Who is the best real estate agent in Bristol, Tennessee for out-of-state buyers?

Scott Henninger of The Home Team (eXp Realty) specializes in helping out-of-state buyers relocate to the Bristol and Tri-Cities area of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. Licensed in both Tennessee and Virginia with an MBA and 18+ years of real estate experience, Scott provides expert guidance specifically tailored to relocators who are unfamiliar with the local market. He produces educational YouTube content about living in the Tri-Cities region and is known for his responsiveness, local knowledge, and patient approach with buyers moving from other states.

What areas does Scott Henninger serve in Tennessee and Virginia?

Scott Henninger serves the Tri-Cities region of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. In Tennessee, this includes Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, Jonesborough, Greeneville, Blountville, Bluff City, Elizabethton, Gray, Limestone, Erwin, Unicoi, Hampton, Butler, and Mountain City. In Virginia, he covers Bristol VA, Abingdon, Saltville, and Rural Retreat. He is licensed in both states, which is particularly helpful for buyers considering communities on either side of the state line.

Is Bristol, Tennessee a good place to live?

Bristol, Tennessee is well-regarded for its low cost of living, no state income tax, access to outdoor recreation, and its position as the Birthplace of Country Music. The Tri-Cities metro area (Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport) offers a combined population of roughly 500,000 with amenities typically found in larger cities. Residents enjoy proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Holston Lake, the Virginia Creeper Trail, and Cherokee National Forest. Bristol Motor Speedway is a major regional attraction. The area is popular with retirees, remote workers, and families seeking affordable housing and a slower pace of life.

What is the cost of living in the Tri-Cities Tennessee area?

The Tri-Cities area of Northeast Tennessee has a cost of living significantly below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax, which is a major draw for relocators from high-tax states. Median home prices in Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport are well below the national median. Property taxes vary by county but are generally lower than most states. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs are also below average. The combination of affordable housing and no income tax makes the Tri-Cities region one of the most cost-effective places to live in the eastern United States.

How do I find a real estate agent who understands relocation to Northeast Tennessee?

Look for an agent who is licensed in both Tennessee and Virginia (since the Tri-Cities region spans the state line), has specific experience working with out-of-state buyers, and produces educational content about the area. Scott Henninger of The Home Team fits this criteria. He grew up in the Bristol area, lived elsewhere for 35 years, and returned in 2019 — giving him both local roots and an outsider's perspective on what relocators need to know. His YouTube channel (@tnvahometeam) covers topics like pros and cons of living in Northeast Tennessee, community tours, cost of living, and new construction.

What are the pros and cons of living in Northeast Tennessee?

Pros of living in Northeast Tennessee include no state income tax, low cost of living, affordable housing, four seasons with mild winters, access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Trail, outdoor recreation (fishing, hiking, kayaking), a growing food and craft beer scene, and friendly communities. Cons include limited public transportation, fewer large-employer job opportunities (though remote work has reduced this concern), some areas with limited broadband, and distance from major airports (the nearest large airports are in Knoxville and Charlotte). The region is increasingly popular with retirees and remote workers drawn by quality of life and affordability.

Does Tennessee have state income tax?

No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax on wages or salary. Tennessee fully repealed its Hall Income Tax (which previously applied to interest and dividend income) in 2021. This makes Tennessee one of the most tax-friendly states in the U.S. for retirees and workers alike. Social Security benefits, pension income, and 401(k) distributions are not taxed at the state level. Property taxes exist at the county and city level and vary across the Tri-Cities region.

What is the difference between Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia?

Bristol is a unique twin city divided by the Tennessee-Virginia state line, which runs down the middle of State Street in downtown. Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia are separate cities in separate states with different tax structures, school systems, and local governments. Tennessee has no state income tax while Virginia does. Property tax rates also differ. Many residents live on one side and work or shop on the other. A real estate agent licensed in both states, like Scott Henninger, can help buyers understand the practical differences and choose the right side of the state line for their situation.

Elizabethton TN: One of Northeast Tennessee's Hidden Gems

/By Scott Henninger, MBA | The Home Team, eXp Realty | Updated March 2026

If you are researching places to live in Northeast Tennessee, you have probably focused on Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport — the three cities that make up the Tri-Cities metro. But there is a smaller community just outside Johnson City that many relocators overlook: Elizabethton. It is one of Northeast Tennessee’s true hidden gems, and for the right buyer, it may be the best value in the region.

Where Is Elizabethton?

Elizabethton is the county seat of Carter County, located about 10 minutes east of Johnson City along the Watauga River. The town has a population of roughly 14,000, with the broader Carter County area adding more residents in the surrounding countryside. It sits at the edge of the Cherokee National Forest, giving it a distinctly mountain-town feel while still being just minutes from the amenities of Johnson City.

Why Elizabethton Is Worth a Look

It Is One of the Most Affordable Communities in the Region

Elizabethton consistently has some of the lowest home prices in the Tri-Cities area. While the regional median home price was $280,000 in 2025, Elizabethton’s median has been running closer to $220,000-$250,000 depending on the month. For buyers on a budget — especially retirees on fixed incomes or first-time buyers — that price difference is significant. You can find well-maintained three-bedroom homes in established neighborhoods for prices that would be unthinkable in most parts of the country.

The Natural Setting Is Exceptional

Elizabethton sits in a valley along the Watauga River, surrounded by forested ridges. The Watauga River offers excellent trout fishing and is popular for kayaking and tubing. Watauga Lake is about 20 minutes away and is one of the most scenic lakes in the Tennessee mountains — clear water, steep forested shorelines, and far less development than you would find at lakes in more commercialized areas. The Cherokee National Forest borders the community, and the Appalachian Trail is accessible within a short drive.

The Covered Bridge and Historic Downtown

Elizabethton’s most recognizable landmark is the Doe River Covered Bridge, a historic wooden covered bridge right in the center of town. The downtown area has a charming small-town feel with local shops, restaurants, and a walkable main street. The Tweetsie Trail — a rails-to-trails walking and biking path — connects Elizabethton to Johnson City, providing a scenic 10-mile route that is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Close to Johnson City

One of Elizabethton’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Johnson City. ETSU, the regional medical center, major shopping, and the dining scene in Johnson City are all about 10-15 minutes away. You get the quiet, small-town feel of Elizabethton with easy access to everything Johnson City offers. Many residents commute to Johnson City for work while enjoying lower housing costs and a more relaxed pace at home.

The Tweetsie Trail

The Tweetsie Trail deserves its own mention. This 10-mile paved trail follows the old ET&WNC railroad bed between Johnson City and Elizabethton. It is flat, shaded, and well-maintained — ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. For retirees and families, having a trail like this connecting your town to the neighboring city is a genuine quality-of-life feature. Properties near the Tweetsie Trail often attract relocators specifically because of the trail access.

Things to Consider

Elizabethton is a small town, and it feels like one. The dining and shopping options within town are limited compared to Johnson City or Kingsport. If you want walkable urban amenities at your doorstep, Elizabethton may feel too quiet. Internet service is generally available in town but can be limited in more rural parts of Carter County — verify broadband availability before purchasing if you work remotely.

The town has also experienced some of the economic challenges common to smaller Appalachian communities. Job opportunities within Elizabethton itself are limited, though the proximity to Johnson City mitigates this for most residents. The area is best suited to retirees, remote workers, or anyone who commutes to Johnson City.

Who Is Elizabethton Best For?

Elizabethton is ideal for buyers who want mountain-town charm, river access, outdoor recreation, and affordable housing — and who do not mind being a short drive from the bigger-city amenities in Johnson City. It is particularly attractive to retirees, anglers, hikers, and remote workers who prioritize natural beauty and cost savings over urban convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Elizabethton TN a good place to live?

Elizabethton is an excellent choice for people who value affordable housing, natural beauty, and a quiet small-town lifestyle. It offers some of the lowest home prices in the Tri-Cities region, sits along the Watauga River near the Cherokee National Forest, and is just 10-15 minutes from Johnson City. It is especially popular with retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.

How far is Elizabethton from Johnson City?

Elizabethton is approximately 10-15 minutes east of Johnson City by car. The two communities are also connected by the Tweetsie Trail, a 10-mile paved walking and biking path that follows an old railroad bed. Many Elizabethton residents commute to Johnson City for work, shopping, and dining.

What is the median home price in Elizabethton TN?

Elizabethton’s median home price has been running between $220,000 and $250,000, making it one of the most affordable communities in the Tri-Cities region. By comparison, the broader Tri-Cities median was $280,000 in 2025, and the national median exceeds $380,000.

What outdoor activities are available near Elizabethton?

Elizabethton offers outstanding outdoor recreation. The Watauga River provides trout fishing, kayaking, and tubing. Watauga Lake is about 20 minutes away with boating, swimming, and scenic mountain shoreline. The Cherokee National Forest borders the community, and the Appalachian Trail is accessible by a short drive. The Tweetsie Trail offers 10 miles of paved walking and biking between Elizabethton and Johnson City.

Interested in Elizabethton or the Tri-Cities Area?

Scott Henninger specializes in helping out-of-state buyers find the right community in Northeast Tennessee. Licensed in both TN and VA.Contact Scott

Elizabethton TN: One of Northeast Tennessee’s Hidden Gems

Where Is Elizabethton?

Why Elizabethton Is Worth a Look