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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.

Is the Knoxville Real Estate Market Finally Returning to Normal?

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If you have been following my recent market updates, you’ve likely heard me use one word repeatedly: Normalizing.

For the last few months, I have sensed a shift in the Knoxville real estate landscape. The frantic pace of the pandemic years has settled, and we are moving toward stability. Now, new data from First American confirms exactly what we’ve been seeing on the ground.

In this video, I break down a recent report from First American’s Chief Economist that highlights why Knoxville is leading the pack in the return to a balanced housing market.

The Key to Unlocking the Housing Market: New Listings

The article I reference in the video focuses on a crucial metric: New Listings.

While active inventory can increase simply because homes are sitting on the market longer, new listings represent fresh supply. This “flow” of new homes is vital because it gives buyers real options and stimulates transactions. As the Chief Economist at First American notes:

“Where new listings grow, sales flow.”

The data suggests a strong optimism for 2026. As more homeowners choose to list their properties, buyers will have more opportunities to purchase, moving the entire market one step closer to balance.

The 4 Quadrants of Normalization: Where Does Knoxville Stand?

First American analyzed 75 major metropolitan markets, comparing their October 2025 performance against their pre-pandemic averages (October 2018–2019). They divided these markets into four quadrants based on how close their new listings and sales volume were to “normal.”

The results for our local area are incredibly encouraging.

Knoxville is a “Pacesetter”

Knoxville, Tennessee, landed in the upper-right quadrant, designated as a Pacesetter.

What is a Pacesetter?
Pacesetters are markets that are closer to their pre-pandemic norms for both new listings and sales volume than the typical market.

Along with cities like Pittsburgh and Virginia Beach, Knoxville is leading the national return to normalized activity. This quadrant features markets that generally offer relative affordability compared to the rest of the country.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in Knoxville

This report cements what I have been saying for months: While things are slowing down compared to the peak frenzy, we are not crashing—we are normalizing.

  • For Sellers: The market is active, and sales are responding to the improved supply. You are entering a market that is functioning closer to historical health.
  • For Buyers: The increase in fresh listings means you have more choices. The “Pacesetter” status indicates that transactions are flowing, making it a great time to enter the market.

Summary

The data is clear: Knoxville is a leader in the housing recovery. We are seeing a healthy return to pre-pandemic levels of activity, which provides stability for everyone involved in a real estate transaction.

If you have questions about how this “Pacesetter” status affects your home value or your ability to buy in 2026, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Troy Stavros
Cornerstone Realty Associates
Knoxville, TN

Knoxville & East Tennessee Real Estate Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know (June 2025)

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Knoxville & East Tennessee Real Estate Market Update: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know (June 2025)

Are you thinking of buying or selling a home in Knoxville or the greater East Tennessee region? The local real estate market is always evolving, and the latest data through June 2025 brings some important trends you should know before making your next move.

Knoxville: Still a Seller’s Market, But Things Are Shifting

Knoxville continues to lead the region as one of the hottest real estate markets in East Tennessee. Homes here are selling faster and closer to list price than anywhere else in the region:

  • Median Sale Price: $420,000 (up 3.7% year-over-year)
  • Average Days on Market: 40 days (still historically low)
  • Sold-to-List Price Ratio: 97% (sellers are getting top dollar!)
  • Absorption Rate: 2.8 months (a healthy seller’s market)

What does this mean for sellers?
If you’re considering selling your Knoxville home, now is a great time. Well-priced, move-in ready homes are still seeing strong demand and quick sales. Inventory is rising slightly, but competition from buyers remains high. Pricing your home right and preparing it for showings can help you maximize your sale price.

What about buyers?
Knoxville buyers should be prepared to act quickly when the right property hits the market. With competition still robust, getting pre-approved and working with a local agent will help you move fast and negotiate effectively.

East Tennessee: Growing Inventory, More Choices for Buyers

The broader East Tennessee market is showing signs of cooling compared to its peak frenzy. This shift brings both opportunities and considerations for buyers and sellers:

  • Median Sale Price: $377,900 (up 0.8% year-over-year)
  • Average Days on Market: 60 days (up from 44 one year ago)
  • Absorption Rate: 4.6 months (moving toward a balanced market)
  • Average List Price: $611,146

For buyers:
There are more homes to choose from than last year, and sellers are more open to negotiation. This is the most buyer-friendly market we’ve seen in years, so if you’ve been waiting for less competitive conditions, now may be your opportunity.

For sellers:
It’s still a good time to sell, but patience and the right pricing strategy are essential. With more homes on the market, buyers have options—so making your home stand out is more important than ever. Staging, repairs, and a competitive price can help your home sell faster.

Knoxville vs. East Tennessee: Key Differences

  • Speed of Sale: Knoxville homes sell 20 days faster, on average, than the rest of East Tennessee.
  • Pricing Power: Knoxville sellers see higher median and average sale prices.
  • Market Balance: Knoxville remains a solid seller’s market, while East Tennessee is moving toward a more balanced market with more negotiating room for buyers.

Should You Buy or Sell Now?

If you’re a seller in Knoxville:
You can still take advantage of strong prices and fast sales—but don’t delay. Rising inventory means more competition is on the horizon.

If you’re a buyer in East Tennessee:
You finally have more choices and negotiating power. Take time to find the right home, but be ready to act when you find it.

Expert Local Help Makes the Difference

Whether you’re buying or selling, the right strategy is key in today’s market. Our team lives and works right here in East Tennessee and Knoxville—we know the neighborhoods, the trends, and how to get you the best results.

Thinking about making a move?
Contact us today for a free market analysis, a custom home search, or just to talk about your options in the Knoxville and East Tennessee real estate market.

Knoxville & East Tennessee Real Estate Market: Q3 2025 Predictions

1. Inventory Will Continue to Rise

  • East Tennessee: Expect further increases in active listings. Seasonal patterns and the current momentum suggest more homeowners will list, especially as those who delayed selling during spring jump in.
  • Knoxville: Inventory will grow but at a slower pace than the broader region. New construction and move-up sellers will add to choices, but demand will keep absorption rates relatively low.

What it means:
Buyers will enjoy more options, but sellers will face more competition.

2. Days on Market Will Edge Higher

  • East Tennessee: As inventory builds, average days on market (DOM) could reach 65–70 days by late Q3. Homes will take longer to sell, especially those that are overpriced or need work.
  • Knoxville: DOM will likely edge up but remain below 50 days, still a quick pace historically.

What it means:
Sellers must price competitively and present homes well to attract buyers. Buyers may have slightly more negotiating power.

3. Prices Will Stabilize or See Only Modest Gains

  • East Tennessee: Median sale prices are likely to plateau or increase only slightly. With more inventory and longer selling times, aggressive price growth is unlikely.
  • Knoxville: Sale prices may hold steady with a slight upward bias, driven by continued strong demand and limited supply of turnkey homes in desirable neighborhoods.

What it means:
Don’t expect dramatic price drops, but sellers should not anticipate bidding wars or big price jumps either.

4. Negotiation Will Increase—Especially Outside Knoxville

  • East Tennessee: Expect more price reductions and seller concessions (closing costs, repairs, rate buy-downs). Buyers can shop around and negotiate more assertively.
  • Knoxville: Some negotiation will return, but sellers of move-in-ready homes in top locations will still command strong offers.

5. Mortgage Rates & Affordability Remain Wildcards

  • If mortgage rates tick down, pent-up buyer demand could surge, especially in Knoxville, temporarily tightening the market.
  • If rates stay flat or rise, expect steady but not surging activity.

Bottom Line: Q3 2025 Outlook

  • Knoxville will remain a resilient market with strong demand, quick sales for well-priced homes, and stable prices.
  • East Tennessee as a region will trend more toward balance, with buyers gaining leverage, sellers facing more competition, and prices stabilizing.
  • Both markets will reward strategic buyers and sellers—those who prepare, price, and negotiate effectively.

Tips for Buyers & Sellers

  • Sellers: Price right from the start, invest in curb appeal, and be ready for negotiations.
  • Buyers: Take advantage of growing inventory, but move quickly on standout properties, especially in Knoxville.

Need personalized advice or want to know how your neighborhood will perform?
Contact our expert team for a custom analysis and stay ahead of the market this summer!

MARCH 2025 – Knoxville Real Estate Market Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

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The East Tennessee real estate market is evolving, with significant shifts that impact both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or sell your property in Knoxville or the surrounding areas, understanding current market conditions is essential for making informed decisions.

The Knoxville Housing Market: By the Numbers

Recent data shows Knoxville’s real estate market is transitioning toward more balanced conditions after years of exceptional growth. As the #1 city for home price appreciation among the 100 largest US cities over the past seven years (with an impressive 98.13% increase), Knoxville now shows signs of stabilization.

Key market indicators reveal:

  • Increasing Inventory: Active listings have grown steadily, providing more options for buyers
  • Modest Price Growth: Median sale prices rose 4.79% year-over-year to $400,000, while average sale prices increased 6.21% to $477,733
  • Extended Selling Timeline: Average days on market increased by 21.62% to 45 days
  • Absorption Rate: Now at 2.12 months, up 35.90% from last year

What This Means for Sellers

If you’re considering selling your Knoxville home, these trends suggest several strategic approaches:

1. Competitive Pricing is Critical

With more homes available, pricing your property correctly from the start is essential. The data shows a slight decline in the sale-to-original-list price ratio, indicating buyers are negotiating more successfully. However, properties still sell at approximately 98% of their final list price after any adjustments.

2. Prepare for Longer Selling Periods

Homes are taking longer to sell compared to last year’s fast-paced market. Be prepared for an extended timeline and consider what improvements might help your property stand out among increased competition.

3. Quality Properties Still Command Premium Prices

Despite growing inventory, desirable homes in good condition continue selling at higher price points. Investing in strategic improvements and professional marketing can help your property attract quality offers.

What This Means for Buyers

The shifting market presents new opportunities for those looking to purchase in East Tennessee:

1. More Options and Less Pressure

With active listings increasing, buyers now have more properties to choose from and time to make decisions. This reduces the pressure of bidding wars that characterized previous years.

2. Negotiating Power

The longer days on market and declining sold-to-original-list price ratio create favorable conditions for negotiations. Buyers have more leverage to request concessions or negotiate on price.

3. Still a Strong Market

While conditions have improved for buyers, Knoxville remains a desirable market with steady appreciation. Don’t expect dramatic price drops – quality properties in sought-after areas still sell quickly and close to asking price.

Looking Ahead: Knoxville’s 5-Year Forecast

What can we expect for Knoxville real estate in the coming years? Based on economic indicators and demographic trends, experts project:

  • Continued appreciation of 14-20% over the next 5 years
  • Annual appreciation rates of 2.5-4%
  • Sustained growth in population and employment opportunities
  • Ongoing appeal to young professionals, families, and retirees

The factors that drove Knoxville’s remarkable past performance – including quality of life, relative affordability, economic diversification, and urban revitalization – continue to position the area favorably compared to other markets across the country.

Making Your Next Move in East Tennessee Real Estate

Whether buying or selling in this evolving market, working with a knowledgeable local real estate professional is more important than ever. From pricing strategies to negotiation expertise, experienced guidance can help you navigate these changing conditions successfully.

For personalized advice on your specific real estate goals in Knoxville or anywhere in East Tennessee, contact Troy Stavros with Cornerstone Realty Associates at 865-999-0925. With deep local market knowledge and a commitment to client success, Troy can help you make confident decisions in today’s market.

July 15, 2024 Monday Market Minute – Knoxville Real Estate and Housing Market Data

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As the real estate landscape in Knoxville, Tennessee, continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest market trends is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Let’s delve into the current state of the Knoxville real estate market, based on the latest data and insights provided by Troy Stavros from Cornerstone Realty Associates.

Market Overview: Demand Outpaces Supply

The Market Action Index (MAI) in Knoxville indicates a robust seller’s market. Last week, the MAI climbed from 44.82 to 50.54, signaling increasing demand compared to supply. This trend emphasizes that sellers have the upper hand, and buyers might face stiffer competition to secure their desired properties.

Inventory Trends: A Slight Dip

Inventory levels experienced a slight decrease, dropping from 805 active listings to 792. This reduction might be a residual effect of the July 4th holiday, but it also hints at a potential peak in inventory for the year. Fewer new listings have been added, with a noticeable decline from 153 new listings to 125 in just a week. This decrease in new listings further tightens the market, reinforcing the seller’s advantage.

Price Dynamics: Stability with Upward Pressure

Despite the fluctuations in inventory, the median list price of active homes has remained relatively steady, slightly below the levels seen in 2023. However, the median new list price for recent listings has surpassed last year’s figures, indicating that new properties entering the market are priced higher than before. This trend suggests continued upward pressure on home prices due to constrained supply and sustained demand.

Price Adjustments: Consistent Reductions

Price reductions have remained steady, with 46% of homes currently on the market experiencing price drops. This consistency over the past few weeks suggests that while sellers are pricing their homes higher initially, there is still room for negotiation, offering potential opportunities for astute buyers.

Segment Analysis: Diverse Market Activity

Breaking down the market into segments provides a clearer picture of demand across different price ranges:

  • Lowest Segment ($299,900 and below): This segment saw 45 new listings and 46 homes absorbed, with active listings spending an average of 28 days on the market.
  • Mid-Low Segment ($416,030): Here, 28 new listings were recorded, with 33 homes being absorbed and an average market time of 28 days.
  • Mid-High Segment ($567,000): This range had 21 new listings and 32 absorptions, with active listings spending 35 days on the market.
  • Highest Segment ($934,450): The top-tier segment saw 31 new listings and 28 absorptions, with the longest market time of 40 days among all segments.

Despite the prevailing seller’s market, the most expensive properties in Knoxville ($934,450) are experiencing the longest days on market (DOM). This suggests a potential opportunity for high-end buyers to negotiate better deals, even as the rest of the market remains fiercely competitive.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Knoxville, staying informed about the latest market trends is essential. With demand outpacing supply, inventory levels fluctuating, and prices holding steady, it’s a dynamic market that requires strategic planning and informed decision-making. For personalized advice and insights, don’t hesitate to reach out to Troy Stavros at Cornerstone Realty Associates.

Understanding Real Estate Affordability at the End of 2023 in Knoxville TN and beyond: A Deep Dive

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As 2023 draws to a close, the real estate market continues to be a hot topic, especially concerning affordability. Troy Stavros has recently shed light on the current state of affordability in the real estate market, referencing a comprehensive Redfin research article. This blog post delves into the key points from that discussion, providing insights into where we stand, how we got here, and what the future may hold for prospective homeowners.

Affordability Crisis in 2023:

The year 2023 has been particularly challenging for homebuyers. According to the Redfin research highlighted by Stavros, only 15.5 percent of homes were affordable for the typical U.S. household — the lowest share on record. This stark decline in affordability is a significant drop from 20.7 percent in 2022 and over 40 percent before the pandemic-induced home-buying boom. The factors contributing to this downturn include soaring home prices, elevated mortgage rates, and a general tightening of the housing market.

The Research’s Premise:

The Redfin article digs into the affordability of homes across the 97 most populous U.S. metropolitan areas. It defines an affordable listing as one where the estimated monthly mortgage payment is less than 30 percent of the local county’s median household income. This metric is a standard guideline for housing affordability and reflects the financial strain many families face in the current market.

Spotlight on Metropolitan Areas:

Stavros highlights the significant disparities in affordability across different areas, with a special focus on Tennessee cities like Nashville and Knoxville. For instance, Nashville saw a mere 3.4 percent of homes deemed affordable in 2023, a dramatic decrease from 8.8 percent in 2022. Knoxville experienced similar trends where they saw a 10.7 percent of homes deemed affordable in 2023, a dramatic decrease from 22.7 percent in 2022.. These figures illustrate the severe affordability issues plaguing not just these cities but many metropolitan areas across the country.

Looking Ahead:

Despite the grim current state of affordability, there is a glimmer of hope. Discussions around potential federal interest rate reductions in 2024 could lead to lower mortgage rates, possibly increasing the share of affordable homes. This prospect offers some solace to those struggling to find affordable housing in today’s market.

Conclusion:

The current state of real estate affordability is undeniably challenging, with 2023 marking a record low in accessible housing options for many Americans. However, understanding these trends is crucial for navigating the market effectively. As we look forward to potential economic shifts and policy changes, staying informed and prepared is key to capitalizing on future opportunities in the real estate market.

Have questions? Want to talk about your specific situation? Contact Troy Stavros with Cornerstone Realty Associates at 865-977-9700 or text him at 865-999-0925 today. We look forward to serving you!