Estimate anchored to the MLS list price of $1,989,000, adjusted for semi-oceanfront location in Whalehead, home size (4,322 SF), age (1997), and local OBX demand for large vacation homes. No live comp pull performed; range reflects local market premiums for proximity-to-beach and rental income potential.
Semi‑Oceanfront 8BR Whalehead Estate with Pool & Hot Tub
This is a rare opportunity: a semi-oceanfront, turn-key Whalehead estate thoughtfully laid out to host large groups while offering private spaces for quiet retreats. Built in 1997 and maintained with care, 852 Lighthouse Dr Lot 15 spans approximately 4,322 square feet and features an intentional reverse floor plan that places the primary living and primary suite on the top level for breezes and ocean views. The chef-friendly kitchen includes a countertop cooktop, stacked ovens, dual dishwashers, abundant prep space and sightlines into the living and dining areas—ideal when entertaining extended family or managing a full-house rental.
The top-level primary suite is generous, with a jetted soaking tub, separate walk-in shower, dual vanities and a capacious walk-in closet. Two expansive decks give you both east-facing opportunities for sunrise enjoyment and west-facing spots to watch sunset color shift over the sound side. The mid-level adds four additional bedrooms (one en suite), a secondary living room and another deck to extend quiet sitting areas. A half-level sitting nook offers a private pause for reading or reflection.
Ground-floor living is built for guests: a large game room anchored by a convenient kitchenette sits alongside three more bedrooms, two full baths and a dedicated laundry/storage room—perfect for multigenerational stays or splitting rental zones. Outside, the yard is something you don’t often find this close to the beach: private pool and hot tub, an outdoor shower for rinsing off after the sand, and a sand-volleyball court for active summer fun. Exterior stairs connect decks directly to the pool area so indoor-outdoor flow is effortless.
Whether you’re buying for lifestyle or investment, this property presents a compelling mix of scale, location and rental-ready amenities. Whalehead’s large lots and privacy, combined with direct neighborhood beach access, make this an outstanding coastal asset. Contact the listing team to request rental performance records, inspection documents, and to schedule a private showing.
A 1997 coastal|reverse floor plan on 0.6 acres.
Building
Site & utilities
Whalehead (Corolla)
Researched nearby locations
Location
852 Lighthouse Dr Lot 15, Corolla, NC 27927
Whalehead is one of Corolla’s most desirable neighborhoods because of its larger-than-average parcel sizes, privacy, and convenient neighborhood beach access. Homes here are typically mid- to high-end vacation properties—many used as short-term rentals—surrounded by dunes, maritime forest and well-spaced residences. The community offers a quiet, family-friendly environment while remaining a short drive from Corolla’s dining and sightseeing options.
Excellent outdoor recreation access — immediate beach access, nearby lighthouse, trails and water-based activities make this property a magnet for beachgoers and nature lovers.
A factual market snapshot around 852 Lighthouse Dr Lot 15.
Corolla and the northern Outer Banks command consistent seasonal demand from vacationers and returning owners. Properties with private pools, large bedroom counts and close beach access (like this one) typically move faster than average inventory in the area — particularly in late winter/early spring when buyers secure summer booking calendars. Median single-family prices in the broader Corolla/Whalehead submarket are substantially lower than this semi-oceanfront tier, reflecting the strong premium paid for proximity to the sand and turnkey rental amenities. Listing at $1,989,000, this home competes in the upper tier of local offerings; expect interest from both deep-pocketed owner-occupiers and short-term rental operators who value size, layout flexibility and on-site leisure features.
Single-family residential zoning typical for Whalehead; short-term vacation rentals are common and generally permitted subject to county regulations and tax licensing.
Zoning
Research-indicated uses
- Single Family Dwelling
- Accessory Structures
- Short Term Rentals Subject To County Licensing
What the research supports — and what is still worth verifying.
Key findings
- 4,322 total sqft, built 1997; reverse floor plan (main living/primary suite top level)
- List price: $1,989,000; AVM close to list at $1,977,276 (Redfin AVM)
- Property sits on a large Whalehead lot — estimated ~0.60 acres
- Strong vacation rental profile with on-site pool, hot tub and multiple sleeping areas
- Days on market: 34 (active listing at time of scrape)
What stands out about this property.
Interior Features
- 8 bedrooms, 6.5 baths across multiple living zones
- 4,322 SF reverse floor plan — top-floor living & primary suite
- Kitchen with countertop cooktop, stacked ovens and dual dishwashers
- Ground-floor game room with kitchenette for guest independence
- Primary suite with jetted tub, walk-in shower and dual vanities
- Multiple storage closets and laundry room on ground level
Exterior & Lot
- Estimated 0.60-acre lot — expansive outdoor footprint
- Private heated pool and hot tub
- Outdoor shower and sand-volleyball court
- East and west-facing decks for varied outdoor experiences
- Under-house parking and generous driveway
Location & Neighborhood
- Whalehead community — larger lots and rare privacy for Corolla
- Short walk to neighborhood beach access
- Close to Currituck Beach Lighthouse and local Corolla amenities
- No HOA dues (verify neighborhood rules and county regulations)
Walkability & Recreation
- Walkability Rating: 30/100
- Easy beach access for swimming, shelling and sunrise/sunset walks
- Nearby attractions: Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Whalehead Club & preserve
- Biking, kayaking, fishing and eco-tours within short drive
Sources & research confidence.
See where the property research came from and how confidence varies by field.