Kannapolis

With a population of 44,000 Kannapolis is a small town but very conveniently located to Charlotte and the Piedmont area.  Originally a mill town the city is now home of the NC Research Campus which was developed as an economic revitalization tool and which dominates the downtown landscape.

Kannapolis boasts its own AAA baseball team, the Intimidators as well as the NC Music Hall of Fame.

Homes in Kannapolis are cheaper than in Charlotte and in neighboring Concord and recent improvements to both I-85 and the completion of I-485 have made the city an attractive option to many seeking a more economical housing option or who enjoy the small-town feel.   You can still buy a smaller single family home for well under $100k in Kannapolis but most properties are older and there are very few townhome/condo opportunities. 

City of Kannapolis

 

Plaza Midwood

This is very much the place to live for Charlotte’s millennials! Many of the area’s older properties have been renovated and newer homes have been built to complement the Craftsman aesthetic of the neighbourhood. The area is walkable, and along with the neighbouring “Commonwealth” district to the south of Central Avenue offers a great selection of restaurants, bars, and stores.

Occasional opportunities still arise to buy un-renovated properties but prices reflect the popularity of the area. Many properties have had partial or full renovations and may include an additional story added to a former ranch style property. Prices for a fully renovated or new construction 2 story single family house will generally start in the $350s with prices in the $500s-$600s or even more not uncommon.

Very few homes are available in this area and most sell very quickly. If you like this area but can’t find a place then you could consider neighboring Commonwealth or Chantilly or the increasingly popular nearby Belmont or Villa Heights neighborhoods.

Plaza-Midwood Neighborhood Association

 
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Concord

If you're looking for an easy commute (about 30 mins to Charlotte) popular school district, lower taxes and the added bonus of living near the Charlotte Motor Speedway then Concord may be the place for you!

Easily accessible via I-85 and highway 29 Concord even has its own airport should your commute take you further afield. 

There are plentiful shopping and entertainment opportunities including the highly rated Concord Mills Mall and various motorsports events & venues. 

Dining choices include local favorites and the big chains. 

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The City of Concord extends over a wide area and includes homes in the historic downtown, new suburbs and quieter rural areas. 
Home prices start in the mid $100ks for a single family home. 

City of Concord website.