Wilmington-based residential real estate firm Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage opened a new office in Porters Neck in response to rapid growth in the northern New Hanover County community, according to a news release.

The office is in Porters Neck Center, a Food Lion grocery-store anchored commercial complex in the 8200 block of Market Street.

The release stated that the new location of the firm, founded in 1988, sits directly on the highly traveled Market Street corridor, allowing agents "a prime opportunity to meet walk-in customers" and providing marketing exposure for local home sellers.

Tom O'Neill, vice president and director of sales, stated in the release, "This is very exciting because our new office is in a highly strategic and sought-after location, so it will enhance our agents’ ability to serve their clients, now and into the future."

By opening a new location in Porters Neck, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage will bring its total number of offices in Southeastern North Carolina to 18, with a 19th location soon to follow, and further expands the company's geographic presence from Calabash to Jacksonville, according to the release.

Company leaders said in the release that the expansion is part of a goal "to establish a network of convenient, local offices, filled with neighborhood experts who are market leaders representing a brand that is recognized worldwide."

O’Neill said in the release, “This is a response to the growing needs of our agents and their clients, who want to live in Porters Neck because of the new elementary school, proximity to the coastline, Eagle Point Golf Club, and the I-140 bypass, which allows for quick access to Brunswick County, I-40 and major population centers.”

Chris Luther, a Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Specialist who is choosing to work out of the new Porters Neck office, said in the release, “Coastal estates, luxury homes and golf course properties are the norm in Porters Neck. It’s vital to work with a local neighborhood expert when buying or selling real estate."