How Much Does it Cost to Build a House?

When it’s time to move, the first question most people ask is, “How much does it cost to build a house?” It’s a good question, whether you’re moving to East Tennessee or just across town. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the factors that affect the cost of building a home near the city of Knoxville , what’s usually included, and how to get an estimate that matches your budget. 

 If you’ve got your eyes set on this part of the country, we’re here to help. The cost to build here is dependent on a few things, but you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $250 per square foot. That means if you build a 2,000-square-foot home, you could spend anywhere from $300,000 to $500,000, depending on your land, finishes, and other customizations. 

That’s a big range, but there are many factors that can contribute to that. Looking at those specifics can give you a better idea of what to expect for your dream home. 

Like we mentioned, there are several factors that can determine how much your home costs to build. Some factors are bigger than others, like your land or layout. Other factors are much smaller but still add up, like the light fixtures you choose. 

Some factors to consider include:

At Red Door Homes, we can help you balance your needs and wants so you can make smart choices that still fit in your budget. 

Buying land is a big part of your total cost to build a home. In East Tennessee, land prices vary greatly based on size and location. Rural land might cost less per acre, but it requires more in clearing and access to utilities. In suburban areas, lots cost more but are often ready to build on with fewer surprises. 

At Red Door Homes, we offer site evaluations while you’re searching for the perfect land. One of our team members will meet you at your chosen property to take a look, give feedback, and help determine what you’ll need to prep the site for your chosen home. That way, you know exactly what to expect. 

What’s Usually Included in a New Build

A big part of understanding how much it costs to build a house is knowing what’s included in that base price. At Red Door Homes, our homes include everything you need to move in and enjoy your space from day one. That includes:

Before you sign anything, your builder should walk you through all these details so you’re clear on the process and exactly what you’re getting. 

Your personal style and requests play a big role in how much it’ll cost to build your home. Some people prefer bold finishes and detailed trim, which cost more than the basics. Others want to keep it simple and stick to what’s included in the base price. When you build a custom home, the details are entirely up to you. 

Some choices that can affect your total price include:

These changes aren’t required, but they do shift your price point if you want them. At Red Door, we always walk through these options with you so you can pick what you want without ever going over your budget. 

We wish we could give everyone that magic number right away, but the truth is: every home is different. To get your fully detailed price, you’ll need to choose your floor plan, land details, and design preferences. 

Sit down with your builder to go over everything from your must-haves to your dream finishes. Once you know exactly what you want, your builder will create a custom estimate based on your selections and land needs. Then, you can start building without any pressure or guesswork. 

So, how much does it cost to build a house? Ultimately, the answer depends on a lot of personal choices, but the good news is that it’s possible to build a home at a price you love in East Tennessee.

Whether you want the basics or a luxurious home, Red Door Homes is here to guide you through the process. From land evaluation to final move-in, we’ll help you make decisions with confidence. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, review our floor plans , schedule a model home visit, or reach out for a custom quote. We’d love to help you bring your dream home to life.