The honest comparison — county tax, price, amenities, and straight verdict
| Factor | St. James Plantation | Brunswick Forest | Del Webb Mallory Creek | Del Webb Riverlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf on-site | 4 courses (membership req.) | No | No | No |
| Beach club | Yes — Oak Island (membership req.) | No | No | No |
| ICW access | Yes — marina | No | No | No |
| Scale | 5,000 homes | 4,500 acres | 800 homes | 500+ homes |
| Age restriction | Age-targeted (verify HOPA) | Age-targeted | 55+ (Del Webb) | 55+ (Del Webb) |
| County | Brunswick | Brunswick | Brunswick | New Hanover |
| Price range | $300K–$900K | $300K–$700K | $400K+ | $400K–$700K |
St. James Plantation is the right answer for one specific buyer: the golfer who also wants Southport waterfront character and Intracoastal Waterway access. The four on-site golf courses, marina, and private beach club create a combination that nothing else in the Wilmington market matches. The buyer who does not golf and is not drawn specifically to Southport will find better value, simpler HOA structure, and comparable amenities at Del Webb Mallory Creek or Brunswick Forest.
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