Knoxville, Tennessee is a vibrant city that combines rich historical roots with a lively modern flair. Nestled between the beautiful
Tennessee River and the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers an irresistible blend of natural beauty and urban excitement that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
One of Knoxville's greatest assets is its unique culture and community spirit. The city is renowned for its friendly locals who take pride in their hometown, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for newcomers. Knoxville also boasts a thriving arts scene, with museums, theaters, and galleries that rival those of larger metropolitan areas. Events like Big Ears Festival and the Dogwood Arts Festival showcase the city's creative heartbeat and bring the community together in celebration.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise in Knoxville. With more than 86 parks and an abundance of hiking and biking trails, including those in the Ijams Nature Center, residents can easily engage with nature. The city's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park means breathtaking weekend getaways are just a short drive away.
Knoxville's culinary scene is another delight for residents. The city's array of restaurants offer everything from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative farm-to-table creations, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience.
Affordable living, coupled with a thriving economy supported by...
Discover the Charm and Warmth of Living
Discover the Charm and Warmth of Living in Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee is a vibrant city that combines rich historical roots with a lively modern flair. Nestled between the beautiful Tennessee River and the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers an irresistible blend of natural beauty and urban excitement that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
One of Knoxville's greatest assets is its unique culture and community spirit. The city is renowned for its friendly locals who take pride in their hometown, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for newcomers. Knoxville also boasts a thriving arts scene, with museums, theaters, and galleries that rival those of larger metropolitan areas. Events like Big Ears Festival and the Dogwood Arts Festival showcase the city's creative heartbeat and bring the community together in celebration.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise in Knoxville. With more than 86 parks and an abundance of hiking and biking trails, including those in the Ijams Nature Center, residents can easily engage with nature. The city's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park means breathtaking weekend getaways are just a short drive away.
Knoxville's culinary scene is another delight for residents. The city's array of restaurants offer everything from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative farm-to-table creations, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience.
Affordable living, coupled with a thriving economy supported by industries like education, technology, and healthcare, make Knoxville an exceptional place to live and grow. Whether enjoying a University of Tennessee Volunteers game or exploring Market Square's quaint shops and eateries, life in Knoxville is a perfect blend of opportunity, leisure, and community.
The Real Cost of Maintaining a Lake House in East Tennessee
Lake homes offer a unique combination of scenic views and recreational access, but they also carry maintenance requirements that can be more involved than those associated with standard residential properties. In East Tennessee, where lakes such as Fort Loudoun, Norris, and Watts Bar draw year-round
interest, understanding the practical and financial demands of lakefront ownership is essential for prospective buyers.Routine home maintenance is only the starting point. Lake properties must also account for the effects of constant moisture, temperature variation, and shoreline exposure. Wood
6 | HelloKnoxville, Tennessee • Winter Issue
The Real Cost of Maintaining a Lake House in East Tennessee
Lake homes offer a unique combination of scenic views and recreational access, but they also carry maintenance requirements that can be more involved than those associated with standard residential properties. In East Tennessee, where lakes such as Fort Loudoun, Norris, and Watts Bar draw year-round interest, understanding the practical and financial demands of lakefront ownership is essential for prospective buyers. Routine home maintenance is only the starting point. Lake properties must also account for the effects of constant moisture, temperature variation, and shoreline exposure. Wood structures—such as decks, docks, and boathouses—are particularly vulnerable to weathering and may require annual treatment or replacement every several years. Additionally, shoreline erosion can threaten both safety and property value, necessitating the use of riprap, retaining walls, or other stabilization methods, often with TVA oversight or permitting requirements. Lakefront homeowners must prepare for recurring maintenance costs that go beyond typical residential upkeep. Moisture-related issues inside the home are also common. Crawlspaces and basements are susceptible to humidity and mold, particularly in properties built close to the waterline. High-efficiency HVAC systems with dehumidifiers, regular pest control, and moisture barriers may be necessary to maintain indoor air quality and prevent structural degradation. Docks, whether floating or fixed, present another layer of expense. These must be inspected regularly for wear, flotation integrity, and electrical safety. In some cases, dock permits must be renewed periodically through TVA, and fees or inspections may be involved, depending on the lake. Buyers should also budget for seasonal tasks such as winterizing plumbing systems if the home is not used year-round, servicing watercraft, and managing storm runoff. Insurance coverage may need to include provisions for water damage, dock liability, and higher premiums if the property is located in a flood-prone area. Ultimately, the enjoyment of a lakefront home is enhanced by proactive stewardship. Understanding these costs in advance—by speaking with local contractors, dock builders, and real estate professionals—can help owners plan responsibly and avoid unforeseen expenses.
Billy Houston
structures—such as decks, docks, and boathouses—are particularly vulnerable to weathering and may require annual treatment or replacement every several years. Additionally, shoreline erosion can threaten both safety and property value, necessitating the use of riprap, retaining walls, or other stabilization methods,
often with TVA oversight or permitting requirements.Lakefront homeowners must prepare for recurring maintenance costs that go beyond typical residential upkeep.Moisture-related issues inside the home are also common. Crawlspaces and basements are susceptible to humidity and mold, particularly in properties built close to the waterline. High-efficiency HVAC systems with dehumidifiers, regular pest control, and moisture barriers may be necessary to maintain indoor air quality and prevent structural degradation.Docks, whether floating or fixed, present another layer of expense. These must be inspected regularly for wear,...
Lakefront homeowners must prepare for recurring maintenance costs that go beyond typical residential upkeep.
About the Author
Billy Houston, owner of the Billy Houston Group at Realty Executives, brings over 30 years of financial expertise to real estate. With a background in banking and education finance, he’s dedicated to helping clients achieve their dreams—whether buying a home, investing in property, or launching a business venture.
HelloKnoxville, Tennessee • Winter Issue |7
FEATURED STORY
Transforming Spaces with the Right Flooring Choices
by David Hayes
The flooring in a room does more than provide a surface to walk on—it sets the tone for the entire space, influencing both aesthetics and functionality. Whether creating a cozy retreat or a sleek, modern environment, the right flooring choice can make all the difference.Soft and inviting, carpet brings warmth and comfort to any room. Its plush texture absorbs sound, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and living spaces where relaxation is key. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures, carpet allows homeowners to personalize their
8 | HelloKnoxville, Tennessee • Winter Issue
David Hayes
ABOUT THE AUTHOR David Hayes is the owner of David’s Abbey Carpet and Floors. He has been serving the East Tennessee area since 1973. Through the help of his talented team, David always guarantees that each customer leaves satisfied.
interiors effortlessly. Additionally, its natural insulating properties help retain heat, reducing energy costs while enhancing overall comfort.For those seeking timeless elegance, hardwood flooring is a classic option that adds sophistication and value to a home. Its durability makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, seamlessly connecting different spaces while offering an easy-to-maintain surface. The natural grain and rich tones of hardwood create an inviting ambiance that never goes out of style.Tile flooring, on the other hand, provides a stylish and practical solution,
Hello Knoxville, Tennessee • Winter Issue |9
Transforming Spaces with the Right Flooring Choices
The flooring in a room does more than provide a surface to walk on—it sets the tone for the entire space, influencing both aesthetics and functionality. Whether creating a cozy retreat or a sleek, modern environment, the right flooring choice can make all the difference. Soft and inviting, carpet brings warmth and comfort to any room. Its plush texture absorbs sound, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and living spaces where relaxation is key. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures, carpet allows homeowners to personalize their interiors effortlessly. Additionally, its natural insulating properties help retain heat, reducing energy costs while enhancing overall comfort. For those seeking timeless elegance, hardwood flooring is a classic option that adds sophistication and value to a home. Its durability makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, seamlessly connecting different spaces while offering an easy-to-maintain surface. The natural grain and rich tones of hardwood create an inviting ambiance that never goes out of style. Tile flooring, on the other hand, provides a stylish and practical solution, particularly in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. With a variety of options, from classic ceramic to luxurious porcelain, tile offers both beauty and resilience. Its water-resistant nature ensures long-lasting durability while allowing for endless design possibilities. When selecting flooring, it's important to balance aesthetics with practicality. The right choice can enhance a home’s functionality while creating an inviting and stylish atmosphere. By carefully considering materials, homeowners can transform their living spaces into personalized havens of comfort and design.
Did you know thatcarpeting can act asa naturalinsulator, helpingto reduce energycosts byretaining heat ina room?
particularly in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. With a variety of options, from classic ceramic to luxurious porcelain, tile offers both beauty and resilience. Its water-resistant nature ensures long-lasting durability while allowing for endless design possibilities.When selecting flooring, it's important to balance aesthetics with practicality. The right choice can enhance a home’s functionality while creating an inviting and stylish atmosphere. By carefully...
