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Building your first home in Tennessee is an exciting adventure—but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many steps to take and decisions to make, it’s hard to know where to start. From budgeting to blueprints, the process is full of important details that can make or break your dream project. To help you navigate the journey, East Tennessee Contractors have put together some essential tips for first-time home builders in Tennessee.
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First-Time Home Builders Need to Start With a Budget Plan
One of the most critical first steps in building your home is figuring out your budget. Most banks won’t discuss loan options until you have an estimate of what your future home will cost. This means you’ll need a rough idea of what you want to build.
For example, let’s say you’ve found your dream home design online but have no clue if it’s within your budget. Here’s a starting point:
Budget around $200 per heated square foot for a standard home. If you’re aiming for something more upscale, expect to pay $225–$240 per heated square foot.
Prices vary depending on the finishes and features you select. If the estimated cost is within $50,000 of your budget, it’s worth exploring further and getting a detailed estimate.
Pro Tip: Most lenders require you to purchase the land outright before qualifying for a construction loan, so plan accordingly.
Having a solid budget plan upfront will help you avoid surprises later.
Don’t Overlook Road and Utility Costs
Your home’s location can significantly affect your overall costs. The above estimates assume your home is close to the road. But if you plan to build farther away—say, 200–300 feet or more—your costs for roads and utilities can increase dramatically.
Running water, electricity, and even access roads from the main road to your home can add $15,000 to $80,000+ to your project, depending on the distance and terrain.
If you’re dreaming of a secluded Tennessee home in the woods, make sure to factor these expenses into your budget.
Soil Tests and Septic Permits Are a Must
Before you purchase land in Tennessee, find out if the property has undergone a percolation test or has a soil map available. Why does this matter? If the land doesn’t pass the test, you won’t be able to install a septic system, which could make the property unbuildable.
Pro Tips:
Always ask your REALTOR® for a soil map or septic permit before buying land in Tennessee.
Septic permits often dictate where you can’t build on the property, which may limit your options.
If your Tennessee property is connected to a city sewer system, you can skip this step—but it’s still wise to confirm with your builder.
Taking these precautions will save you time, money, and plenty of headaches later.
Choosing the Right Foundation: Basement, Slab, or Crawlspace?
Your foundation type is another key consideration when planning your home. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
Basements: Perfect for those who want extra storage or a game room, but be cautious—rocky terrain can significantly increase excavation costs.
Slabs: Popular for their zero-entry design (no stairs), slabs work best on level lots. However, steep slopes can drive up costs to level the land.
Pro Tip: Slabs can save you $8,000–$15,000 compared to other foundations on a semi-level lot, but they can feel cold and hard underfoot.
Crawlspaces: The most common option, crawlspaces allow for easy access to plumbing and HVAC systems, improve ventilation, and reduce water intrusion risks.
Your choice will depend on your land and your budget, so it’s important to plan with your contractor early.
Check HOA Rules Before Building
If your desired property in Tennessee is part of a homeowners association (HOA), research its rules and regulations before committing. Many HOAs have restrictions on home designs, materials, and landscaping, which may limit your creative freedom.
Pro Tip: Have your REALTOR® request a copy of the HOA’s rules and restrictions so you’re fully informed before making a purchase.
Invest in Detailed Blueprints
A good set of blueprints is the foundation of a successful build. While it’s okay to start with Pinterest boards or rough sketches, you’ll eventually need professional plans to ensure accuracy in both design and budget.
Pro Tips:
Provide as much detail as possible to your draftsman, including materials, ceiling heights, flooring types, and more.
Make a list of “must-haves” for your home and stick to it. You’ll have opportunities to save or splurge in certain areas, but your essentials should stay non-negotiable.
Taking the time to perfect your blueprints will save you time and money during construction.
Plan for Today—and Tomorrow
When designing your Tennessee home, think about both your current and future needs. Consider questions like:
Will your family grow?
Do you host large gatherings or holidays?
Could your kids share rooms, or do you need extra space?
Thinking about these factors now will help you build a home that serves your needs for years to come.
Prepare for Emotional Ups and Downs
Building a home is an emotional process. It’s a huge investment of time, money, and energy, and there will likely be delays and challenges along the way. Weather, material shortages, and even last-minute design changes can test your patience.
Pro Tips:
Document all delays or changes to keep timelines transparent and hold contractors accountable.
Remember that some phases of construction (like framing) progress quickly, while others (like plumbing or electrical work) can feel slower.
Avoid rushing decisions to meet arbitrary deadlines—your home is worth doing right.
Despite the challenges, the reward of stepping into a Tennessee home that’s uniquely yours is priceless.
Building your first home is a journey filled with decisions, challenges, and triumphs. By planning carefully, asking the right questions, and working with trusted professionals, you can create a space that meets your needs today and for years to come.
At East Tennessee Contractors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to get started? Contact us today and let’s bring your dream home to life!
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