Gatlinburg, Tenn. - Norton Creek attracts people who share a love for the Smoky Mountains and are seeking the hard-to-find combination of scenic seclusion and real-world convenience.

Investing in the “best of both worlds” is what John and Bonnie Leinart of Moline, Ill., were after. John is Director of Human Resources for John Deere worldwide. Bonnie, a former hospital COO, manages a physician practice part-time. Along with Daisy, their lovable Golden Retriever, the Leinarts visited East Tennessee in the spring of 2006.

After climbing aboard a “mule” - for the uninitiated, that’s another name for our small four-wheel drive vehicles – the couple toured the beautiful mountain. They fell in love with a panoramic lot directly facing Mount Le Conte. Soon thereafter, the Leinarts designed a gorgeous new home and broke ground that fall.

The Leinarts’ decision-making process included Internet research plus trips to several developments in North Carolina. They said they chose Norton Creek because of its peaceful beauty, dramatic views and easy access to restaurants and activities only a few minutes away. The last reason was especially important to the Leinarts because they plan to have their grandchildren visit often.

“ We wanted a family-oriented home where our four children and four grandchildren would love to congregate,” said Bonnie Leinart. “One of our daughters is an avid hiker, and we love the pristine serenity of Norton Creek, yet fun activities for the kids are located just down the street in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We didn’t like how remote some of the North Carolina developments felt.”

They also loved the climate here in East Tennessee, with “a little bit of snow but winters that are not harsh, and four distinct seasons.” Finally, the Leinarts considered the investment value of their property. “We looked at the ever-escalating insurance on our beach condo, and then realized, by comparison, that Tennessee has no income tax, very low property tax, one of the most reasonable costs of living in the country and no hurricanes,” said Bonnie Leinart. “We think Tennessee is the most beautiful state in the country, and we can’t wait to start enjoying our mountain home at Norton Creek with our family . . . and Daisy!”