John Vachon returns to discuss boutique hotel mixed-use redevelopment — the strategy, the financing, and the opportunity.
In this episode, host Carson Jones sits down with John Vachon to explore a one-of-a-kind opportunity in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, a potential boutique hotel or multifamily property in historic downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. This is a value-add mixed-use project that is ideally positioned for a hotel development. The property spans nearly 100,000 square feet of mixed-use space with exposed brick, loft-style character, existing tenants, and current cash flow—offering both stability and upside.
What makes it stand out:
- Strategic location: At the crossroads of Tennessee and North Carolina, within driving distance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville, Knoxville, and Charlotte.
- Business demand drivers: Fortune 500 employers like Eastman Chemical, major healthcare centers, and defense contractors fueling steady corporate travel.
- Tourism appeal: Over 12 million annual visitors to the Smokies, plus vibrant regional attractions supporting both leisure and business demand.
- Incentives: Located in an Opportunity Zone with potential access to local grants—creating a unique blend of investment upside and community impact.
John and I break down the numbers, the redevelopment vision, and the impact investing angle that makes this boutique hotel concept so compelling. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or simply curious about how small-market projects can punch above their weight, this conversation offers a front-row look at how place, policy, and potential intersect in the Smokies. The property discussed in this podcast is officially listed with NAI Koella RM Moore, Justin Sterling Senior Advisor 865.236.1610.
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