for Our Golf, Equestrian and Military Community
September/October 2024, Issue 2: Fall Festivals • Golf • Casino Night
Featured ListingS
Audrey Wiggins
921 YADKIN RD 222 CROSS COUNTRY LN
Welcome to Fall, Y’all! It’s my favorite time of year, with crisp weather and a lineup of exciting events. In this edition, we highlight some fantastic fall festivals, including BBQ gatherings, Autumn celebrations, and the second annual Casino Royale, which supports the Carolina Horse Park Foundation. We also introduce
SALE PENDING
some new additions to our local golf scene, featuring the USGA World Golf Hall of Fame, Pinehurst #10, and Wee Pines Mini Golf.
4BR/5.5BA/6,409 sq. ft.
10.08 Acres ~ 6 Stall Center Aisle Barn
In the Real Estate update, I cover key factors like Inventory and Absorption Rate that influence sales activity and market days. Plus, I chat with Housemaster Home Inspections about how pre-listing inspections can boost your home’s market appeal. Don’t forget to check out the fall calendar of events so you can enjoy all the seasonal fun!
Swimming Pool with Poolhouse 10 Bay Detached Garage
3BR/2BA/ 2,886 sq. ft.
30 Acres ~ 12 Stall Center Aisle Barn with Guest Apartment
Auxillary Barn with 4 Bays for Vehicle 5,000 sq, ft. Unfinished Hay Loft $1,995,000 $3,295,000
Understanding Real Estate Market Dynamics: The Critical Role of Inventory and Absorption Rate
In real estate, the absorption rate is a metric used to measure the rate at which available homes in a particular market are sold over a specific period, typically expressed in months. It is calculated by dividing the number of homes sold in a given timeframe by the total number of homes available for sale. The absorption rate helps determine whether the market favors buyers or sellers.
16 Acres ~ 4 Stall Barn with Lounge and full Bathroom
Detached 4 Car Garage with oversized bays, sink, laundry space and stairs to the second floor storage area.
A higher absorption rate indicates a seller’s market, where homes are selling quickly due to high demand and limited inventory. Conversely, a lower absorption rate suggests a buyer’s market, where homes take longer to sell due to an abundance of inventory and lower demand. This metric is crucial for real estate professionals and sellers in pricing strategies and understanding market dynamics.
All Realtors are not all the same. Experience matters in the Sandhills Equestrian Real Estate Market.
The chart below displays the inventory of Single Family Homes in Moore County as of July 2024. Before COVID-19, inventory levels typically ranged between 4 to 5 months. However, during the post-COVID boom, this figure plummeted to under 30 days. As the market began to slow and interest rates rose in early 2023, the inventory of homes on the market has been increasing, now reaching approximately 3 months. Although market data still indicates that Moore County remains a seller’s market, the rising inventory is shifting the balance towards a more neutral market.
Audrey Wiggins has successfully helped hundreds of buyers and sellers in her 21 years as a Top Producing Horse Farm agent in the Sandhills. Why choose Audrey? ®
Expert lifestyle marketing Professional video & digital media Robust social media, internet & advertising campaigns
Hiring a Realtor is crucial in a changing market because we possess the expert knowledge and insights needed to help you navigate shifting conditions. As market dynamics fluctuate, I provide up-to-date information on pricing trends, inventory levels, and buyer or seller behavior, ensuring you make informed decisions. My negotiation skills and access to a wide network allow me to help you secure the most favorable outcome, whether you’re buying or selling. In a volatile market, having a professional such as myself as your guide can make all the difference in achieving your real estate goals.
Top notch negotiator Superior work ethic & reputation
Rooted in our community — Board of Directors @ Carolina Horse Park & Companion Animal Clinic Foundation
Our Ongoing Golf Tradition
New Offerings Include Pinehurst #10 • Wee Pines • USGA World Golf Hall of Fame
by Ray Owen,
The legacy of golf in Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen sets us apart from any other place in the country, with nearly 40 golf courses within a 15-mile radius. The best champions in the world have played here and the region has hosted more single golf championships than anywhere else.
“A unique aspect of our Pinehurst headquarters is the return of the World Golf Hall of Fame to this area,” says
The USGA Experience and World Golf Hall of Fame are among the latest additions to our cultural landscape, located on the USGA’s Golf House Pinehurst campus. According to Janeen Driscoll, USGA director of brand communications, these aspects of Golf House engage golfers in the history and legends of the game at Pinehurst and throughout North Carolina. “This site augments what we have at our Corporate Headquarters in New Jersey,” explains Driscoll.
says. “It started in here, moved to Florida, and has now come back. The Hall of Fame encompasses over three thousand artifacts. Our two USGA Experience galleries focus on the game as it is now and the game in the future. The Science of Golf Gallery explores topics ranging from golf course architecture, how balls travel, and innovation in the game related to everyday play. The Championship Gallery offers fans an opportunity to directly interact with the stories of today’s champions and what it takes to bring a USGA Championship to a community.”
Janeen Driscoll
“A unique aspect of our Pinehurst headquarters is the return of the World Golf Hall of Fame to this area,” she
The most recent addition to the Resort’s lineup is No. 10, located five miles south of the Village. Designed by Tom Doakas as a walking course, the links feature 75 feet of elevation change with wide fairways, native grasses and strategic bunkering. Midway
photo courtesy USGA
photo courtesy Pinehurst Resort
photo courtesy Pinehurst Resort
Bethesda Pines brings you a new place to call home in the heart of "the Pines" in Aberdeen, NC. Enjoy the neighborhood's playground, sidewalks and trails. A short drive to downtown Aberdeen boasting charming locally owned shops and restaurants, you'll find everything you need conveniently close by!
Ongoing Golf
continued from previous page
through the links are rugged dunes carved out by mining operations around the turn of the 20th century. Future developments being evaluated include an additional 18hole golf course, a short course, clubhouse and guest cottages.
At Pinehurst Resort, No. 3 recently underwent renovations to restore its landscape. This short course was originally designed in 1910 by Donald Ross. At just 5,155 yards, it’s ideal for a quick round. With small greens and tight fairways, the course requires precision shots. No. 3 can be accessed from the main Clubhouse, half a mile from the Carolina Hotel.
Wee Pines Mini Golf is the newest spot for family fun, located at Olmsted Village in Pinehurst. The facility has two courses, Calamity Jane and Bullseye. “We offer relaxation and a chance to connect with others in a friendly environment,” says Corey King, Wee Pines general manager. “The courses are designed for all ages and skill levels, and are handicapped accessible. It doesn’t require prior experience and is
easy to learn. Our hope to cater to everyone at a reasonable cost while hosting parties, teambuilding outings and group tournaments.”
Wee Pines opened in the spring of 2024, and plans to be open yearround. Located at 211 Central Park Avenue in Pinehurst.
Selling Your Home Maximizing Your Home’s Value
The Importance of a Pre-Listing Home Inspection
A pre-listing home inspection offers numerous benefits to homeowners preparing to sell their property. By identifying potential issues before listing, sellers gain the opportunity to make necessary repairs or adjustments, which can increase the home’s marketability and potentially its value. This proactive approach also fosters transparency and trust with prospective buyers, reducing the likelihood of surprises during the buyer’s inspection and minimizing the risk of lastminute negotiations or deal-breakers.
Additionally, a pre-listing inspection provides sellers with a clearer understanding of their home’s condition, allowing for more accurate pricing and a smoother, more efficient selling process.
During a pre-listing home inspection, several specific issues may be uncovered that could affect the sale of the property. Common findings include structural problems such as founda-
tion cracks or roof damage, which could lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Electrical issues, like outdated wiring or faulty circuits, are also frequently identified and can pose safety risks if left unresolved. Plumbing problems, such as leaks, low water pressure, or old pipes, may be discovered and could lead to water damage or inefficient water use. HVAC systems may also be flagged for being outdated or in need of maintenance, which could deter buyers concerned about future energy costs. Additionally, inspectors often find signs of pest infestations, mold, or poor insulation, all of which can impact the home’s livability and appeal. By identifying these issues early, sellers can take the necessary steps to fix them, enhancing the home’s condition and attractiveness to potential buyers.
Don Lattarulo, owner of Housemaster Home Inspections here in Moore County, is a highly recommended local inspector who I rely on with both pre-list and pre-purchase inspections. He sees great value in having a pre-list inspection. “Most homeowners, especially those who have lived in the home for many years, have no idea what could be wrong in their crawl space, attic, plumbing lines, or roof because they physically don’t assess those areas. I find they use the reports as a checklist for repairs necessary to present their home in its best light to qualified buyers.” Moisture related crawl space issues are prevalent in our area of NC and are common deal breakers for buyers. It’s beneficial to know in advance there is an issue so that the homeowner can research solutions with qualified contractors, make the repairs necessary and go forward with the confidence that the issue
Your Home’s Value
ontinued from previous page
is resolved and won’t come back to haunt them in a buyer inspection. In older homes, Don also sees a lot of code related safety issues such as railing heights, missing carbon monoxide detectors, and other child or family safety concerns. When marketing a home, I’ve discovered that providing pre-listing inspection reports along with repair invoices demonstrates a homeowner’s commitment to maintaining
the property. This not only reassures potential buyers but also encourages them to make stronger initial offers. Although buyers usually conduct their own inspections during the Due Diligence period, having these documents in place often results in smoother transactions with fewer chances for deal-breaking negotiations, leading to happier outcomes for both Sellers and Buyers.
Fall Festivals Include Music, BBQ, Great Food, Brews and Fun!
Fall in the Sandhills gives us plenty of reasons to get out of our air conditioned homes and offices, and back outside to enjoy cooler temps and bright crisp days. With a lineup of festivals and events throughout each month, you’ll find plenty to do, from BBQ, great food and brews, live music, arts and crafts, and plenty of family fun!
Aug 30 – Sept. 1 • Pinehurst Barbecue Festival
This event continues to grow each year and has quickly become one of the best barbecue events in the state. Seven North Carolina pitmasters participate in the festival’s staple event – the Pitmaster Invitational, preparing mouth-watering BBQ pork, beef, poultry, including Event Headline Christopher Prieto - founder of Prime Barbecue and Food Network TV personality.
Scheduled festival events in the iconic Village of Pinehurst include the High on the Hog Gourmet Pitmaster Dinner on Friday, Aug. 30 at the Fair Barn, the “Q” School Grilling Class on Saturday, Aug. 31 at the Pinehurst Brewing Co., and Bourbon & Bites, which is also scheduled for Aug. 31 at the North & South Bar at The Manor. Barbecue Reimagined, a unique culinary experience to be crafted by some of North Carolina’s top chefs and mixologists, is the latest addition to the fourth annual Pinehurst Barbecue Festival. The new offering to the three-day festival over Labor Day weekend will take place Saturday, Aug. 31 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Sandhills Community College in Southern Pines. Visit pinehurstbarbecuefestival.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Sept. 21 • Eats, Beats and Brews Festival, Village Arboretum in Pinehurst
“Everyone’s favorite food truck rodeo is back at the Village Arboretum!” Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes as The Village of Pinehurst presents the annual Eats, Beats, and Brews Festival at The Pinehurst Arboretum on Saturday, September 21, 5pm-9pm! Enjoy a great lineup of your favorite local vendors as well as some new additions. Wine and craft beer will be available for purchase this year. There will be entertainment throughout the evening with live music and children’s activities. Live music will be provided by Julia Golden 5pm-6pm and Austin McNeill 6pm-9pm. Golf cart shuttles are available from the Canon Park Community Center. Free.
Sept. 28 • Malcolm Blue Farm Festival, Aberdeen
Celebrate history at the farm. Enjoy artisan work of all kinds, such as black smithing, honey making, handcrafted jewelry, soap, lotion, cheese and more. There will be petting zoo and pony rides available for the children. There will also be live entertainment and demonstrations scheduled throughout the day. Food and drinks will also be available. Entry is $5 per person or $20 for a family. Children three and under are free. 10 - 5 pm.
Oct. 5 AutumnFest, Downtown Park, Southern Pines
AutumnFest has become one of Moore County’s most popular annual festivals, bringing thousands of people out on the first Saturday in October. Presented by the Arts Council of Moore County & Southern Pines Parks & Recreation Dept. This intimate festival features arts, crafts, handmade items, live entertainment, and delicious food tents & food trucks. Over 100 vendors are scheduled to be setup for this classic Arts & Crafts Festival. 9am - 4pm, 145 SE Broad Street, Southern Pines
Austin McNeill will perform at this year’s, East, Beats and Brews Festival in Pinehurst
Pinehurst BBQ Festival will feature event headliner Christopher Prieto
Carolina Horse Park’s 2nd Annual Casino Royale Event
Hosted
at Village Pine Venue • Tickets On Sale Now! by
Join us for an evening at the Casino Royale, a fundraising event on Friday, November 22, from 5pm to 9pm, at the Village Pine Venue in Carthage, NC. As you plan your fall social schedule ... think Bond, James Bond ... as our Casino Royale is a cocktail party offering casino style games of Black Jack, Poker, Craps and Roulette. The night will be professionally catered and there will be raffles and an extensive silent auction added to the fun!
Melissa McPeake, owner of Village Pine Venue, is a longtime supporter of the Carolina Horse Park as well as a 2019 Painted Pony Artwalk and Auction Sponsor. Melissa and her family are in the Hotel business and own numerous hotels in the Southern Pines & Pinehurst area. Due to their involvement in the hospitality industry, they are also aware of the impact the Park has on our local community - both in economic impact and real estate values.
The Carolina Horse Park is honored to partner with Melissa for a second year in a row for this special celebration. This stunning venue offers a main hall with a veranda overlooking a private pond, English gardens, pathways, and courtyards along with private spaces for brides and grooms. This Charleston-inspired, modern industrial venue sits on 8 acres and has versatility to accommodate almost any event. Melissa McPeake says “This area was lacking in a space that could host large events and provide a variety of options for both indoor and outdoor festivities. As the area continues to grow and
Audrey Wiggins
thrive, options and opportunities such as this new venue, provide benefits to residents new and old. And provides a fabulous, exciting new backdrop for NonProfit fundraisers like the Casino Night!”
Tickets can be purchased at www.CarolinaHorsePark.com or contact Maggie Cline, the Director of Development, at Maggie@ carolinahorsepark.com.
The Carolina Horse Park hosts over 30 events and horse shows throughout the year, the Park is a huge draw for equestrians of every discipline. The Park’s proximity to the Sandhills creates an economic impact of over $8 million annually in hotel stays, dining and shopping. The Park also significantly impacts our local Real Estate market by enhancing property values within Horse Country.
Many people do not realize that the Carolina Horse Park is a 501 c3 non-profit which makes your donation or sponsorship tax-deductible! In recent years there have been many improvements at the Park completed through donations and fundraising including the addition of the James Baker Show Pavilion, permanent bathrooms, new arenas, and equipment purchases such as tractors and water trucks. As with any large venue that manages numerous events, the list of needed improvements is ever changing and growing.
The Sandhills area has so much to offer the Equestrian enthusiast. It’s truly a remarkable area to live and have horses. If you are in the market to sell or buy, hiring a Realtor who specializes in our local equestrian lifestyle is key! Lifestyle is where it begins, and I am your Equestrian Lifestyle Property Partner!
Above, owners and operators Sammy and Melissa McPeake. Below, an exterior view of Village Pine Venue at 1628 McCaskill Road.
222 Cross Country Lane ~ Southern Pines
$3,295,000
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
3305 Youngs Road ~ Southern Pines
$1,595,000
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
2815 McFarland Blue Road ~ Raeford
3 BR / 2 BA 2,549 sqft - 15+ Acres - Brand New Open Air Barn with 3 stalls, Grooming area, Hay/Feed room, 2 bay attached Garage with Tack storage, multiple storage sheds, fenced paddocks with Run-In Sheds $825,000
SANDHILLS AREA EVENTS
SEPT. - OCT. - NOV. 2024
Aug 30-Sept 1: Pinehurst BBQ Festival
Sept 2: LABOR DAY HOLIDAY
Sept 6: First Friday Concert Series, Sunrise Theater
Sept 6-7: Five Points Horse Trials, CT Dressage at Carolina Horse Park
Sept 9: Moore County Home Builders Assoc 29th
Annual Golf Tournament, Pinewild Golf Club
Sept 10: Pedals & Pints, Join Southern Pines Growler Company and Rainbow Cycles - causal, social bike ride around Southern Pines
Sept. 13: The Carolina Philharmonic 15th Annual Fall Gala Fundraiser, Pinehurst Fair Barn
Sept. 13-14 Fall Open House, Hollyfield Design
Sept 14-15: Harvest Moon NCDCTA Championships at Carolina Horse Park
Sept 18: Picnics & Ponies Show Series, Heather Ridge Farm
Sept 21: East, Beats & Brews Festival, Village Arboretum Pinehurst
Sept 24: Quilting in the Pines Bi-annual Show, Pinehurst Fair Barn
Sept 27-Oct 20: AG+Art Tour Moore County, Selfguided farm/market/art tour
Sept 28: Flutterby Festival, Pinehurst
Sept 28: Malcolm Blue Farm Festival, Aberdeen
Sept 28: Mira Music Fest, Rubicon Farm
Oct 4: First Friday Concert Series, Sunrise Theater
Oct 4-5: Cameron Antiques Street Fair
Oct. 5: AutumnFest, Downtown Park Southern Pines
Oct. 5-6: War Horse Event Series October Horse Trials, CT, D at Carolina Horse Park
Oct 11-13: Sedgefield at The Park Fall NCHJA “C” H/J Show at Carolina Horse Park
Oct 18-20: Timberland CDE & CT Carolina Horse Park
Oct 20: Prancing Horse Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship Farm Tour
Oct 25-27: Sedgefield at The Park Haunted Classic
NCHJA “C” H/J Show at Carolina Horse Park
Oct 26: Kinderfest Trick or Treating / Octoberfest celebration, Tufts Memorial Park in Pinehurst
Nov 4: First Friday Concert Series, Sunrise Theater
Nov 1: Moore Humane Society 2024 Paws for Celebration auction & gala, Pinehurst Fair Barn
Nov 9: 12th Annual Southern Pines Veterans Parade
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 22: Casino Royale at Village Pine Venue, to benefit CHP Foundation
Nov 28: Blessing of the Hounds, WMF
Nov 30: Southern Pines Business Assoc. Christmas Tree Lighting
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
Design Consultation— Design & Layout
Design Consultation— Design & Layout
Latitude Builders Rachel Garrison
Latitude Builders
745 Lake Forest Dr. SE
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 after Pinehurst Lake neighborhood $1,075,000 550 Wellers Way
3BR/2.5BA/ 1,353 sq. ft.
Amenities