Frequently Asked Questions

HOA (Homeowners Association) fees in the Wake Forest and greater Triangle area typically range from $50 - $300/month, depending on the neighborhood, amenities, and type of property. Some luxury or golf course communities may have annual fees exceeding $1,000. Townhomes and condos often have higher monthly dues because exterior maintenance and landscaping are included.

What your HOA fee covers depends on your community. It may include:

• Lawn care and landscaping
• Pool and clubhouse access
• Trash and recycling services
• Exterior maintenance (for attached homes)
• Common area insurance and management

It’s important to know what applies in the neighborhood you're considering. Not all HOA fees cover the same items, and some may charge extra for special assessments, amenity usage, or reserve funding.

Before buying, review the HOA’s rules, budget, and what’s included in the monthly or annual fee. That way, you’ll know exactly how much HOA applies to your home and whether it aligns with you!

Yes. Wake Forest offers both golf course and waterfront communities that combine lifestyle and value.

Golf course communities include Heritage, Hasentree, Wakefield, and Waterstone Reserve. Hasentree is one of the most notable, with more than 800 wooded acres, a Tom Fazio–designed course, resort-style amenities, and luxury homes. Heritage and Wakefield are also highly sought after for their blend of established neighborhoods, golf access, and proximity to shopping, dining, and schools.

For buyers drawn to water views, Wake Forest has waterfront options along Falls Lake as well as smaller pond-front neighborhoods. These homes range from cozy retreats to expansive estates, offering peaceful surroundings and opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor living.

Whether you are searching for golf course homes for sale, waterfront properties, luxury estates, or new construction in Wake Forest, the Triangle real estate market provides diverse options to fit your lifestyle!

Mortgage rates dipped to 6.55%, the lowest this year. Many buyers are asking—buy now or wait?

Experts expect rates to stay in the mid-to-low 6% range through 2026. The big number to watch is 6%. If rates hit that mark, millions more households could afford homes, and competition will spike with fewer options and higher prices.

Right now, buyers in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill have an edge. Inventory is higher, price growth has slowed, and there’s room to negotiate. Whether you’re searching for homes for sale near me, townhomes in Wake Forest, or Raleigh NC real estate, today’s market gives you more choices and less pressure.

Bottom line: rates aren’t expected to hit 6% this year. Acting now could mean more options and less competition. Let’s talk about your goals and find the right home in Wake Forest NC real estate or across the Triangle!

As of Summer 2025, the average home price in Wake Forest, North Carolina ranges between $499,000 and $533,000, depending on the data source. According to Redfin, the median sold price is around $499,990, while Realtor.com shows a listing median of $532,500 for the 27587 zip code. Zillow reports a typical home value of $526,686, and Rocket Homes shows a sold average of $521,125.

While listing prices have seen a slight year-over-year dip of about 3%, homes are still selling close to asking, with the average home going under contract within 20–39 days. The market remains competitive in certain price ranges, and Wake Forest continues to attract homebuyers thanks to its highly rated schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and proximity to Raleigh.

If you're searching for homes for sale near Wake Forest or wondering how much your home is worth in today’s market, now’s a great time to get expert insight. Reach out for a personalized home value assessment and guidance on your next move!

In Wake County - Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, Youngsville or Rolesville - total costs usually run 7% to 10% of your sale price.

• Commission: Typically 5% to 6%, split between agents. On a $500,000 home, about $25,000–$30,000. With us, this covers marketing, photos, staging tips, negotiations, and full guidance.
• Repairs & prep: Many sellers spend $500 to $5,000+ on cleaning, touch-ups, landscaping, or staging.
• Closing costs: Attorney fees ($750–$1,200), NC excise tax ($2 per $1,000), possible HOA fees, and prorated taxes.
• Mortgage payoff: Paid from your proceeds.
• Moving: Local moves average $1,000–$2,500.

Most don’t owe capital gains if you’ve lived there 2 of the past 5 years, but check with a CPA.

The right real estate team will lay it all out so there are no surprises - and help you net the most.

Want to see what your home could sell for? Reach out, we’re here to help.

You have friends in the real estate business! Jim and Lori Hill.

Buying a new construction home in the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill area — including Wake Forest, Knightdale, and Fuquay-Varina — can be an exciting opportunity. You get the benefit of brand-new materials, modern floor plans, energy efficiency, and the ability to customize finishes. Many builders in the Triangle offer incentives like closing cost assistance or upgrades, but it’s important to have a local real estate agent on your side to negotiate on your behalf and protect your interests.

Builders use their own contracts, and often the on-site agent represents the builder, not you. That’s why it’s critical to work with a buyer’s agent who understands the local new home communities, builder reputations, and what’s truly included in the base price. At Jim and Lori Hill Realtors, we’ve helped many buyers navigate new construction neighborhoods in Wake Forest, Raleigh, and the surrounding areas, making sure they understand the timeline, inspections, warranty coverage, and options.

If you're looking for new homes for sale in the Triangle or want help connecting with trusted local builders, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

When preparing your home for sale in Wake Forest, Raleigh, or anywhere in the Triangle area, focus on repairs that increase home value and help your home show well to potential buyers. Common repairs that help homes for sale sell faster and for more money include:

• Fixing leaky faucets or plumbing issues
• Patching drywall and touching up paint (especially with neutral colors)
• Replacing worn or stained carpet or flooring
• Servicing the HVAC system
• Repairing or replacing damaged roofing or gutters
• Updating outdated light fixtures or hardware
• Ensuring the front yard has curb appeal with basic landscaping

Not all repairs are necessary—some updates may not give you a strong return on investment. That’s why we offer a free pre-listing home walkthrough to help homeowners in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, and surrounding areas determine what’s worth fixing—and what to skip.

If you're wondering what your home is worth, or what repairs help sell a house fast in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Durham or anywhere in the Triangle, we’re happy to help guide you.

It’s unlikely that mortgage rates in Wake Forest, Raleigh, or the greater Triangle area will drop back to 3% anytime soon. In 2020 and 2021, home loan rates hit record lows due to the Federal Reserve’s emergency response to the pandemic. At that time, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate hovered around 2.65%, making homebuying very attractive.

Since then, the Fed has raised rates to fight inflation, pushing mortgage interest rates up to around 6–7%. Experts expect home mortgage rates in North Carolina to stay in that range through 2025, with a possible drop in 2026—but not likely back to 3%.

If you're looking to buy a home in Wake Forest or Raleigh, it's smart to focus on affordability now rather than waiting for rates that may not return. The good news? There are still great homes available, and rates are just one part of the big picture.

Let Jim and Lori Hill, Realtors with LPT Realty, help you find the right fit for your goals.

2725 Penfold Lane is a must-see for anyone searching for homes for sale near me in Wake Forest! This stunning real estate gem features 3 bedrooms, a first-floor primary suite, an upgraded kitchen, and a beautiful backyard with a brand-new gazebo. Whether you're looking for houses for sale with an open floor plan, a real estate agent to guide you, or exploring options on Zillow homes for sale, this property checks all the boxes.

Located in a prime spot near shopping and dining, it’s perfect for those considering condominiums for sale near me but wanting more space. If you're browsing Realtor.com or looking for realtors near me who understand the local market, we can help! Plus, with a $2,500 lender credit available, this could be the ideal time to buy.

If you're in the market for properties, whether it's land for sale near me, mobile homes for sale, or commercial real estate, we’re here to assist! Contact us today and let’s find your dream home!

If you're searching for homes for sale near me and wondering whether new construction in Wake Forest, Raleigh, or the Triangle is a good investment, the answer is yes! Here’s why:

• Low Inventory Makes New Homes a Smart Choice – With fewer resale homes for sale in Wake Forest, NC, and Raleigh, NC, new construction homes provide more options without the stress of bidding wars.
• Builder Incentives Make Homes More Affordable – Many home builders in Wake Forest and Raleigh are buying down interest rates, covering closing costs, and offering incentives, making it more affordable to buy a home now instead of waiting.
• Customization & Modern Features – New construction homes come with open floor plans, energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology, and brand-new everything—no need for costly repairs or renovations!
• Warranties & Peace of Mind – Unlike resale homes in Wake Forest, new homes come with builder warranties on major systems and appliances, reducing unexpected expenses.

Knowing your home value is key whether you’re selling, refinancing, or just curious. Prices fluctuate based on real estate market trends, demand, and recent homes for sale near me.

Key factors that impact your home’s value:

• ✅ Recent Sales Data: Comparable houses for sale near me and sold homes in your area.
• ✅ Market Trends: Wake County real estate shifts constantly, affecting pricing.
• ✅ Home Condition & Upgrades: Certain updates add value, while others don’t.
• ✅ Professional Valuation: Online estimates aren’t enough—get a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a real estate agent in Wake Forest or Raleigh.

Avoid unnecessary home modifications that won’t increase value! We can assess your home before you invest in the wrong upgrades, saving you money. Plus, getting expert advice early gives you time to make necessary repairs to maximize your home’s market appeal.

Get a free home valuation today 👉 [https://search.hillnhills.com/seller](https://search.hillnhills.com/seller)

Wake Forest is part of large growth center coming up highway one out of Raleigh. Years ago, Raleigh’s planning department predicted significant growth into Wake Forest. As one of the fastest growing areas in North Carolina, this growth will predictably create long term growth in property values making it a great place to live and invest.

On March 15, NAR reached a settlement to resolve claims about broker commissions, with changes effective August 17, 2024.

Key Updates:

• Buyer Agreements: Agents using MLS must have written agreements with buyers before home tours. Agreements must:
  • Disclose agent compensation clearly.
  • Use objective terms (e.g., flat fee, percentage).
  • Limit compensation to the agreed amount.
  • State that fees are negotiable.
• MLS Changes: Agent compensation offers are no longer on MLS, but sellers can still offer concessions or compensation off-MLS.

What to Know:

• Written agreements are required for home tours but not for open houses or inquiries.
• Compensation remains negotiable.
• Ask agents about their services, fees, and agreements.

These changes enhance transparency and protect consumer choice.

Wake Forest is one of the best places to buy a home because of its vibrant community, top-rated schools, and proximity to Raleigh. With its charming neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and growing amenities, Wake Forest offers something for everyone, from first-time buyers to families looking for their forever home.

Jim and Lori Hill are top realtors in Wake Forest who specialize in helping buyers find the perfect home. Their deep knowledge of the Wake Forest real estate market allows them to match clients with homes that meet their needs, whether you're looking for a spacious family home, a quiet retreat, or a property close to local conveniences. With Jim and Lori Hill by your side, you'll have expert guidance every step of the way to ensure you find your dream home in Wake Forest.

Staging a home can significantly boost its appeal to potential buyers by helping them visualize the space and how it can be used.

Homes that are staged often sell faster and for more money because they present better in photos and showings.

Staging can highlight a property's best features, make rooms feel larger and more inviting, and even help justify a higher asking price.

In fact, according to industry research, staged homes can sell for up to 10% more than un-staged homes, making it a smart investment for sellers looking to maximize their return.

The place to start is to get informed! We love to educate and help people on how to buy a home. We start with a informal in person strategy session that guides you through the home buying process, step by step. We answer all your questions and you walk away with a great informational packet that you can review at your leisure.

No one knows the future obviously. One would guess at this point in time, November 2023, that when interest rates drop, the pent up demand may cause demand to increase and home prices to rise. When interest rates are up, home prices are sometimes depressed, area dependent. Remember you can always refinance the interest rate on your home, you can't renegotiate the price of it though.

You can easily get an estimate of your homes value here: [https://www.hillnhills.com/home-valuation](https://www.hillnhills.com/home-valuation) although this is a computer algorithm that relies on the data from your home the last time it sold and recent sales of similar homes in you area.

We prefer to perform an in depth CMA (comparative market analysis) ourselves, which includes visiting the property and gathering information regarding size, features, condition, recent renovations, and any unique attributes.

We then identify similar properties, known as "comps," that have recently sold or are currently on the market.

After selecting the comps, we may need to make adjustments to account for differences between the subject property and the comps. Common factors for adjustment include square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, lot size, condition, and upgrades.

Using the information gathered and adjustments made, we calculate an estimated market value for the subject property.

Please reach out for further insight.

A buyer's agent represents the interests of the homebuyer and helps them find and purchase a property. They assist with searching for suitable listings, arranging property viewings, negotiating offers, and guiding the buyer through the closing process.

On the other hand, a listing agent represents the interests of the home seller. They help the seller market their property, find potential buyers, negotiate offers, and manage the transaction process to ensure a successful sale.

One thing to note though! In North Carolina ALL Real Estate agents work for the home seller until you ask them to be your buyer's agent. Ask us for more clarification on this as many people do not realize this important fact!

YES! It does matter! With Jim and Lori Hill Realtors, your home will be listed in the Triangle MLS (Multiple Listing Service) the 2nd largest listing service in North Carolina and 30th in the country.

Before we list your property, we will have the house professionally photographed and measured using the number one real estate photographer. A 360 video tour will be filmed that potential buyers will be able to view online.

Your property will be marketed through our marketing company, on social media and through Google advertising online. Posting the videos to Zillow and other real estate sites will take them to the top of their search engines. We also use the strength of the large eXp community to market, and reverse prospect your home.

There is more, but space is limited in this answer. Know that we pride ourselves on our responsiveness and communication. We would love to work with you to make the sale of your home a reality. Please reach out for more information.