5 Hot New Home Communities in Johnston County (and How to Make Them Shine) (Copy)
Johnston County continues to rank among North Carolina’s fastest-growing counties, and homebuilders are responding. With more than 700 new listings hitting the MLS in October and November 2025 - including a surge in inventory across Smithfield, Clayton, and Benson - Realtors need to focus not just on listing homes but elevating their visibility.
Buyers today are visual-first. In new developments - where landscaping may be sparse and rooms unfurnished - the right photography matters even more.
Here are five key communities drawing attention right now and how to position them with professional imagery.
1. Bellamy (Smithfield)
Bellamy is one of Johnston County’s most anticipated large-scale communities, bringing over 1,100 new homes to a strategic location near I-95 and US-70. With 486 acres of planned development, this project is creating its own market gravity.
Realtor Takeaway:
Use drone photography to preview the community layout - even if streets are still being paved.
Highlight model homes with twilight photography to make them feel warm and livable.
Capture nearby assets like the hospital, retail centers, and new infrastructure projects planned for the area.
2. Flowers Plantation (Clayton)
As one of the county’s longest-running master-planned communities, Flowers continues to expand with new phases in 2025. The diversity of builders and price points makes it a consistent draw for buyers relocating from Wake County.
Realtor Takeaway:
Emphasize amenities - Goodlook can shoot trails, pools, and the Harris Teeter anchored commercial zone.
Differentiate each builder’s style through clean, bright, consistent real estate photography.
Pair pro photos with virtual staging to help listings in new phases feel complete.
3. Ashcroft (East Clayton)
Ashcroft saw a 17% increase in active listings this fall, and homes here tend to attract Triangle commuters looking for newer homes without Raleigh prices. With community pools, sidewalks, and modern Craftsman styling, it photographs well - if done right.
Realtor Takeaway:
Highlight community cohesion with neighborhood scenes: porches, sidewalks, and gathering areas.
Capture interiors with consistent color balance and straight lines to make rooms feel inviting, not sterile.
4. Portofino (Clayton)
Known for its equestrian amenities and high-end custom homes, Portofino continues to see elevated buyer interest despite market normalization. Days on market here remain below the county average.
Realtor Takeaway:
Use aerial photos to show large wooded lots and trail systems.
Highlight outdoor living - porches, backyards, and fencing are key value-adds for buyers.
Consider shooting both interior and exterior at golden hour for elevated mood and warmth.
5. Copper Ridge (Benson Area)
Inventory in the Benson area doubled from September to November 2025, but price points in Copper Ridge remain attractive for first-time buyers and young families. Homes here move when listings look polished.
Realtor Takeaway:
Showcase open layouts and finishes with wide-angle photos that avoid distortion.
Emphasize value and curb appeal - small homes feel bigger with light, color-accurate images.
Why Visual Marketing Now Matters More Than Ever
Inventory is up 28% since Q3, according to Redfin market data for Johnston County.
Buyer competition has cooled, but high-intent buyers are still active.
Listings with strong visuals are seeing 2–3x more views online in regional traffic reports.
Goodlook’s photography is designed to help your listings win in high-supply conditions. Our photos are bright, warm, and emotionally resonant - tailored to reflect the lifestyle buyers are imagining.
FAQs About Marketing New Homes in Johnston County
Why do new developments need more than basic MLS photos?
Most are empty, unfinished, or lack landscaping. Professional photos help buyers see the potential. Aerials and staging tell the bigger story.
Do buyers actually care about drone photos?
Yes. Our data shows listings with aerial context get longer page views and higher clickthrough rates, especially for new construction.
How fast can I schedule photography with Goodlook?
Most shoots are booked within 24–48 hours, with MLS-ready galleries delivered in 48–72 hours.
Can I use the same photos across multiple builder listings?
If you are marketing similar plans or phases, we can help create shared media libraries to maximize value.