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Why Newport?

  • Writer: Susan Hough
    Susan Hough
  • Mar 25
  • 4 min read


I can say with confidence—few places match the natural beauty of the Smokies.
When I decided to put down roots in the Cosby-Newport area,  it wasn’t just about finding a beautiful piece of land—it was about building a community that I could truly make feel like home. After more than 20 years in the building and development industry, I’ve worked in big cities, small towns, and everything in between. But I chose the Cosby-Newport area because it offers something rare: the perfect balance of privacy, nature, and accessibility. It’s a place where you can own real land, design a home that actually works for your lifestyle, and still be close enough to everything you need without sacrificing peace and quiet.

No Red Tape
One of the biggest reasons I left city life behind? Space. Here, you don’t have to settle for a tiny lot squeezed between two neighbors—you can own acres of land, giving you the freedom to build a home that fits your lifestyle. Whether it’s a wraparound porch for morning coffee, a fire pit under the stars, or even a private shooting range (yes, we have those!), having land that works for you changes everything. From a builder’s perspective, rural living also means fewer building restrictions and more creative freedom. In big cities, you’re often tied down by zoning laws, HOA rules, and endless red tape. Out here, you have the flexibility to design and build a home that’s truly yours—without compromising on quality or style. I’ve worked with homeowners who have spent years dreaming of what they’d build if they just had the right piece of land, and when they find it, everything changes.

Being One with Nature
Beyond the space, one of the things I love most about the Cosby-Newport area is being surrounded by pure, untouched nature. Every morning, I wake up to crisp mountain air and views that belong on a postcard. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is practically in our backyard, offering hiking, fishing, and endless outdoor adventures. And let’s talk about the seasons—crisp fall mornings, mild winters, and lush green summers make for some of the most stunning landscapes you’ll ever see. I’ve built homes all over, and I can say with confidence—few places match the natural beauty of the Smokies. The best part? This beauty isn’t just something you visit on a weekend—it’s part of everyday life. Whether it’s sitting outside watching the fog roll over the mountains, taking a walk in your own backyard, or just feeling the quiet stillness at the end of the day, there’s something about living here that just feels right.

You Really Aren’t That Far…
Another thing I hear all the time when people are considering a move to a more rural area is, “Am I going to be too far from everything?” And I get it—no one wants to feel isolated. But that’s the beauty of the Cosby-Newport area. I love that I can have peace and privacy when I want it, but I can also be in the city in under an hour if I need to. All of the best box stores and mom & pop shops are under a 10 minute drive, making the location perfect for accessibility and comfort. Knoxville is just under an hour’s drive, which means I can easily get to major shopping, restaurants, and the airport. If I want a fun day out, Gatlinburg is only 45 minutes away, offering everything from hiking to world-famous attractions. And if I’m in the mood for something a little different, Asheville, NC, is just an hour’s drive, giving me access to an incredible arts scene, music, and great breweries. It’s the best of both worlds—you get all the benefits of small-town life, but you’re never too far from the action when you need it.

Convenience of Community
But beyond the land, beyond the mountains, beyond the convenience of it all—what really makes this place special is the community. I’ve lived in places where people don’t even say hello to their neighbors. That’s not Cosby-Newport. This is the kind of town where people actually know each other, support local businesses, and take pride in where they live. You see it in the way people wave when you drive by. You see it in the way local businesses thrive because people choose to shop local. You see it in the way families come together for events, big and small. It’s a place where you’re not just buying land—you’re becoming part of something. That’s why I started Moody Moon Ridge here. Because I knew I wasn’t the only one looking for something more than just a house—I wanted a place that truly felt like home, and I wanted to help others find that too.

I chose Newport because it offers the best of both worlds—stunning natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and the freedom to build the kind of home you actually want. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat or a permanent escape, I can tell you from experience—this place is special. If you’re thinking about making the move, I’d love to help you find the perfect piece of land or design a home that fits your vision. Let’s build something incredible together.
 
 
 

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