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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

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.

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

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The East Tennessee and Knoxville housing markets continue to evolve as we move through 2025. According to the latest February data compiled by Cornerstone Realty Associates, the region is showing signs of transitioning toward a more balanced market with some interesting variations across different counties. Here’s a comprehensive analysis of what’s happening in our local real estate market.

East Tennessee Housing Market Overview

When comparing February 2025 to February 2024, East Tennessee shows some notable trends:

  • Home sales: Down 8.5%
  • Pending sales: Up 1.4%
  • Inventory: Up significantly by 33.6%
  • New listings: Up 2.1%
  • Median sales price: $360,000 (up 1.84%)
  • Average price per square foot: $217
  • Absorption rate: 3.59 months (up from 3.58 months)

The absorption rate increase of 29.6% year-over-year suggests homes are taking longer to sell, gradually shifting the market toward a more balanced or buyer-friendly environment. While this indicates buyers now have more options and sellers face increased competition, prices remain relatively stable.

Days on market have increased steadily, now exceeding 65 days across East Tennessee. Though homes are taking longer to sell than last year, demand remains strong enough to sustain gradual price increases.

Knoxville Housing Market Data

The Knoxville metro area presents a somewhat different picture:

  • Home sales: Down 12.6%
  • Pending sales: Down 2.7%
  • Inventory: Up 39.7%
  • New listings: Up 0.2%
  • Median sales price: $408,500 (up 5.42%)
  • Average price per square foot: $230
  • Absorption rate: 2.01 months (down from 2.06 months)

Despite rising inventory, Knoxville remains a relatively competitive market with just 2 months of inventory (a healthy market is typically 4-6 months). With this low inventory level, prices are likely to remain stable or continue rising.

The sold-to-list price ratio remains high at over 97%, indicating homes are generally selling close to asking prices. While negotiation power has slightly increased for buyers, Knoxville continues to be a relatively strong market for sellers.

County-by-County Analysis

Knox County

  • Inventory up 39.8%
  • Pending sales down 4.9%
  • Median sales price: $400,600 (up 4.9%)
  • Price per square foot: $228

Knox County’s housing market is shifting toward a more balanced state with increasing inventory and longer selling times. The absorption rate has risen from 1.56 to 2.03 months, a 30.13% increase year-over-year.

Anderson County

  • Inventory up 34.3%
  • Pending sales up 8%
  • Median sales price: $324,900 (up 8.3%)
  • Price per square foot: $180

The absorption rate has increased from 1.87 to 2.47 months, indicating homes are taking longer to sell. While prices are rising, longer selling times suggest buyers have more leverage than before.

Blount County

  • Inventory up 36.4%
  • Pending sales up 34%
  • Median sales price: $380,000 (up 3.68%)
  • Price per square foot: $235

Blount County’s housing market is transitioning to a more balanced state. The absorption rate has increased from 2.37 to 2.84 months, suggesting homes are taking longer to sell.

Loudon County

  • Inventory up 68.1%
  • Pending sales up 15.9%
  • Median sales price: $417,000 (down 8.33%)
  • Price per square foot: $228

Loudon County is showing the most significant shift toward a buyer’s market. The absorption rate has surged from 2.4 to 3.81 months, a 58.09% increase year-over-year. Loudon County’s market is clearly shifting toward a more buyer-friendly environment.

Roane County

  • Inventory up 32.8%
  • Pending sales up 4.3%
  • Median sales price: $338,000 (up 6.46%)
  • Price per square foot: $179

The absorption rate has increased from 2.18 to 2.9 months, a 33.49% increase. This suggests homes are taking longer to sell, transitioning the market toward a more balanced environment.

Sevier County

  • Inventory up 20%
  • Pending sales down 12.5%
  • Median sales price: $540,000 (down 3.16%)
  • Price per square foot: $261

Sevier County is firmly in a buyer’s market with an absorption rate of 8.75 months, up from 6.58 months (a 32.98% increase). With high inventory and slower sales, buyers have significant negotiating power in this county.

Migration Patterns Affecting the Market

The report also highlights important migration trends affecting the local market:

  • Knox County: Net migration has returned to pre-pandemic levels (5.6 people per 1,000 residents)
  • Loudon County: Still seeing strong migration (27.3 people per 1,000)
  • Sevier County: More people are now leaving than arriving
  • Knoxville Metro Area: Still saw 9,661 net new residents in 2024

Overall, the region continues to attract new residents, though not at the peak levels seen in 2021-2022 when the Knoxville area saw over 18,000 net new residents.

Price Appreciation

Despite the shifting market, East Tennessee continues to see solid price appreciation:

  • Knox County: 2.7% increase year-over-year, 80.7% over five years
  • Loudon County: 2.9% increase year-over-year, 63.8% over five years
  • Anderson County: 6.6% increase year-over-year
  • Blount County: 4.9% increase year-over-year

The Knoxville metro area as a whole has seen a 73.2% price increase over the past five years.

Interest Rates and Market Outlook

Interest rates as of mid-March 2025 are at 6.78% for a 30-year loan, which remains relatively high compared to historical standards. The market analysis suggests that if rates drop below 6.5% and get closer to 6%, we could see a significant increase in demand.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers:

  • Price competitively from the start to avoid extended market times
  • Be prepared for more negotiation than in recent years
  • Well-priced homes are still selling at strong values
  • Accurate pricing and strong marketing are essential in a shifting market

For Buyers:

  • More inventory means more choices and greater negotiation power
  • Longer days on market allows for better deal-making opportunities
  • Sellers are generally more flexible on pricing and closing terms
  • Well-priced homes in desirable areas still command competitive offers

Conclusion

The East Tennessee and Knoxville housing markets are transitioning toward a more balanced state, with significant variations by county. While inventory is rising and homes are taking longer to sell, prices remain relatively stable in most areas. Sevier and Loudon counties are showing the most significant shifts toward buyer’s markets, while Knoxville proper remains relatively competitive for sellers.

It’s important to remember that real estate is hyperlocal – conditions can vary dramatically between neighborhoods and even individual properties. A specific subdivision or property could defy overall market trends based on its unique characteristics and desirability.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in East Tennessee, now is an excellent time to consult with a local real estate professional who can provide specific insights for your particular situation and location.

Get your slice of Tennessee Heaven: Home for sale at 1305 Pin Hook Road, Spring City, TN on 3.6 acres with the lake across the street

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Come get your slice of Tennessee Heaven! Set on 3.6 sprawling acres near the Tennessee River, this inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers an ideal blend of space and serenity. A covered front porch welcomes you home, while the surrounding acreage provides the perfect canvas for outdoor living and recreation. Inside, discover comfortable living spaces including a generous eat-in kitchen and a family room warmed by a cozy fireplace. The family room and master suite connect to a bright sunroom overlooking the back yard and woods, creating a peaceful private retreat. A separate guest quarters, complete with mini kitchen, full bath, and gas stove, makes hosting family and friends a breeze. Storage is abundant with an oversized two-car attached garage plus two separate carport sheds – perfect for boats, equipment, or creating covered outdoor entertainment areas. A versatile bonus room adapts easily to your needs as a home office, hobby space, or additional bedroom. The property’s natural setting backs to 30+ acres of woodland, where deer regularly roam, creating a private sanctuary. Located at 1305 Pin Hook Road in Spring City, this home offers the perfect balance of countryside tranquility while keeping you close to Tennessee River recreation. Experience the freedom of country living with the convenience of lake country amenities just minutes away. Want to setup a time to see this property? Need help buying or selling a home in East Tennessee? Contact Troy Stavros with CornerStone Realty Associates at 865-999-0925 today.

Stunning One-Level Home Near Downtown Knoxville | Updated Kitchen, Large Deck, & Big Backyard!

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Welcome to this beautifully updated, one-level home in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee located at 3108 Walridge Road, Knoxville, TN 37921, just 13 minutes from downtown and the University of Tennessee. Step inside to discover gleaming hardwood floors and stylish tile throughout the open living spaces. The modern kitchen, with stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, and charming shiplap accents, seamlessly flows into the family room, creating an inviting space for gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, the warmth of the wood-burning fireplace in the adjoining flex space offers endless possibilities for an office, study, or cozy retreat. The owner’s suite is a true sanctuary, complete with French doors leading to a spacious deck—perfect for your morning coffee or sunset relaxation. The en-suite bathroom has been thoughtfully updated with a custom tile shower, offering a luxurious start and end to your day. Two additional bedrooms and another fully updated bathroom provide ample room for all. Outside, you’ll love the oversized composite deck, which makes for easy maintenance while overlooking the expansive, fenced backyard. Picture afternoons spent under the shade of a stunning tree, cultivating your garden, or working on projects in the convenient storage shed. The unbeatable location allows you to walk to the nearby elementary school and enjoy the strong curb appeal of this charming home. Lifestyle perks? You’re minutes from the vibrant energy of downtown Knoxville—whether it’s catching a UT football game, dining at trendy restaurants, or taking in live music, this location offers the perfect balance between quiet suburban living and exciting city life. Have questions? Want to schedule a private showing? Need help buying or selling a home anywhere around the Knoxville area? Contact me, Troy Stavros with CornerStone Realty Associates at 865-999-0925 today!

Stunning Farragut Dream Pool Home with Backyard Oasis in Rockwell Farm!

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Welcome to your dream home, perfectly nestled in the heart of sought-after Farragut, TN. Located at 436 Rockwell Farm Lane, Knoxville, Tennessee, this beautiful 2-story residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms and a large bonus room that easily serves as a 5th bedroom, providing the perfect mix of comfort and flexibility. With 2.5 elegantly updated bathrooms, this home exudes modern charm. Step inside to an inviting open floor plan, where the family room’s cozy fireplace is framed by custom built-ins, creating an atmosphere of warmth and relaxation. Hardwood floors grace most of the main level, leading to a kitchen with ample counter space, and an eat-in nook perfect for casual meals. For those who need space to work from home, the main level includes a large dedicated office, and when it’s time to entertain, the formal dining room is the ideal setting. Take advantage of both front and rear staircases for easy access to the second floor. The backyard is an outdoor oasis. Imagine cooler evenings by the firepit, or summer days spent in the refreshing inground gunite pool, or hosting gatherings or eating alfresco on the spacious patio, with plenty of grassy areas left for play and relaxation. Recent updates include brand-new HVAC units installed in July 2024, ensuring year-round comfort. The extra-large driveway and 2-car garage offer ample parking and storage space. Zoned for all Farragut schools, this home is just minutes from shopping, dining, golf courses, and the lake. Downtown Knoxville is a quick 25-minute drive, and the majestic Smoky Mountains are only 45 minutes away. Have questions? Want to schedule a tour? Need to your your home sold or help finding a home? Contact Troy Stavros with CornerStone Realty Associates at 865-999-0925 today.