One great area just west of Charlotte is Gaston County. The bordering towns of Belmont and Mount Holly are two great options. Belmont is a historic town with a fantastic downtown area. Belmont has a river to the east and west that feed into Lake Wylie. Great waterfront properties! Belmont also has the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens which is a great place to relax and have a romantic picnic!
Gaston County is located off of I-85 just south/southwest of Charlotte. The capital is Gastonia. Gastonia is a bit further from Charlotte and has its own economy. Gastonia is not as convenient of a commute but many find the more rural life style more appealing.
The town of Stanley is about 4 miles west of Mount Holly and provides another unique small town setting. When visiting Stanley Real Estate, please visit their museum. It is filled with relics and gives you a feel for this quaint Charlotte Suburb.
These were once small train stops and are now flourishing Charlotte Suburbs. As you are considering Charlotte Real Estate Suburbs, consider Gaston County!