2010 HOUSING FACTSMcMinn County:Average sale price: $82,916Median sale price: $74,000Rhea County: Average sale price: $123,606Median sale price: $110,000Sequatchie County:Average sale price: $109,590Median sale price: $86,500Marion County:Average sale price: $108,280Median sale price: $91,000Walker County:Average sale price: $93,423Median sale price: $83,500Chattooga County:Average sale price: $86,203Median sale price: $69,000Whitfield County:Average sale price: $97,315Median sale price: $76,000Dade County:Average sale price: $119,097Median sale price: $116,500Note: Not all areas in these counties are considered rural.Source: Multiple Listing ServiceRURAL DEVELOPMENT LOANSFor eligibility information for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development home ownership loans, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov or call 423-756-2239.
Rural living isn’t just about being away from the city.
With developments about 30 minutes from Chattanooga in just about any direction, living in a rural area can be a draw for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hang gliding, canoeing and rafting.
“I have friends who live in Dunlap (Tenn.) because they like to hike,” said Teresa Groves, executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Southern Tennessee.
Mountains, lakes and rivers can be a selling point for properties located on the outskirts, with many homeowners looking for properties that have extra appeal, according to Linda Green, loan officer for AgCredit’s Chattanooga office.