So you want to move here from another of state...??  Thats a great thought to have, especially if you want to maximize your equity from a home "Up North", yes you can get more home for your money in this region, but be prepared for less land and basements are like hens teeth.
Our market is strong, homes sell quickly,  prices rose about 7% last year, we have not seen the down turn that most other regions  have, so homes are on the market only a short while, in fact we are short of desirable inventory. The last thing you want is to be carrying two homes and all that involves.
My advice, Sell It First, or at least put your house on the market before you  make you purchase in the Tar Heel State. If you do that you will at least have a good idea what you can afford when you come here to look for your dream. But the best part is a strong buying position, sellers want to know that you can close in a timely manner, local people know about the conditions in the  market outside of our region and are carefull about accepting offers. In particular many builders are no longer taking contingencies on buyers selling their homes.

The Triangle is melting pot of world cultures, I have met peole from around the world and around the country in the short time I have lived here.  The sub-division I live on is as diverse as most, we have several Europeans (myself included),  some Hispanics and Asians, as well as Americans from New York, Massachussetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Maryland, DC, South Dakota to name a few, in fact there are only two neighbours who are native to North Carolina.. People are moving here in great numbers.

The latest phenomina has been nicknamed "Half Backs" these are people who have moved south to Florida from the northern states, didn't like the threat of hurricanes, high property taxes and hazard insurance, liked to see some seasons,  and have  moved halfway back to their roots  (hence half back) for affordable living  and good weather with a real fall and winter season.

So as the man said "Come on Down" , but sell your house first