Rarity Communities began with one man and his vision. Michael L. Ross, a Maryville, Tennessee native, acquired an interest in real estate in 1971 and many opportunities followed. After buying and selling a piece of property in Louisville, Tennessee, Mr. Ross went into his family’s retail furniture sales business and continued to buy properties.

It is his passion to discover rare properties that have great scenic beauty. Real estate development became his full-time endeavor in 1990. However, it wasn’t until 1994, that Rarity Communities, Inc. would be created. The company focuses on high-end land development in concert with land stewardship. Ross strictly manages the natural environment surrounding his communities. The company works in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Tellico Reservoir Development Agency to preserve waterfront integrity.