Impact-based real estate projects are becoming more popular in NC
- Lokal Design
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
As an impact investor, you want to know your investment can make a tangible difference for people and communities, especially as housing challenges across North Carolina continue to grow. Impact-based real estate projects help meet this desire.
Over the past year, we’ve sensed a shift. Multiple people have approached us about impact-based real estate projects rooted in long-term service and sustainability. These are conversations we have been having for years, but what once felt like a pipe-dream for many now feels like a real possibility.
It’s as though in 2026, projects that have never seen the light are finally going to get built.
Here are some reasons why we think interest in impact-based real estate projects is growing…
These projects appeal to individual responsibility
At the core of this growing interest in these projects is a deeper sense of responsibility. Many people, especially Christians, feel an internal call to respond to the needs they see around them. As the world feels increasingly divided and uncertain, people of faith feel compelled to bring light into difficult places.
Rather than waiting for institutions or the government to solve these problems, many believe the responsibility rests with the body of Christ to step in and help where it’s needed most.
As instability grows, so does the question many people are asking: How can I help in a meaningful way?
This sense of responsibility has only intensified in recent years. Since COVID, economic disparities have widened, with those at the top experiencing growth while those at the bottom face increasing pressure. When problems like these arise, Christians often feel called to respond.
NC’s housing problem is getting worse
One obvious problem to address revolves around NC’s housing needs.
Raleigh, in particular, continues to see strong economic growth, but that growth has made the city increasingly unaffordable. Even when housing appreciation slows, inflation continues to rise, and wages have not kept pace. This dynamic creates serious challenges for people who are already struggling financially.
At Refuge Homes, we are not simply focused on affordable housing. Our goal is to create housing where life-change is possible. We partner with nonprofits that serve individuals and families who can’t afford rent and who need a safe place for healing and transformation to occur.
This is what impact-based real estate looks like.
Why investors are choosing impact-based real estate projects
One of the biggest challenges for nonprofits and donors alike is sustainability. While generosity is abundant, many struggle with how long they can continue giving without a model that can support itself over time.
Impact-based real estate offers a different approach. By incorporating a modest financial return, these projects are designed to be sustainable. The goal is not maximizing profit but creating a structure that allows housing initiatives to endure, grow, and continue serving people well into the future.
This duality of impact and sustainability is appealing to our impact investors. Their capital helps create long-term solutions rather than short-term relief.
Everyone can play a role in these projects
Impact-based real estate works best when everyone involved contributes what they do best.
Developers bring real estate expertise and execution.
Impact investors provide the money that makes projects possible.
Nonprofits offer case management and support for residents.
Volunteers give time, care, and presence.
Each role is essential.
As our state continues to grow economically, the needs at the bottom of the economic ladder continue to increase. So, it’s encouraging to see the body of Christ stepping up and working together to address these challenges.
Join Us
We invite you to consider partnering with us as an impact investor. Your investment helps create housing where life-change is possible, while supporting a model built for long-term sustainability.
