If you’re looking to make East Tennessee your home, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is:
Should I build a custom home, or buy an existing one?
With demand rising across the region — from Sevierville and Greeneville to Johnson City and Gatlinburg — this decision has long-term financial and lifestyle implications. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each path and help you decide which makes the most sense for your goals, budget, and timeline.
Buying an Existing Home in East Tennessee
✅ The Pros:
- Speed: You can close and move in quickly — often within 30–45 days.
- Simplicity: Fewer decisions and no construction phase to manage.
- Established Neighborhoods: Existing homes are often in mature areas with finished roads, landscaping, and HOAs.
- Cost Certainty: What you see is what you pay (aside from inspection findings).
❌ The Cons:
- Limited Inventory: Good homes in desirable areas go fast — and often above asking price.
- Hidden Repairs: Older homes may require updates to HVAC, roofing, plumbing, or insulation.
- Design Compromises: You may have to settle on layout, finishes, or storage needs.
- Bidding Wars: In a competitive market, you may face multiple offers and lose leverage.
Building a Custom Home in East Tennessee
✅ The Pros:
- Tailored Design: Build exactly what you want — from floorplan to finishes.
- Energy Efficiency: New construction means up-to-date codes, insulation, HVAC, and smart home features.
- Land Flexibility: Build on your own land, rural acreage, or scenic mountain property.
- Long-Term Value: Custom homes often retain value longer and age better with your lifestyle.
❌ The Cons:
- Timeline: Custom builds typically take 6–12 months, depending on scope and location.
- Decision Load: More planning, selections, and coordination are involved (though Olson Custom Homes handles most of this for you).
- Upfront Costs: While not always more expensive, upfront expenses like land prep and permits need to be considered.
Cost Comparison: Buying vs. Building in East Tennessee
Prices vary based on location, finishes, and square footage, but here’s a general guideline:
| Option | Avg. Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Existing Home | $225K–$500K | Inventory low in key areas like Sevierville and Pigeon Forge |
| New Custom Home | $325K–$750K+ | Varies by lot, materials, and features |
| Remodel of Existing | $75K–$200K+ | Depends on scope (kitchen, bath, full home) |
Pro tip: Some clients choose to buy land now and build later — giving them flexibility while locking in a great location.
The Olson Custom Homes Difference
We offer:
- In-house floor plan design + customization
- Custom cabinetry and interior finish services
- Full support with site selection, planning, and permitting
- A team that understands East Tennessee’s unique land, weather, and zoning
Whether you’re just weighing your options or already own land, we’ll walk you through the process and offer honest insights into what’s best for your situation.
Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
| Goal | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Want to move quickly | Buy existing (if you find a fit) |
| Have unique vision or land | Build a custom home |
| Looking to downsize or age in place | Custom, single-level plan |
| Need short-term ROI | Flip or buy rental-ready home |
| Long-term living or retirement | Custom with energy-efficient build |
In the end, East Tennessee is a win-win. Whether you buy or build, you’re entering a strong housing market in a beautiful region with endless possibilities.
Let Olson Custom Homes help you make the right move.