Audrey Wiggins
As the holiday season wraps up, we usher in a fresh new year! In this edition of Sandhills Home, we reflect on 2024 and look ahead to the exciting events and new experiences awaiting us in 2025. Kicking off the year, the Painted Ponies will gallop into town this January for the 5th Annual Painted Pony Art Walk, benefiting the Carolina Horse Park Foundation. This vibrant
SALE PENDING
event brings together the community and the horse park, celebrating both art and our rich equestrian heritage. Also, the Elaine T. Baillie Skatepark is now open in Southern Pines— a project two decades in the making. We had the opportunity to speak with William Dean II, founder and director of Skaters for Moore Non-profit, to learn more about the park and its role in the continued growth of our local skateboarding scene.
$1,995,000 $3,295,000
4BR/5.5BA/6,409 sq. ft.
10.08 Acres ~ 6 Stall Center Aisle Barn
As we look back on 2024, we continue to support our friends in Western North Carolina, who are still facing the aftermath of disaster. In this issue, we share updates on local organizations and highlight ways our community can keep offering donations and assistance.
3BR/2BA/ 2,886 sq. ft.
I also provide a comprehensive overview of the real estate market, comparing our property sales to those of 2023, and giving insight into current property values and days on market. It’s been a year of significant change in the real estate industry, and we take a closer look at the lawsuit and settlement impacting the National Association of Realtors and real estate law
Swimming Pool with Poolhouse
10 Bay Detached Garage
30 Acres ~ 12 Stall Center Aisle Barn with Guest Apartment
Auxillary Barn with 4 Bays for Vehicle
Overall, 2024 proved to be a positive year for real estate in the Sandhills. Both the Single Family and Townhome/Condo markets saw increases in average sale prices and total sales volume. Inventory grew in the Single Family and Horse Farm markets, while it decreased slightly in the condo/townhome sector. Generally, higher inventory levels tend to lead to longer average days on market, which is evident in all three sectors. While average sales prices for horse farms county-wide experienced a 16% decline, this was largely due to a rise in inventory of horse farms priced under $1 million.
In 2024, mortgage interest rates played a key role in enhancing buyers' purchasing power and boosting sales volume. Rates ranged from 6.1% to 6.8%, marking an average decrease of about 2 percentage points compared to the higher rates of 2023. This reduction made homeownership more accessible for many buyers, as lower rates translated into lower monthly payments and greater affordability. As a result, the market saw increased buyer activity, contributing to stronger sales and a more robust real estate market overall.
Personally, I had the privilege of representing over 27 clients and families in 2024, guiding them through successful real estate transactions. With a total sales volume of $20 million and an average sales price of $895,000, I was able to deliver exceptional results for my clients. My dedication and hard work earned me a place in the top 10% of Moore County agents for production, marking a successful and rewarding year in the real estate market.
The Sandhills Supports Western North Carolina, Our Neighbors in Need
Our Local Community Continues Relief Efforts for Human, Equine and Small Animal
Efforts to support our neighbors in WNC remain ongoing and will continue for an extended period. While news coverage of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has diminished, the need for assistance remains significant. In order to keep our residents informed, here is a list of drop-off locations collecting for disaster relief:
• Moore Equine Feed & Pet Supply
1012 N. May Street, Southern Pines
• Red’s Corner
901 SW Broad Street, Southern Pines
• Crossroads Coffee
133 Main Street, Vass
• Moore County Airport
7895 NC 22, Carthage
• Foxfire General Store
1960 Hoffman Road, Foxfire
In addition to donating material goods, there are many of our local businesses working through relief agencies that are
This year the theme for the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Lifestyle Property Partners Southern Pines Christmas Tree was ‘The Mountains are Calling and We Must Answer’. Julie Pressley, Audrey’s Transaction Coordinator, sourced custom stickers designed by an artesian out of Asheville (one of the hardest hit areas) and created handmade snowball and QR code ornaments. The ornaments promoted donations to Samaritan’s Purse and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, 2 charitable agencies greatly helping our WNC neighbors. The idea was that in exchange for a handmade ornament the community would make a donation to aid in the disaster relief.
taking monetary donations that will go toward purchasing supplies such as food, medical supplies, lumber, building supplies etc for displaced large and small animals. Caring Hearts for Canines, Moore Equine Feed & Pet Supply, Pinehurst Animal Hospital are just a few locations paying it forward. On the human side, there are not enough positive words to describe the impact Samaritan’s Purse is having on the relief efforts. From setting up shelters to cleaning out damaged homes to cooking massive amounts of food, they have boots on the grounds in all of the distressed areas. Interested in volunteering? Check out their website below!
• Samaritan’s Purse samaritanspurse.org • 828-262-1980
PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607
• Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation brpfoundation.org • (866) 308-2773
717 S. Marshall St., Suite 105B Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Returning Painted Pony Artists
Year After Year, Several Artists Keep Painting the Ponies for the Carolina Horse Park
In just a few short weeks, the sidewalks of Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines will have painted ponies and horses on display for the Carolina Horse Park Painted Pony Art Walk and Auction, to benefit the CHPF. Several artists paint these statues year after year, with expressive new designs each time.
Vanessa Grebe is one of those artists, returning for her fourth year. Her work in progress is titled “A Horse of a Different Color,” (shown right) and is inspired by the famous horse that delivers Dorothy and her pals through the Emerald City to the Wizard of Oz. You might recall Dorothy asking the carriage driver “What kind of horse is that?” as the horse changes from purple to red to yellow. So she proceeded to design a purple colt covered in imagery from the movie and accented with a special “ruby” surprise.
Vanessa’s inspiration comes from her background as a fine artist - “I’m always creating 2D paintings, so working with a 3-D dimension of a horse is an exciting challenge.”
Yvette Sparks is also returning for her third year, painting “True North” this year, with an old-world map theme.
“I was a little overwhelmed with the first painted horse, and I thought I’d only paint one more, but many other pony artists helped me overcome the learning curve to make the technical process a bit
and her
Left, a closeup of Liz Apodaca’s third Painted Pony, “Tribute”, including her sketches showing the creative process involved in designing a 3D horse.
Other returning artists include Cassidy Oeltjen, Christina Reynolds, Darlene Ivey, Ashley VanCamp, Carl Knutson, Judi Fleming, Skylar Simmons and Nikky Sinay. New Artists for 2025 include Lorri Perini, Melissa Tatge, Natasha Russell & Martha Dodd, Whitney Kurian and Susan DiFelice.
easier,” explains Sparks. Her second painting was a colt named Southern Charm, inspired by her love of magnolias that she shared in common with her mother-in-law. “I wanted him to look lovely in any garden, and as it happens to be, he boldly guards a beautiful garden outside a lovely green house,” as she remembers. Choosing one favorite painted pony brings fond memories of both, and too hard to choose just one.
Liz Apodaca is returning for her third year as well. “Contributing back to our community with my time and talent is my ongoing motivation. It’s such a great place to live and be a part of,” explains Liz. She was raised in the Texas ranching & vaquero culture, and has always been drawn to the equestrian lifestyle, even though she doesn’t ride or own any horses herself.
“Tribute” is the name of her 2025 painting, and she anticipates that it will be her favorite. An industrial “steampunk” era theme will feature depictions of the railroads, buggies, antique cars and many NC icons and images. (See close-up image left)
February 2 - April 2, 2025 Live Online Auction April 5, 2025
For more information see page 8 or visit carolinahorsepark.com.
photo by Pam Jensen
Above, Vanessa Grebe
third Painted Pony, titled “A Horse of a Different Color” by Pam Jensen.
Changes for Local Home Buyers & Sellers
by Audrey Wiggins
2024 was a pivotal year for real estate across the country. The lawsuits and eventual settlement involving the National Association of Realtors made headlines, sparking significant discussions in both the media and on social platforms.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) serves as a trade association for real estate professionals, aiming to empower its members by advocating for property rights, providing educational resources, setting ethical standards, and promoting the value of a “REALTOR” designation to consumers, ultimately helping them achieve success in the real estate market. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) governs and sets the policies for most Multiple Listing Services (MLS) across the United States, meaning that while MLSs are separate entities, they must adhere to NAR rules to access and utilize the MLS system for listing properties.
What
An MLS (Multiple Listing Service) can vary in size, ranging from small, local systems to large regional ones that cover significant portions of a state. What makes this settlement particularly noteworthy are the nationwide changes in real estate law. While real estate practices have always differed from state to state—take North Carolina versus California, for example—the recent changes are on a much broader scale. What exactly changed and how does it impact Realtors®, home buyers and sellers, particularly here in the Sandhills?
Agency Agreement—or, in some cases, a Touring Agreement (a more limited version)—prior to showing any properties. Number 2: Prior to August 1st, one of the key functions of an MLS was to provide a platform where agents could cooperate by sharing property data and disclosing compensation offered to buyer’s agents, as agreed upon between the listing firm and the seller. The listing firm or seller can still offer compensation to the buyer’s agent through the listing agreement, and this can be communicated via marketing materials or directly with the buyer’s agent. However, it can no longer be posted directly within the MLS system.
exactly changed, and how it impacts Realtors® and home buyers and sellers, particularly here in the Sandhills.
To simplify, there are three key aspects of the settlement:
1. A Buyer’s Agent must have a written Buyer Agency Agreement outlining their compensation prior to showing a Buyer a property. This is required for in-person and virtual showings.
2. The displaying of Cooperating Compensation between a Listing Firm and a Buyer Firm is no longer allowed in the MLS.
3. Commissions are negotiable and not set by law. Let’s break down the changes based on local and state regulations.
Number 1: Buyer Agency was established in North Carolina in the early 1990s. Before August 1st, 2024, when the local MLS began enforcing the new settlement requirements, agency agreements were strongly recommended at the time of showing but only required before submitting an offer for a buyer client. The fees were always disclosed and negotiable within these agreements. Now, however, we are required to have a signed Buyer
Number 3: Whether you’re a seller or a buyer, the commission agreed upon between you and your agent has always been negotiable. The rule changes aim to make this more transparent to consumers.
With 22 years of experience in the Sandhills, I’ve navigated the ups and downs of the real estate market—from the boom leading up to the 2008 recession, to the post-recession recovery, the Covid shutdown and the chaotic post-Covid market. This year, has been challenging as we adapt to the shifting landscape of how we do business. It’s been confusing and, at times, even unsettling to see the profession I love come under scrutiny. But I believe change isn’t always negative. As I reflect on this year, all the media coverage, and the various opinions on why these shifts have occurred, one thing stands out—communication.
Buying or selling real estate is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. A skilled realtor adds immense value by offering in-depth knowledge of the local market, negotiating on your behalf, managing complex paperwork and legalities, and ultimately helping you achieve the best possible price. Our expertise not only saves you time but also mitigates risks throughout the process. In this new landscape, communication is more important than ever. Perhaps the biggest takeaway for Realtors® is that we must be exceptional communicators.
Every transaction is unique, and just like riding a horse, you never stop learning! I’m passionate about this business, building relationships with my clients, and supporting our community. I don’t fear change—I embrace it, adapt, and continue to provide the best advice and service possible for my buyers and sellers. Here’s to 2025 and all the opportunities it holds!
Painted Pony Art Walk
The Carolina Horse Park Foundation’s Painted Pony Art Walk is a vibrant and engaging initiative that has significantly enriched our local community. This public art project not only showcases the creative talents of local artists, but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among residents, while promoting our community’s equestrian heritage.
February 2 - April 2, 2025
Auction April 5, 2025
By placing beautifully painted pony sculptures in various locations throughout downtown Southern Pines, the Art Walk encourages community members and visitors to explore our town, which boosts local tourism and supports small businesses. Moreover, the Art Walk positively impacts real estate sales by enhancing the attractiveness of our community. Prospective homeowners are drawn to the vibrant, culturally enriched environment, making it an ideal place to live and invest.
I am honored to be involved with this project and proud of the benefits it brings to our local real estate market.
Lifestyle and Community is Where it Begins.
Elaine T. Baillie Skatepark Opens in Southern Pines
William Dean II, founder and director of Skaters for Moore, began the nonprofit in 2005 with a small skating facility in Pinebluff. It operated until 2009 and then reorganized in 2020 with a renewed effort to make the park happen. According to Dean, the Town of Southern Pines approached him in November 2021 to continue the skate park conversation by initially revisiting the existing skateboard laws. Many meetings were held with town officials, community leaders and the Friends of the Skateparks Foundation (based in Fayetteville, NC) to participate in the decision-making processes.
A great deal of discussion centered around where the park would be located. The initial consensus was for a location in Memorial Park, due to existing parking and restroom facilities. Approval was given and the fundraising kickoff started in 2022. Skaters for Moore made it to its goal of $400,000 for the park.
The Town of Southern Pines committed $50,000, provided the land in Memorial Park and agreed to ongoing maintenance. Dozens of businesses, individuals and four major contributors helped them achieve their goal in just two years: Pinehurst-Southern Pines-Aberdeen Convention and Visitors Bureau provided a $200,000 matching grant for
the park, the Town of Southern Pines, Bonnie McPeake of McPeake Hotels Inc. and park namesake Elaine T. Baillie provided the final funds.
Dean said Baillie, who attended the event, provided sanctuary at her house when he was a teenager. She served as a second mom to many in his group, he said. They called her home Flow Mansion East. “Her family’s contribution will be providing a safe, fun refuge for skateboarders, just like she did when we were young, for the next 30-plus years.”
The ribbon cutting was held December 13, 2024 with over 175 people in attendance (with about 100 of those being skateboarders and scooter riders) to celebrate the tremendous accomplishment and dream of William Dean and Skaters for Moore. The park boasts over 7,000 square feet of space for skaters of all levels. When asked what the next steps would be, Dean outlined the need for park lights, and a possible Phase 2 expansion. More corporate support will be a fundraising goal, along with “spreading the positivity of skateboarding for all!” Certifying skateboard instructors, organizing skate camps, and an outreach program for disadvantaged youth with equipment buys and free lessons continued on next page
Photos by Joseph Hill
Local Resources
Sandhills
Local Resources
Are you interested in advertising in the next issue of Sandhills Home? Contact us - info.SandhillsHome@gmail.com for ad sizes, rates and deadlines.
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!
SANDHILLS AREA EVENTS
JAN - FEB - MARCH 2025
January 2025
Jan 8: Artists League of the Sandhills Instructors’ Exhibit, 12-3PM, Aberdeen
Jan 11-12: Pipe Opener I CT, Carolina Horse Park
Jan 11: TREC Showcase Competition (new event) Carolina Horse Park
Jan 18: MCDC Fix-A-Test, Big Sky Farm
Jan19: Pinehurst Schooling Show, Pinehurst Harness Track
February 2025
Feb 2: Pinehurst Schooling Show, Pinehurst Harness Track
Feb 4 - April 3: Painted Ponies Artwalk on display in Southern Pines
Feb 8: Downtown Aberdeen Soup(er) Bowl 1-3PM
Feb14: MCH Hunt Ball, CCNC
Feb 15: Hounds on the Grounds Breakfast&Brunch Fundraiser, Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities
Feb 15-16: Pipe Opener II, Carolina Horse Park, Feb 23: Pinehurst Schooling Show, Pinehurst Harness Track
March 2025
Mar 1-2: Sedgefield at The Park Winter Classic NCHJA /SCHJA “C” H/J Show, Carolina Horse Park
Mar 2: Pinehurst Schooling Show, Pinehurst Harness Track
Mar 8-9: Treehouse Southern Pines HT, Carolina Horse Park
Mar 12 - 16: Carolina International CCI 4* & HT, Carolina Horse Park
New Businesses Now Open
Southern Cuts Butcher Shop – This boutique shop offers only the highest quality meats and select seafood. 28 NW Broad St., Southern Pines.
The Barn SoPi - (coming soon) Morning coffee, tea & smoothies, pizza, fresh salad bar, and a full cocktail, beer, and wine bar, live music in the evenings. 305 Rothney Ave.
Maisonette Coffee - Coffees, latte, espresso, tea, pastries, tarts, quiches. 290 SW Broad St. #C, Southern Pines.
Taglios - a European-inspired, restaurant and market, offering rotisserie chicken, a build-your-own salad & baked potato bar, soups. 600 SW Broad St., Southern Pines.
Cork - Check out CORK for a night of fun, laughter, and of course, a wide range of cocktails, wine and craft beer. 143 NE Broad St., Suite C, Southern Pines.
Ouida’s Food Truck Park - Open Wed-Sat, Wildfire Pizza and more, picnic tables, lots of parking. 310 Monroe St., Carthage (next to Ronnie’s Chuckwagon).
Bibibop Asian Grill & Catering - fresh ingredients, bold inspired Asian flavors. Catering available. 239 Carolina Green Pkwy, Southern Pines.
Urban Pet Co. pet boutique - Owner Gracie Scarboro’s main goal is to offer dog and cat foods without fillers, including raw food. 143 NE Broad St., Southern Pines.
Peace of Mind Aging Consulting - personalized, compassionate support for families & aging loved ones. Pinehurst. Meet on May co-working space, variety of package options for members 220 Springwood Way, Southern Pines.
The Corner Collective work space options include sit or stand desks, rentable walking pads, a print station, conference room. 290 SW Broad St., Southern Pines. Watering Rock Eucalyptus Farm - eucalyptus bundles and more. 129 Rollins Rd., Vass.
Skatepark Opens
Continued from previous page
are additional possible goals.
A grand opening of the Elaine T. Baille Skatepark, located at 150 Memorial Court, Southern Pines is planned for early March 2025. The event will be a fun day for all skaters and their families, along with food trucks and other entertainment - plans are in the works and will be announced. Follow the news at their website, skatersformoore.org, or on their facebook page, where donations are always welcome.
A banner that showcases many of the companies and individual families that made donations to help the
become a reality. Photo by
Fitting • Bit & Bridle Fitting
Elaine T. Baillie Skatepark
Joseph Hill.
Southern Pines Estate for Sale
375 Pee Dee Road ~ Southern Pines
Large 1.85 Acre Corner Lot 2BR/2.5BA/ 2,582 sq. ft.
In-Ground Pool
AUDREY WIGGINS
910.315.3032
Audrey1Realtor@gmail.com 510 NW Broad St. Southern Pines, NC 28387
AudreyWigginsRealEstate.com
Minutes to Downtown Southern Pines! Across the Road from Whitehall Entrance to Greenway Trail System
Southern Pines Horse Farm for Sale
$1,200,000
2753 Youngs Road ~ Southern Pines
Privately Gated 16 Acres, Fenced Paddocks and Fields
4 Stall Shed-Row Style Barn with Paddock Access From Stalls
Interior Wash/Grooming Stall, 440 sq.ft. Lounge w/Full Bath, Kitchen, Fireplace, and an Enclosed Patio
All Realtors are not all the same. Experience matters in the Sandhills Real Estate Market.
Audrey Wiggins has successfully helped hundreds of buyers and sellers in her 21 years as a Top Producing agent in the Sandhills.
Why choose Audrey?
Expert lifestyle marketing
Professional video & digital media
Robust social media, internet & advertising campaigns
Top notch negotiator
Superior work ethic & reputation Rooted in our community — Board of Directors @ Carolina Horse Park & Companion Animal Clinic Foundation