TThomas, great info... I checked out a few of the lakes you mention along with surrounding areas. Nice! And a few hour drive is nothing to us. We're sort of remote on the coast and have to drive 3-4 hrs one way just to catch an MLB game, which we gladly do.
Prepster, I could see why Charlotte would be your target... easy access to everything makes total sense.
Shoveit... more great info as well. I don't see us too close to ATL so don't worry about our traffic contributions . Far suburbs, maybe but without the daily commute.
Between the thread posts and PM's this has been an awesome gathering of info that will be a huge help to us. And, yes, we would definitely make a few pre-trips to get first hand look.
THANKS, EVERYBODY !!!