Sunset Hills

November 20, 2023

3. Explore the hidden gem of Sunset Hills in Raleigh ITB, where a close-knit community and picturesque surroundings create an idyllic living environment.
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Nestled just Inside the Beltline (ITB) of Raleigh, Sunset Hills is a scenic residential community developed beginning in the 1950s.

The area was originally wooded hills before being purchased by developers seeking to construct an upscale suburban neighborhood convenient to the city center.

The first homes built were primarily ranch style and minimal traditional designs on spacious lots. Over the decades, Sunset Hills expanded with the addition of some larger colonial and contemporary styles.

Though most houses date from the 1950s to 1970s, many have been expanded or replaced by new construction. An active neighborhood association helps maintain community standards.

Today, Sunset Hills contains around 300 homes showcasing mid-century architecture alongside more modern residences.

Mature oak, maple, and pine trees line the gently rolling streets. Home values range from $500,000 to $2 million+.

Types of Housing, Typical House and Lot Sizes

Sunset Hills offers a variety of housing options, from historic homes that reflect Raleigh's past to custom-built residences that cater to modern preferences.

Lot sizes in the community vary, providing options for those seeking cozy yards or more expansive outdoor spaces.

Notable Streets and Features

Some of Sunset Hills' most notable streets include:

Canterbury Road - Lined with classic ranch homes dating to the 1950s and 60s on wooded 1/2 acre lots. Many have updated renovations.

Nottingham Road - Flanked by larger colonials and contemporaries, Nottingham Road offers some of Sunset Hills' most prestigious homes.

Sherwood Drive - Towering pines distinguish Sherwood Drive, which winds through the heart of Sunset Hills' scenic landscape.

In addition to homes, Sunset Hills offers proximity to the Neuse River Greenway Trail. Neighborhood amenities include the Sunset Hills pool and clubhouse available to residents.

Sunset Hills is renowned for its diverse architectural styles, from stately Colonial and Tudor revivals to quaint bungalows and modern custom homes.

This diversity is a testament to the community's rich history and its embrace of both tradition and innovation.

List of Builders and Information from Their Websites

Sunset Hills boasts homes by some of Raleigh's most prestigious builders, including Tuscany Construction Group, L&L of Raleigh, Dixon/Kirby, DJF Builders, Herring Homes, Speight Built, MBM Builders, Poythress, and Hayes Barton Homes. Each builder brings a unique vision and expertise, ensuring that residents have a wide range of high-quality homes to choose from.

  • Dixon/Kirby: Known for turning clients' visions into reality, Dixon/Kirby emphasizes a collaborative process to design and build homes that are both dreamy and practical.
  • Speight Built: With over a decade of experience, Speight Built is celebrated for its quality custom homes that blend inspired design with superior craftsmanship, creating neighborhoods with distinctive character across the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area.
  • Grayson Homes: Focused on building quality, custom homes in responsible ways, Grayson Homes ensures that all of its homes exceed standard building codes to earn the Energy Star label, offering style, comfort, and value.

Market Forecast, New Construction Projects

The Raleigh real estate market continues to thrive, with Sunset Hills standing out as a particularly desirable area.

New construction projects by the builders mentioned above, among others, are underway, promising to introduce even more diversity and quality into the housing options available in Sunset Hills.

Sunset Hills Amenities

Parks, Outdoor Spaces, and Recreational Amenities

Sunset Hills is surrounded by lush parks and greenways, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Whether it's a leisurely walk, a vigorous run, or a family picnic, the community's parks serve as a natural oasis in the city.

Nearby Shopping and Dining

Given its central location, Sunset Hills provides easy access to top destinations like Falls of Neuse and North Hills. Nearby restaurants include:

Second Empire Restaurant - This AAA four-diamond restaurant in a Victorian mansion excels at refined entrees like duck, rack of lamb, and seafood.

Bloomsbury Bistro - This contemporary American bistro crafts seasonal dishes like seared scallops, braised short ribs, and duck confit.

Sullivan's Steakhouse - Sullivan's offers premium steaks, seafood, and cocktails in an elegant dark wood and granite setting. Live music nightly.

Whole Foods Market - This upscale grocer provides organic produce, meat, dairy, and products. The prepared food section is excellent.

Shelley Lake - This scenic reservoir offers walking trails, fishing, community events, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Accessibility and Location

unset Hills' strategic location ensures that key destinations are within easy reach:

  • RDU Airport: Approximately 20 minutes by car.
  • Downtown Knightdale: Roughly 25 minutes.
  • Downtown Durham: About 30 minutes.
  • Downtown Raleigh: Just a few minutes away, making it ideal for city commuters.
  • RTP: Around 25 minutes, providing convenient access for those working in the tech and research sectors.

Tim’s Perspective

As a Raleigh local, I often recommend Sunset Hills for its beautiful scenery and family-friendly feel.

The neighborhood's ranch homes and tree-lined streets offer wonderful mid-century character minutes from downtown.

Buying, living in, or selling a home in Sunset Hills offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the best of Raleigh's vibrant community.

My advice for maximizing a pleasant experience in this neighborhood is to engage with the community, explore the local amenities, and stay informed about the real estate market trends.

Whether you're looking for your dream home or planning to sell, my team and I are here to provide expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Trust in our commitment to integrity, transparency, and unparalleled service as we help you navigate the Sunset Hills real estate landscape.

For more information or to start your real estate journey in Sunset Hills, Raleigh, contact the Tim M. Clarke Team today.

Listings in Sunset Hills

**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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