Dreaming of a home that fits your lifestyle and your budget? The Triangle area of North Carolina is booming with new housing options, but finding the right one can feel overwhelming, especially for 55+ home buyers. With prices climbing and inventory tight, it’s time to get savvy.
Enter the ultimate housing hack: RiverWILD Homes’ communities—affordable, stylish, and built for real life, especially for those approaching and in their golden years.
Let’s explore three standout options—Ashcroft in Clayton, Marin Woods in Smithfield, and Maggie Way in Wendell—and spotlight a ranch floor plan in each that makes one-level living a breeze. To be clear, these RiverWILD communities are not designated as 55+ age-restricted communities—simply smart alternatives.
Why RiverWILD Homes Are Your Budget’s Best Friend
55+ Housing in the Triangle is a hot commodity—prices are up, and competition is stiff. But RiverWILD Homes offers a smarter way forward. These communities for all ages blend affordability with low-maintenance designs, modern finishes, and prime locations. Ready to simplify your life without emptying your wallet? Here’s the scoop on three game-changing neighborhoods.
Ashcroft in Clayton: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Value
Location Lowdown
Tucked in downtown Clayton, Ashcroft is just 30 minutes from Raleigh’s hustle but feels like a peaceful retreat. It’s perfect for anyone craving convenience with a side of quiet.
What’s the Deal?
Ashcroft brings single-story and two-story homes with open layouts—great for entertaining or just kicking back. Thoughtfully built with modern kitchens come standard, all at prices that beat the Triangle’s median and the near by competing 55+ community. Ashcroft builders RiverWILD Homes, Westan Homes and Solomon Home Builders all help keep it affordable without cutting corners.
Ranch Spotlight: The Garland
The Garland floor plan is ranch perfection—offering 1,219 square feet of single-level living with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Its airy great room flows into a sleek kitchen, and the covered porch is begging for a rocking chair. Catch this floor plan early in construction and you might be able to personalize it your way, all on one easy floor.
Example of a Garland Floor Plan for Sale in Ashcroft
Why It’s a Hack
Clayton’s on the rise, but Ashcroft locks in value before prices soar. These homes are far more attainable than the nearby 55+ community! You’re getting a quality home in a growing spot—without the sticker shock.
Ashcroft Home Pricing
Homes for sale in Ashcroft range from the upper $200’s to the mid $300’s.
Ashcroft Amenities
- Fitness Center
- Golf Club Access
- Outdoor Pool
- Indoor Pool
- Walking Trails
- Biking
- Nearby Shopping
- Close to Downtown Clayton
Marin Woods in Smithfield: Southern Comfort, Smarter Savings
Location Lowdown
Marin Woods in Smithfield sits in Johnston County, minutes from I-95 and Highway 70. It’s a laid-back escape with easy access to amazing shopping at the nearby Carolina Premium Outlets and Eastfield Crossing, dining, or a quick trip to the coast (only 2 hours away).
What’s the Deal?
Think Southern charm—porches begging for rocking chairs and interiors built for ease. RiverWILD packs in perks like spacious lots and modern upgrades, all at prices that outshine pricier Triangle hubs. Affordable living, done right. Don’t forget, no more cutting the lawn in the middle of the summer heat.
Ranch Spotlight: The Clinton
The Clinton floor plan is a budget-friendly ranch steal—about 1,321 square feet, 3 bedrooms, and 2 baths, starting under $300,000. Compact yet open, it’s got a cozy living area and a kitchen that punches above its weight. Ideal for keeping things simple.
Example of a Clinton Floor Plan for Sale in Marin Woods
Why It’s a Hack
Smithfield’s lower cost of living pairs with Marin Woods’ wallet-friendly pricing alternative to those 55+ communities in the Triangle. PLUS, the Smithfield neighborhood of Marin Woods offers all buyers care-free lawn mowing services as part of the HOA. You’re scoring more space, more freedom and tons of peace of mind—for less than you’d pay versus nearby Raleigh for a home in a 55+ community.
Marin Woods Pricing
Home prices in Marin Woods range from the upper $200’s to the mid $300’s.
Marin Woods Amenities
- Grass Mowing
- Open Space
- Playground
- Close to Downtown Smithfield
- Nearby Shopping
Maggie Way in Wendell: Rural Vibes, Urban Reach
Location Lowdown
Maggie Way in Wendell offers a countryside feel just minutes I-87 and I-540 putting you closer to downtown Raleigh. Remember, Maggie Way is only 9 minutes from all the dining options at Wendell Falls and 5 minutes from the Wendell Country Club. It’s the ideal mix of quiet country living and easy city access. Think about the savings you will realize without the hefty price of a nearby 55+ community in Wendell Falls.
What’s the Deal?
Imagine low-maintenance homes surrounded by nature, built for practical living. RiverWILD’s Maggie Way delivers bigger lots and thoughtful designs at prices that laugh in the face of Wendell Falls, Cary or Apex rates. Value meets tranquility here. And if you want to be active, we have you covered there too.
Ranch Spotlight: The Smithfield
The Smithfield floor plan brings ranch-style ease—around 1884 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a bonus on the second floor. Its spacious layout includes a big family room and a kitchen island perfect for casual meals, plus a patio option for outdoor vibes.
Example of a Smithfield Floor Plan for Sale in Maggie Way
Why It’s a Hack
Wendell’s still a hidden gem, keeping costs down while the Triangle heats up. Maggie Way lets you stay active with on-site amenities that include a pool, and still snag a deal now all while you watch your investment grow.
Maggie Way Pricing
Home prices start in the low $400’s.
Maggie Way Amenities
- Outdoor Pool
- Walking Trails
- Biking
- Open Space
- Playground
- Fishing Pond
- Fiber Internet
- Close to Wendell Falls and Downtown Wendell
- Nearby Shopping
The Affordable Edge of RiverWILD Homes
Let’s break it down. While new home prices in the Triangle can push beyond the $400,000+ price point, RiverWILD keeps it real. Ashcroft, Marin Woods, and Maggie Way start in the low-$300s to lower-$400s (depending on location), with ranch plans like The Clinton hitting under $300,000, and The Garland and The Smithfield offering more space at competitive rates. Speaking of rates, checkout this special promo!
Add HOA perks like lawn maintenance offered in Marin Woods, (plus lifestyle amenities at Ashcroft and Maggie Way) and you’re saving big compared to 1/2 million-dollar price tags in the Triangle. That’s a hack worth checking out.
Like more info on these communities or a specific floor plan? Shoot us a text at (919) 813-0123 or send us an email at sales@staywild.com today!