Smoky Mountains Retirement Property (Western NC or Eastern TN)

[Greg Moran]

Howdy BP community, 

I'm helping my parents navigate a retirement real estate purchase, as they look to flee the scorching summers of Texas (also apparently winter-storm-ravaged at this point).  Right now they are considering the Smoky Mountains area around Western North Carolina or Eastern Tennessee. I'd love to hear form local area experts:

• What should they be looking for?
• What should they look out for?
• Areas to consider or avoid?

Their list of requirements is pretty specific and includes a preference for Single-family energy efficient, sustainable, and green built properties near small towns with big personality & culture. B-)

Thanks for any assistance you can provide!