We just moved to Southern Pines a year ago. We looked at all the towns you mention and found the small town charm and ability to walk to everywhere a real plus. It is also close to the main shopping area in Aberdeen on 15-501 & hwy 1. We also like historic homes, and bought an old village Craftsman cottage. Ther are lots of families and young people, with a couple of good bars and lots of resturaunts.
Vass and Cameron are a little remote and you are only in your housing community. Pinehurst is a little pricey in the village, but Village Acres is OK and you can buy a nice 3br 2ba for about $170 K.
The house location is real important, make sure you have a realtor that is not connected to a builder. We like Jill Greenleaf with Prudential 910-783-6139. She cares about the buyer and will not steer you wrong.
Good Luck
