RFI: Moving to the Mountains of NC/VA

[Tensaw]

I am currently a redneck, but I aspire to become a hillbilly... I have lived my entire life on the coast of Alabama/Mississippi. I plan to retire within the next five years or so and me and the wife are looking to move to the mountains. Specifically, we are researching the western ends of North Carolina and Virginia (although eastern Tennessee is in the running as well). This next thing might sound a little silly, but it is true. We are both tired of the day in/day out heat and humidity of living in the deep South and are looking to escape that to some degree. That said, we are not inclined to move to a place where winter is overly long or harsh (we briefly considered Montana/Wyoming/Idaho, but dismissed that due to the winters).

We have been looking at properties online and have a bunch bookmarked. We are also taking a week next month to go check out some areas and some of these properties. A few of the criteria we have set are, looking for some elevation, nice views, privacy, outdoor sports/things to do, and just a nice place to live. Definitely leaning more rural than in-town, but we also have the elderly in-laws coming with us, so reasonable access to medical care is a consideration. More specifically, I *think* we would like to be situated in, or adjacent to, a national forest if possible.

With all that in mind, I understand I am in a state of not knowing what I don't know about living at elevation in these areas. I am wide open to any input anyone has with regard to snakes in the woodpile or just pro tips for moving to any of the areas. Things like restrictions or considerations that might come with owning property inside a national forest. Things to consider when buying a house on the side of a mountain. Areas to avoid. Areas to look into. Places where people might tend toward being clannish; or places where folks are pretty friendly. Some of the places that look good on paper are Bryson City, Little Switzerland, Bakersville, Banner Elk, Grayson/Laurel Bloomery, Bland, Narrows, and Vesuvius. Basically the I-80 corridor (more or less) up to the top of Virginia.

We are not in a hurry to do this and want to get this right. We have a decent, but not crazy, budget to work with. We plan on taking some trips through these areas during the coldest, and hottest, parts of the year to get a feel for what that is like. I know this whole post/RFI rambles a little, but that sort makes the point that, again, I am open to hearing anything anyone has as far as finding a good location to settle down in. I am *really* looking forward to retirement and would like to get this right. Thanks in advance.

[RJ]

Paging blues

I spent 4 days recently in Watauga County (Blowing Rock / Boone) just visiting the area. I’ll post some thoughts later today but it was just a quick trip for a family reunion.

[HeavyDuty]

Watching with interest. My horizon is a little further out, and I’m trying to look at areas I hadn’t considered.

[Rex G]

I have noticed an increasing amount of interest in “the mountains of NC,” for the past several years. So, if buying, buy a big-enough piece of land, so it will still feel remote when the area gets loved to death by other like-minded folks. If there is a nice view that is dependent upon that hillside/mountainside remaining undeveloped, buy the whole hillside/mountainside, to the top.

Actually, this principal applies just about everywhere. We live on flat Gulf Coastal prairie, but our neighborhood is being changed by folks who knock-down the bungalows, and build McMansions, surrounded by high fences. We are about to lose our morning sun, and have to live with a view of an eight or ten feet of solid fence. The plants that attract the butterflies and hummingbirds, along the east side of our house, are going to fail to thrive, or die, if we do not move them. We are wondering whether to knock-down our bungalow, and build a modest multi-story house, or move to, well, somewhere like the mountains of NC or TN. ;)

ETA: Take a look at the entire tax situation, and chose the state that is best for your individual situation. A few years ago, I drove to Piedmont, AL, to pick up a Bloodhound, from a lady who was downsizing her dog operation, after a move to AL, from FL, for tax reasons. (She had retired, and was also retiring from canine SAR volunteer work.) If I recall correctly, she and her husband carefully considered several states in the region, and chose to move to the mountains of northern AL.

[blues]

Some of the places that look good on paper are Bryson City, Little Switzerland, Bakersville, Banner Elk, Grayson/Laurel Bloomery, Bland, Narrows, and Vesuvius. Basically the I-80 corridor (more or less) up to the top of Virginia.

We are not in a hurry to do this and want to get this right. We have a decent, but not crazy, budget to work with. We plan on taking some trips through these areas during the coldest, and hottest, parts of the year to get a feel for what that is like. I know this whole post/RFI rambles a little, but that sort makes the point that, again, I am open to hearing anything anyone has as far as finding a good location to settle down in. I am *really* looking forward to retirement and would like to get this right. Thanks in advance.

You've got the right idea. You need to visit the areas and get a feel for the culture, the weather, the seasons.

For example, for several years before moving to NC we'd come up on motorcycling / hiking trips primarily in the Smokies.
We stayed in Bryson City many times because we'd use the Deep Creek entrance to hike many of the longer trails in the National Park.

When it came time to start looking for homes, I realized quickly that Bryson City, as great as it was for access to hiking and water sports, was a pretty dead town for restaurants, social activity and shopping. Not wanting to handle retirement, a new home and cause my wife to file for divorce all in short order, I rethought the process and we looked at small town living elsewhere.

We settled into a home a few miles outside of a nice small town which had the amenities that Bryson City didn't have. A small college, nice library, music festivals, pubs, restaurants, nearby access to national and state forests, waterfalls, as well as reasonable cost of living, health care etc.

4WD comes in handy on steep, windy roads which may include gravel, mud, clay etc.

Winters aren't too bad, depending on elevation. We're at about 2500'. The higher elevations will be colder and get more snow in winter than we do. Some years we get none...some we get a few feet.

We're also in a rainy part of the state, as much of western NC tends to be.

If you find the right spot, I don't doubt you'll find it a good place to live.

[blues]

We are wondering whether to knock-down our bungalow, and build a modest multi-story house, or move to, well, somewhere like the mountains of NC or TN. ;)

C'mon up, Rex. We'd love to have ya. :cool:

[RevolverRob]

We settled into a home a few miles outside of a nice small town which had the amenities that Bryson City didn't have. A small college.

Yea? Are they hiring? Because I'd stab someone for a job near mountains and a place where I could have 5-10 acres of paradise.

I'm not sure about the neighbors though. :D

[Mntneer357]

I'm proud to say I spent 4 years getting an education in the area. Appalachian State University, class of '97.

Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, Seven Devils, Foscoe and West Jefferson are all places worth looking at, depending on your tastes and desired budget. Truly beautiful country up there. And, if need be, an easy drive down 421 puts you right in Winston-Salem if you need "big city" stuff, for whatever reason.

Vehicles with 4WD or all-wheel drive (specifically Subarus) are common. There's a reason for that.

Good luck in your hunt. Good people up there.

[blues]

Yea? Are they hiring? Because I'd stab someone for a job near mountains and a place where I could have 5-10 acres of paradise.

I'm not sure about the neighbors though. :D


Not sure you can put up with them or they with you? ;)

I'll shoot you a PM.

[Sensei]

Yea? Are they hiring? Because I'd stab someone for a job near mountains and a place where I could have 5-10 acres of paradise.

I'm not sure about the neighbors though. :D

App State in Boone and UNC Asheville are two options. My institution provides staffing at several hospitals in Boone and greater Asheville. All of my partners working at those sites love both areas although they are different. Asheville is a lot more granola.

[HeavyDuty]

I have noticed an increasing amount of interest in “the mountains of NC,” for the past several years. So, if buying, buy a big-enough piece of land, so it will still feel remote when the area gets loved to death by other like-minded folks. If there is a nice view that is dependent upon that hillside/mountainside remaining undeveloped, buy the whole hillside/mountainside, to the top.

Actually, this principal applies just about everywhere. We live on flat Gulf Coastal prairie, but our neighborhood is being changed by folks who knock-down the bungalows, and build McMansions, surrounded by high fences. We are about to lose our morning sun, and have to live with a view of an eight or ten feet of solid fence. The plants that attract the butterflies and hummingbirds, along the east side of our house, are going to fail to thrive, or die, if we do not move them. We are wondering whether to knock-down our bungalow, and build a modest multi-story house, or move to, well, somewhere like the mountains of NC or TN. ;)

ETA: Take a look at the entire tax situation, and chose the state that is best for your individual situation. A few years ago, I drove to Piedmont, AL, to pick up a Bloodhound, from a lady who was downsizing her dog operation, after a move to AL, from FL, for tax reasons. (She had retired, and was also retiring from canine SAR volunteer work.) If I recall correctly, she and her husband carefully considered several states in the region, and chose to move to the mountains of northern AL.

I’m such a Philistine - I had no idea AL had mountains.

[mtnbkr]

I'm proud to say I spent 4 years getting an education in the area. Appalachian State University, class of '97.

Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, Seven Devils, Foscoe and West Jefferson are all places worth looking at, depending on your tastes and desired budget. Truly beautiful country up there. And, if need be, an easy drive down 421 puts you right in Winston-Salem if you need "big city" stuff, for whatever reason.

Vehicles with 4WD or all-wheel drive (specifically Subarus) are common. There's a reason for that.

Good luck in your hunt. Good people up there.

Appalachian State was on my shortlist of colleges (ended up going to Campbell for their 5yr BBA+MBA program). I would have been two years ahead of you. While going to school in NC, I made a few trips to Western NC for mountain biking outsie of Brevard.

Chris

[RevolverRob]

Not sure you can put up with them or they with you? ;)

I'll shoot you a PM.

Definitely the latter.

Alas, they aren't hiring currently, but you never know if something will open up.


App State in Boone and UNC Asheville are two options. My institution provides staffing at several hospitals in Boone and greater Asheville. All of my partners working at those sites love both areas although they are different. Asheville is a lot more granola.

Appalachian State is a great place, but alas already has several good folks doing similar things to me there.

UNC Asheville just put out a search last year for someone doing kind of what I do. So, I probably won't get a chance there in a reasonable time-frame. Though, you never know.

I run a weekly search for all jobs in biology/geology across the nation. Plus monitor three or four other sights where jobs and postdocs are posted regularly.

But none of this has anything to do with moving to the mountains of NC, except for my personal desire to move to the mountains of NC (or Kentucky, or Alabama, or Tennessee...or anywhere south of the Mason-Dixon), given the opportunity.

[blues]

RevolverRob Have a look at WCU (https://www.wcu.edu/) and see if that might be a fit.

From the picture that pops up it looks like they might be able to use a bit of, um, diversity. ;)

Seriously, though, most people seem to have had a good experience there from the bit that I hear.

[RevolverRob]

RevolverRob Have a look at WCU (https://www.wcu.edu/) and see if that might be a fit.

From the picture that pops up it looks like they might be able to use a bit of, um, diversity. ;)

Seriously, though, most people seem to have had a good experience there from the bit that I hear.

I looked and they have a job open in zoology, alas it's invert not vert zoology, so I won't be applying. But in the job advert is something that drives me batshit insane...


Minimum Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in an appropriate field, postdoctoral experience or its equivalent, teaching experience at the undergraduate level, and a record of scholarly productivity with the expectation of continued scholarship at a primarily undergraduate university. ABD considered.

Bolded are two contradictory statements. One cannot simultaneously be ABD ('All But Dissertation'; in other words virtually finished with a PhD but it is not yet turned in or in some cases defended, but it merely 'academic' to finish) and have postdoctoral experience or its equivalent. By definition ABD means PRE-Doctorate, Postdoctoral Experience means POST-Doctorate. :rolleyes:

I could go on a whole, very long, rant about how often I see contradictory crap in job adverts. It's hard enough to read between the lines on job postings, let alone try to figure out which part of the contradictory statements you should interpret as correct. Incomplete adverts, vague adverts, adverts with conflicting dates, conflicting contact information, etc. I've seen most of it by now.

[blues]

RevolverRob Here's my last try, Rob...

Warren Wilson College (https://www.warren-wilson.edu/)

[Tensaw]

ETA: Take a look at the entire tax situation, and chose the state that is best for your individual situation. A few years ago, I drove to Piedmont, AL, to pick up a Bloodhound, from a lady who was downsizing her dog operation, after a move to AL, from FL, for tax reasons. (She had retired, and was also retiring from canine SAR volunteer work.) If I recall correctly, she and her husband carefully considered several states in the region, and chose to move to the mountains of northern AL.

If I can be allowed to take my own thread OT for just a second... Piedmont is a nice little town. The trail head of the Chief Ladiga Trail (http://silvercometmap.com/chief-ladiga-trail-map/) is there. The CLT turned out to be a great escape valve for a hike on the Pinhoti that got a little spicy. Everyone we encountered there was pretty cool. As for the "mountains of northern AL", I have had some experience up there. Me and some guys from my church spent a few days on Sand Mountain and thereabouts after tornadoes raked our state a few years back. I was a little taken aback when our contact up there told me in very clear terms not to mention that I was federal LE once we got up on the mountain. That all turned out just fine. The folks we were there to help were a little untrusting and stand-offish at first, but after they saw that we just wanted to help out and had no other motives, they were cool. (Although I did avoid mentioning the whole fed thing.) I would think that a place like that might be a little tough to settle in to coming in from the outside.

ETA: Tennesse doesn't have a personal income tax. I would be fine living there, but the properties we have been able to find aren't really checking the boxes.

[Tensaw]

4WD comes in handy on steep, windy roads which may include gravel, mud, clay etc.

Winters aren't too bad, depending on elevation. We're at about 2500'. The higher elevations will be colder and get more snow in winter than we do. Some years we get none...some we get a few feet.

We're also in a rainy part of the state, as much of western NC tends to be.

If you find the right spot, I don't doubt you'll find it a good place to live.

Thanks for that. Those are some useful nuggets right there.

Some of the stuff we are looking at is toward the northwestern part of VA and at about 3500 feet. I would imagine the winters might be a bit more extreme, but hopefully the summers would be more on the mild side.

Does anyone have any comment on the summers/winters in the Franklin/Boone area?

[Tensaw]

Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, Seven Devils, Foscoe and West Jefferson are all places worth looking at, depending on your tastes and desired budget. Truly beautiful country up there. And, if need be, an easy drive down 421 puts you right in Winston-Salem if you need "big city" stuff, for whatever reason.

Vehicles with 4WD or all-wheel drive (specifically Subarus) are common. There's a reason for that.

Boone, Banner Elk, and Blowing Rock have all come up in the search. I will check out the others. Thanks.

[blues]

Thanks for that. Those are some useful nuggets right there.

Some of the stuff we are looking at is toward the northwestern part of VA and at about 3500 feet. I would imagine the winters might be a bit more extreme, but hopefully the summers would be more on the mild side.

Does anyone have any comment on the summers/winters in the Franklin/Boone area?


Franklin and Boone are a ways apart in distance and elevation. Franklin will be milder. Boone colder and snowier.

Franklin is pretty hot and humid during the Summer.

[Tensaw]

Franklin is pretty hot and humid during the Summer.

Aaannnd scratching Franklin off the list.... ;) Seriously, if we are going to uproot our entire lives, we are at least going to work toward a more comfortable clime. At this point, I will trade a little deeper winter for a little cooler summer. Realizing that there is no perfect set-up; but given the heat and humidity I have endured all of my life, I am willing to have it average out.

Hey, so, is deer hunting a thing in VA? What about duck hunting? Southern Alabama is a good ways off the flyway, but we still get some birds coming to visit most winters. And we chase both local and out-of-town wood ducks here which is my favorite. Please tell me that there are huntable woodies in VA/NC.

[mtnbkr]

Hey, so, is deer hunting a thing in VA? What about duck hunting? Southern Alabama is a good ways off the flyway, but we still get some birds coming to visit most winters. And we chase both local and out-of-town wood ducks here which is my favorite. Please tell me that there are huntable woodies in VA/NC.

Lots of huntable public land in VA (national forests and wildlife management areas). Public land deer harvests have been declining these last few years due to increasing coyote and black bear populations, but still remain high on private land. Still, if you're patient and have good skills, hunting on public land is still good.

ETA: What this means is that in a public land deer camp where we'd (3-4 people) have 3-5 deer hanging in trees after a few days, we might have 1 or 2. However, we're getting older and less interested in spending all day up in the woods (I'm the youngest at 45). Deer camp is becoming more social and less hardcore hunting. CWD is becoming a problem too.

I don't duck hunt, so I can't help you there.

Chris

[Tensaw]

Lots of huntable public land in VA (national forests and wildlife management areas). Public land deer harvests have been declining these last few years due to increasing coyote and black bear populations, but still remain high on private land. Still, if you're patient and have good skills, hunting on public land is still good.

ETA: What this means is that in a public land deer camp where we'd (3-4 people) have 3-5 deer hanging in trees after a few days, we might have 1 or 2. However, we're getting older and less interested in spending all day up in the woods (I'm the youngest at 45). Deer camp is becoming more social and less hardcore hunting.

Sounds a bit like Alabama, except our deer population seems to be increasing, not declining. And no bears to speak of here. Thanks.

[mtnbkr]

Sounds a bit like Alabama, except our deer population seems to be increasing, not declining. And no bears to speak of here. Thanks.

I don't know that the deer population is necessarily declining, but they aren't as thick on the ground on public lands. 10 years ago, I would have to shoo them out of my way or could merely set my tree stand up overlooking a well used trail, some rubs, or even a large collection of deer poop at be certain one would walk past my stand if I managed to sit there for a couple hours. These days, you have to do more scouting and sit in your stand or ground blind for longer period of time. This is all on public grounds, the deer seem just as thick on private property, but I don't have hunting access on privately owned land. Just north of us in WV, it seems to be "easier" based on what my friends there report.

As for bears, they've definitely increased. I didn't see a live bear in the wild from the mid 90s until a couple years ago, then started seeing them all the time it feels like. One year, I saw more bears than deer in the local WMA I hunt. My F2F encounters with coyotes have increased, but not to the extent of the bear encounters.

Chris

[nightstalker865]

Stay out of VA. HORRIBLE state. NC and TN are FAR better options. Out of those two I would choose TN. Cheaper cost of living compared to NC.

I’ve lived in all three states and would choose TN again in a heartbeat.


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[Tensaw]

Stay out of VA. HORRIBLE state. NC and TN are FAR better options. Out of those two I would choose TN.


Would you mind elaborating on the issues with VA?

[Tensaw]

Oh, I have two specific questions. First, the majority of houses we are looking at do not have air conditioning; just heating. I am assuming really hot days are few? Down here, A/C is a must have. Any comments on the lack of A/C?

Second, are termites a concern in NC/VA/TN? Was wondering since a lot of what we are looking at has log cabin construction.

[nightstalker865]

Would you mind elaborating on the issues with VA?

TAXES.....TAXES.....TAXES.

Your life will be controlled by NOVA. That’s where the bulk of the population is and it’s pure BLUE.

Trust me, if you want that small city feel, find something up in the tri-cites area in TN and enjoy your life.

I love Western NC as well, but they have much higher taxes than TN.

As for the ac question, I would not live in this area without ac. It’s hot and HUMID during the summer months.


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[mtnbkr]

Stay out of VA. HORRIBLE state. NC and TN are FAR better options. Out of those two I would choose TN. Cheaper cost of living compared to NC.

I’ve lived in all three states and would choose TN again in a heartbeat.


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I've lived in all three as well (was born in NC, lived there till I was 8, went to college there, and travel back regularly to visit family). I have no desire to move back. I could stand living in Western NC, but don't see it significantly different than Western VA or Eastern TN. The rest of the state is purple and turning bluer every year.
I lived in TN for 6 years and have returned as a tourist to the mountains a number of times. I like the state, but at this point in my life, it's too far from my aging parents and inlaws.

I wouldn't call VA horrible per se. The state has 3-4 distinct regions that are totally unlike each other.
SW VA & Shenandoah Valley (mountains): This is the region that would most likely appeal the OP and average PFer. Solidly "red".
Central and SE VA (Richmond and surrounding region): This is the region I'd consider "old Virginia" or the Virginia outside people think of when they think of Virginia. Purple turning bluer.
Northern VA (DC metro area): This is where I live. Mostly blue, overcrowded, and fast paced. I only live here for work and do not intend to remain after retirement (some 20 years away). This is the portion of the state I'd agree is "horrible". :)

Unless I decide to move north to WV, I'll likely try and retire to SW VA or the Shenandoah Valley.

Chris

[41magfan]

Oh, I have two specific questions. First, the majority of houses we are looking at do not have air conditioning; just heating. I am assuming really hot days are few? Down here, A/C is a must have. Any comments on the lack of A/C?

Second, are termites a concern in NC/VA/TN? Was wondering since a lot of what we are looking at has log cabin construction.

If you have the luxury of living high (3,500' minimum) and have decent shading, a lot of folks make do without A/C (or just window units, perhaps) as our summer temps aren't too bad and the hottest part of the day only last a few hours. In this part of the world, it's all determined by altitude. If you want to stay cool in the Summer you gotta get high and there are no towns/cities of any size above 4,000' in NC, so urban living is out.

Termites are a major issue in most parts of the South. Wood boring Carpenter Bees are also a HUGE issue with most wooden structures.

This site may prove helpful in your decision making:

https://www.freedominthe50states.org/

[mtnbkr]

Oh, I have two specific questions. First, the majority of houses we are looking at do not have air conditioning; just heating. I am assuming really hot days are few? Down here, A/C is a must have. Any comments on the lack of A/C?

Second, are termites a concern in NC/VA/TN? Was wondering since a lot of what we are looking at has log cabin construction.

Termites haven't been an issue in my experience, but I'd still take precautions.
AC is a requirement unless you're at significant elevation AND have a house surrounded by trees. Even then, I would personally find it uncomfortable. Across VA it's not uncommon to have 100deg swings in a year (ie 0deg in winter to 100+ in the summer). Mid June through Mid Sept, you'll want AC. I've even seen days above 70deg in November in the mountains. When we moved to SW VA in the late 80s, the real estate agent tried to tell us AC wasn't required even though we were house shopping in the summer and it was hot and humid at the time.

Chris

[blues]

Tensaw, I don't think I could be comfortable here without AC and I'm glad I have it.

My good friend and neighbor, who was born and raised here (and an Appalachian State grad) doesn't have it in his home and he doesn't feel he needs it. (He grows much of his own food and was the former plant manager of the last large industrial concern in the area, so it's not that he couldn't afford it. Just a lifestyle choice.)

We've never had an issue with termites though I do have a Terminix contract. A month or two back my wife came running in off the deck with the dog as a huge swarm of termites was helicoptering by out of the woods.

I had the Terminix guy out as a precaution. Though most continued flitting along on their way, enough landed on the deck and grounds (and died) that I wasn't going to take a chance.

The cost of living in western NC is very reasonable imho. Property tax, insurance etc are much cheaper than where I've lived before. Temper this with the knowledge that I've lived in NYC and South FL previously.

[farscott]

Another option is northeast Alabama or northwest Georgia. It is much less humid than the coast and has some decent hills with great views. The nearest university towns with decent medical and social would be Huntsville, AL, Knoxville, TN, and Rome, GA.

[RJ]

Bump with a few questions. Mrs. RJ and I have made the decision to retire (for good this time) 1 May. We did the whole RV thing, but this summer, to escape the heat in Tampa in August, we might just travel. We are contemplating a long-term (perhaps AirBnB) stay in the western NC mountains. Specifically The Boss has located some properties in Banner Elk.

I've had a look at the area online, and we've actually been up in that region in 2018 (family reunion in Boone) briefly, and have quite positive memories. Anyone local know if there are any good USPSA options? Local Clubs? How about indoor or outdoor ranges?

I did a search on uspsa.org and located this club in Asheville:

http://www.ashevillepracticalshooting.com/

For an indoor range, this popped up, but appears to be over in Hampton TN:

http://www.barnettsguns.com/

Any local info appreciated.

[TGS]

TC215

[TC215]

I’ve not been to Barnett’s, but I’ve heard good things about it. I called up there once and they seemed like real nice guys.

Hampton is a very small, rural area, but it’s not a very long long drive from Banner Elk.

[BN]

There used to be a good IDPA club in Boone. They held several state matches. We went one time. It was well run.

[wadavis]

Great IDPA in Boone and Wilkesboro.
Nice people.

[MD7305]

Barnett's is a pretty nice shop. They have a good selection of merchandise, staff is helpful, and the indoor range is nice. They do require you to use their ammo on the range. This is due to their previous range getting burnt to the ground after some guy was shooting tracers. Prices are kinda high, in my opinion.
There's also the Watauga Gun Club in Boone, NC and Unaka Gun Club in Johnson City, TN. There are other clubs in the area but those are the closest that I know of.
I'm in Bristol, TN if you have any questions about that area. Goodluck finding a place.

[Tensaw]

Huh. I guess I never posted an update to this thread. Well, as a small PSA to RJ et. al., Here’s what I got.

So, almost exactly a year ago, we pulled the trigger on a place in SW Virginia located about 30 minutes west of the town of Independence. Found a place with some acreage comprised of wide open pasture (that used to be an apple orchard many years ago), some wooded hills, and most importantly to my wife, a legit creek. The area is fairly isolated. I can see a few other houses in the distance if I get in the right place, but they are a pretty good ways over yonder.

Upthread, someone said that most PFers would mesh best in SW VA or the Shenandoah Valley area. Well, so far, that has been correct. I have very much had good experiences with the other humans I’ve interacted with - even in the big city of Blacksburg. This has been an especially gratifying aspect of the whole experience. I’m sure I will come across an a-hole before it is over with, but as it presently sits, I am pretty stoked about the values held by those around me there. I had concerns about fitting in with the locals, but so far, they have been nothing but fantastic.

The climate aspect has been...interesting. For sure, we accomplished the goal of fleeing the heat and humidity. It is still pretty chilly there in the morning and evenings. Last summer - probably July or August, I had been running the mower in the middle of the day, full sun, and realized I wasn’t really sweating very much at all. It was very pleasant even in the full sun. This house has no AC. There was about one week where, during the evenings having AC would have made sleep more comfortable. Heh, the locals bitched all summer about it being an unusually hot summer. To me, it felt like a dream. There is a window unit in the great room, so if we have that issue again, we might just sleep down there until it cools off. The fuel oil heater (a Monitor brand) took a dump when I went to fire it up this winter. I will need to repair or replace it. Parts are tough to come by though. We replaced a propane heater (faux wood stove) with a Jotul 600. This thing tore the wallet off my be-hind, but has totally been worth it. The 600, located in the far end of the 2,500 sf house, easily heats 2/3rds of the downstairs and almost all of the upstairs. That thing was a lifesaver this winter. So, getting back to the climate - it has been great. It takes some adjusting to get used to the cold/cool - but that is what we were shooting for. I will say that I was up there in January during a cold snap. I was in the shop working on some project and was wearing both nitrile gloves and leather work gloves for warmth, but I had to stop a couple of time and go inside so I could get some feeling back in my fingers. It was *cold*! All that said, we love sitting on the porch drinking coffee in the morning, and also sitting there at sundown. It is pretty nice.

Last week, a line of storms came through and apparently dumped a ton of rain on some mountains somewhere. My wife (who is there avoiding the covid at present) took the dogs out before daylight. She could hear a roar, but didn’t know exactly what it was. Yeah, that was the creek out of the banks ripping through the driveway and front yard. Locals have commented that this was a 100-year flood event. I sure hope so. We lost 30 feet of yard where the creek makes a hard 90 (or gained 30 feet of creek depending on how you want to look at it).

Speaking of covid, this county continues to have zero confirmed cases of covid-19. An older couple up the hill from us, came in from Virginia Beach to ride the covid thing out as well. So there’s that. Of course, the nearest decent hospital is easily an hour away with mountain roads between us and it.

Also mentioned upthread is the notion that NOVA drives the politics in VA. So, I knew that going into this - but I will admit I did not see the whole gun control thing coming. That has been the one blemish on the whole move. And it is not insignificant. That said, I have been heartened by the response of my fellow Virginians and at least with respect to that, feel validated in that I at least gauged all that correctly. I have adopted the position that one can only hide from these sorts of politics for so long and so I am not going to let that sour me. I will probably end up being more politically involved than I would like to be in retirement, but whatever. I will note for the record that my county Sheriff, *The* Sheriff, went to the Richmond rally, in uniform, marched in the street, with a sign, and was interviewed on TV. During the interview, he basically told Northam to stick his legislation where the sun don’t shine. Let’s just say I am looking for an opportunity to shake his hand and he definitely has my vote.

One thing I was surprised to observe in the year or so of looking for a place is how much each state has a pretty distinct vibe, or gestalt. NC is different from VA which is different from W. VA. Now that I have the place in VA, I frequently drive through NC when traveling to/from my current residence. The other (arguably more direct) route is through TN. (The trip down I-80/75 in TN is pretty consistently a shit show.) Driving through each state only further cements the whole vibe thing. VA is just a better fit for us (no offense NC/Blues).

It’s still early, but I am liking the call we made. I’m still living full time in coastal Alabama. I have longer than I would like between now and retirement, but I got to work to pay off the place in VA. Currently, I live vicariously through my ARLO cameras on the property (it a pretty great system) and I go to VA as often as I can tolerate the drive. I am super-stoked to be edging toward being able to live there full time.

So there it is guys. SW Virginia for the win! :)

[Borderland]

Don't forget WV. I'm familiar with the Bluefield area. I-81 is fairly close and Roanoke has a decent airport. My mom lived there for many years and I visited her often. They had rec property on Claytor Lake. Many are leaving the metro areas of DC, Atlanta and Charlotte to become the new hill people, so your time is probably running out.

[RJ]

Thanks all, very interesting.

We’re going to reserve something for August near Banner Elk NC. We may also swing through the area in June on the way to or from while we are visiting family in Jacksonville NC.

Appreciate the info.

[Grey]

Feel like we need to get a bunch of PF folks to move to NC and keep the state from going full blue...

NC is still on my radar for places to go... someday...

[blues]

Feel like we need to get a bunch of PF folks to move to NC and keep the state from going full blue...

NC is still on my radar for places to go... someday...

We will only accept properly vetted site supporters. And not necessarily all of 'em. SouthNarc is in charge of vetting. That is all.

(He needs to get out of MS from time to time.)

[Grey]

We will only accept properly vetted site supporters. And not necessarily all of 'em. SouthNarc is in charge of vetting. That is all.

(He needs to get out of MS from time to time.)[emoji33]. I will submit my application for consideration when the time comes.

Sent from my SM-G950U1 using Tapatalk

[trailrunner]

Feel like we need to get a bunch of PF folks to move to NC and keep the state from going full blue...

NC is still on my radar for places to go... someday...

A while ago we were considering retiring in NC. But then both of my daughters bought houses in northern VA, and now both are expecting their first children this year, so I have been told that we are not going to move that far away. Yes ma'am.

[Grey]

A while ago we were considering retiring in NC. But then both of my daughters bought houses in northern VA, and now both are expecting their first children this year, so I have been told that we are not going to move that far away. Yes ma'am.

HAHAHA, that will shut it down quick.

[41magfan]

Feel like we need to get a bunch of PF folks to move to NC and keep the state from going full blue...

NC is still on my radar for places to go... someday...

I'd keep looking as the trajectory of the politics is not looking too good for us Tarheels. I've been back here since '77 and I don't like what I've seen. Like VA and so many other states, our politics is largely being driven by the population centers and it's been steadily going downhill for some time now.

I'd like to live somewhere else to be quite honest, but family ties will keep me here in the short-term.

[GJM]

I haven’t read all the posts in this thread, but why would anyone move to VA and be subject to their politics?

[RJ]

Hey, follow up question; to save me the time to confirm these all individually, are the states below generally good to go from a out-of-state (FL) CCW point of view?

- VA?
- NC?
- TN?
- GA?
- WV?
- KY?

I "think" based on usacarry.com, that my Florida Concealed Weapon / Firearm License is valid in all those, but was just wondering if there was some locality or area that might not honor it in the region, for whatever reason. I know MD will not, but I don't have any plans to travel to MD in the future. Thanks!

[Tackleberry40sw]

Hey, follow up question; to save me the time to confirm these all individually, are the states below generally good to go from a out-of-state (FL) CCW point of view?

- VA?
- NC?
- TN?
- GA?
- WV?
- KY?

I "think" based on usacarry.com, that my Florida Concealed Weapon / Firearm License is valid in all those, but was just wondering if there was some locality or area that might not honor it in the region, for whatever reason. I know MD will not, but I don't have any plans to travel to MD in the future. Thanks!

Georgia honors Florida's permit. For further reference, check www.georgiacarry.org

[mmc45414]

Hey, follow up question; to save me the time to confirm these all individually, are the states below generally good to go from a out-of-state (FL) CCW point of view?

I have found this to be helpful in my travels:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ryan.ccw

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[flyrodr]

Rich,

NC has reciprocity with FL. You're good to go here:

https://ncdoj.gov/law-enforcement-training/law-enforcement-liason/concealed-weapon-reciprocity/

[BN]

https://handgunlaw.us/states/USStatesThatHonorMyPermit.pdf

https://handgunlaw.us/

[Duces Tecum]

For folks considering an (optional) move things like temperature range, annual rainfall, number of sunny days, etc might be a consideration. Given that various plants thrive within different climate zones, this interactive map might be useful.

https://garden.org/nga/zipzone/2012/


(https://gilmour.com/planting-zones-hardiness-map)

[RJ]

Need some local Western NC info: How are things in the area (say, Boone, NC) with regard to local travel/COVID?

Due to a change of plans, we cancelled our August stay in Banner Elk. But we’d still like to swing through the area for 5-7 days in mid to late June.

Are hotels and restaurants generally functioning? We aren’t expecting tourist venues to be open. It’s just we have family near Jacksonville NC and may opt to scoot West in connection with a short family visit.

Thanks.

[RoyGBiv]

Need some local Western NC info: How are things in the area (say, Boone, NC) with regard to local travel/COVID?

Due to a change of plans, we cancelled our August stay in Banner Elk. But we’d still like to swing through the area for 5-7 days in mid to late June.

Are hotels and restaurants generally functioning? We aren’t expecting tourist venues to be open. It’s just we have family near Jacksonville NC and may opt to scoot West in connection with a short family visit.

Thanks.
Interested in this answer as well...

[41magfan]

Need some local Western NC info: How are things in the area (say, Boone, NC) with regard to local travel/COVID?

Due to a change of plans, we cancelled our August stay in Banner Elk. But we’d still like to swing through the area for 5-7 days in mid to late June.

Are hotels and restaurants generally functioning? We aren’t expecting tourist venues to be open. It’s just we have family near Jacksonville NC and may opt to scoot West in connection with a short family visit.

Thanks.

With regard to Boone:

https://www.journalnow.com/news/local/judge-stops-boone-from-limiting-visitor-access-to-businesses/article_65e6674e-d334-5cd7-b12d-5924958d871f.html

Ironically, some of the mountain counties (most of which are VERY conservative) have leaned pretty far left in their responses to this Covid debacle.

[ccmdfd]

Ironically, some of the mountain counties (most of which are VERY conservative) have leaned pretty far left in their responses to this Covid debacle.

I live in a very conservative area of the state down at the coast. I've seen similar policies down here, and don't think they are so much as left-leaning, but rather local businesses for locals, not tourists.

Some of the beaches down here opened up quite some time ago, but they pretty much made it so that only their hometown folks could go. They did this by allowing the beaches to be open but not allowing any parking on the island for out-of-towners.

[RJ]

With regard to Boone:

https://www.journalnow.com/news/local/judge-stops-boone-from-limiting-visitor-access-to-businesses/article_65e6674e-d334-5cd7-b12d-5924958d871f.html

Ironically, some of the mountain counties (most of which are VERY conservative) have leaned pretty far left in their responses to this Covid debacle.

Thanks. We’ll plan accordingly.

Right now looking at Myrtle Beach SC

[ccmdfd]

Thanks. We’ll plan accordingly.

Right now looking at Myrtle Beach SC

Just be careful and look out for man o wars.

https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/several-sightings-portuguese-man-o-war-reported-near-myrtle-beach/NJOWFYXABBGQVDZ3AYKNO3H5DI/

[Borderland]

Just be careful and look out for man o wars.

https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/several-sightings-portuguese-man-o-war-reported-near-myrtle-beach/NJOWFYXABBGQVDZ3AYKNO3H5DI/

I've seen those on the beach in FL (Pensacola). Tentacles about 15'. That would seriously F up your entire day. Jelly Fish aren't much fun either.

[ccmdfd]

I've seen those on the beach in FL (Pensacola). Tentacles about 15'. That would seriously F up your entire day. Jelly Fish aren't much fun either.

Yeah, when we were kids my brother and one of my cousins were stung (separate incidents) with smallish man o wars here in SE NC. They were quite unpleasant experiences.