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East Tennessee Real Estate & Neighborhood Source

The Housing Market Is Finding Its Balance Again

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Remember the whirlwind of 2020 and 2021? The pandemic housing boom was unlike anything we’d seen before. With historically low interest rates, stimulus checks hitting bank accounts, and millions of Americans suddenly working from home, buyer demand exploded almost overnight.

Just how intense was it? Federal Reserve researchers estimate that new construction would have needed to increase by 300% just to keep up with demand during that period. Of course, that wasn’t possible, you can’t build homes as quickly as people decide they want to buy them. The result? Available inventory practically evaporated, and home prices soared. By June 2022, U.S. home prices had climbed an astonishing 43.2% above where they stood in March 2020 (49.7% in Knoxville).

A Return to Normal

Since mid-2022, the market has been catching its breath. We’ve entered what economists call a “recalibration phase”… essentially, a return to more sustainable, balanced conditions after that extraordinary surge.

Want proof? Take a look at the percentage of homes selling below their original asking price over the past several years:

YearHomes Selling Below List Price
201862%
201964%
202055%
202138%
202242%
202354%
202458%
202562%

What This Means for You

See the pattern? We’ve returned to pre-pandemic norms, where roughly 6 in 10 homes sell for less than their initial list price. This isn’t bad news, it’s actually a sign of a healthier, more balanced market where buyers have room to negotiate and sellers need to price strategically.

If you’re buying: You likely have more leverage than buyers did a few years ago. Don’t be afraid to make reasonable offers below asking price.

If you’re selling: Proper pricing from the start is more important than ever. The days of overpricing and expecting a bidding war are behind us in most markets.

Have questions about what this means for your specific situation? Let’s talk, I’d love to help you navigate today’s market.

Knoxville Housing Market Update: The Lock-In Effect Is Finally Easing for East Tennessee Homebuyers

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If you’ve been searching for a home in Knoxville or anywhere across East Tennessee, you’ve likely felt the frustration of limited inventory. The good news? A significant shift in the housing market suggests that more homes could be coming to market soon, offering relief for buyers throughout the region.

What’s Changing in the Housing Market?

The housing market recently reached a notable milestone that signals the mortgage “lock-in” effect is beginning to fade. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, more homeowners now hold mortgages with rates at or above 6% than those with loans below 3%. This marks the first time this has occurred since late 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Knoxville-area buyers who have been competing for a limited number of listings, this shift could mean more opportunities in the months ahead.

Understanding the Lock-In Effect and Its Impact on East Tennessee

The lock-in effect occurs when homeowners with ultra-low mortgage rates from the pandemic era refuse to sell because purchasing a new home would mean taking on a significantly higher rate. When mortgage rates hovered near historic lows in 2020 and 2021, many East Tennessee homeowners locked in rates below 3%. When the Federal Reserve began raising interest rates in early 2022 to combat inflation, these homeowners found themselves financially incentivized to stay put.

The numbers tell the story clearly. The share of homeowners with rates below 3% peaked at 24.6% in early 2022 and has since declined to 20% by the third quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, homeowners with rates at or above 6% have grown from 7.3% in mid-2022 to 21.2% late last year.

How This Affects Knoxville Home Buyers and Sellers

For prospective homebuyers in Knoxville, Maryville, Oak Ridge, and surrounding East Tennessee communities, the lock-in effect has created real challenges. The scarcity of existing homes on the market has contributed to rising prices and intense competition. Nationally, the median age of first-time homebuyers reached a record 40 years old in 2025, driven in part by existing owners staying in their homes far longer than in previous decades.

The National Association of Realtors reported in its 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers that the median expected tenure in a purchased home is now 15 years, with 28% of buyers declaring it will be their forever home. This represents a dramatic shift from the period between 2000 and 2008, when sellers typically stayed in their homes for just six years.

Signs of Improvement for the East Tennessee Real Estate Market

While the largest share of outstanding mortgages still falls within the 3% to 4% range, representing almost a third of all loans, the gradual shift toward higher-rate mortgages is expected to bring more inventory to the market over time. Industry experts note this isn’t a dramatic change but rather a meaningful step forward for market activity.

Life circumstances continue to motivate sellers regardless of their mortgage rates. Job relocations, growing families, and financial changes are prompting some East Tennessee homeowners to list their properties even when it means giving up favorable loan terms.

What Knoxville Home Buyers Should Know Going Forward

If you’re considering buying a home in Knoxville or the broader East Tennessee region, here’s what to keep in mind. More inventory is expected to gradually come online as homeowners with pandemic-era low rates eventually need to move for life or financial reasons. Should mortgage rates decline into the mid-5% range or lower, expect a more significant increase in available listings as homeowners become more willing to trade their low rates for a new property.

The East Tennessee housing market remains competitive, but these shifts suggest that patience and preparation could pay off for buyers in 2026 and beyond. Working with a knowledgeable local real estate professional who understands the Knoxville market can help you act quickly when the right opportunity arises.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Knoxville, looking to upgrade in Farragut, or searching for property in the Smoky Mountain foothills, understanding these market dynamics can help you make informed decisions about your home purchase.

Looking to buy or sell a home in Knoxville or East Tennessee? Contact Troy Stavros with CornerStone Realty Associates today at 865-999-0925 to schedule a time to talk.

Knoxville Housing Market Update November 2025 | Prices Dropping & Inventory Up

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Are you wondering what’s happening in the Knoxville real estate market and across East Tennessee this November? As 2025 draws to a close, both buyers and sellers are facing a market that looks very different from the frenzied years of the recent past. Let’s dive into the latest housing market data for Knoxville and all of East Tennessee, so you can make informed decisions about your next move.

Knoxville and East Tennessee: Market Overview

The East Tennessee housing market and Knoxville’s real estate market are both cooling, but at different rates. Inventory is rising, homes are staying on the market longer, and buyers now have more negotiating power than at any time in recent years. If you’ve been waiting for the market to shift, now’s the time to pay close attention.

Key Similarities:

  • Inventory is up in both Knoxville and the surrounding region.
  • Homes are taking longer to sell.
  • Buyers have more room to negotiate.

Key Differences:

  • Knoxville’s market is cooling faster than the broader East Tennessee region.

Inventory & New Listings

Knoxville:

  • Inventory up 25% year-over-year
  • New listings down 8%
  • Homes are sitting longer before selling

East Tennessee (Regional):

  • Inventory up 15% year-over-year
  • New listings down 2%

This means more choices for buyers in Knoxville, but also indicates that homes aren’t moving as quickly as before.

Closed & Pending Sales

  • East Tennessee closed sales: Down just 0.3% (virtually flat)
  • Knoxville closed sales: Down 14%

However, pending sales (homes under contract) are up:

  • 18% regionally
  • 9% in Knoxville

This shows that buyer activity is returning, but buyers are more selective, especially in Knoxville.

Home Prices: Median & Average

Knoxville:

  • Median sales price: Down 6% to $385,000
  • Average sales price: Down nearly 3%

East Tennessee:

  • Median sales price: Down 3% to $365,000
  • Average sales price: Up 4% (luxury/high-end sales remain strong)

Takeaway: Knoxville is seeing a broader correction across all price points, while high-end properties in the region are still performing well.

Days on Market (DOM)

Knoxville:

  • Average DOM: Up 50% to 57 days
  • Median DOM: Up 83%

East Tennessee:

  • Average DOM: Up 27% to 71 days
  • Median DOM: Up 37%

Despite the increases, Knoxville homes still sell faster than regional homes in absolute terms—but the rate of change is much steeper in Knoxville.

County-Level Highlights

  • Roane County: Inventory up 28.4%, pending sales up 73.7%, median price down 8% ($287,000)
  • Knox County: Inventory up 21.9%, pending sales up 9%, median price down 2.99% ($390,000)
  • Anderson County: Inventory up 31.7%, pending sales up 50.9%, median price flat ($350,603)
  • Loudon County: Inventory up 11.8%, pending sales up 31.9%, median price up 8.78% ($570,000)
  • Sevier County: Inventory up 7.29%, pending sales down 4.93%, median price down 7.04% ($500,000)
  • Blount County: Inventory up 4.8%, pending sales up 3.4%, median price flat ($376,250)

Note: Some counties see big month-to-month swings due to smaller sample sizes and varying property types.

Weekly Trends: A Deeper Look

  • Median Sales Price: For the first time in five years, the weekly median in Knoxville is lower than the previous year.
  • Active Listings: Highest in six years, even above pre-pandemic levels.
  • Weeks of Supply: Highest since 2019 (16 weeks vs. 13 last year).
  • Homes Sold: Near the lowest point in six years.
  • New Listings: Highest for this week in six years.
  • Days on Market: Highest in six years (72 days).
  • Pending Sales: Second lowest in six years.
  • Sale-to-List Price Ratio: Lowest in six years, indicating more negotiation and price reductions.
  • Price Drops: Most in any of the past six years for this week.

Mortgage Rates and Market Opportunity

  • Fed interest rate: Dropped 0.25% in November, but mortgage rates remain at 6.32% for a 30-year loan.
  • If rates fall below 6%, expect more buyers to return to the market and possibly more sellers to list.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

For Buyers:

  • More choices, more time, and more negotiating power.
  • This is the best opportunity in years to buy in Knoxville or East Tennessee.

For Sellers:

  • Price aggressively from day one.
  • Overpriced homes will sit—there’s no longer a “hot market” safety net.
  • Be prepared for more competition and negotiation.

Bottom Line

The Knoxville real estate market is normalizing after years of record growth and rapid sales. While there’s no “crash,” the market correction is real—especially in Knoxville, where inventory gains, price drops, and slower sales are more pronounced. The broader East Tennessee market is cooling but remains stable, with continued strength in luxury segments.

Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding your specific market is key.

If you have questions about your neighborhood, want to know your home’s value, or are thinking about buying in Knoxville or East Tennessee, reach out today. The right guidance can help you seize opportunities in this evolving market.

Ready to make your next move in East Tennessee? Contact Troy Stavros with Cornerstone Realty Associates for personalized advice and up-to-date market data.

East Tennessee & Knoxville Housing Market Update SEPTEMBER 2025: Prices, Trends, and Buyer-Seller Insights

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Are you a homeowner, buyer, or seller looking to understand the latest trends in the East Tennessee and Knoxville housing market? As we approach the end of 2025, market conditions have shifted, interest rates are making waves, and submarkets like Farragut, Lenoir City, and Tellico Village are showing unique patterns. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate the Knoxville real estate market this fall.

Knoxville Housing Market 2025: Cooling but Not Crashing

After years of rapid price growth and frenzied bidding, the Knoxville housing market in 2025 is undergoing a noticeable transformation. Inventory has surged by over a third compared to last year, and homes are staying on the market longer—almost double the days compared to 2024. Sales volume is down nearly 8% year-over-year, and the median home price is now essentially flat, even dipping slightly in some neighborhoods.

Key Takeaway for Home Sellers:
Knoxville sellers must be strategic with pricing and flexible on concessions, as buyers have more options and are no longer rushing to make offers.

East Tennessee Real Estate: A More Resilient Picture

While Knoxville proper is feeling the pinch, East Tennessee’s real estate market as a whole remains resilient. Median prices are up 2-3% year-over-year, and pending sales have benefited from a temporary dip in mortgage rates this fall. Outlying areas such as Lenoir City, Loudon County, and Roane County are seeing steady or even rising demand, absorbing much of the new inventory and maintaining price growth.

Key Takeaway for Buyers:
If you’re priced out of Knoxville, expanding your search to the broader East Tennessee market—especially growing towns and counties—can offer better value and more affordable monthly payments.

Why Outlying Areas Are Booming: Affordability Shifts Demand

One of the biggest trends of 2025 is that outlying communities are capturing buyers who might otherwise have purchased in Knoxville. As the city’s median price outpaces regional averages, many buyers are looking to suburbs and nearby towns for better deals.

  • Farragut: With its top-rated schools and amenities, Farragut remains in demand. However, rising prices and inventory mean homes are staying on the market longer despite a 30% jump in pending sales after the recent rate drop.
  • Lenoir City: This value-driven hotspot is attracting buyers with newer homes and reasonable commutes to Knoxville. Inventory is up, but homes are selling quickly, making for a competitive market.
  • Tellico Village: Known for its active-adult community and lakefront living, Tellico Village is experiencing a surge in inventory and a dip in median sale price, giving buyers more choices and negotiating power—especially for homes needing updates.

Key Takeaway for Investors:
Strong demand in Lenoir City and Farragut, as well as lifestyle-driven buyers in Tellico Village, make these submarkets worth watching for potential appreciation and rental opportunities.

The Role of Mortgage Interest Rates

Mortgage rates have been the wild card in the Knoxville and East Tennessee housing market. Earlier this fall, rates dipped briefly to just over 6%, sparking a surge in pending sales. However, any further increases could dampen both buyer demand and price growth, particularly in Knoxville, where affordability is stretched.

Key Takeaway for Buyers & Sellers:
Watch interest rates closely—lower rates could mean more competition and firmer prices, while higher rates might extend days on market and open the door to negotiation.

Knoxville Real Estate Forecast Through 2026

Looking ahead, the consensus among local experts is that the Knoxville real estate market will continue to normalize. Expect prices to remain flat or post only modest gains, with some neighborhoods possibly seeing slight declines. The broader East Tennessee market, however, is expected to show more resilience, especially in growth corridors and popular commuter towns.

Tips for Success:

  • Buyers: Expand your search radius to include outlying areas for more options and better deals.
  • Sellers: Be realistic about pricing, and consider offering concessions or updates to attract buyers.
  • Homeowners: If you’re not in a rush to move, waiting for rates to drop could bring more favorable selling conditions.

Final Thoughts: Navigating the East Tennessee & Knoxville Housing Market

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply monitoring property values, staying informed about local trends is essential in a shifting market. Knoxville is correcting faster than the region, but East Tennessee remains a strong bet for homeowners and investors. Keep an eye on interest rates and be ready to act quickly when the right opportunity arises.

Ready to make your move?
For the latest Knoxville and East Tennessee market updates, tips for home buyers and sellers, and expert real estate advice, subscribe to our newsletter or contact us today!

East Tennessee housing market September 2025
Knoxville housing market September 2025
East Tennessee counties housing market September 2025
Farragut TN housing market September 2025
Lenoir City TN housing market September 2025
Tellico Village housing market September 2025

East Tennessee & Knoxville Housing Market Update – August 2025

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Are you curious about the current real estate trends in Knoxville and East Tennessee? Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or investing, understanding the latest market shifts is essential for making the right move. Here’s a comprehensive, data-driven look at the August 2025 housing market update for East Tennessee and Knoxville, including prices, inventory, and expert insights.

East Tennessee & Knoxville Single-Family Housing Market Report – August 2025

Economic & Market Context (Applies to Both Markets)

  • Mortgage rates have dropped to the low 6% range (~6.29%), improving affordability and monthly payments for buyers.
  • Labor market data is a growing concern: National job growth over the past year was revised sharply lower, with only 22,000 jobs added in August and significant downward revisions in sectors like leisure, hospitality, retail, and business services.
  • Buyer confidence is mixed—improved by rate relief but tempered by employment insecurity.
  • Inventory is elevated across markets, providing buyers with more choices and reducing urgency.
  • Days on market and absorption rates are increasing, signaling a slower pace of sales and movement toward a more balanced or slightly buyer-leaning market.
  • Negotiability is up: Sale-to-list ratios are lower, and price reductions/concessions are more common.
  • Lending standards may tighten further due to economic uncertainty, limiting access for marginal buyers.

Supply, Demand & Pricing Dynamics (Shared Trends)

  • Active inventory is high vs. last year, keeping upward pressure off prices and giving buyers leverage.
  • New listings remain steady, showing seller engagement, but not enough to create excess supply.
  • Median sale prices are flat to modestly up, while average sale prices have been buoyed by upper-tier transactions.
  • Absorption rates are trending higher YoY, indicating more choices and slower turnover.
  • Days on market for sold listings have increased substantially, especially for homes not priced to current conditions.
  • Sellers must be realistic on pricing and incentives; buyers can negotiate more assertively, especially on stale listings.

Knoxville vs. East Tennessee: Key Differences & Local Nuance

1. Inventory, Absorption & Market Speed

  • Knoxville
    • Absorption rate: 2.94 months (Aug 2025), up 34% YoY—still somewhat seller-leaning but moving toward balance.
    • Active listings: ~1,600, with steady but not excessive new supply.
    • Average Days on Market: 46 (+35% YoY); Median DOM: 22 (+83% YoY).
    • Market is slightly faster than the broader East Tennessee region (which has a 4.82 month absorption rate and longer DOM), but both are slowing.
  • East Tennessee (Region-Wide)
    • Absorption rate: 4.82 months (Aug 2025), up 27% YoY—close to balanced, potentially tipping buyer-friendly if demand softens.
    • Average DOM: 63 (+37% YoY); Median DOM: 29 (+45% YoY).
    • More pronounced inventory build and slower pace overall vs. Knoxville.

2. Pricing Trends

  • Knoxville
    • Median list price: $415,000 (down 7.4% YoY).
    • Average sale price: $512,654 (up 10.5% YoY).
    • Median sale price: $390,888 (up 1.5% YoY).
    • Pricing reflects a sharper correction in list prices, with average sale price buoyed by upper-tier deals, but most sellers see little real appreciation.
  • East Tennessee
    • Median list price: $440,000 (nearly flat YoY).
    • Average sale price: $471,398 (up 6.8% YoY).
    • Median sale price: $376,200 (up 3.1% YoY).
    • List prices haven’t corrected as much as Knoxville, but the pattern of average prices outpacing median is similar, reflecting strength at the top of the market.

3. Negotiation & Sale-to-List Ratios

  • Knoxville
    • Sale-to-list ratios: 95–97% (lower than last year), with frequent discounts needed to close.
    • Median sale prices are often below median list prices, showing persistent buyer leverage.
  • East Tennessee
    • Sale-to-list price ratio: ~95%, also down YoY.
    • Negotiability is common across the region; sellers of aging inventory must stay flexible.

4. Market Segmentation & Buyer Behavior

  • Knoxville
    • Entry-level and mid-market segments ($250k–$400k): Most sensitive to job market fears; these buyers benefit from rate relief but are often sidelined by economic uncertainty.
    • Upper-tier sales ($400k+): Drive the average price higher, but volume is limited.
    • Homes priced right and move-in ready move fastest; stale inventory is slow to clear.
  • East Tennessee
    • Similar segmentation: Entry and mid-market buyers are most impacted by job and lending trends.
    • Upper-tier strength is evident but less concentrated than in Knoxville.
    • Market is generally a bit slower and more diverse across submarkets.

5. Risks & Outliers

  • Knoxville
    • List price declines are more pronounced than region-wide, suggesting sellers are adjusting expectations faster, or a higher share of affordable product is coming to market.
    • Market is less exposed to deep softening than some rural/outlying counties, thanks to more diversified local demand.
  • East Tennessee
    • Outlying areas may see greater inventory buildup and longer marketing times, especially if job losses are concentrated in specific towns or industries.
    • Region is somewhat more vulnerable to further economic shocks, particularly outside major metros like Knoxville.

Strategic Guidance for Both Markets

For Buyers

  • Assess job security and financial stability first—don’t overextend.
  • Negotiate confidently on older or price-reduced listings.
  • Take advantage of lower rates, but ensure full pre-approval and keep contingencies in place.

For Sellers

  • Price to current market—not to last year’s peak.
  • Expect longer marketing times and be ready for strategic concessions (rate buydowns, closing credits).
  • Invest in property condition and presentation to stand out.

For Investors

  • Underwrite with conservative rent and absorption projections.
  • Favor stable neighborhoods and properties with strong rental demand.
  • Prepare for higher vacancies or longer lease-up periods.

Outlook: What to Watch Through Year-End 2025

  • Pending sales and mortgage applications: Early signals for shifts in demand.
  • Local job market trends: Especially important in entry-level and service sectors.
  • Inventory build and price reductions: Especially if list prices keep falling in Knoxville.
  • Market speed: Any further rise in DOM or absorption signals softening.

Conclusion

Both Knoxville and the broader East Tennessee region are experiencing a market in transition, balancing improved affordability against weaker labor market data and rising inventory.

  • Knoxville is adjusting more quickly on price and remains a touch more resilient due to diverse demand, but is not immune to broader economic headwinds.
  • East Tennessee as a whole is trending toward a balanced or slightly buyer-leaning market, with greater risk of softening in less urban submarkets.
  • Success for buyers, sellers, and investors in either market hinges on realism, flexibility, and close attention to both local and macroeconomic trends as the remainder of 2025 unfolds.

Looking for advice specific to your neighborhood or price point?
Contact us for a custom market report or subscribe for monthly updates on Knoxville and East Tennessee real estate!

April 2025 Knoxville & East Tennessee Housing Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

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Are you planning to buy or sell real estate in Knoxville or East Tennessee in 2025? With the latest housing market data in hand, you can make informed decisions that align with current trends in the area. In this market update, we’ll break down the key insights from April 2025, including inventory levels, price trends, and market conditions for both buyers and sellers.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or a homeowner ready to sell, here’s everything you need to know about the Knoxville and East Tennessee real estate markets.

Knoxville Housing Market: Cooling but Still Favoring Sellers

The Knoxville housing market is showing signs of cooling, but it remains a slight seller’s market. Here are the latest stats comparing April 2025 to April 2024:

  • Home Sales: Down 15.4% year over year.
  • Pending Sales: Up 10.9%, showing steady buyer interest.
  • Inventory Growth: Up 61.4%, giving buyers more options.
  • Median Sales Price: Increased 4.94% to $404,000.
  • Average Price Per Square Foot: $234 per square foot.
  • Absorption Rate: Rose to 2.38 months, reflecting a slight shift toward balance but still favoring sellers.
  • Days on Market: Average days on market increased by 44.12% to 49 days, signaling a slower pace for home sales.

What This Means for Sellers in Knoxville

Sellers in Knoxville need to adapt quickly to changing conditions by pricing homes competitively and ensuring properties are well-prepared for listing. While prices are still rising, the increase in inventory and absorption rate indicates growing buyer leverage.

What This Means for Buyers in Knoxville

With more inventory and slower sales, buyers have greater negotiating power. However, desirable homes are still selling quickly. Acting decisively on well-priced properties is key to securing your dream home.

East Tennessee Housing Market: A Steady Transition Toward Balance

Compared to Knoxville, the East Tennessee market is transitioning more gradually, moving closer to a balanced market. Here’s the year-over-year data for April 2025:

  • Home Sales: Down 12.5% compared to April 2024.
  • Pending Sales: Up 13.7%, reflecting active buyer interest.
  • Inventory Growth: Up 39.4%, giving buyers more options.
  • Median Sales Price: Increased 6.23% to $375,000.
  • Average Price Per Square Foot: $227 per square foot.
  • Absorption Rate: Rose to 4.07 months, nearing a balanced market.
  • Days on Market: Average days on market increased by 16.98% to 62 days, while the median rose 53.33% to 23 days.

What This Means for Sellers in East Tennessee

Sellers in East Tennessee can take a more patient approach compared to Knoxville. With homes taking longer to sell, focusing on property presentation and strategic pricing is crucial. The market is nearing balance, but sellers can still benefit from price appreciation.

What This Means for Buyers in East Tennessee

Buyers have more time to evaluate properties as the market stabilizes. While the slower pace offers more flexibility, competitive pricing means there’s less room for dramatic discounts.

Key Trends Driving the Knoxville and East Tennessee Housing Markets

1. Growing Inventory Levels

Both Knoxville and East Tennessee are experiencing rising inventory levels, providing buyers with more options. However, Knoxville’s faster absorption rate increase (52.2% year over year) suggests a more rapid market adjustment compared to East Tennessee’s slower pace (29.25%).

2. Seasonal Market Upswing

Spring is the busiest time for real estate, and both markets are benefiting from seasonal demand. Pending sales have increased significantly in Knoxville, jumping from 488 in February to 666 in April, highlighting strong buyer activity.

3. Pricing Trends

  • Knoxville: Median sales price rose by 5.19% to $405,000, while the median list price declined by 3.25%. This suggests sellers are adjusting expectations to attract buyers.
  • East Tennessee: Median sales price increased 6.23% to $375,000, with a modest 1.24% rise in list prices. Sellers here are maintaining steadier pricing strategies.

4. Affordability Challenges

Rising prices and high mortgage rates (currently hovering around 6.92%) are creating affordability challenges for many buyers. The “lock-in effect” is also keeping some potential sellers on the sidelines, as 72% of homeowners with mortgages have interest rates below 5%.

County-Specific Market Insights

Here’s a quick overview of housing trends in surrounding East Tennessee counties:

  • Knox County: Inventory up 57.6%, pending sales up 12.2%, and median sales price up 7.08% to $401,547.
  • Roane County: Inventory up 29.3%, pending sales down 12.3%, and median sales price down 1.5% to $319,000.
  • Anderson County: Inventory up 37.6%, pending sales up 14%, and median sales price down 0.5% to $297,500.
  • Loudon County: Inventory up 65.8%, pending sales down 4.3%, and median sales price up 4.98% to $527,500.
  • Sevier County: Inventory up 18.1%, pending sales down 5.7%, and median sales price down 3.81% to $525,000.
  • Blount County: Inventory up 51.2%, pending sales up 19.6%, and median sales price up 6.84% to $406,000.

Opportunities and Challenges for Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers

  • Knoxville: Price your home competitively and prepare it well to stand out in a cooling market.
  • East Tennessee: Be patient with longer selling times, but focus on presentation and pricing to attract buyers.

For Buyers

  • Knoxville: Leverage increased inventory and negotiate strategically, but act quickly on desirable properties.
  • East Tennessee: Take advantage of a balanced market to explore more options, but don’t expect deep discounts.

National Market Context: How Knoxville and East Tennessee Compare

Nationally, the housing market is seeing more metro areas with falling home prices. However, Knoxville and East Tennessee continue to experience year-over-year price appreciation.

Despite low national home sales (near historic lows since 1995), East Tennessee’s resilience reflects strong local demand and steady market conditions.

Final Thoughts: Steady as She Goes

The Knoxville and East Tennessee housing markets are adapting to increased inventory and shifting buyer behavior. Knoxville is cooling faster, while East Tennessee’s transition is more gradual.

Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding these nuanced trends is key to making informed decisions. If you’re ready to take the next step in the Knoxville or East Tennessee real estate market, contact Troy Stavros with Cornerstone Realty Associates for expert guidance.

Looking to buy or sell in Knoxville or East Tennessee? Let’s make your real estate goals a reality. Reach out today for personalized advice and support!

Contact Troy Stavros, Cornerstone Realty Associates
📞 Phone: 865-999-0925
📧 Email: troy@865realestate.com