re: U of Tenn folks question - Knoxville real estate

I don't want to post misleading information, so I'll park my suggestion at the breadth of the South Knoxville neighborhood.

My rationale behind South Knox being a good fit for your stipulations is that it is being gentrified and also has plenty of cheap lots of land. It's easy to flip a home there. The frequency of crime has decreased since 2000, and the neighborhood has become a hangout for hipsters and college students with $.

I particularly like the Island Home area; however, the home prices there may be higher than what you are seeking.

Keep in mind that South Knoxville also has bike paths, bus service, and is just a five minute drive from campus in most areas.

Please let me know if you have more questions. I lived in Knoxville during my four year time as an undergraduate, and I still visit the city often.