June 17th

Why It's a Smart Move to Build a Home in Tennessee

If you’ve been dreaming of fresh mountain air, scenic views, and a slower pace of life, East Tennessee might be calling your name. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner , a growing family, or someone planning to retire somewhere peaceful, there are plenty of reasons why now is the perfect time to build a home in Tennessee.

From affordable living and beautiful landscapes to personalized home options, this area offers a little bit of everything. Let’s take a look at why building your custom home in East TN is a smart and exciting choice.

Affordable Living Costs When Building a Home in Tennessee

One of the biggest draws for people moving to Tennessee is the cost of living. Compared to many other states, Tennessee is more affordable across the board. Housing, groceries, transportation, and utilities tend to cost less here, which makes a big difference when you’re planning a home build.

Tennessee also has no state income tax, meaning you keep more of your paycheck. This is a major perk whether you’re working remotely, running a business, or living on a fixed retirement income. Property taxes in Tennessee are also relatively low, so even after you build your home, your ongoing costs stay manageable.

For many homeowners, choosing to build a home in Tennessee is an opportunity to finally create the home they’ve always wanted without blowing the budget.

Build a Home in TN for the Natural Beauty and Lifestyle

East Tennessee is downright stunning. Between the rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, it’s hard not to feel at peace here. If you’re someone who loves to hike, boat, fish, or just sit on a porch with a mountain view, you’re in the right place.

Plus, you get to enjoy all four seasons here! Summers are warm but not brutal, fall brings colorful foliage, winters are mild with the occasional dusting of snow, and spring fills the air with flowering dogwoods . Building your home here means you can enjoy views year-round, and even design your home to take advantage of them.

More Home for Your Money Makes a TN Move Smart

Building a custom home means you’re not just buying someone else’s layout; you’re creating something that works for you. And in East Tennessee, your money goes further. Land is more accessible and affordable in this part of the state compared to major metropolitan areas, so you can often build a larger home or choose a more spacious lot without paying sky-high prices.

You get to decide how your home is laid out. Need a big kitchen for entertaining? Want a home office with a view? Prefer a primary suite that feels like a retreat? When you build a home in Tennessee, especially with a builder like Red Door Homes, you get to choose a floor plan that fits your lifestyle and then make it your own.

Booming Local Economy and Growth

Tennessee is on the rise, especially in cities like Knoxville, Maryville, and Sevierville. The job market is strong with growing opportunities in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tech. The area is also becoming a popular hub for remote workers, thanks to reliable internet access and a relaxed pace of life.

Plus, Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee and several major hospitals and employers. Plus, you're within a few hours’ drive of other regional hubs like Nashville, Asheville, and Atlanta. So, if you work from home or have the flexibility to live anywhere, building in East TN gives you the best of both worlds: a small-town feel with access to big-city perks.

Enjoy Community When You Build a Home in Tennessee

There’s something special about East Tennessee’s friendly charm. People smile at each other in the grocery store. Neighbors wave as you drive by. And many communities still hold local events, parades, and seasonal festivals that bring folks together.

If you’re moving from out of state or just looking for a deeper sense of connection, this area delivers. Whether you're raising kids or looking for a quieter lifestyle, East TN is full of neighborhoods where people know each other’s names and where you're likely to feel right at home.

Building your home here gives you the chance to choose exactly where you want to be. Whether that’s a cozy neighborhood near a local school, a more rural lot with privacy and views, or somewhere close to downtown Knoxville for easy access to restaurants and shops, it’s up to you.

Flexibility and Personalization When You Build a Home in Tennessee

When you buy a pre-owned home, there’s often a lot of compromise involved. Maybe the kitchen feels outdated, or the layout doesn’t fit your lifestyle. But when you build a home in Tennessee, you get the freedom to create something that truly works for you from the start.

You don’t have to settle. Whether you lean rustic, traditional, or modern, the choice is yours.

Here are just a few of the things you get to decide when you build your home with Red Door Homes:

  • Layout: Whether you want an open-concept living area, a private home office, or extra bedrooms for guests, you can choose a home that suits your needs.
  • Finishes and Fixtures: From flooring and countertops to lighting and cabinet colors, you get to pick the design details that feel like home to you.
  • Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Opt for features like upgraded insulation, double-pane windows, or energy-saving HVAC systems to save money and stay comfortable year-round.
  • Exterior Details: Choose your home’s exterior color, siding type, porch style, and more to make a statement from the street.

With a new build, you’re not paying for features you don’t want, and you won’t have to immediately budget for renovations. Instead, you get a move-in-ready home that’s built to match your lifestyle and taste from day one.

Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Make a Move

At the end of the day, there’s no place quite like East Tennessee. The scenery is breathtaking. The people are welcoming. The cost of living makes homeownership truly possible. And when you build, you get a home that’s uniquely yours, from the layout and location to the features and finishes.

At Red Door Homes East TN, we make the process of building your dream home simple, affordable, and even fun. From choosing the perfect floor plan to final walkthrough, we’re with you every step of the way. Contact us today to get started on your dream home. 

Questions about the home building process?

Reach out to us today and we can help answer all your questions