March is finally here, and with it comes the familiar energy of the spring real estate market. Across the Triangle, we’re seeing the first signs of the season’s shift as warmer weather brings more homes to the market and buyers begin their search in earnest. Through February median prices are up 2% across the Triangle compared to this time last year.  We’ll see if that holds as things progress.

Balancing Vision and Tradition at Carolina North

As plans for the Carolina North expansion progress, one issue stands out: whether to move the men’s basketball arena to the new site. Here’s what’s shaping the conversation:

• Campus Tradition: Many feel the arena’s current location is central to Chapel Hill’s identity and student life.
• Leadership Voices: Roy Williams and others highlight Dean Smith’s belief in keeping the arena on campus.
• Balancing Growth: UNC’s leadership is listening closely, aiming to respect tradition while planning for future opportunities.

We’d love to hear your thoughts—do these plans shape your view of the community’s future? Hit reply and let us know.

Microsoft’s Big Bet on Person County: What It Means for Real Estate

• Location: Microsoft is building a major data center at the 1,350-acre Person County Mega Park near Roxboro. Purchased for nearly $27 million in October 2024.
• Why here? Rapid AI growth is driving the need for more data centers nationwide.
• Jobs: No official job numbers released. Data centers are typically more automated, so direct job impact—and resulting housing demand—may be limited.
• Community Impact: Microsoft promises local job opportunities, support for nonprofits, and a focus on minimizing environmental footprint.
• Real Estate Effect: Biggest changes may come if the project attracts new businesses or infrastructure over time. Immediate housing market impact could be small.
• What’s next? The project is still early-stage, with the full scope to be revealed.