Pine Forest Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Overview
Pine Forest is a quiet, residential neighborhood located on the western edge of McColl, South Carolina, a small town in Marlboro County. The neighborhood is characterized by its mature pine and hardwood trees, spacious lots, and a sense of secluded tranquility, while remaining just minutes from the town's central amenities and the state line with North Carolina. Its development primarily took place in the latter half of the 20th century, appealing to families and individuals seeking a more suburban-style setting within this rural agricultural community.
The area's history is intertwined with the broader story of McColl, a town historically supported by textiles and agriculture. Pine Forest itself represents a period of growth and modernization for the town, offering newer housing options compared to the historic homes closer to downtown. Its location provides easy access to US Highway 15-401, connecting residents to larger hubs like Bennettsville, SC, and Laurinburg, NC, making it a practical choice for those who commute for work or services.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Pine Forest consists primarily of single-family homes ranging from modest ranch-style houses to larger, two-story traditional homes, many built from the 1960s through the 1990s. Properties are notable for their generous lot sizes, often measuring half an acre or more, providing ample yard space and a high degree of privacy. Architectural styles are generally practical and suburban, with brick and vinyl siding being common exterior materials.
As a neighborhood in a small, rural market, real estate prices in Pine Forest are very affordable compared to state and national averages, often ranging from the low $100,000s to the mid-$200,000s for well-maintained properties. The area is overwhelmingly owner-occupied, with a very low percentage of rental units. Recent trends show stable, modest demand, with homes appealing to first-time buyers, retirees looking to downsize within the community, and families seeking a safe, quiet environment.
Schools & Education
Families in Pine Forest are served by the Marlboro County School District. Students typically attend McColl Elementary-Middle School (pre-K through 8th grade), which is located conveniently within the town. For high school, students advance to Marlboro County High School in Bennettsville, approximately a 15-minute drive south. The district provides the core educational foundation for the community, with a focus on meeting the needs of its student population.
Given the rural setting, there are limited alternative public school options like charters or magnets within immediate proximity. However, the nearby North Carolina border provides access to some educational and extracurricular resources in Scotland County. For higher education, residents often commute to institutions such as Florence-Darlington Technical College, the University of South Carolina Lancaster, or the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, all within a 30-45 minute drive.
Parks & Recreation
While Pine Forest itself is a green, neighborhood setting without formal public parks within its boundaries, residents have easy access to McColl's community recreational facilities. The centrally located McColl City Park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open space for casual sports and gatherings. For more structured activities, the town provides athletic fields for youth baseball and softball, which serve as a community hub during seasons.
The outdoor lifestyle in this region is defined more by natural resources and private property. Many residents enjoy hunting, fishing, and boating, with the Great Pee Dee River and numerous local lakes and wildlife management areas within a short drive. The neighborhood's large lots themselves become spaces for gardening, family recreation, and enjoying the serene, wooded environment. For golf enthusiasts, the nearby Beaver Creek Golf Club in Dillon, SC, offers an 18-hole course.
Local Dining & Shopping
Daily conveniences and dining in McColl are centered along Main Street (US 15-401), just a few minutes' drive from Pine Forest. For groceries, residents rely on the local Pee Dee Food Mart or make short trips to larger chain supermarkets in Laurinburg, NC, or Bennettsville, SC. Dining options are quintessential small-town fare, featuring local favorites like The Dinner Bell for home-style cooking and classic Southern dishes, and establishments like J&J Grill for casual meals.
Shopping for essentials is available at a few small downtown businesses and a Dollar General. For more significant retail shopping, department stores, and specialty shops, residents typically drive to Laurinburg or Bennettsville. The local economy is supported by a few auto parts stores, hardware suppliers, and service-oriented businesses that cater to the agricultural and residential community. The proximity to North Carolina allows for easy cross-border shopping, adding to the convenience for Pine Forest residents.
Who Lives Here
Pine Forest is home to a mix of multi-generational McColl families, longtime residents who have spent decades in the neighborhood, and newer arrivals drawn by the affordable housing and peaceful atmosphere. The population is largely comprised of working-class and middle-income households, including educators, healthcare workers, tradespeople, and those employed in local manufacturing, agriculture, or commuting to neighboring counties. There is a strong sense of quiet, neighborly familiarity among residents.
The community vibe is one of understated privacy and mutual respect. It is not a neighborhood with frequent block parties or formal associations, but rather one where neighbors recognize each other, maintain their properties, and offer help when needed. This area is particularly attractive to those who value space, silence, and a connection to nature without complete isolation. It appeals to individuals and families seeking a slow-paced, family-friendly lifestyle rooted in the close-knit
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $230,400 |
| Median Rent | $944/mo |
| Median Household Income | $68,776 |
| Average Home Size | 1,450 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 68.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 31.5% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 24.3% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 4.7% |
| Market Type | Balanced |
| Market Tier | Mid-Range |
| Primary ZIP | 28315 |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (10)
South Carolina has over 40,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 10 agents serving Pine Forest who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 10 Agents
- Alison Margaret Elder (5 stars, 440+ reviews, listed)
- Amber Jean Donnelly (5 stars, 80+ reviews, listed)
- Anna Mcgee Abarta (5 stars, 50+ reviews, listed)
- Andrew John Rupley (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Alice J Liptrot (4.9 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Andrew Jameson Walden (5 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Andres Luis Claure (4.9 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Anna Elizabeth Kennerley (5 stars, 20+ reviews, listed)
- Anita Marie Noble (4.8 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Gregory Edward Righellis (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
5 stars[2][3]
440+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1399851[1]
Elder Group Tahoe Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (530) 582-8103
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.eldergrouptahoerealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alison%20Elder
20+ years experience[1]
1650+ career transactions[2]
40+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $100K to $5.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her strong community commitment as a Gold Sponsor of Tahoe Donner's Annual Summer Concert on the Green. She combines this with elite performance, ranking among fewer than 1% of licensed agents in covered markets with over $2 billion in career sales.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
80+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1785209[1]
Amber Sells Sierra Nevada
Contact
Phone: (530) 461-5390
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ambersellsthesierras.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/amberjdonnelly
20+ years experience[1]
510+ career transactions[2]
50+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $11K to $1.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership, including roles as a former Rotary Club President and Chamber of Commerce Board Director. She combines this with a #1 market ranking in 2024 and over 92 five-star reviews from nearly 20 years of service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
50+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1947697[1]
Sierra Sotheby's International Realty
Contact
Phone: (530) 414-4514
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.tahoe-truckeerealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Annamcgee
210+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $575K to $5.2M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her active participation in the local mountain community, reflecting a deep commitment beyond transactions. She is further distinguished by 67 five-star reviews and unique expertise in mountain property.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
40+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2120444[1]
Smith Properties
Contact
Phone: (775) 815-7974
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Andy-Rupley-Realtor/
170+ career transactions[2]
30+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $11K to $642K[4]
Why selected: Selected for his strong community involvement and leadership roles, Andrew Rupley also delivers exceptional client service with a perfect 5-star rating from 57 reviews. His dual-state licensing and skilled negotiation further distinguish his professional practice.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1809646[1]
Chase International Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (415) 577-0733
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.calnevteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ali%20and%20John
19+ years experience[1]
160+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $37K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her 18-year tenure and strong community leadership roles, Alice Liptrot also demonstrates quantifiable excellence with a 4.9-star rating across 44 reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
20+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2005034[1]
Engel & Völkers Truckee
Contact
Phone: (530) 386-8999
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://drewwalden.evrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TruckeeRealtorDW
9+ years experience[1]
0+ career transactions[2]
Range: $320K to $550K[4]
Why selected: Selected for his exceptional community leadership roles and charitable work, which is our highest criterion. He further demonstrates excellence with a perfect 5-star rating across 33 reviews and valuable luxury hospitality expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
20+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1309945[1]
COMPASS
Contact
Phone: (917) 755-3777
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/claire-liu/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Clarieliu
30+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $1.3M to $4.7M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Andres Claure also delivers exceptional client service with a 4.9-star rating across 33 reviews. His expertise in negotiation and strategic guidance establishes him as a trusted advisor.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
20+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1965897[1]
Sharp Hood Group
Contact
Phone: (530) 412-4101
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sharphoodgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/anna%20sharp%20kennerley
10+ years experience[1]
210+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $67K to $4.2M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her deep community roots and leadership as a native agent, combined with a proven record of 32 five-star reviews over 9 years of dedicated service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.8 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1224603[1]
Truckee River Homes
Contact
Phone: (530) 412-2040
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.truckeeriverhomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/anita628
24+ years experience[1]
250+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $150K to $1.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her deep community integration as a long-term resident and broker/owner, combined with a 4.5-star rating from 25 reviews over two decades of expert market service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2092807[1]
Tahoe Mountain Realty
Contact
Phone: (530) 412-4547
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://tmrrealestate.com/greg-righellis/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/greg%20righellis
10+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $506K to $6.2M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 22 reviews and consistent high-volume performance, including 7 sales in the past year. His expertise in a luxury market, with an average sale price of $1.7M, and recognition by Forbes Global Properties further distinguish his profile.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.