The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Home in Fayetteville, NC

Buying a home is a big deal—whether it’s your first time or your fifth. But doing it in a market like Fayetteville, North Carolina—with its mix of military relocations, new construction, and competitive price points—comes with its own unique set of opportunities and challenges.

As a local Realtor®, I created this guide to walk you through the process with clarity and confidence. This is more than just a to-do list. It’s everything you need to know if you're planning to buy a home in Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Gray’s Creek, Raeford, or Fort Liberty.

1. Understand the Fayetteville Housing Market

Fayetteville offers one of the most dynamic real estate markets in North Carolina—largely influenced by Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), which brings in a steady flow of military families, government employees, and investors.

Here’s what defines the local market:

• Affordability: Compared to other parts of the country, home prices here are accessible. Starter homes often range from the mid-$100Ks to low $300Ks.

• Inventory cycles: Spring and summer bring more listings, but also more competition.

• Military-friendly lending: VA loans are common here, making sellers more comfortable with VA offers.

• New construction: Several neighborhoods are actively expanding, especially in Hope Mills and East Fayetteville.

2. Decide if You’re Ready to Buy

Before looking at houses, make sure you’re financially and mentally ready for the process.

Ask yourself:

• Have I reviewed my credit report and paid down debts?

• Do I have stable income or military orders that cover the timeframe?

• Do I know how much house I can afford monthly (including taxes, insurance, and maintenance)?

• Do I plan to stay in the area for at least 2–3 years?

If you’re unsure about any of this, let’s talk. A quick consultation can help you make a plan.

3. Choose the Right Lender (Local Matters Here)

One of the biggest mistakes I see buyers make is getting pre-approved through a large national lender who doesn’t understand the pace or paperwork of the Fort Liberty housing market.

Why go local?

• Local lenders know how to handle VA loans, PCS timelines, and even seller credits.

• They respond faster—crucial when submitting offers in a hot market.

• They have direct relationships with appraisers and attorneys in Cumberland County.

Want a few solid lender recommendations? I work with several trusted local pros and can send you options that fit your situation.

4. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Pre-approval is your green light. It shows sellers you’re serious and ready to move forward.

To get pre-approved, you’ll need:

• Two years of W-2s or LES (for military)

• Recent pay stubs

• Bank statements

• Your credit history

• Copy of military orders (if relocating)

The lender will give you a purchase range and help you understand what your monthly payment will look like.

5. Find the Right Realtor® (That’s Where I Come In)

In North Carolina, working with a buyer’s agent costs you nothing out of pocket—my commission is typically paid by the seller.

What you get when you work with me:

• A local guide who knows the neighborhoods, schools, and pitfalls

• Customized searches based on what matters most to you

• Real-time alerts for new listings

• Negotiation strategy and paperwork support

• An advocate who looks out for your best interest every step of the way

6. Start House Hunting

Now the fun begins. I’ll set you up on an MLS search based on:

• Budget

• Commute time to Fort Liberty or work

• School preferences

• Lot size, bedroom count, garage preferences, etc.

We’ll tour homes together or virtually (if you’re relocating from out of state), and I’ll help you narrow down what really feels like home.

7. Make an Offer and Negotiate Terms

When you find “the one,” I’ll walk you through:

• Recent sold comps

• Offer strategies based on seller motivation and days on market

• VA loan considerations or seller credits if needed

• Contingencies like inspections, appraisals, and due diligence periods

We’ll work together to submit a strong offer and negotiate for your best possible outcome.

8. Due Diligence, Inspections, and Appraisals

Once under contract, the clock starts ticking.

You’ll schedule:

• Home inspection

• Termite/pest inspection

• (Optional) septic or well testing if applicable

I’ll help coordinate all of this and review findings with you. The appraisal will also be ordered through your lender to ensure the home’s value supports the loan amount.

9. Final Walkthrough and Closing

Once repairs (if any) are negotiated and financing is finalized, we’ll do a final walkthrough the day before or morning of closing. This ensures:

• The home is in the same condition

• Any agreed-upon repairs are complete

• Appliances or fixtures that were included haven’t been removed

At closing, you’ll sign documents with a real estate attorney, and then… the keys are yours!

10. What Happens After Closing

As your agent, my job doesn’t stop when you get the keys. I’ll still be here for:

• Utility transfer help

• Contractor and local resource recommendations

• Future selling or investment questions

• Checking in after move-in to make sure everything went smoothly

Buying in Fayetteville Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

If you’ve read this far, you’re already ahead of the game. Buying a home in Fayetteville, NC—whether you're stationed at Fort Liberty, moving with your family, or just ready for a change—can be a smooth, empowering experience with the right guidance.

And that’s what I’m here for.

Let’s get you started.

—

Lauren Smith, Realtor®
📍 Fayetteville, NC
📞 (910) 987-2573
📧 TheRealLaurenSmithNC@gmail.com
🌐 www.lauren.therealestateboutiqueteam.com