June 22, 2026
The sound of waves gently lapping the shore, the beauty of the sun setting on the horizon over the water, wading in the shallow water, and the feeling of gliding across the water—these are all experiences that people remember years later. And just a few of the benefits of waterfront living. Because when you live this close to a body of water, you connect with the serenity every single day.
Consider the many reasons that people choose to live by a lake or ocean. They recognize that the proximity has true value to their quality of life. Do you want to just visit a lake or live near one?
Just being by the water delivers a sense of peace. The sounds of nature surround you, the sunlight sparkles on the water like jewels, and the gentle breezes give you comfort.
Scientifically, there’s a reason we are affected by the water in this way. Biophilia is the term for the innate human desire to connect with nature, literally meaning “love of life”. A walk in the woods, spending time with animals, and walking along a shore or enjoying time in or on the water—they’re all examples of biophilic living. Even having a view of the trees outside your home or hearing the sound of a fountain is a form of biophiliac joy. We crave the closeness to nature, even if we don’t quite acknowledge it.
You can plan to visit a lake or ocean. Those are temporary bursts of happiness. But living by the water gives you a steady boost of that positive feeling. Look at the many benefits of waterfront living!
When you feel the relaxation that comes with being close to the water, you naturally experience stress reduction. You’re better able to refocus your energy on more enjoyable things. Take in the fresh air and the sound and sight of a crystal lake, and your blood pressure will relax with your calmed mind.
Owning a waterfront home delivers a daily dose of stress relief. With less stress, you’ll sleep better. The sound of water is calming and the natural light from being outdoors improves your circadian rhythms, which leads to better quality sleep.
So, ask yourself, is the lakeside experience something you want occasionally or is it more important than that? And, how often is “occasionally”? We tend to ignore the simpler, quieter opportunities because the loud ones are so commanding. And yet, you’ll gain much more from treating yourself to peaceful experiences.
In some environments, you need to seek out your recreation, make an effort to enjoy yourself outdoors. Think about all those days when you pondered a trip to the park or your favorite hiking spot, but talked yourself out of it. Or you have to drive to safe pathways to bike, jog or run, and it’s a hassle. And it might be an even longer trip just to take out your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
One of the distinct benefits of waterfront living for active people is the availability of outdoor recreation. A lake is surrounded by wooded areas. Walk from your home, without having to drive anywhere. And you’re close enough that you don’t have to plan ahead. Just go when it suits you.
What is it worth to you to have this much freedom and access to your love of the outdoors?
Many neighborhoods maintain a strong sense of community. Often, they share pride in where they live. In a lakeside community, the residents also share a love of being by the water. They might enjoy paddling, fishing, or boating. Maybe it’s the closeness to nature that brings people together—with their heightened sense of biophilia.
Living in a waterfront or lakeside neighborhood builds connections that go beyond your address. It’s your lifestyle. Waterfront neighborhoods seem to be more close knit than others. When you share that love of living by the water, there will be stronger, more lasting relationships. They get together, strengthen friendships, engage, and support each other. And that builds your comfort, security, and quality of life.
Living closer to nature also builds your environmental awareness. You’re living close to the water, woods, and wildlife. You become more concerned with protecting those special gifts. This is an important habit you pass along to the generations after you—your children and grandchildren. Never underestimate the importance of teaching kids to respect the environment—from picking up litter and recycling to not disturbing natural habitats. They’ll learn that we share the world with much more than other people.
Real estate is always a good investment! From the moment you close on the purchase of a home, you begin to build equity. Waterfront real estate can be even more profitable. The location, of course, is a built-in benefit to resale value. The property inventory is almost always limited, which increases its value to prospective buyers. A person who is committed to buying a waterfront home knows that it comes with a price, unlike other homes where they have more choice. You can spend years enjoying the benefits of waterfront living, confident that when you’re ready to sell, you’ll be looking at a pleasant profit.
Does the Raleigh area appeal to you? It’s one of the most popular regions in the country, because it offers so many positives: thriving job market, temperate climate, close proximity to a long list of attractions and recreation, reasonable cost of living, and much more.
While Raleigh has its share of lakes and rivers, you might want to live a bit farther in the country. Living in Clayton, NC, gives you both a small town experience and the benefits of waterfront living.
Just 14 miles southeast of Raleigh, Clayton is a town of about 34,000 people. It’s a small town that has been steadily growing. Since 2020, the population has risen a staggering 28% and continues at nearly 4% per year. The population growth can be attributed to a variety of reasons.
From Clayton, you can drive to Downtown Raleigh in about 25 minutes, following major roadways. The Research Triangle Park is only 35 minutes away. Whether you’re commuting for work or school, heading to the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, or just making a trip into the city, you can plan on an easy ride.
Having good schools is important to families. Clayton schools are known for delivering an excellent academic experience at all grade levels. Riverwood Elementary School, Johnston Charter Academy, and Cleveland High School earn above-average marks for the education they offer. In addition, you can choose from several top-notch private schools.
Downtown Clayton is experiencing similar growth to the town itself. New businesses are coming in, bringing more opportunities for dining, shopping, entertainment, services, and recreation. Each of these locally owned enterprises is unique, adding to the town’s character. Walking around Downtown Clayton has become a regular activity for many residents. And with the town’s Social District, you can purchase their favorite adult beverage and wander through the area and its shops.
When you’re walking around the Downtown district, you’ll discover another Clayton bonus: The Clayton Sculpture Trail. Every year, the town installs public art at locations throughout the town providing an eye-catching walking tour. The exhibit has grown to 17 sculptures, created by artists from North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Maryland Michigan, Missouri, and Washington, DC. Any time of year, enjoy a self-guided tour of the exhibit, where you’re sure to find your favorites among the diverse themes and media.
Clayton also has a strong sense of community, with townspeople taking immense pride in their hometown. The energy is present at each of the events that take place in Downtown Clayton throughout the year. Street festivals, outdoor concerts, and holiday celebrations add to the close-knit nature of the town.
Clayton is a small town, but it places a big priority on the importance of parks and recreation. The diversity of the parks in Clayton reflect the town’s dedication to supporting the needs and interests of all residents. Harmony Playground is a perfect example. The inclusive playground provides a play space for children of all abilities, including disabilities. This universal playground was designed to help children build strength, use sensory elements to develop skills, and enjoy social interaction.
The Clayton Community Center is the hub of the recreation in town. The 32,000-square-foot facility is equipped with an indoor walking track, fitness center, gymnasium, and even an art and pottery studio for classes. Outside, the Center offers free use of its pickleball, tennis, bocce ball, and shuffleboard courts. The Clayton Community Center is a great place to meet up with friends for a workout, playing, or creating something together in the studio.
The East Clayton Disc Golf Course, East Clayton Community Park, and East Clayton Dog Park are in one location, but with separate recreational options—18-hole disc golf course, batting cage, sports fields, and three acres of unleashed play areas, one for large dogs and another for small pups.
On hot days, Clayton’s townspeople cool off at the splash pad at Municipal Park, which has a playground, basketball courts, walking loop, and picnic shelters.
Combine scenic views with recreation. The Neuse River runs through Clayton, and you can enjoy the view by strolling, jogging, or riding your bike on The River Walk, a four-mile, paved trail. Sam’s Branch Greenway connects with The River Walk, extending the path another 1.25 miles.
The town of Clayton provides plenty of advantages as a hometown. It also offers the choice of living lakeside. Cattail Lake is an 80-acre lake in Clayton, a short drive from the downtown area. Once the property of a family over the course of several generations, Cattail is now experiencing a transformation to a one-of-a-kind residential community..
The beautiful Cattail Lake in Clayton remains pristine, with tree-lined shores that span more than two miles. And a new community is beginning to take shape there. Cattail’s first new homes for sale in Clayton, NC, are preparing to welcome families to one of the most unique communities in Johnston County.
Situated on 575 acres surrounding Cattail Lake, the waterfront community will eventually grow to a total of 296 homes, beginning with 51 in the first phase. The math adds up to Cattail homeowners having large yards. The developers are planning homesites of up to two acres, a feature that’s very hard to find.
Cattail will comprise several enclaves, some directly on the shore and others with close access. The luxury homes are planned to range in size from 1,871 to nearly 4,700 square feet. To maintain quality and consistency, the developer has chosen just four builders for Cattail: Crosswind Custom Homes, Homes By Dickerson, New Home Inc., and Royalty Homes. You choose your lot and your builder to begin your dream of living by the water.
If you’re eager to move quickly to Cattail, there are several homes under construction, with some ready for the first homeowners in the neighborhood. A few of these quick move-in homes are available in The Peninsula at Cattail, which is the lakefront area. Several homes sitting on the water have been sold, so if you’re excited to reap the benefits of waterfront living and want the closest proximity possible, don’t wait! Talk to a Cattail New Home Specialist to see what’s available.
Within a very short walking distance of the shore, The Preserve at Cattail is designed as a cul-de-sac enclave, a configuration that enhances privacy. The new homes here are exclusively built by New Home Inc., from their floor plans that range from 1,871 to almost 4,000 square feet. With the large lots, you have plenty of room for the home you want.
Every home at Cattail is certain to be unique. You’ll work with the area’s top builders. They’ve earned the reputation for quality craftsmanship, versatile design, personal service, and adherence to high standards, schedule, and budget.
It’s hard to find waterfront homes for sale near Raleigh, NC, that offer new construction and close proximity to both Raleigh and the small town atmosphere. But Cattail has it all!
You’ll be living in the country, by a lake, and just a short drive to everything you need. Also, back at home, you can relax and enjoy the amenities. The resort-style pool sits by the water, with a beautiful view. When you need a little shade, take advantage of the cabanas and pergola. This space is just what you need for your staycation life!
The Cattail lifestyle is all about relaxing—whether it’s your own solitude or the shared company of others. Meet up at the clubhouse or firepits. Or use the community lawn for a party or special event. Bring your lawn games, spread out the picnic blankets, or invite friends for tai chi or yoga. And, of course, planning a day on the lake is always an option!
Homebuyers are already clamoring to explore Cattail’s new homes for sale in Clayton, NC. The first phase of 51 homes is going quickly. Find out what life can be when you have all the benefits of waterfront living year ‘round. Contact a New Home Specialist at Cattail to learn more about this unique lifestyle opportunity.