PORTOFINO COMMUNITY
Future Residents - What to Expect
Your guide to onboarding into Portofino - from closing day to amenity access.
Welcome to Portofino
Moving to a new community is an exciting chapter. This page collects everything future residents need to make the transition smooth: HOA details, covenants and community rules, utility setup, schools, and practical advice for settling into the Portofino lifestyle. Whether you are buying 297 Bonaventure Drive or another home in the neighborhood, this guide has you covered.
Community Governance
HOA Information
The Portofino Homeowners Association maintains the community's common areas, enforces covenants, and preserves property values through architectural review and maintenance standards.
Association Details
- Association
- Portofino Subdivision HOA Inc
- Address
- 25 Paraggi Court, Clayton, NC 27527
- Phone
- (919) 359-3308
- Website
- portofinonc.com
- Annual Fee
- $175.00 / month
What the HOA Covers
- Gated entrance maintenance and security
- Common area landscaping and groundskeeping
- Community pool and clubhouse maintenance
- Equestrian center and trail upkeep
- Fishing pond and nature preserve maintenance
- Architectural review and covenant enforcement
Some amenities such as equestrian boarding, pool guest passes, and certain community events may carry a separate charge. Contact the HOA directly at (919) 359-3308 for current fee schedules and boarding availability. All HOA fees, rules, and covenants are subject to amendment by the Board of Directors.
Living by the Rules
Covenants & Community Standards
Portofino's Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) establish the standards that protect property values and maintain the character of the community. Below is a summary of the key provisions every resident should know.
Architectural Guidelines
All exterior modifications including paint colors, fencing, landscaping changes, additions, and hardscaping require prior written approval from the Architectural Review Committee. Submit plans with specifications before beginning any work.
Parking & Vehicles
Parking is permitted in garages and driveways only. Street parking is generally prohibited overnight. Recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers must be stored in garages or behind approved screening. Commercial vehicles are restricted.
Landscaping & Maintenance
Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their lots to community standards, including lawn mowing, weed control, shrub trimming, and tree care. Fencing must conform to approved styles and materials. Unmaintained properties may be subject to HOA fines and corrective landscaping.
Noise & Nuisances
Quiet hours typically run from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Noise that disturbs neighbors, including loud music, construction work outside of permitted hours, and excessive pet noise, is prohibited. The community maintains a zero-tolerance policy for disruptive behavior.
Pet Policies
Pets must be leashed when outside designated off-leash areas. Owners are required to clean up after their pets immediately. Aggressive animals and excessive barking are grounds for HOA action. The number of pets per household may be limited by the governing documents.
Trash & Recycling
Trash and recycling containers may be placed at the curb only on collection days and must be removed by the end of the pickup day. Cans should be stored out of view from the street when not in use. Bulk waste pickup follows the town schedule.
Important: This is a summary of common Portofino community standards. The full CC&R documents, bylaws, and architectural guidelines are available from the HOA. Prospective buyers should review the complete governing documents during their due diligence period. Contact the Portofino Subdivision HOA at (919) 359-3308 or visit portofinonc.com to request a copy.
Transparency
Community Disclosures
The Portofino HOA provides a Community Disclosure document free of charge. This document covers material facts about the community, including assessments, reserves, pending litigation, and other important disclosures that buyers and their agents should review before closing.
Free Disclosure Documents
The following documents are available for free download through the Portofino HOA website:
- Community Disclosure (last updated January 2026)
- New Resident Welcome Letter
- HOA financial statements and reserve study (request from management)
- Insurance certificates for common areas (request from management)
Governing Documents via HomeWise Docs
The Portofino HOA has uploaded its governing documents to HomeWise Docs for convenient access. Documents may be available for a fee:
- CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)
- HOA Bylaws
- Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Manual
- Board meeting minutes
- Rules and regulations
Access documents via the Realtors & Builders page on portofinonc.com.
For Realtors: Contact the HOA management company at least two weeks prior to closing to ensure all documents are in order. The CC&Rs are also typically filed with the Johnston County Register of Deeds and can be accessed through the county records. Visit the Realtors & Builders page on the Portofino HOA website for the most current information.
Who to Contact
Property & Community Management
The Portofino HOA partners with professional management to handle day-to-day operations, maintenance requests, and community communications.
HOA Management
Portofino Subdivision HOA Inc
25 Paraggi Court, Clayton, NC 27527
(919) 359-3308
Security / Gate
Gated entry with guardhouse
Access via resident passes or visitor registration
Contact HOA for gate access procedures
Community Events
Regular community gatherings
Pool parties, holiday events, HOA meetings
Check community newsletter for schedule
Getting Started
Registering with the HOA
New residents must register with the HOA prior to closing to ensure smooth access to community amenities, the gate, and the resident portal. Follow the steps below to complete your registration.
Step 1: Contact the HOA Management
Reach out to the HOA management company at least two weeks before your closing date to initiate the registration process.
- Phone: (919) 359-3308
- Website: portofinonc.com
- Address: 25 Paraggi Court, Clayton, NC 27527
Step 2: Gate Access & Vehicle Stickers
Portofino is a gated community with a manned guardhouse. New residents need to obtain gate access credentials.
- Up to two vehicle window stickers are issued free to permanent dues-paying homeowners
- Additional stickers available for $14 each
- Visitor registration available through the gatehouse
- Register family members and movers for move-in day access
Step 3: Resident Portal Registration
Portofino uses the Community Cafe online portal for resident communications, payments, and document access.
- Visit portofinonc.com and navigate to the resident portal
- Your registration code is your 7-digit resident number (starts with "t") found on your payment coupons
- Use the portal to pay HOA assessments, submit ARC requests, and access community documents
Step 4: Mailbox & Address Setup
Complete these final steps before or shortly after move-in.
- Mailbox keys are obtained from the Builder or Developer, not the HOA
- File change of address with USPS at usps.com
- Review the New Resident Welcome Letter for additional orientation details
- Set up utility accounts before move-in (see Utility Setup Guide below)
Need help? Contact the HOA management team for assistance with registration, gate access, or any questions about community orientation. Visit the New Resident Information page on the Portofino HOA website for the most up-to-date forms and instructions.
Getting Connected
Utility Setup Guide
Setting up utilities before move-in day saves time and stress. Below are the providers serving the Portofino community in Clayton, NC 27527.
| Service | Provider | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Town of Clayton (municipal) or Duke Energy Progress | townofclaytonnc.org |
| Water & Sewer | Town of Clayton | townofclaytonnc.org |
| Natural Gas | Piedmont Natural Gas | piedmontng.com |
| Trash & Recycling | All Star Waste (town contract) | townofclaytonnc.org |
| Internet / TV | Brightspeed Fiber, Spectrum Cable, AT&T | Check availability by address |
| Post Office | USPS Clayton NC 27527 | usps.com |
Utility providers and contact information may change. Verify current service availability and setup requirements directly with each provider before closing or moving.
Education
Schools Serving Portofino
297 Bonaventure Drive is part of the Johnston County Public Schools district. The area is served by well-regarded schools with strong community support.
Riverwood Elementary
K-5
Clayton Middle School
6-8
Clayton High School
9-12
School assignments are subject to change. Verify current zoning with Johnston County Public Schools at jcps.k12.nc.us.
Resort-Style Living
Portofino Amenities
Portofino was named the NC Homebuilders Association 2010 Community of the Year. Spanning roughly 400 acres along the Neuse River, the community offers an exceptional collection of amenities.
Two Resort Pools
Beach-entry design with 4,000 sq ft deck, cabanas, and lounge areas
Clubhouse
The Piazza at Portofino hosts community gatherings and events
Equestrian Center
Stables, covered arena, and 7+ miles of bridle trails
Fishing Pond
Community pond for quiet weekend relaxation
Nature Trails
Over 7 miles of walking and nature trails throughout
Neuse River Access
Direct access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing
24/7 Security
Manned guardhouse and secure gated entry
Green Spaces
Preserved woodlands, pastures, and landscaped common areas
Commute & Travel
Getting Around
Portofino is conveniently located just east of downtown Clayton, offering a peaceful setting without sacrificing access to the broader Triangle region.
~5 min
Downtown Clayton
25-45 min
Downtown Raleigh
~50 min
Research Triangle Park
50-60 min
RDU International Airport
Commute times are approximate and vary by traffic conditions. US-70 and future NC-540 provide regional connectivity.
Daily Convenience
Nearby Shopping & Services
Everything you need is minutes from the Portofino gate. The Flowers Crossroads area along the US-70 corridor provides a full range of shopping, dining, and services.
Grocery & Retail
Publix, Harris Teeter, and Food Lion are all within minutes. CVS, The UPS Store, and numerous local shops are available at Flowers Crossroads and along US-70.
Healthcare
UNC Health Clayton and Johnston Health provide primary care, urgent care, and emergency services within minutes of the community.
Dining
A variety of local and chain restaurants are located along the US-70 corridor and in downtown Clayton, offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Countdown to Ownership
Closing Checklist
A smooth closing requires preparation. Use this checklist to stay on track through the final stages of purchasing your Portofino home.
30-45 Days Before Closing
- Finalize mortgage application and lock in interest rate
- Order home inspection and any specialty inspections (termite, radon, HVAC)
- Review and sign the Purchase Agreement
- Submit earnest money deposit
- Contact HOA management to request governing documents and disclosures
- Review HOA documents during due diligence period
14-21 Days Before Closing
- Obtain homeowners insurance policy and provide proof to lender
- Schedule appraisal (ordered by lender)
- Review seller disclosures and property condition reports
- Negotiate any repair requests from inspection
- Contact HOA to register as new owner (at least 2 weeks before closing)
- Begin gathering closing documents (ID, tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs)
7 Days Before Closing
- Receive and review Closing Disclosure (CD) from lender
- Verify all terms, fees, and costs on the Closing Disclosure
- Confirm closing date, time, and location with title company or attorney
- Complete final walk-through of the property
- Arrange certified funds for closing costs and down payment
- Schedule utility transfers to begin on or before closing day
Closing Day
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID
- Bring certified or cashier's check for closing costs (if required)
- Sign all closing documents (deed, mortgage, note, affidavits)
- Receive keys, garage door openers, gate remotes, and mailbox keys
- Confirm HOA registration and gate access are active
- Celebrate - you are now a Portofino homeowner!
Due Diligence
Reviewing Documents
During your due diligence period, you will receive several important documents that require careful review. Understanding these documents protects your investment and ensures you are fully informed before closing.
Seller's Disclosure
The seller is required to disclose known material defects and issues with the property. This document covers the condition of major systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical), past repairs, water damage, mold, termite history, and any other known issues. Review this document carefully and follow up on any items of concern during your inspection period.
HOA Governing Documents
Request and review the full set of HOA documents, including CC&Rs, Bylaws, ARC guidelines, financial statements, and meeting minutes. These documents govern everything from what color you can paint your front door to how assessments are set. Pay special attention to the reserve study and budget to understand the HOA's financial health.
Community Disclosure
The Portofino HOA provides a Community Disclosure document that covers material facts about the community, including pending special assessments, reserve fund status, litigation involving the HOA, and insurance coverage. This is a free document available on the HOA website and should be reviewed by every prospective buyer.
Home Inspection Report
A licensed home inspector will evaluate the property's structural integrity, major systems, and overall condition. The report will identify any defects, safety concerns, or items needing maintenance. You may also want to order specialized inspections for termites, radon, mold, or a sewer scope depending on the property.
Loan Estimate & Closing Disclosure
Your lender will provide a Loan Estimate within three days of application, detailing the loan terms, interest rate, and estimated closing costs. At least three days before closing, you will receive the Closing Disclosure, which finalizes these numbers. Compare both documents carefully and ask your lender about any changes.
Pro Tip: Keep all documents organized in a single folder or digital file. Your real estate agent and title company can help explain any terms or provisions you do not understand. Never sign a document you have not read or do not fully understand.
Move-In Ready
Moving Checklist
Use this checklist to stay organized as you prepare for your move to Portofino.
4-6 Weeks Before Move
- Notify current landlord or list current home
- Contact HOA for gate access and community orientation
- Schedule utility hookups and transfers
- Arrange moving company or truck rental
- Begin packing non-essentials
2-3 Weeks Before Move
- File change of address with USPS
- Update driver's license and vehicle registration
- Register children for school
- Transfer or set up internet and TV service
- Forward subscriptions and deliveries
1 Week Before Move
- Confirm moving company and timing
- Pack essentials box (first-night kit)
- Notify neighbors of move-in date
- Clean and prepare new home
- Read HOA welcome packet and rules
Move-In Day
- Register gate passes for family and movers
- Confirm utilities are active
- Walk through home with moving crew
- Meet neighbors and introduce yourself
- Locate breaker panel, water shutoff, and gas valve
Explore the Area
Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Clayton offers excellent parks and outdoor spaces for residents of all ages. Beyond Portofino's own trails and pond, these nearby parks provide additional options.
Clayton Community Park
Sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, picnic shelters, and a dog park. Located on Guy Road, approximately 5 minutes from Portofino.
Neuse River Greenway Trail
A 70-mile greenway connecting Clayton to Raleigh. Access points near Portofino provide paved trails for walking, running, and cycling along the river.
East Clayton Community Park
Baseball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, and a playground. Located on N Buffalo Road, a few minutes from the community.
Due Diligence
Important Documents to Review
As part of your due diligence, prospective buyers should request and review the following documents from the HOA or their title company.
CC&Rs
Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions
Bylaws
HOA governance and board structure
Financial Statements
HOA budget and reserve study
Architectural Guidelines
Design review standards and application
Contact the Portofino Subdivision HOA at (919) 359-3308 or visit portofinonc.com to request copies.
Ready to Make It Yours?
297 Bonaventure Drive is available now in the heart of Portofino. Schedule a private tour to experience the home and community in person.