We know there are million dollar homes in this community, but the most expensive one we found for sale was a slightly dated, 3 bedroom, 3 bath, two-story home, located on the lake's edge, with 3,100 square feet and located for $429,000.  It also had a large porch, a 1/2 acre lot and golf course views.  

For $289,000, we found a beautiful, brick, 2,500 square foot home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a bonus room on a wooded, 1/3 acre.  It was built just this year.

We also found some very nice homes starting in the $135,000 range.  One had 1,300 square feet, 2 bedrooms and 2 baths on a 1/3-acre lot.  For $170,000, we found a 1,780 square foot home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on a 1/2-acre lot.  Again, these are slightly outdated inside, but residents here seem to get a good value for their money, considering the amenities that Carolina Trace offers.  These homes are on wooded lots with mature trees and landscaping.

Rental properties within the development are also available, starting at around $900 a month for a 1,000 square foot home.  We found one stunning home, built in 1981 but completely renovated, with 2,500 square feet and overlooking a golf course for $1,150 a month.  Lots are for sale, too, starting at about $8,000 (1/8-acre interior lots) and reaching $139,000 (lots with lake and/or golf course views).  And a luxury townhouse complex is set to open very soon.

Those who buy property within Carolina Trace must also pay a membership fee and choose between an equity membership, with voting rights concerning all activities within the community, or a non-equity membership, without voting rights but with amenities' privileges.  This is essentially the same as a homeowners' association.  Call 800-898-CCTC for more information.

In addition to the two golf courses and the lake (with a marina and seven miles of shoreline), Carolina Trace has a large clubhouse with formal and casual dining rooms, meeting rooms, a swimming pool, tennis courts and a host of activities, including card games, dances and special holiday events.

This development also offers a "host program" as a way to introduce soon-to-be-retirees to the community and the area.  Those who participate are offered a discounted motel room near Carolina Trace and a complimentary round of golf and dinner; the catch is participants are required to attend a 30 minute marketing presentation, which may include a real estate tour if desired.   

Located roughly 35 miles southwest of from Raleigh/Durham, amenities not found in Sanford (population 25,000) are just up the road.  Chapel Hill and the University of North Carolina are even closer, offering college classes, theater and workshops.  The nearest hospital is Chatham Hospital, 25 miles away in Siler City.

This area of North Carolina has four seasons, although winters are generally mild.  In the spring, the air is sweet with the scent of blooming flowers, and falls are simply spectacular.  The average January temperature is 41 degrees, and in July, it can reach the low to mid-80s.  Humidity is high and can get to the 80% range, so it does get sticky.    The sun shines about 60% of the time.