We live in the Grays Creek school district (close to Hope Mills, east of I-95). The Jack Britt district is the best, and while I think Southview is okay, I would not say it is better than Grays Creek. It takes us about 30-40 minutes to get to post, but it hasn't bothered us. Knowing what I now know about Fayetteville (I worked in the criminal justice/mental health field), I wouldn't live anywhere else. We also have many military neighbors. While NONE of the schools here are great, definitely avoide Hoke Co, and even Harnett Co (which would be north of post).
I agree with avoiding the Murchison Rd/Bragg Blvd area, they are heavy drug areas. Other school districts to avoid: EE Smith and Douglas Byrd. Kinda rough with gangs in the high schools (and middle schools, unfortunately).
A realtor can help you with finding a place in a certain school district. If you are looking to rent, try searching for rental property agencies in the area, they can show you places in districts of your choice.