Watkins Place

By
Tim Clarke
May 21, 2025
5 min read
Welcome to Watkins Place, Raleigh's new gem! Enjoy thoughtfully designed homes, tree-lined streets, and a commitment to energy efficiency in a vibrant community.
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Key Takeaways for Northeast Raleigh, NC 27616 Community

Feature Description
Location Northeast Raleigh, NC 27616
Home Types Single-family homes
Price Range Mid $300s to mid $500s
Builder Matt Baldwin Homes
Schools Nearby public and private options
Amenities Parks, shopping centers, restaurants
Commute Easy access to major highways

Watkins Place Overview

History and Development of Watkins Place

Watkins Place is a relatively new development in Raleigh, having broken ground in the early 2010s. The vision for this community was to create a neighborhood that offered modern living while preserving the natural beauty of the area. Matt Baldwin Homes, the primary builder in Watkins Place, has done an exceptional job of bringing this vision to life.

Distinguished Features of Watkins Place

What sets Watkins Place apart is its thoughtful design and attention to detail. The neighborhood features tree-lined streets, well-manicured lawns, and a cohesive architectural style that gives the community a distinct identity. The homes here are built with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating the latest in home technology and green building practices.

Home and Lot Sizes

Homes in Watkins Place typically range from 2,000 to 3,500 square feet, with lot sizes averaging between 0.2 to 0.4 acres. This provides residents with ample space for outdoor living and gardening, without the burden of maintaining expansive properties.

List of Builders in Watkins Place

While Matt Baldwin Homes is the primary builder in Watkins Place, there have been a few custom homes built by local contractors. However, the vast majority of homes in the community bear the Matt Baldwin signature style.

Specific Neighborhoods

Watkins Place is a cohesive community and doesn't have distinct sub-neighborhoods within its boundaries.

Watkins Place Market Overview

The real estate market in Watkins Place has been consistently strong since its inception. Home values have appreciated steadily, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and investors. As of 2023, homes in this community typically sell within 2-3 weeks of listing, often at or above asking price. The demand for homes in Watkins Place remains high due to its excellent location, quality construction, and community amenities.

Watkins Place's Amenities

Community Lifestyle

Life in Watkins Place is characterized by a strong sense of community. Neighbors often gather for impromptu cookouts, and there's a palpable friendliness as you stroll down the streets. The community's design encourages interaction, with wide sidewalks and common areas that serve as natural meeting points.

Parks, Outdoor Spaces, Recreational Amenities

While Watkins Place itself doesn't have a dedicated community park, it's surrounded by several excellent outdoor spaces. The Neuse River Greenway Trail is just a short drive away, offering miles of paved trails for walking, jogging, and cycling. For those who enjoy water activities, the nearby Falls Lake State Recreation Area provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Community Events, Points of Interest

The Watkins Place Homeowners Association organizes several events throughout the year, including an annual Fourth of July parade, a fall festival, and a holiday light competition. These events foster a strong sense of community and provide opportunities for neighbors to connect.

Schools and Educational Institutions

Families in Watkins Place have access to several excellent educational options:

  • Abbotts Creek Elementary School
  • River Bend Middle School
  • Wakefield High School
  • North Wake College and Career Academy
  • Wake Technical Community College (nearby)

There are also several private and charter school options in the vicinity, including:

  • Thales Academy Rolesville
  • North Raleigh Christian Academy
  • Endeavor Charter School

Top Local Restaurants Near Watkins Place

  1. Pho Far East (Vietnamese): "Authentic pho and friendly service. A local favorite!"
  2. Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken (Peruvian): "Delicious rotisserie chicken and sides. Great value!"
  3. Sushi One (Japanese): "Fresh sushi and creative rolls. Cozy atmosphere."
  4. Milton's Pizza & Pasta (Italian): "Family-friendly with a great variety of pizzas and pastas."
  5. Tropical Picken Chicken (Caribbean): "Flavorful jerk chicken and plantains. A taste of the islands!"
  6. China Express (Chinese): "Quick service and generous portions. Perfect for takeout nights."
  7. Chubby's Tacos (Mexican): "Authentic street tacos and amazing salsa bar."
  8. Anvil's Cheesesteaks (American): "Philly-style cheesesteaks that rival the original!"
  9. Saffron Indian Cuisine (Indian): "Extensive menu with delicious curries and naan bread."
  10. Watkins Grill (American): "Classic diner fare with a Southern twist. Great breakfast!"

Shopping, Entertainment

Shopping Centers, Restaurants near Watkins Place

  • Triangle Town Center: A large mall featuring popular retailers and dining options.
  • Wakefield Commons: A shopping center with grocery stores, restaurants, and various services.
  • Capital Crossing at Heritage: Offers a mix of retail and dining options.

Healthcare Facilities and Emergency Services

Residents of Watkins Place have access to several healthcare options:

  • WakeMed North Hospital: A full-service hospital just a short drive away.
  • Duke Primary Care Wakefield: Offers comprehensive primary care services.
  • FastMed Urgent Care: For non-emergency medical needs.
  • Raleigh Fire Station 29: Provides fire and emergency services to the area.

Watkins Place's Location Overview

Key Takeaways for Central Raleigh, NC 27607

Feature Description
Location Central Raleigh, NC 27607
Community Type Mixed residential with historical significance
Home Styles Early to mid-20th century architecture
Population Growth 8% increase since 2000
Median Age 30.04 years
Population Density 5,569.70 people per square mile
Housing Stability 24% annual turnover, 31% 5+ year residency
Median Residency 2.46 years
Current Listings 2 homes at $1,190,000 median price (May 2023)
Schools Highly-rated public and private options
Climate Moderate with distinct seasons

Crime Data and Neighborhood Safety

Watkins Place is known for its safety and low crime rates. The community benefits from active neighborhood watch programs and regular patrols by the Raleigh Police Department. According to recent crime statistics, the area has lower crime rates compared to the Raleigh average, making it an attractive option for families and individuals prioritizing safety.

Expert Advice from Tim Clarke

As the founder of the Tim M. Clarke Team, one of the top real estate teams in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area, and a 30-year resident of the Triangle, I've seen Watkins Place evolve into a truly special community. For potential buyers, I strongly recommend taking the time to visit the neighborhood at different times of day to get a feel for its rhythm and charm. Don't hesitate to chat with current residents – you'll likely find them friendly and eager to share their experiences.

For those already living in Watkins Place, I encourage you to get involved in community events and the HOA. Your participation helps maintain the neighborhood's strong sense of community and can even boost property values. If you're considering selling, now's a great time. The market in Watkins Place remains strong, and homes here are in high demand.

To enhance your quality of life in Watkins Place, consider joining or starting a community garden, organizing neighborhood events, or volunteering at local schools. These activities not only enrich your personal experience but also contribute to the overall vibrancy of the community.

Watkins Place isn't just a neighborhood – it's a lifestyle choice. It offers the perfect balance of modern living, natural beauty, and community spirit. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or looking to downsize, Watkins Place has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this thriving community. Reach out to the Tim M. Clarke Team today, and let's find your perfect home in Watkins Place!

Active Listings

**NOTE: If you're not seeing any listings, then currently there are no available homes in this community.**

Tim M. Clarke

About the author

17 years as a Realtor in the Research Triangle, Tim seeks to transform the Raleigh-Durham real estate scene through a progressive, people-centered approach prioritizing trust & transparency.

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