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My husband and I are wanting to move to NC... Only been there 3 times and loved it. We love the outdoors, lakes and rivers. We're into boating, off-roading/dirt bikes, horses, etc, but also enjoy non-chain food dining, nightlife and festivals. We are in the 40+ crowd with no kids at home. Currently live in the country 20-30 min. to shopping and major highways to give you some perspective. But with relocating would have to be within an hour of a major airport. Asheville, Cape Hatteras and Wilmington were all great to visit or for a weekend getaway. We have been to Raleigh and plan to go to Charlotte soon. We are wanting to live on a lake, but with so many to choose from, really not sure what where to begin. Much help appreciated!
Jobs are not currently an issue, but must be close enough to airport for my husband to commute. I sell Scentsy and can do that from anywhere. Would prefer a Boating Lake and would love a great view.
Your need to be near an airport limits you to pretty much only 3 lakes: Lake Norman north of Charlotte, Lake Wylie, just across the border from Charlotte in SC, or High Rock Lake near Lexington (about halfway between Charlotte and Greensboro). All of the large lakes near the Raleigh airport have land restrictions so little to no lakefront houses are allowed.
Lake Norman properties are very expensive, but they are less so on the north/west side of the lake (which puts you farther from the airport and the city amenities of Charlotte.) Similarly, Lake Wylie is also very expensive due to its proximity to Charlotte. Best values are at High Rock, but it's more remote than the other two lakes.
You might also consider one of the lakes along the NC-VA border: Hyco, Mayo, Kerr, and Gaston. These are at least an hour's drive to the Raleigh airport, and likewise are more isolated from the dining and nightlife amenities you desire.
Your need to be near an airport limits you to pretty much only 3 lakes:
Should we assume that Asheville is not enough of a major airport to support the husband's needs? I was reluctant to answer without knowing where he needed to go and how often. Asheville would put them within reach of a few more lakes, but it doesn't offer much airport service.
^ Yes, the OP said "major airport" so I assume that rules out the regionals (Asheville, Wilmington, Fayetteville, etc.)
Then your comments are spot-on. I would also note to the OP that Lake Jordan in the Triangle is good for boating, but on cannot live ON Lake Jordan as it is public land.
We also looked at retiring on Gaston or Kerr Lake, but it is remote from anything else, and offered few amenities nearby.
Last edited by goldenage1; 03-25-2014 at 07:58 AM..
High Rock Lake has 315 miles along the border of Rowan and Davidson Counties. If you look off Exit 81 in Rowan county you are about 5 miles to lake front. Great location and lower prices then other lakes. I-85 const. is almost done heading to Charlotte. I-85 Const. to Winston-Greensboro complete. Check out lots and homes also Bank websites for bank owned properties (Bank of North Carolina).
Great information and help from everyone. I love Lake Jordan, would consider living in that area as well. Maybe with some horse property. Heading to Charlotte in May to check out Norman and High Rock. Any recommendations of places to stay, eat or do while we are in town.
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