For years, "land" in Pender County meant Hampstead or Rocky Point. But as prices in those corridors creep upward, savvy homesteaders and land investors are looking west. Currie and Malpass Corner—historically quiet, agricultural crossroads—are emerging as the region's best value for buyers seeking acreage, autonomy, and affordability.

This isn't the manicured subdivision life of Leland. This is true rural living, where the soil is sandy, the lots are large, and the zoning is often flexible enough for your chickens, timber, and barndominiums.

The Land of "Bona Fide" Farms

One of the biggest draws to Western Pender is the prevalence of RA (Rural Agricultural) zoning. Unlike the restrictive HOAs of the coast, this designation often allows for a "Bona Fide Farm" exemption.

The Insider Advantage: If you produce enough agricultural income (e.g., timber, pine straw, or produce), you may qualify for exemptions from county zoning regulations on certain structures.

Buyer Beware: Always verify the specific deed restrictions. Just because the county allows it doesn't mean an old family covenant doesn't restrict it.

Soil & Strategy: What Actually Grows Here?

The soil in Currie is predominantly Pender Fine Sandy Loam. It drains incredibly well—sometimes too well.

The "Blueberry" Hint: You’ll notice roads like "Blueberry Road" for a reason. This acidic, sandy soil is world-class for blueberries, sweet potatoes, and peppers.

The Challenge: If you plan to graze cattle or horses, be prepared to invest in soil amendments. The native grass here is hardy but not nutrient-dense without help.

The Water Warning: Florence’s Footprint

Here is the hard truth that Zillow won't tell you: You must layer your property search over the Hurricane Florence flood maps.

The Danger Zones: The confluence of the Black River and Moores Creek creates a massive floodplain. During Florence, parts of NC Highway 53 and even Highway 421 were impassable.

The Strategic Buy: Look for "high ridge" land. There are stunning 10+ acre tracts in Malpass Corner that sit 40 feet above sea level, completely safe from rising waters, while their neighbors a mile down the road are in an AE flood zone. Never buy here without a detailed flood zone overlay.

The Logistics of Country Living

Moving to Currie means trading convenience for privacy, but you aren't off the grid.

Groceries: You are likely doing your "big shop" in Burgaw (Food Lion/Piggly Wiggly) or at the Walmart in Rocky Point. The Black River Mini Mart or Family Dollar in Currie will save you in a pinch, but they aren't for weekly stocking.

Internet: This is the biggest surprise for new buyers. Fiber optics are slowly expanding down the 421 corridor, but many homesteaders still rely on Starlink or Viasat. Verify the connection at the street before you make an offer.

Your Next Step

Buying land in Western Pender is about reading the topography, not just the price tag. You need to know which 5-acre tract is a future farm and which one is a seasonal swamp.

Aspyre Realty Group are experts in listening to your homesteading goals—whether it’s a permaculture food forest or a simple weekend hunting camp—and translating them into land that works for you. Let’s pull the soil maps and find your acreage.