Why do people buy in Knoxville?

[Zechariah Gawthrop]

From an investors stand point, what is the driving force for people choosing Knoxville as the place they choose to do business compared to the surrounding areas or Nashville? 

[Justin Beasley]

East TN in general is a good investment area. Knox County, Jefferson, and Blount County are all strong long term rental markets. There is major demand for affordable housing, a low barrier of entry compared to other metro markets, and the property taxes are low. Don't love the long term market in East TN? Go buy a STR in the Smokies. There is something for just about every investor in our area.

[Chris Webb]

Timely post as my friend just started at UT, which would be my first answer. I briefly looked at multi-fam today and found one that she could house hack on the MLS.

[Jeremy D. Flood]

Quote from @Justin Beasley:

East TN in general is a good investment area. Knox County, Jefferson, and Blount County are all strong long term rental markets. There is major demand for affordable housing, a low barrier of entry compared to other metro markets, and the property taxes are low. Don't love the long term market in East TN? Go buy a STR in the Smokies. There is something for just about every investor in our area.

I agree. The Nashville area has become a hot market and many buyers are having more success in the surrounding counties. Plus, you're closer to The Smokey Mts/Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge which have been a relatively unknown destination for vacation until recent years. Now is the time to buy in East Tennessee.  

[Zechariah Gawthrop]

Thank you for everyone's input. I definitely agree there is great potential in East TN landmarks such as the smokies. Pretty much anywhere where there are large universities, opportunities tend to follow as well. I hear that the Knoxville airport "may" eventually get turned into an international airport which would definitely increase it's draw as well.

[Russell Brazil]

Because the Mayor is Kane

[Saunya Wenger]

Have you visited Knoxville and Nashville? I have lived in Knoxville for many years and spent many days in Nashville visiting family and friends. Traffic and high cost of real estate are two big deterrents to enjoying Nashville. Knoxville has some afternoon traffic.
It also has more water access to the rivers and lakes all through the city. Knoxville doesn’t have pedal taverns downtown like Nashville, but that’s because of the zoning required to allow them, not because they want to spoil the fun. The rezoning from business to tourist zone won’t be happening in Ktown any time soon. 
There’s plenty of entertainment in the downtown area in walking distance. Knoxville doesn’t have an NFL or NHL team, but there’s other sports to enjoy. Come check it out! 

Meanwhile I’m putting down some roots in upper East Tennessee - Johnson City. It’s up and coming with no traffic!

[Cliff Fruct]

Quote from @Jeremy D. Flood:

Quote from @Justin Beasley:

East TN in general is a good investment area. Knox County, Jefferson, and Blount County are all strong long term rental markets. There is major demand for affordable housing, a low barrier of entry compared to other metro markets, and the property taxes are low. Don't love the long term market in East TN? Go buy a STR in the Smokies. There is something for just about every investor in our area.

I agree. The Nashville area has become a hot market and many buyers are having more success in the surrounding counties. Plus, you're closer to The Smokey Mts/Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge which have been a relatively unknown destination for vacation until recent years. Now is the time to buy in East Tennessee.  

What do you mean by relatively unknown destination? Smokey Mts in the #1 visited National Park in the country.