As a realtor, I deal with representatives of virtually every socio-economic group at any given time. As a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area, I have a pretty good feel for what’s happening in our metro area. I make it a priority to watch trends (not just the ones that I get constant emails and magazine articles about, but also the ones that I can see).
Since I’m somewhat involved in the entertainment industry, I have a view of a cross-section of society that few enjoy. I deal with quite a few newcomers to our area. Often, when clients contact me, I suggest taking the better part of at least their first day here to ride around and “see the town” – ALL of it! My usual plan is to drive my clients to St. Elmo, Red Bank, downtown Chattanooga, Ooltewah, Hixson, Harrison, Soddy Daisy, East Brainerd, and… of course, East Ridge.
I do my best to give them as much history as I can – hopefully without pushing too much of my own opinions. It’s remarkable the responses I’ve gotten. Everyone’s expectations and individual “take” on what they see and perceive is unique. I must confess that I have a difficult time not expressing all of the GOOD STUFF that’s happening in East Ridge! In my opinion, the Bass Pro Shop was the catalyst for resurgence here… it wasn’t long after they opened that new businesses started to spring up AND already established ones started “sprucing up”.
When major fast-food chains start leveling their old buildings to make room for brand new ones, that’s a good sign. McDonald’s and Burger King don’t build new restaurants without doing their homework.
There’s a reason the builders of the coming Red Wolves Stadium / Complex chose East Ridge. From restaurants to hotels to shopping and entertainment opportunities, East Ridge “has it all”.
It’s become much easier in the last two years to get prospective home buyers to look at MY hometown. I don’t know of ANY who regret their moves here.
Disclaimer : While I’d love to represent even more buyers – and sellers – in East Ridge, that’s not the purpose of my writing this. As a citizen who shops here and visits said restaurants, I consider myself a “Transplanted East Ridgian”… I’ve lived here for over 14 years now.
_ Dennis Massengale
