L.,
I am a native Charlottean, born and raised. Other than a few years we lived in TX and LA, NC is my home. It's always good when traveling to see that 'welcome' sign as we cross the state line.
RE: neighborhoods....Charlotte is very diverse with many areas of living. If you're interested in a CC, check out the Highland Creek area. They have a golf course, swim club, etc. Our grandchild attends the elementary school there...it's only 2 years old and well built. Conveinently located, just a few miles north of all the 'traffic', I love it.
Ballantyne is 'over rated' in my opinion. There's entirely too much traffic, not enough streets to handle all of the high volume traffic and an overall pain. If you can handle 'daily stress' of HIGH traffic, sure, Ballantyne will work for you.
I'd like to welcome you to the south and hopefully to my hometown.
L.