Why the Sandhills Region Is Getting So Much Attention Right Now

If you’ve been watching the housing market across Cumberland, Hoke, Harnett, and Lee counties, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: this region is evolving quickly.

What was once viewed primarily as a military-driven market is now seeing broader economic growth fueled by infrastructure expansion, industrial development, new construction, retail growth, and increasing buyer demand from both local and out-of-area movers.

Recent data from the Longleaf Pine REALTORS® Market Update shows that our local market remains active and resilient — even as conditions become more balanced for buyers and sellers alike.

According to March 2026 regional data:

• Closed sales increased 13.4%

• Pending sales rose 1.5%

• New listings increased 7.5%

• Inventory climbed 9.2%

• Median sales prices remained stable around $299,000

In simple terms? More homes are hitting the market, buyers are still active, and the region continues to grow without the extreme frenzy seen over the last few years.

Cumberland County Continues Leading Regional Activity

Cumberland County remains the busiest market in the region, recording over 6,100 showings in March alone. The strongest activity continues to be in the affordable and mid-range price points, especially between $150,000 and $349,999.

But housing demand is only part of the story.

Cumberland County is also investing heavily in:

• Infrastructure improvements

• Water and sewer expansion

• Commercial redevelopment

• Downtown revitalization

• Industrial growth corridors

• Broadband and utility improvements

Downtown Fayetteville continues adding restaurants, breweries, entertainment venues, and mixed-use development, helping reshape the area into more than just a traditional military town.

The growth around Fort Bragg, I-95, Highway 87, and western Cumberland County continues to attract both residential and commercial investment.

Hoke County Is Seeing Strong Demand Despite Limited Inventory

Hoke County continues to benefit from buyers seeking newer homes, larger lots, and more affordability while still remaining close to Fayetteville and Fort Bragg.

Longleaf Pine REALTORS® data showed buyer interest in Hoke County jumping significantly year-over-year, even while inventory remained relatively tight.

Much of Hoke County’s growth is being driven by:

• New residential subdivisions

• Military relocation demand

• Commuters seeking lower costs outside larger metro areas

• Continued westward expansion from Cumberland County

As infrastructure and broadband access improve, many expect Hoke County to continue growing steadily over the next several years.

Harnett County Is Becoming a Major Growth Corridor

Harnett County has quietly become one of the most strategically positioned counties in the state.

Located between the Triangle and Fayetteville, the county is seeing:

• Large industrial park development

• Logistics and warehouse expansion

• Residential growth

• Commercial corridor development along I-95

The area’s affordability compared to Raleigh continues attracting both families and investors looking for long-term opportunity.

As more employers expand southward from the Triangle, Harnett County is positioned to benefit from both residential spillover and business growth.

Lee County Continues Expanding Commercial & Manufacturing Opportunities

Lee County remains an important part of the region’s economic expansion story.

Recent Longleaf Pine REALTORS® data showed strong movement in Lee County’s higher price points, particularly in homes priced above $350,000.

Meanwhile, Sanford and surrounding areas continue seeing:

• Manufacturing growth

• Healthcare expansion

• Retail development

• Increased commercial investment

Its central location between the Triangle, Pinehurst, and Fayetteville makes Lee County increasingly attractive for both businesses and homeowners.

The Market Is Becoming More Balanced — Not Slower

One of the biggest misconceptions right now is that a more balanced market means a weak market.

That’s not what the data is showing.

The Longleaf Pine REALTORS® reports consistently point toward:

• Increasing inventory

• Longer decision timelines

• Stable pricing

• Continued buyer activity

• Strong demand in desirable price ranges

In many ways, this is healthier for both buyers and sellers.

Buyers are finally getting:

• More choices

• Slightly less competition

• More negotiating room

• More time to make decisions

While sellers are still benefiting from:

• Stable home values

• Ongoing buyer demand

• Continued regional population growth

Why So Many People Are Watching This Region

The Sandhills region is no longer flying under the radar.

Between infrastructure investment, military influence, industrial development, new construction, and affordability compared to larger North Carolina metros, Cumberland, Hoke, Harnett, and Lee counties are increasingly becoming a major regional growth story.

And the data supports it.

Even with rising inventory, buyers are still touring homes at strong levels across the region.

For homeowners, buyers, and investors alike, the next several years across this region could look very different than the last decade — and much of that transformation is already underway.