As REALTORS®, our EMTAR members are frequently asked about life here in Wilson, Smith, and Dekalb counties by folks thinking about relocating here. (And yes, more people are steadily moving in!) To touch on some of the biggest reasons why our communities are so appealing, we are publishing a four-part blog series in August. We hope you enjoy it—and please feel free to share these posts with fellow REALTORS®, clients, and others in your network.

Part 1: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Access

For anyone looking for a place that balances a strong community feel with convenient access to just about anything they could desire, Eastern Middle Tennessee fits the bill. It’s easy to see why we’ve become a go-to destination. Here are a few of the many attributes that make our area so appealing for new residents and homebuyers.

1. Close to Nashville — Without the Crowd

Most of our cities and towns are only 25–35 minutes from downtown Nashville, giving residents quick access to major employers, cultural events, the Nashville Airport (our side of town, woo!), universities, and more. But unlike the hustle of the city, we offer:

• Less traffic
• More parking
• Quieter neighborhoods
• A lower overall cost of living

Those who live here don’t have to give up concerts, fine dining, or direct flights—we just don’t have to deal with them every day unless we choose to.

2. Real Neighborhoods with a Real Spirit of Community

One of the first and most impressive things new residents notice—especially those from the East Coast, Upper Midwest, or West Coast? People here still wave and say “hey” when they see you! Our neighborhoods are friendly, and there’s a strong sense of civic pride. From the fast-growing neighborhoods of Providence in Mount Juliet to the historic downtown areas of Lebanon, and beyond, our communities are known for:

• Block parties, parades, and Friday night football
• Locally owned shops and restaurants
• Active faith communities, nonprofits, and service organizations
• A genuine, warm welcome for new folks

Our area is much more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

3. A Variety of Home Options

From new construction to charming farmhouses on acreage, Wilson, Smith, and Dekalb counties offer a bevy of residential options that appeal to all stages of life:

• Young professionals investing in their first home
• Families looking for space to spread out and top-tier schools
• Retirees downsizing and/or seeking both peace and proximity to their grandkids

4. Amenities and Services That Make Life Easier—and More Fun

As noted above, our communities enjoy proximity to world-class entertainment, top health care providers, and much more over in Nashville, but we don’t have to make the drive into the city for excellent food, quality healthcare, a wide range of shopping, and much more. Such as:

• Major retailers, urgent care, and dental offices
• Fitness studios, workout centers, and walking trails
• Warm and inviting coffee shops, local breweries, and live music
• State parks, lakes, and other recreational possibilities within minutes

In short, we get to live in a place where daily life is marked by convenience and charm—and where weekends are well worth looking forward to enjoying.

5. Bottom Line: We’ve Pretty Much Got It All

Whether relocating for a job, a lifestyle shift, closeness to grandkids, or just a fresh start, those who choose to make Eastern Middle Tennessee home quickly discover an unbeatable blend of access, affordability, and authenticity. It's no wonder so many families, professionals, and retirees are making the move to our beautiful part of the Volunteer State.

**Keep an eye out for next week’s post, Part 2: “A Wise Move Financially,” where we’ll zoom in on some of the many reasons why buying a home in our area is not just beneficial in the short term, but also a wise investment over the long haul.**

About EMTAR: Chartered in 1969, our Association’s 1,200+ REALTORS^® are a proud part of the 36,000+ members of Tennessee REALTORS^® and of the 1.5 million+ members of NAR, all working to serve the public and protect the rights of America’s property owners. EMTAR members are known not only for their unmatched real estate excellence and high ethical standards, but also for being generous, hospitable, others-focused, loyal, hardworking, and eager to help wherever and whenever help is needed.