Island Forest Real Estate

Welcome to Island Forest, a hidden gem nestled in the charming town of Cornelius, North Carolina. This serene subdivision, located in Mecklenburg County, offers a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility, making it an ideal location for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Island Forest is characterized by its lush, wooded landscapes and picturesque surroundings, creating a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Residents enjoy spacious homes set on generous lots, often complemented by beautiful gardens and outdoor living spaces that invite relaxation and gatherings with friends and family. The architectural styles here vary, providing a unique charm and character to the community.

One of the standout features of Island Forest is its proximity to Lake Norman, where residents can indulge in a variety of water activities, such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby parks and green spaces offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature trails.

Families in Island Forest benefit from access to highly-rated schools, making it a desirable choice for those with children. The community is also conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that everything you need is just a short drive away.

In Island Forest, you’ll find more than just a home; you’ll discover a vibrant community where neighbors become friends and where the beauty of nature enhances your daily life. Experience the charm of Cornelius and make Island Forest your next home sweet home!

Newest Listings in Island Forest

$1,750,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4401080 MLS

Welcome to 21101 Island Forest Drive, a fully renovated west facing waterfront home offering exceptional value in Cornelius. Located in the highly sought after Island Forest community, this property captures panoramic sunset views across Lake Norman and delivers the kind of waterfront lifestyle that's becoming harder to find. This ranch with a walk-out basement has been completely re imagined with an open-concept layout that removes walls, vaults the main living spaces, and fills the home with natural light while maximizing the lake views. At the center of it all is a beautifully remodeled kitchen featuring custom cabinetry, premium appliances, a gas range, and an oversized island that flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas. Nearly every inch of the home has been updated with new flooring throughout, fresh paint, wrapped beams, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with new insert, remodeled bathrooms, custom stair treads, finished storage beneath the staircase, a new mudroom, updated laundry room, and a redesigned primary suite complete with a custom walk-in closet. Step outside and you'll quickly understand what makes this property special. The expansive lakeside deck and patio was built for entertaining with an outdoor TV, fire pit, hot tub, and some of the best sunset views Lake Norman has to offer. Outside, you'll also find a whitewashed brick exterior, expanded front porch, new front door, concrete driveway and rear patio, professional landscaping, new backyard fencing, and a storage shed. The only project left is the dock, giving the next owner the opportunity to design a setup that fits their boating lifestyle while enjoying the peace of mind that virtually everything else has already been done. All that will be left is to enjoy the Lake! If you've been waiting for a move in ready waterfront home with incredible views, thoughtful updates, and one of the best locations in Cornelius, 21101 Island Forest Drive Delivers.

21101 Island Forest Drive, Cornelius

$2,599,999

4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 4384820 MLS

Waterfront living in this exceptional four-story Lake Norman retreat, built in 2016 and nestled within the charming Island Forest community of Cornelius, North Carolina. Offering approximately 3,775 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this beautifully crafted lakefront residence features four bedrooms, five bathrooms, elegant five-inch wood flooring, and breathtaking water views throughout. Designed to balance luxury, comfort, and functionality, the home offers an ideal layout for entertaining, multigenerational living, and everyday lakeside enjoyment. The walk-out lower level serves as an impressive recreation and entertaining space complete with a custom bar, full bath, and a secondary kitchen featuring a full-size refrigerator, dishwasher, and generous storage, all seamlessly connected to the outdoor waterfront setting. The main living level showcases an inviting open-concept design filled with natural light. A spacious family room centered around a cozy fireplace flows effortlessly into the dining area and gourmet kitchen. The custom-designed kitchen highlights premium craftsmanship with quartz countertops, a farmhouse sink, gas cooktop, double ovens, and built-in organizational storage. Also located on the main level is a luxurious primary suite offering a peaceful retreat with a spa-inspired bath, along with a well-appointed laundry room and an expansive lakeside deck perfect for outdoor dining, entertaining, and capturing stunning sunset views over Lake Norman. The third level features two spacious bedrooms, a full bath with double vanities, and a large loft ideal for a media room, home office, or additional gathering space. The private fourth-floor suite offers an oversized bedroom with its own en-suite bath, providing exceptional flexibility for guests or extended family accommodations. Outdoor living fully embraces the sought-after Lake Norman lifestyle with a private dock and boat lift providing direct access for boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round waterfront recreation. Residents of Island Forest also enjoy exclusive access to a gated community lot featuring a private boat ramp and pier, all complemented by a remarkably low annual HOA fee of only $95. Conveniently located near premier waterfront dining, boutique shopping, parks, marinas, and local amenities, this remarkable property combines elegant design, expansive living spaces, and an exceptional waterfront setting to deliver the ultimate Lake Norman luxury lifestyle.

20718 Eastpoint Drive, Cornelius

$990,000

5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4386103 MLS

Back on market! Second chance opportunity! Nestled in the heart of Lake Norman, this beautifully updated Craftsman-style home offers water views and spacious living, plus you're zoned for top-rated schools. Thoughtfully renovated with modern upgrades throughout, the home blends timeless charm with exceptional functionality. The fully renovated kitchen features quartz countertops, an oversized stainless sink with upgraded faucet, white oak cabinetry, soft-close drawers, walk-in pantry, stylish backsplash, reverse osmosis water filtration connected to the refrigerator, new gas stove, and an oversized island with seating for six. A stunning 100-inch kitchen window overlooks the private backyard. New engineered hardwood flooring and fresh interior paint complete the interior updates. The great room features vaulted ceilings, wall-to-wall windows, abundant natural light, and a gas fireplace. A main-level bedroom or flex space with nearby full bath offers ideal guest, office, or multi-generational living options. Upstairs, the primary suite includes vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, and a fully renovated spa-inspired bath with a freestanding soaking tub and walk-in shower with modern tile finishes. Two additional bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bath, while a fourth bedroom or office includes custom built-ins. A spacious bonus room and screened porch offer beautiful Lake Norman views. Outdoor living is designed for entertaining with a deck, outdoor stone fireplace, two screened porches, raised garden beds, stepping stones, and professionally enhanced landscaping with lavender, trees, and azaleas (2024), and in-ground irrigation. Additional parking provides space for guests or a boat, and the private backyard is surrounded by mature trees. Additional features include a new roof (2024) and Nest thermostat. Located near Lake Norman, this home offers easy access to boating, outdoor recreation, and nearby Charlotte. Residents of Island Forest enjoy HOA lake access and a community boat launch area, making it easy to embrace the very best of lake life. The neighborhood is surrounded by premier dining, boutique shopping, local breweries, and year-round events that make the Lake Norman area one of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity - schedule your private tour today!

21313 Island Forest Drive, Cornelius

$799,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4325420 MLS

If a meticulously maintained home is what you’re after, this is it! This exceptional single-level home with a finished room over the garage, crafted by ES Johnson Builders, is located in the highly sought-after Island Forest waterfront community on Lake Norman. Positioned on a desirable corner lot with seasonal peek water views, the home offers timeless craftsmanship, coveted lake access, and a thoughtfully designed layout blending comfort and sophistication. The residence features 3-bedrooms and 3-bathrooms, including dual primary suites on the main level, each with a private en suite bath, ideal for guests or multigenerational living. Architectural highlights include a welcoming covered entry, craftsman-style moldings, custom built-ins, solid oak flooring, tall ceilings, and rich maple cabinetry. The open, flowing floorplan provides abundant storage and effortless everyday living, while a fully screened back porch extends the living space outdoors. The upper level offers a versatile bedroom or oversized bonus room with a newly built full bath, perfect for guests, a home office, or recreation space. Thoughtful updates offer peace of mind, including a Trane HVAC system (2019), new roof (2022), tankless water heater (2022), hardwood flooring replacing carpet (2022), fresh exterior paint (2024), and crawlspace encapsulation (2025). Island Forest offers a community dock, boat launch & picnic area located off Montcalm & Island Forest Drive, providing easy access to the Lake Norman lifestyle. Ideally situated just five minutes from grocery stores, dining, coffee shops, and I-77 in desirable Cornelius, this home is truly move-in ready.

21307 Island Forest Drive, Cornelius

$3,399,000

5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4369971 MLS

This masterfully reimagined Lake Norman estate is a masterclass in "Classical Craftsman" elegance, blending timeless architectural detail with cutting-edge smart technology. From the moment you approach the Smart Door—which toggles between privacy and clear glass—it is evident that no detail has been overlooked. The home’s open-concept design is anchored by stunning white oak flooring and elevated by custom arches, built-ins, and solid-core shaker doors adorned with crystal knobs. At the heart of the residence, the chef’s kitchen serves as a culinary showpiece featuring specialty cabinetry, WiFi-enabled appliances, and a butler’s pantry with a convenient drawer microwave, while California Closets and full-house plantation shutters throughout provide both beauty and organizational bliss. The private sanctuaries within the home include a primary suite that acts as a true retreat, complete with a private fireplace and a spa-like bath equipped with a steam shower and an oversized soaking tub. The upper level is ideal for family or guests, offering three bedroom suites, a versatile loft, and an additional full bath. For hosting, the walkout lower level serves as the ultimate entertainment hub, boasting a second kitchen, a great room with a rugged stone fireplace, and a dedicated craft and laundry room, as well as a bedroom suite. This space flows seamlessly outdoors through panoramic glass sliding doors with integrated screens, leading to a multi-level paradise finished with bluestone patios, outdoor kitchen, and an expanded rear deck featuring recessed lighting. The property is a boater’s dream, featuring a private dock with a 10,000 lb boat lift, a brand-new floating jet ski dock, and access to the Island Forest private community boat ramp. The outdoor oasis is rounded out by a custom fire pit area and full property landscape and balcony lighting. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the home is equipped with modern essentials and security, including a full-home sound system, HVAC air purification, a tankless water heater, and a comprehensive security system. Even the garage has been upgraded with epoxy flooring and a new smart opener, ensuring every inch of the estate is as functional as it is beautiful.

20931 Island Forest Drive, Cornelius

$2,299,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4354783 MLS

Premier waterfront home with majestic main channel views of Lake Norman! Surrounded by water, this home is situated in the highly desirable Island Forest neighborhood; facing southwest allows for magnificent sunsets! The aerial photos tell it all! Spacious, open floor plan. Beautiful bamboo hardwood floors in dining room, great room and loft. Awesome kitchen complete with granite/wood countertops, breakfast bar, tile backsplash, gourmet gas stove, vented hood and plenty of cabinet space. Large, open great room features vaulted ceiling, gas masonry fireplace and wonderful natural light. Wake up to lake views from the large, main level primary bedroom. Upper-level loft is perfect for a reading area or playroom. Large entertaining area on lake level offers ample space for pool table, wet bar area, plenty of living space and 2nd masonry fireplace with gas logs. Absorb breathtaking views from the upper deck or covered lake level patio. Hot tub located directly off the large covered back porch offers wonderful opportunities to unwind anytime. Striking metal roof adds to the lake-house feel. Beautifully landscaped yard features zoysia grass, mature palm trees, stone walkways, fully fenced backyard, fully functional Koa Pond. Expansive pier includes covered sitting area and 10,000lb boatlift. Tankless water heater, Generac generator, "lake water" in-ground irrigation. Island Forest neighborhood offers private/gated (residence only) waterfront lot complete with boat ramp and pier! Prime location near parks, restaurants, and boutique shopping. This residence defines the vibrant Lake Norman way of life! Experience the ultimate Lake Norman lifestyle!

20919 Island Forest Drive, Cornelius

$775,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4321190 MLS

Premier off-water location! Experience the ultimate Lake Norman lifestyle! This home is situated on an elevated lot in the center of the "island" of the Island Forest neighborhood; the aerial pictures say it all! Spacious, open floor plan. Beautiful oak hardwood floors throughout main level. Gorgeous kitchen complete with quartz countertops, breakfast bar and awesome backsplash. Expansive breakfast room offers views of the private backyard and custom flagstone patio. Large, open living room features vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace and wonderful natural light. Spacious dining room is perfect for hosting. Large, main level primary bedroom suite complete with huge bath and walk-in closet. The upper level offers 2 large bedrooms, endless space in the expansive bonus room. Beautifully landscaped yards. Covered back porch leads to custom flagstone patio. Hot tub located directly off the covered back porch offers wonderful opportunities to unwind anytime. Tankless water heater, immaculate crawlspace, spotless 2 car garage, this home has been meticulously maintained. Highly sought after Island Forest neighborhood offers private/gated (residence only) waterfront lot complete with boat ramp and pier! Prime location near parks, restaurants, and boutique shopping. This residence defines the vibrant Lake Norman way of life!

21410 Pinecrest Place, Cornelius

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Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2026 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .