After a rollercoaster ride of rising interest rates, homebuyers are finally catching a break. Mortgage rates, which peaked at nearly 7.8% in late 2023, have moderated to around 6.2% as of fall 2025¹². While still higher than the historic lows of 2021, this shift is making a noticeable difference in monthly payments—especially for buyers shopping in the average price range.

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

Let’s break it down. A $400,000 mortgage at 7.79% would have cost buyers roughly $2,877/month in principal and interest. At today’s moderated rate of 6.2%, that same loan now costs about $2,450/month—a savings of over $400 monthly¹. For homes priced closer to the median in our region (around $300,000–$350,000), the savings are still substantial, often trimming $300–$350 off monthly payments compared to last year’s peak.

This moderation is especially meaningful for first-time buyers, empty nesters, and relocators who were previously priced out of the market. With slightly lower rates and more predictable monthly costs, the window to buy is opening wider.

Why Morganton, Hickory, and Newton/Conover Are Worth a Look

Beyond the numbers, western North Carolina is buzzing with new energy. The Morganton–Hickory–Newton/Conover corridor is seeing a wave of new businesses and infrastructure that’s turning heads—and drawing relocators.

Here’s what’s brewing:

1. The Honey Hog Restaurant is under construction in Morganton, promising a vibrant new dining experience on Carbon City Road. With steel framing underway, it’s expected to open in a brand-new facility by year’s end³.
2. WeCare Pharmacy, a full-service compounding and specialty pharmacy, is opening in Morganton’s former Smoothie King building. It’s designed to serve patients with chronic and rare conditions, adding a layer of healthcare sophistication to the area³.
3. Village Inn Pizza Parlor is expanding with a new location on Bush Drive, bringing a beloved regional favorite to more families³.
4. Hickory’s economic development continues to shine. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing economies in the U.S., the city is actively attracting new businesses and fostering a culture of craftsmanship and innovation⁴.
5. Catawba County’s Future Summit recently brought together over 360 leaders to chart bold visions for growth, signaling strong regional momentum and investment⁵.

A Lifestyle Worth Relocating For

Nestled between Charlotte and Asheville, this region offers a rare blend of affordability, natural beauty, and economic opportunity. Whether you're a remote worker seeking a scenic backdrop, a retiree looking for community, or a family craving space and value, Morganton, Hickory, and Newton/Conover deliver.

With interest rates easing and new businesses planting roots, now is a strategic time to explore relocation. The mortgage math is improving, and the lifestyle perks are multiplying.

?? Thinking about making a move? Let’s connect. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring, I’m here to help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence.

Sources:

References (5)

1Data Spotlight: The Impact of Changing Mortgage Interest Rates. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/data-research/research-reports/data-spotlight-the-impact-of-changing-mortgage-interest-rates/

2How Federal Reserve Rate Decisions Impact Mortgage Rates in 2025 .... https://www.kiplinger.com/real-estate/mortgages/how-the-federal-reserve-affects-mortgage-rates

3Here's the latest on businesses coming to Morganton | Business | The Paper. https://www.thepaper.media/business/from-farewells-to-new-construction-here-are-the-latest-morganton-business-updates/article_5601c03b-8349-40a3-a5aa-b72c013c296f.html

4Breaking Ground | City of Hickory. https://www.hickorync.gov/breaking-ground

5Home - The Chamber of Catawba County. https://catawbachamber.org/

I believe home is the foundation of life. It’s where you recharge, where family gathers, where memories are built.

For a retiree, “home” might mean a smaller place with less upkeep and more freedom to travel. For a relocating family, “home” means a safe community with good schools. For someone selling an estate, “home” represents years of love and history.

That’s why buying or selling is such an emotional journey. And that’s why I treat every client’s move with care. Because it’s never just a house—it’s home.

?? CTA: What does “home” mean to you? Share your thoughts with me—and if you’re ready to find your next one in Catawba Valley, let’s talk.

There comes a time in life when the walls around us begin to feel a little different. The rooms that once echoed with laughter, family dinners, and the shuffle of busy mornings may now feel quieter—sometimes too quiet. For many retirees, the idea of downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space. It’s about facing memories, change, and the very meaning of what “home” really is.

Downsizing isn’t easy, and it’s not simply about square footage. It’s about asking ourselves tender questions:

• Will I feel like I’m leaving behind a part of my story?
• Will a smaller home still feel like “mine”?
• What if I let go of too much?

These thoughts are deeply human, and they often stir up feelings of loss, uncertainty, or even guilt. After all, the family home can carry decades of milestones—baby steps, holiday traditions, and handwritten marks on the doorframe showing just how tall the kids grew. Letting go of that can feel like letting go of a piece of yourself.

But here’s another truth: downsizing can also mean creating space for a new chapter. For some, it’s freedom from maintenance and yard work. For others, it’s about having more time, energy, and resources to focus on health, family, or travel. And for many, it’s simply about choosing a home that feels right for this season of life, rather than holding onto one that fit a season long past.

It’s okay to feel conflicted. It’s okay to hold both gratitude for what has been and curiosity about what lies ahead. Downsizing is not about giving up—it’s about reshaping life to fit your present and future needs.

If you find yourself standing at this crossroads, know this: you are not alone. Thousands of retirees wrestle with these same feelings every day. The choice is not about “less”—it’s about what matters most.

Sometimes, home isn’t defined by the number of rooms, but by the peace, comfort, and joy it gives you each day.

Sheree Byrd, Realtor®

When people think of retiring in North Carolina, they often picture coastal towns or mountain retreats. But there’s a hidden gem right in the Catawba Valley: Downtown Hickory.

Here’s why retirees are choosing Hickory as their new home:

1. Walkability – You can enjoy restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and the Hickory Farmers Market all on foot.
2. Healthcare Access – Excellent healthcare facilities are nearby, an important factor for retirees.
3. Community Vibe – Downtown Hickory offers concerts, festivals, and community events that make it easy to feel connected.
4. Affordability – Compared to larger cities, Hickory offers lower housing costs without sacrificing amenities.

I’ve worked with several retirees who chose downtown living because it keeps them active and connected. They love the blend of convenience and charm.

Curious about homes or condos in Downtown Hickory? Let’s schedule a tour together and explore what retirement living here could look like for you.

Sheree Byrd, Realtor®, Faith Parker Properties

828-391-9535; info@shereebyrdrealtor.com