Guest Post by Dakota Hogan, RiverWILD Real Estate REALTOR® Summary Looking for family-friendly things to do in Clayton, NC? Whether you have toddlers, school-age kids, or teenagers, Clayton offers plenty of fun activities—from indoor playgrounds and bowling to splash pads and parks. Here are four local favorites that make Clayton one of Johnston County’s best […]
Why Costco Choosing Clayton Is Bigger Than Just Another Store
Article Summary Costco has proposed building its first Johnston County location in Clayton as part of the new West Edge development on Clayton Boulevard. The project includes a 166,000-square-foot warehouse, a 24-pump members-only fuel station, and joins a future Target store in what is expected to become a $100 million retail destination. While Costco has […]
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday: Fourth of July Events Across Johnston County
Post Summary Looking for the best Fourth of July celebrations in Johnston County? America turns 250 in 2026, and local communities are planning exciting Independence Day festivities. Enjoy fireworks in Selma, Smithfield, Benson, Clayton, and Cleveland, spend the day at Archer Lodge Family Fun Day. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, […]
June is National Homeownership Month: Why Owning a Home Still Matters in Johnston County
Every June, the RiverWILD Real Estate Team acknowledges and celebrates the month of June as National Homeownership Month. It’s a reminder that while real estate markets change, interest rates move, and headlines create uncertainty, the dream of homeownership remains one of the most powerful ways people build stability, create wealth, and put down roots in […]
What to Do Before Moving Into Your New JoCo Home
Guest article by RiverWILD REALTOR® Aubrie Leonard TLDR – Aubrie Leonard’s guest post outlines 10 smart things homeowners should do before moving into a new home to protect their investment, improve safety, and make the transition easier. Key takeaways: Bottom line: A little preparation before move-in can save time, reduce stress, improve safety, and help […]
Sawyer Ridge in Dunn, NC: A Simple Approach to New Home Living
Sawyer Ridge is a new home community in Dunn, North Carolina that offers something increasingly hard to find. Space, flexibility, and fewer restrictions. With just 12 homesites (1 homesite is already under contract), this small Dunn neighborhood is designed for buyers who want a quieter setting without giving up access to everyday essentials. A Different […]
How Johnston County Is Powering Raleigh’s Rise as a Top Market for First-Time Home Buyers
If you’ve been watching the headlines lately (see image above), you may have seen that Raleigh ranked #8 in the U.S. for first-time home buyers in 2026, according to this recent Zillow report. At first glance, that might sound like a Raleigh story. But if you dig a little deeper… It’s really a Johnston County […]
Best Places to Visit This Spring In & Around Clayton
Guest Post by RiverWILD Real Estate Agent-REALTOR®, Lacey Buffaloe Spring is in full bloom, and there’s no better time to explore everything Clayton has to offer! Whether you’re looking for scenic walking trails, a cozy spot to sip your coffee ☕, or the perfect place to enjoy a sunny afternoon with family, this town truly […]
Riverwood Ranch Is Coming to Clayton Soon!
Quick Highlights Nearby shopping, dining, healthcare, and Dunkin’ Donuts coming soon! Join the Riverwood Ranch VIP Interest List for early access and updates! Something exciting is on the horizon in Clayton, and if you’ve been searching for an affordable new home with great amenities and a prime location, you’ll want to keep your eye on […]
March Momentum: What March Madness Teaches Us About Real Estate Decisions
Guest article by RiverWILD REALTOR® Megan Bland March is about momentum on the court and off it. As the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament tips off, fans across the Research Triangle gear up for buzzer-beaters, busted brackets, and watch parties that turn into full-blown traditions. There’s an energy this time of year that’s hard to miss […]









