In rural Tennessee, a 27-acre property has become more than just land and a house—it became the fulfillment of a shared dream for David and Sue Tompkins, along with David’s sister and brother-in-law. Together, they created a space rooted in family, nature and the unexpected joys of a rural lifestyle.
For David, the motivation to purchase property was driven by family. After his father suffered a heart attack, he and his sisters knew it was time to bring his parents closer. “We started looking for a place where our parents could come visit until they could retire,” David said. That search led them to an expansive property, with an in-law apartment, rolling pastures and room to gather.
“We’ve had several family reunions here already,” he said. “We’re excited to have our family visit and share this place with them.”
For Sue, the land sparked an immediate connection. Raised on her family’s 110-acre farm, she felt right at home surrounded by animals and open space. “I just like animals more than people,” she jokingly said. “I find a solace in their presence.”
Mornings start slower now—with coffee on the deck, dogs at her feet and visits to their three quarter horses: Celebrity Kid, Friday and Oreo. “There’s something about the quiet and the sunrise that resets everything,” she said.
The couple named the property “Four Dreams,” a tribute to their shared vision with David’s sister and brother-in-law. The name also reflects how their home became a haven for their parents, complete with a surprise gift from the previous owners: 11 chickens. David’s mother embraced her new rural lifestyle, taking up the hobby of raising baby chicks.
Still, the path to buying the property wasn't easy. Being self-employed, David and Sue faced hurdles to obtain financing. Traditional lenders struggled to understand the nuances, until they connected with Rural 1st®. “Other lenders overlooked the true value of this place,” David said. “But Rural 1st listened. They understood the dream we were trying to achieve and helped us make it happen.”
In a fast-moving market, Rural 1st’ was responsive and supportive, making the buying process seamless.
Though David grew up in small-town Iowa, he never envisioned himself living in a rural community again. But now? “I traded in my Corvette for a tractor,” he said with a smile. “There’s a lot of truth and love in that.” Today, David and Sue see their property as a rural resort; one that brings them Closer to What Matters®.
I’m proud that we were able to give our parents this,” David said. “This place has brought us all together in a way we never imagined.”
Interested in financing your own rural resort? Connect with a Rural 1st loan officer today to learn more.
