevated it above any immediate flood risk.

Offering just 797 square feet of space, the updated home was lifted up out of harm’s way after Hurricane Matthew wrecked the island in 2016.

The storm, which hit North Carolina in October of that year, caused an estimated $4.8 billion in damage, affecting close to 100,000 homes while setting rainfall records in multiple counties.

In the wake of the Category 5 hurricane, homeowners in the local area were given assistance to better protect their properties from future storms, including the dwelling at 57190 Pricilla Curve Road, which was raised off the ground in order to better guard against inclement weather and flooding.

“The home was built in 1950 and then elevated from its current site in 2017,” says listing agent Suzie Scholten of Midgett Realty – Hatteras. “There was a grant program for homeowners who wanted to raise their homes from the flood plain, so it is now lifted out of the immediate flood zone.”

Beyond its elevation nearly a decade ago, the home has undergone several other updates in the 76 years since it was first built and now offers a bright, fresh interior, as well as plenty of potential for every kind of buyer—albeit not those who want immediate access to the beach.

“It would make a great secondary home or a primary residence for the next buyer,” Scholten says. “It’s a five-minute drive to the beach, so it doesn’t serve the purpose that well as an investment property.”

The two-bedroom abode features a dining area, a living room with a wood-burning stove, and an updated kitchen and bathroom.

“This home has seen many changes over time including being lifted out of harms way, renovated to be more modern while still keeping the old Hatters charm,” the listing notes.

Renovated to modern standards, the interior also features luxury vinyl-plank floors, butcher block countertops, stainless steel appliances, and beadboard paneled walls.

“The sellers have owned it since 2023 and used it as a vacation rental when they weren’t using it themselves,” Scholten says.

Outer Banks buyers who are on the hunt for a lucrative investment property also have the opportunity to make future upgrades that might increase the allure of the dwelling, Scholten adds.

“It’s off the beaten path and small, so it would lend itself to shorter stays like a weekend getaway or a place to visit before or after a longer rental,” she explains. “I think a hot tub would also increase the rental income.”

If someone were to use the property as a primary residence, Scholten notes that the wood-burning stove providing supplemental heat makes the cabin “nice and cozy” in the wintertime.

New appliances include a full laundry and gas-powered, on-demand water heater.

Perhaps one of the most enticing elements of the home is the oversized deck, which serves as the ideal spot for a morning cup of coffee, an al fresco meal, or simply a spot of people watching.

“Relax on the large sun deck while soaking in the village ambiance,” the listing notes.

The property also boasts an outdoor shower and plenty of parking available underneath the home.

“Hatteras Village has the most ‘villagey’ feel to it,” Scholten adds. “You can easily golf cart, bike, or walk to restaurants, shops, and cafes. It’s a very small fishing village that is beautiful.” 

Kellie Speed is a contributor to Realtor.com. As a writer and editor, she has worked for a variety of online and print publications, including Inked magazine, Jetset, Westchester magazine, JustLuxe, The Boston Globe, and U.S. Veterans Magazine. A Massachusetts native, Kellie attended Northeastern University for journalism, was previously the Boston editor for Haute Living, and contributed to Avalon Publishing’s Moon Metro Boston guidebook. Kellie writes celebrity profiles and covers restaurants, travel, and lifestyle.