Seeking advice: Chattanooga, TN

[Ellie Ryan]

Hi all! My boyfriend and I are thinking about moving to Chattanooga to follow a job opportunity. I was wondering if anyone could shed some light into some good areas to live/where to avoid? 

My criteria would be a single family with a back yard (we have an almost 80lb golden..he's only 9 month old believe it or not). His work will be right downtown in city center so would like to be within a reasonable distance, no more than a 25 min commute. Would like to be close by walking paths/nature if possible. Ideally I would like the property to be in good standing condition and am OK if it's in need of cosmetic updates. I am an interior designer and would LOVE to do the renovation.

It has been a dream of mine to flip a home, however I keep hearing about a backlog in available contractors with their ever extensive demand. Does anyone have any insight into contractor availability (or lack there of) in Chattanooga's current climate?

If anyone has any insight and/or further questions for me, I would so much appreciate it! Thanks in advance.