Newton or Taylorsville NC (Hickory, Lenoir: rent, homes, purchase)

[alisi]

We've been looking to move to the Hickory area and have decided we want to live out just a little (but not too far because of work, shopping, etc.). We are also a bit concerned about traffic on the 321 corridor so have ruled out the small towns between Hickory and Lenoir (we first chose Lenoir but heard it has been hit hard by the economy and loss of jobs). So we have settled on Newton or Taylorsville. Any good areas to look at? In Newton, what about Village at Newton or Sigmon Hollow? In Taylorsville we were looking at Stable Brook. Pros and cons? Any other ideas? We don't have the luxury of renting and getting to know the place because we have dogs and have been told no one will rent to us. Thanks!

[NJRose]

You might want to look at Bethlehem, just over the bridge from Hickory in Alexander County. More rural area, low taxes, and convenient to Hickory shopping and jobs.

[DaBears]

my sister lives in taylorsville near bethlehem...where she is it seems like she is still close to shopping, etc

[HickoryNCKeisler]

Newton is a quiet town with a real "hometown" charm. It has a slower pace of life than the Hickory area. Taylorsville (at least the Bethlehem area) is a little more "upscale" - while your dollar will go further in Newton, NC, the homes in Bethlehem are a little high priced. Lake Hickory runs near the Bethlehem area and is about equal distance from Hickory as is Newton.

Kudos to you for not renting... it is a waste of money! With homes being SO affordable in Hickory/surrounding areas - and the area growing so quickly, homes are likely to appreciate quickly, making the purchase of a home in this area a wise investment!

[Living_it_up]

I would suggest Taylorsville. Only negative is that the High School is a long drive from the lake. Good Luck in your search.