Recent Price Reduction! This beautiful custom home is located on a large pond-front lot, out of the flood zone, in the distinctive Island Forest neighborhood. Enjoy all that ''island life'' has to offer, while being tucked away in a quiet, residential-only neighborhood (no short-term rentals and ''crazy tourist crush'' to deal with!). This stunning home features an open floor plan design, with a beautiful gourmet kitchen boasting granite countertops, stainless appliances, a tile backsplash, & large breakfast bar; a spacious dining area; & a living room with gas-log fireplace & built-in bookcases. There is a lovely screened porch off the living room, where you can sip on your morning coffee & enjoy your own private ''bird sanctuary''; or gather friends & family in the evening to listen to the ocean waves & music at the boardwalk, or watch the Carolina Beach fireworks shows. Two guest BRs, a full guest bath and half bath, as well as a laundry & pantry off the kitchen complete the main level. The entire top level is a fabulous owner's retreat that includes a den with another gas fireplace, master suite with deck overlooking the pond & downtown CB, large walk-in closet, & master bath w/tile shower and spa tub. On the ground level is an ''in-law suite,'' featuring a lovely guest BR, full bath, & large den with slider access to the back patio. Add't amenities include an exterior residential elevator that goes to all 3 levels, fiber cement siding, metal roof, hurricane shutters, hardwood floors, new Trex decking, full-yard irrigation, outdoor shower/changing room, & side-loading 2-car garage w/sealed floors & extra storage. Only a quick walk/bike ride to restaurants and stores; and minutes away from the beach, marinas, two public boat accesses, the Carolina Beach State Park, the Island Greenway Bike Path, the NC State Aquarium, Ft. Fisher Historic Site and State Park, & the ferry to Southport. This incredible home is perfect for a full-time or part-time residence.