I have rented through VRBO/Home Away three times this year. While I was satisfied with each rental, this rental was unique in that the property is so well maintained. Truly, the furnishings were as nice as those I have in my home, and nicer than most rentals. For example, the deck chairs are nice, comfy chairs, not the plastic chairs you find in some rentals, and the living room furniture and television are extremely nice. Moreover, there are extra touches that make this feel like a home, not a rental: cookbooks, beautiful decor (map and other items in living room), and everything you could possibly need to cook/clean/make your stay enjoyable. Also in relation to furnishings, sometimes VRBOs might not have enough furniture for the unit itself, meaning the place supposedly sleeps 6, but there are only 4 kitchen chairs, or inadequate seating in other areas. This rental is complete. Frankly, when you see how nice it is, you will understand the need for a damage deposit.
If you are looking for a quiet place for family, the yard beneath the deck would provide space for kids to play outside. It is an appreciable distance from the road. The wi-fi is good, the TV in the living room is massive, and the owners even have some DVR movies. As far as touristy-type entertainment goes, it is about half an hour to Great Smokies Flea Market, and about an hour from Pigeon Forge & Johnson City. I wanted a peaceful area that was decently close to shopping and sight-seeing, and this rental exceeded expectations in that respect. As another reviewer said, the Brandywine Steakhouse (10 minutes away) is a fabulous place for good eats and family-friendly vibe. If you like Bluegrass/Country, go on Thursday evening for the live band. There is adequate parking for three vehicles right in front of the cabin.
As far as owner responsiveness, they are just a call away. We could not figure out the TV remote, and within 15 minutes the owner coached me through the right buttons to push via phone. During the visit, the caretaker called to ask if everything was going okay, and did we need anything. Also, at the end of the rental, the owner phoned the next day to thank us for staying with them, and to inform me my deposit was refunded.
My family and I sure hope this place is available next summer when we book our annual Tennessee trip. It's the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and have family time. Thank you for making this home available----Sabrina