Every trip we take is an opportunity to explore somewhere to retire. Earlier this month we spent a little over a week in the North Carolina mountains, up near the Tennessee border.  There are beautiful little towns, Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Newland and if you go an 1- 1/2 to 2 hours you will find  Asheville, NC and Knoxville, TN.

To be honest this was our 8th trip to this area, staying with dear friends that are kind enough to host us and our three pups. With two dogs of their own it makes for a rowdy time and never a dull moment.  No hotel room escapees this trip but 5 dogs running amok in the mountains is not for the faint of heart.

Paul was able to golf three times at the Mountain Glen Golf Course and he just loved it.  The greens were groomed and in great shape.  I think all the rain makes them lush and inviting.

While the boys were golfing, the ladies went out to do some shopping in Blowing Rock. The weather was in the low 70’s and sunny.  You really couldn’t ask for a better day, good food, friends and shopping!

While we were in the area we checked out the local real estate.  The homes in the Mountain Glen area ranged from the low $200’s to as high as $1Mil.  You can get a beautiful home with a mountain and golf views in the low $300’s.  The property taxes are low but NC does have a state income tax.  From my research, if you live in the state less than 183 days and earn your money out of state then you aren’t required to file in NC.  Of course it is always wise to consult a local tax attorney or real estate professional for guidance.

I don’t think I could talk about this trip without mentioning a great restaurant we visited in Banner Elk.  It is called Sorrento’s but upstairs they have a little more formal atmosphere at The Chef’s Table.  What a wonderful experience, the wine was good and reasonably priced.  The food was tasty and you could order from either of their menus.  What made the night so special was the fantastic musician, he played the guitar and sang a variety of songs that everyone in the restaurant stayed late to enjoy.  If you are ever in the area, take a look at these lovely mountain towns, who knows this might be the place!

Dogs Freedom Happiness Healthy Living Nature Real estate Retirement Dogs food golf hiking Nature Retirement travel trees