Road trip, looking for suggestions of possible towns to check out (Knoxville: ski resort, to buy)

[ruca55]

Hello! We are considering an early November road trip. This would be our first time to the area, the intent of this trip is to scope out possible land for building small log in the mountains for retirement. Coming from Jersey, just outside of Atlantic City (can't not wait to get out of this state!!!!)
Here are a few things I'd like out of the area I'm looking for. Maybe you kind people could point me in the right direction?

Decent schools, in case (or hopefully) the move becomes permanent before retirement

Minimum of 2 acre parcel, preferably about 5. Absolutely no gated communities

Access to farmers markets, preferably grass fed free range meats and organic veggies
(Would drive with in an hour or so to the whole foods in Knoxville if I have to)

I'd like to be in the mountains, but don't want super harsh long snowy winters. I can handle a few snowfalls here and there, but not ski resort weather (if that makes any sense?)


So far in reading through the forums in looks like Maryville might be a good contender. We hope to drive down in Novermber and check out a few of the surrounding towns of the Knoxville area. Does Maryville sound like it might fit what I'm looking for? Any other suggestions? I'm open to any parts on eastern TN that might for those needs, even if it's an area we may have to try on a different trip.

Thanks so much for any input

[songinthewind7]

Maryville will be good for you. Outside Maryville in Walland or Townsend might offer more land and mountain views. The winters are pretty mild. Other than the blizzard of 93, it's smooth sailing.

[ruca55]

Great! Thanks for the point in the right direction!

[DaveC20853]

You can user the forum search function for previous threads on schools. A google search can steer you to farmers markets. The saturday market downtown (Market Square) can be a bit of a mad house.

You don't mention a housing budget and that's an important factor in a search area. I would suggest you spend a lot of time driving around and finding an area that you think floats your boat. Then you can ask more questions.

[ruca55]

We are likely looking to buy land, so we can build precisely what we want.

Google doesn't exactly give you the feel of a town. We do plan to come, drive around and spend some time. That's what I was looking for, suggestions of towns in the area to check out that might fit the description I was trying to give. A starting point so to speak I guess is what i was trying to get help with.

Thanks!