Featured ListingS
Audrey Wiggins
Ho, Ho, Ho! The holiday season has arrived in the Sandhills, bringing a sense of magic as our community comes together to celebrate. We’ll enjoy festive events like tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and parades. In this edition, I’m excited to share cherished local traditions such as The Blessing of the Hounds and The Christmas Carriage Parade, both celebrating our rich
$1,995,000
4BR/5.5BA/6,409 sq. ft.
equestrian heritage. November also honors our Veterans, and we’ll highlight the Veteran Golf Association over Veterans Weekend, featuring everything from golf tournaments, golf cart races, and BBQ cookouts. This season is all about giving, so I’ll shine a spotlight on some of my favorite charitable organizations and their incredible missions—proving that Christmas miracles are indeed possible! Lastly, I’ll provide an update on median home prices in Moore County and how we stack up against state and national averages. Don’t forget to check out the holiday calendar of events for a full list of fun and holiday magic!
$3,295,000
3BR/2BA/ 2,886 sq. ft.
10.08 Acres ~ 6 Stall Center Aisle Barn
Swimming Pool with Poolhouse
Sandhills
10 Bay Detached Garage
PENDING NEW PRICE!
Local Market
30 Acres ~ 12 Stall Center Aisle Barn with Guest Apartment
September 2024 Median Estimated Property Value
Auxillary Barn with 4 Bays for Vehicle 5,000 sq, ft. Unfinished Hay Loft
Moore County as compared to North Carolina state and national values
The median home value in Moore County, NC, currently hovers just under $453,000, significantly higher than both the national and state averages, which are closer to $370,000. This sharp contrast reflects the county’s growing appeal, driven by its desirable location, strong community, and proximity to high-demand areas such as Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and nearby military bases. Despite elevated prices, buyers continue to show interest, though the affordability gap presents challenges for some.
$1,450,000
16 Acres ~ 4 Stall Barn with Lounge and full Bathroom
Consumer expectations of mortgage rates falling below 6% have spurred hope for a more favorable buying environment, but market dynamics remain complex. While rates have yet to decrease significantly, inventory levels and days on market are steadily rising, indicating a potential softening in demand. Buyers and sellers are adopting a more cautious approach, waiting to see if rates and prices align with their expectations, which could lead to more favorable conditions in the coming months.
Detached 4 Car Garage with oversized bays, sink, laundry space and stairs to the second floor storage area.
While affordability will continue to be a significant challenge for buyers, the housing market is expected to remain competitive. Home prices have generally stabilized, with some markets even seeing slight downward trends. Notably, Zillow reported price reductions on over 25% of its inventory this past summer, indicating a shift in seller expectations and a cooling of rapid price growth. Despite these adjustments, demand remains strong, meaning buyers will still face competition, particularly in desirable areas, even as some pricing pressures ease.
All Realtors are not all the same.
Experience matters in the Sandhills Equestrian Real Estate Market.
Audrey Wiggins has successfully helped hundreds of buyers and sellers in
In Moore County, homes are currently selling at 98% of their list price, indicating that despite increases in days on market and rising inventory, it remains a favorable market for sellers. This near-list price selling trend highlights the sustained demand for homes in the area, with buyers willing to meet close to asking prices even as the market shows signs of balancing. Sellers continue to hold a strong position, as the slight cooling in the market hasn’t drastically impacted home values or final sales prices, maintaining a competitive edge for those listing properties.
Why choose Audrey?
Top notch negotiator
Superior work ethic & reputation
& advertising campaigns
It’s crucial for buyers and sellers to partner with an experienced real estate professional to successfully navigate the real estate market. Call today to discuss your real estate needs!
Rooted in our community — Board of Directors @ Carolina Horse Park & Companion Animal Clinic Foundation
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Hunt Horses, Hounds & Carriages
Blessing of the Hounds, Annual Christmas Carriage Parade by Beth Daniels
November and December in the Sandhills provide horse lovers of all ages the opportunity to observe two special events: the annual Blessing of the Hounds at the season’s opening meet of the Moore County Hunt Club and the Moore County Driving Club’s Christmas Carriage Parade. Spectators are encouraged to attend and enjoy the traditional pageantry, festive costumes, and camaraderie with fellow horse and hound enthusiasts.
The Blessing of the Hounds, a tradition that dates to the Middle Ages, takes place on Thanksgiving Day around 10:00 am at Cameron’s Meadow off North May Street in Southern Pines. By tradition, riders appear in the meadow ahead of the hounds with club leadership in scarlet jackets, followed by the field, comprised of club members and their guests, wearing traditional foxhunting attire and mounted on immaculately groomed horses. The horses are of various breeds, sizes, and colors, chosen for their calm temperaments and suitability for the rider. Excitement builds as the
The Blessing of the Hounds takes place on Thanksgiving Day morning at Cameron’s Meadow with plenty of pre-and post-celebration!
hounds enter the meadow, led by their huntsman, Lincoln Sadler. The current pack of hounds are Penn-Marydels, an American breed prized for their scenting ability and powerful voices.
Spectators will be treated to the sight of roughly 30 couples, or 60 hounds, eagerly awaiting the start of the run. With the hounds grouped around him, the minister blesses the pack and offers a prayer from St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunting, asking for protection for riders, horses, and hounds. After the blessing, the riders split into three groups, each following a joint field master, and the sound of the horn signals the beginning of the hunt. At this juncture, spectators will experience the thrill of watching hounds run on a scent laid earlier by their huntsman, followed by the field of horses and riders. It is truly a spectacular sight! Signs directing spectators to parking areas are prominently displayed on May Street. It is wise to arrive early as this event draws huge crowds every year.
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Hunt Horses, Hounds & Carriages
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Another eagerly awaited event during the holiday season is the Moore County Driving Club’s annual Christmas Carriage Parade. Moore County is proud to be the home of the largest and most active driving club in the US, thanks, in part, to mild winters and good sand footing for year-round driving. Founded in the early 20th century, MCDC is led by current board president, Claire Reid, and a dedicated group of board and volunteer members. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the club welcomes drivers and driving enthusiasts of all ages to become members. Throughout the year, members organize and manage driving competitions, educational clinics, and fun social activities created around the sport of driving. Over the years these events have gained huge local support as well as from attendees from states hundreds of miles away. If you love carriage driving, the camaraderie and history that surrounds it, whether participant or enthusiast, the Sandhills and MCDC welcome you.
The annual Christmas Carriage Parade, in partnership with the Town of Southern Pines, is scheduled this year for Saturday, December 14 at 1:00 pm. The drivers and their grooms spend days preparing for the parade. Carriages and harnesses are cleaned, and brass fittings polished. The driver and guests coordinate attire, usually reflecting the Christmas theme, although other themes emerge on occasion.
A few years ago, spectators were delighted by a Toy Story theme: a carriage pulled by a gray “unicorn” with an adorable plastic model of “Buzz Lightyear” riding shotgun on the harness and driven by “Woody” in a signature cowboy hat. “Mrs. Potato Head,” made a guest appearance and the carriage made its
way to infinity and beyond!
Early on the morning of the parade all animals are bathed and braided, if necessary. About 45 minutes before departure, beautifully decorated carriages pulled by horses, mules, and miniature horses, with many dogs riding shotgun, congregate in a field on Sheldon Road to line up for the parade.
Spectators can view the parade all along a route that takes the carriages down Sheldon toward town. Entering downtown on NW Broad Street near the train station, the parade traverses down one side of Broad St. and up the other before returning to the field on Sheldon. The participants and presentation vary each year, adding to the anticipation for spectators who await the parade’s arrival. Parking is in designated areas throughout town and on side streets where allowed.
Saturday Dec. 14 1:00 pm
Save the Date!
photos by Diane McKay Photography and other contributors
Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser
Sunday, Nov. 10 to Benefit Special Forces Chapter 62
O’Donnell’s Pub presents the 2024 Southern Pines Chili Cook-Off fundraiser on Sunday, November 10th from Noon until 3:00PM. Enjoy a day of sampling great chili - proceeds for Special Forces Chapter 62, a local non-profit supporting the United States Special Forces and its soldiers. $10 per taster. According to Pat O’Donnell, “the Chili Cook-Off is an affordable, outdoor activity for the community that supports local businesses for a great cause. It is also a great way to kick off the holiday season!”
Veteran Golf Association
Salute To Our Veterans Weekend Hosted Nov. 9-11
by Beth Daniels
Veterans and their family members are in for a treat if one of the reasons for choosing to live in the Sandhills is a passion for golf. With over forty courses in the area and the national headquarters for the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA) in Pinehurst, Moore County is heavenly for golfers.
Founded in 2014 by veterans who met at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC while recovering from injuries, the VGA’s mission is to provide opportunities for veterans and their families nationwide to connect and heal through playing competitive golf.
The VGA annually hosts over 1,300 local tournaments throughout the US, culminating in a VGA National Championship event each fall. Four tournaments are scheduled this fall within 10 miles of Southern Pines, with an additional twelve at other easily accessible courses throughout the state and nine in South Carolina. For VGA members who may be new residents of the south, these tournaments provide a unique opportunity to connect with people with similar life experiences.
To further support veterans’ families, the VGA regularly sponsors family events that feature a mix of golf and other activities. For example, from November 9-11 in Moore County, the VGA will host their annual “Salute to Our Veterans Weekend.” Activities
include a fun run at the Pinehurst Harness Track, a Poker for Veterans Tournament at the Pinehurst Fair Barn, and a Par 3 competition at Longleaf Golf and Family Club. Immediately following the fun run will be golf cart races, a free concert, a contest for the best-looking golf cart, and a BBQ competition. Celebrity judges Phil Ford and Richard Petty will preside over the festivities. Josh Peyton, President of the VGA, deftly characterizes the spirit of the VGA in his Welcome to the VGA video on the organization’s YouTube page: “Although the VGA is a competitive golf league, this organization is more about the spirit of camaraderie than it is about competition.”
The VGA will host their annual “Salute to Our Veterans Weekend” in Moore County Nov. 9-11
Membership in the VGA is open to active duty, retirees, and honorably discharged members of the armed forces who are either amateur or professional golfers. Professionals must compete in the A-Flight or Championship flight, regardless of their handicap index. The VGA Family Division provides membership opportunities for those without military service but with a close family member who has served. To learn more about the VGA including membership, schedule of upcoming events, and history: VGA website: www.vgagolf.org For current news and updates on events: www.facebook.com/ vgagolf/
These Are a Few of My Favorite Things
Celebrate Charities during this Season of Giving
by Audrey Wiggins
The holiday season in the Sandhills transcends mere gifts and festive activities, serving as a profound reminder of the importance of connection, gratitude, and the spirit of giving to those in need.
This magical period encourages acts of goodwill, whether through donations to those in need, volunteering time at local charities, or simply spreading joy among friends and family. As we gather around festive tables and exchange thoughtful gifts, the true essence of the season shines through: the warmth of love and the joy of making a difference in some other being’s life. As a Realtor, I witness firsthand the impact of our local nonprofits in the community, and there are numerous incredible organizations that deserve our support. Here are a few of my favorite local charities and a brief overview of their missions.
The Sandhills/Moore Coalition for Human Care
The Coalition’s mission is to “alleviate hunger and financial strains of struggling households in Moore County. “ Services are made possible through generous community backing, the support of dedicated volunteers, and sales at The Coalition Resale Shops.
Mira Foundation
Mira USA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing independence and quality of life for blind children. As the first organization in the United States that provides guide dogs for eligible children between the ages of 11 and 16, intensive training for the child with the dog is p4ofie3e, and a wide array of related support services for these youngsters and their families, provided free of charge. Additionally, Mira provides targeted educational outreach to promote public awareness.
The Companion Animal Clinic Foundation
The mission of Companion Animal Clinic Foundation (CACF) is to reduce the euthanasia of adoptable dogs and cats in central NC by providing affordable and subsidized spay/neuter surgery for low-income pet owners, 501c3 animal welfare groups and for county animal control facilities. Through CACF fundraising events, grant writing and donations from the community, they provide financial support to the local Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic in Moore County which has to date performed over 100,000 spay/ neuter procedures.
Animal Advocates of Moore County
This organization is committed to all aspects of animal welfare in Moore County. AAMC programs include foster care, emergency call lines, adoption events, feral cat sanctuaries & welfare, trap/neuter/release programs, emergency welfare for feral and stray animals.
Renaissance Equine Rescue and Welfare Foundation and The Santana Center
These two organizations focus on rescue & rehabilitation, rehoming and adoption programs, equine education, and permanent sanctuary when necessary to equines without discrimination of breed, size, age, temperament, or physical condition. The mission is to provide equines in need with high quality daily care, rehabilitation, training, and eventual adoption into permanent forever homes where they will continue to receive the love and care they deserve.
Feline Friends of Moore County and Caring Hearts for Canines
These two organizations are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. They provide shelter for abandoned or stray pets, offering them a safe haven until they find forever homes. In addition to shelter, they typically focus on medical care, socialization, and training to prepare animals for adoption. Through their tireless efforts, cat and dog rescues not only save lives but also foster a sense of compassion and responsibility towards all animals in the community.
Project Santa
The Mission of Project Santa of the Sandhills is to improve the lives of children by ensuring that every child receives a bicycle at Christmas for exercise and outdoor fun. Founder Earl Wright’s wish to give children bicycles for Christmas was realized in 1996 when he gave away 75 bicycles on Christmas morning in the parking lot of a local grocery store. Every year since, Earl and partner Sharon work year round to gift more than 1,000 bikes on any given Christmas season.
The Carolina Horse Park Foundation and the Walthour Moss Foundation
These two organizations are committed to preserving land and supporting equestrian pursuits, working diligently to protect natural habitats while encouraging responsible horseback riding and equestrian activities. By advocating for sustainable land use and establishing safe trails, open spaces, and competition venues they ensure that future generations can experience the beauty of nature and the special connection between humans and horses.
Design Consultation— Design & Layout
Design Consultation— Design & Layout
Latitude Builders
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Local Resources
Artistic Kitchens and Baths will customize cabinets for your kitchen, bathroom, office, tack room - whatever you need. We can design cabinets to fit your space and maximize your storage. We work with kitchen vendors to complete the project, finishing with custom countertops, paint, appliances and more, making renovating or building a new home in the NC Sandhills easy!
Call Deborah for a complimentary consultation 910-691-1666 or 910-691-7099 dwilson@artistic-kitchens.com 683 SW Broad Street Southern Pines, NC 28387
Featured Horse Farm ListingS
3 BR / 2 BA/ 2886 sqft - 30 Acres - 12 Stall Center Aisle Barn with Guest Apartment, Auxiliary Barn with 4 Bays for Equipment and Horse Trailer, and a 5,000 sqft Unfinished Hay Loft 9 Paddocks and Multiple Run-Ins, Walkerboy Eurociser
3 BR / 2.5 BA / 3052 sqft - 10.53 Acres - Pool with Hot Tub and Water Fall, Detached Two Car Garage, 3 Stall Center Aisle Barn with Tack Room and Hay/Feed Room, Two Stall Auxiliary Barn with Tack Room, Paddocks with Run-In Sheds
Audrey Wiggins 910.315.3032
November 2024
Nov 1: First Friday Concert Series, Sunrise Theater
Nov 1: Moore Humane Society 2024 Paws for Celebration auction & gala, Pinehurst Fair Barn
Nov 1, 2, 3: NCDCTA Autumn Leaves / 2024 NCDCTA Championships at Carolina Horse Park
Nov 9: 12th Annual Southern Pines Veterans Parade, opening ceremony at 9:30am
Nov 9-10: War Horse Event Series Championships & Nov HT at Carolina Horse Park
Nov 10: O’Donnell’s Pub SoPines Chili Cook-off Fundraiser for Special Forces Chapter 62, Noon-3
Nov 16: Hawk Manor Falconry & Chip Gentry at Carolina Horse Park
Nov 20 - 23: Sandhills Children’s Center Annual Festival of Trees exhibit & auction, Carolina Hotel, Pinehurst. 10:00 am - 8:00 pm each day.
Nov 22: Casino Royale at Village Pine Venue, to benefit CHP Foundation. 5:30 - 9:00pm
Nov 23: Pinehurst Turkey Trot & Little Gobbler Fun Run 8:30am - Noon. Come festively dressed!
Nov 28: Blessing of the Hounds, WMF, 10:30am
Nov 30: Southern Pines Christmas Tree Lighting 4:30pm-6:00pm, downtown Train Station (SPBA)
Nov 30: Pinehurst Pop-Up Holiday Market, Fair Barn 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
December 2024
Dec 6: Village of Pinehurst Christmas Tree Lighting, Tufts Memorial Park 5:00pm – 7:30pm
Dec 7: Southern Pines Christmas Parade 11:00am - 12:30pm, downtown Train Station, (SPBA)
Dec 7-8: Weymouth Wonderland: Wonderfest & Market 10:00am - 5:00pm, Weymouth Center
Dec 14: Moore County Driving Club’s annual Christmas Carriage Parade, downtown Southern Pines 1:00pm
Dec 31: First Eve Pinecone Drop downtown Southern Pines at the Train Station, 6- 8:00pm (SPBA)
January 2025
Jan 7-8: Sedgefield at The Park Winter Classic
NCHJA “C” H/J Show at Carolina Horse Park
Jan 11: Pipe Opener I CT at Carolina Horse Park
745 Lake Forest Dr. SE ~ Pinehurst
3BR/3.5BA/ 3,276 sq. ft.
Timeless Elegance in the Heart of Pinehurst! Immerse Yourself in Luxury Living in this Gorgeous All Brick, One Story, Custom High-End Remodel in Sought the after Pinehurst Lake Neighborhood
375 Pee Dee Road ~ Southern Pines
2BR/2.5BA/ 2,582 sq. ft.
In-Ground Pool ~ Large 1.85 Acre Corner Lot Minutes to Downtown Southern Pines! Across the Road from Whitehall Entrance to Greenway Trail System