J
amie Petersen, a 47-year-old radiology technician, left Florida last fall after facing a series of hardships. Her brother's death from cystic fibrosis in 2012 was followed by her son Wolfgang's successful cancer treatment a few years later. Then, on Labor Day weekend in 2023, she was shot five times while sitting in a car and had to learn how to walk again. As she recuperated, she decided it was time for a fresh start.

    Ms. Petersen applied for a job at HCA Healthcare's hospital in Brevard, North Carolina, which came with a raise and accommodations for her post-injury limitations. She fell in love with the area's mountains and laid-back vibe during an August visit with Wolfgang. They moved to North Carolina in December and explored the housing market, sometimes touring listings with a broker and other times driving around neighborhoods.

    Ms. Petersen wanted an updated home with at least two bedrooms, a porch, a nice view, and some privacy. She also needed central air-conditioning, which was essential after living in Florida's heat. Her options included three homes: a 1,936-square-foot house on nearly half an acre in Horse Shoe, North Carolina; a 1,152-square-foot lakefront home in Hendersonville; and a brand-new, 1,580-square-foot house in Pisgah Forest.

    The first home had mountain views from both the front and back porches but was smaller than Ms. Petersen's ideal size. The second home was fully renovated and had a wood-burning fireplace, but it was on a small lot and had an annual HOA fee. The third home was brand new and laid out on one level, but its living area didn't get great light.

    Ms. Petersen eventually found her dream home in Pisgah Forest, which fit all of her requirements: three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a porch, a nice view, and plenty of outdoor space for Wolfgang to run around. The asking price was $425,000, with annual taxes of around $1,950.