The RP Living Blog & Insights

Thinking about making the move to Tennessee? Cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville have quickly become top destinations for homebuyers—and it’s easy to see why. With access to mountains, rivers, and lakes, plus close proximity to cities like Atlanta and Nashville, they offer the perfect balance of outdoor living and everyday convenience—without the higher cost or congestion.

RP Communities brings this lifestyle to life with thoughtfully designed new homes in some of the region’s most desirable neighborhoods. Let's take a look at what makes Chattanooga and Knoxville so desirable for buyers looking to move to Tennessee.

Why Chattanooga Continues to Attract Homebuyers

Chattanooga offers a rare balance of outdoor access and city convenience, making it a consistent choice for buyers looking for both lifestyle and livability. With a well-connected layout, a vibrant downtown, and established neighborhoods like East Brainerd and Downtown, residents can enjoy quieter residential living without feeling disconnected from the heart of the city.

New construction homes in Chattanooga add another layer of appeal. Today’s buyers are looking for move-in-ready spaces designed for modern living—open floor plans, flexible areas for remote work, and low-maintenance features that make settling in easy. RP Communities delivers on that with thoughtfully designed homes in locations that truly make sense.

From low-maintenance townhomes in established areas like Kensington to communities like The Bexley that offer close proximity to downtown, UTC, and everyday amenities, there’s a range of options to fit different lifestyles. It’s this combination of smart design and strategic location that continues to draw in everyone from young professionals to growing families.

As one of the most active seasons for homebuying, spring in Chattanooga can move quickly especially in desirable areas. Choosing new construction can offer a more streamlined path forward, helping buyers avoid the competition and uncertainty often found in the resale market.

Why Knoxville Is Gaining Attention

If you’re looking for a different pace, Knoxville offers many of the same benefits as Chattanooga, but with its own distinct energy. As a larger city, it brings more activity, amenities, and growth, while still maintaining access to outdoor spaces and a strong sense of community. With the Great Smoky Mountains nearby, it’s an ideal blend of city living and natural surroundings.

New construction in Knoxville reflects the growing demand for thoughtfully planned communities. Rather than scattered developments, buyers will find neighborhoods designed with usability in mind—featuring walkable layouts, shared spaces, and homes that are truly move-in ready.

Communities like Strawberry Hills and The Village at Strawberry Hills highlight this approach, offering a mix of single-family homes and townhomes to suit a range of needs. Whether you’re looking for more space, lower maintenance, or something in between, RP Communities creates environments designed for how people want to live today.

Like Chattanooga, Knoxville sees increased competition during the spring buying season. Choosing new construction offers a more predictable path forward, with clearer timelines and fewer surprises compared to resale homes.

Explore Available Homes and Schedule a Tour

If you're planning a move this year, we recommend seeing each communities in person to see the difference they can make to your quality of life. RP Communities offers new construction homes across both Chattanooga and Knoxville with developments designed around practical layouts, modern features, and locations that work for everyday living.

Schedule a tour with us today to see what's available, how the communities are set up, and which option fits best for you.

If you are searching for new homes for sale in Knoxville, TN or new townhomes in Chattanooga, TN you're on an exciting journey. A new construction home, however, differs from purchasing a resale property. Understanding the process and what the key decisions are, as well as everything in between, is crucial. Let's walk through the process of purchasing a new home or townhome.

Initial Research and Selection

You should always start by exploring available communities near you and floor plans that match your lifestyle. In Knoxville, TN, new construction homes like those at Strawberry Hills feature modern designs with spacious lots and family-friendly amenities. 

The Bexley in Chattanooga also provides stylish options tailored to urban and suburban buyers, but it can be tough to whittle down your choices, so visit builders' websites, attend open houses, and schedule virtual tours so you can compare layout, square footage, and pricing.

Making an Offer and Lot Selection

When you find the perfect community, it's time to select a lot. You can then submit a purchase agreement with the deposit, which is typically 1% to 5% of the home price. Builders often lock in current pricing for materials and labor, protecting you from future increases, and then be sure to review the contract carefully for timelines, upgrade allowances, and contingency clauses. At this stage, secure pre-approval for financing, as lenders may require it before proceeding.

Design and Customization Phase

This is where you make your home personal. At RP Communities, you'll work with our design team to choose finishes like countertops, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and paint colors. You should factor this into your budget early on, as selections typically close between four and six weeks after signing. 

In communities like Strawberry Hills, when you're looking for new homes for sale in Knoxville, TN, you may select energy-efficient features or smart home tech. You can expect to spend between 10% to 20% extra on customizations and get everything in writing to avoid surprises.

Construction Timeline and Walk Throughs

The building work typically takes between six and twelve months, depending on the size, weather, and supply chains. You should observe the site at key milestones, for example, when the foundation has been poured, the framing, the rough-ins, the drywall, and the pre-drywall inspection.

Financing, Closing, and Move-In

As construction nears completion, which is typically 30 to 45 days out, you would finalize your mortgage, as new construction loans often convert to permanent financing at closing. You can conduct a final walk-through 24 to 48 hours before closing to check for potential issues like incomplete landscaping, scratches, or leaks. 

At this point, you should be aware of your budget, particularly for prorated taxes, HOA dues if they are applicable, and moving costs. After you've exchanged keys, it's now time to enjoy your new home! 

Time to Start Your Homeowner Journey

Purchasing a new construction where you are eyeing up Strawberry Hills in Knoxville or the Bexley in Chattanooga is an exciting journey, so if you want to explore floor plans, tour model homes, or discuss lots in new construction homes in Knoxville, TN, schedule a tour with RP Communities. Contact us today to make your dream home a reality.

Finding the right place to call home is all about how life feels when you pull into the driveway. In Knoxville, neighborhoods each bring their own personality, but one community continues to capture attention for all the right reasons. Strawberry Hills isn’t just another option among new homes for sale in Knoxville, TN. It’s a place that feels intentional, welcoming, and really easy to love.

A Neighborhood That Feels Instantly Familiar

Strawberry Hills strikes that rare balance between comfort and excitement. It feels established without feeling dated. New, without feeling cookie-cutter. Streets are thoughtfully laid out, homes are designed with real living in mind, and the entire community carries a relaxed confidence that’s hard to manufacture.

This is the kind of neighborhood where evening walks become a habit. Where it’s easy to recognize familiar faces and feel comfortable from day one. If you’ve been searching for a new house for sale in Knoxville, TN, that feels like more than just a transaction, this community is definitely it.

Location That Makes Life Easier

Convenience matters. Strawberry Hills places you close to everyday essentials while still offering a peaceful retreat from the rush. Shopping, dining, schools, and outdoor recreation are all within easy reach, making daily routines smoother and weekends more flexible.

Knoxville continues to grow, and smart buyers are paying attention to communities that offer access without congestion. That’s one reason new homes in Strawberry Hills are generating so much interest. You get breathing room without feeling disconnected.

Homes Designed For How You Actually Live

Thoughtful Floor Plans

The homes in Strawberry Hills are built with flow in mind. Open living areas, functional kitchens, and flexible spaces allow each home to adapt to different lifestyles. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, the layouts just make sense.

Modern Finishes Without The Fuss

Clean lines, quality craftsmanship, and timeless design choices define the homes here. These aren’t trend-chasing houses that are going to feel dated in five years. They’re designed to age well, both aesthetically and structurally, which is exactly what buyers expect when exploring new homes for sale in Knoxville, TN.

A Community That Grows With You

Strawberry Hills appeals to first-time buyers, growing families, and those looking to simplify without sacrificing style. That versatility is part of what makes it stand out among other Knoxville, TN, homes. Life changes. Your home should be able to keep up.

This neighborhood supports long-term living. It’s not about quick turnover or short-term thinking. It’s about building a place where people stay because they genuinely want to.

Ready To Learn More?

If you’re exploring new homes for sale in Knoxville, TN, and want a neighborhood that truly stands out, Strawberry Hills deserves a closer look. From beautifully designed homes to a location that supports everyday life, it’s a community built for now and for what comes next. Click here to learn more about Strawberry Hills, explore the floor plans and available design packages.

Have questions or want to schedule a tour? Reach out to our team to learn more and see why Strawberry Hills continues to be one of Knoxville’s most desirable communities.

Chattanooga continues to rank among the Southeast’s most desirable places to live, and with that growth has come a shift in what homebuyers value most. More residents are choosing townhome living for its balance of convenience, thoughtful design, and low-maintenance community lifestyles that align with modern needs. Communities like The Bexley, thoughtfully designed and built by RP Homes, reflect this shift—showing how townhomes have become a smart, increasingly popular choice for today’s Chattanooga buyers.

A Lifestyle Built Around Convenience

One of the biggest reasons townhomes are gaining momentum in Chattanooga is the lifestyle they support. Today’s homeowners want simplicity without sacrificing style. Townhome living offers low-maintenance ease—no weekends spent mowing lawns or managing exterior upkeep—making it ideal for busy professionals, young families, and empty nesters who’d rather spend their time enjoying Chattanooga than maintaining a home.

The Bexley, one of Chattanooga’s premier townhome communities, fully embraces this way of life. Designed with connection and comfort in mind, the community features a dedicated dog park and thoughtfully planned green spaces that encourage residents to step outside, unwind, and spend time with neighbors. These shared outdoor areas add to the neighborhood’s relaxed, welcoming feel—offering space to gather, play, or simply enjoy the surroundings without the burden of private yard maintenance.

Location That Elevates Everyday Living

Chattanooga’s continued growth has reshaped how people think about where they live—buyers want to be close to the city’s energy without compromising comfort or affordability. Townhome communities answer that call by placing residents in walkable, well-connected areas where daily life feels easier and more engaging.

The Bexley delivers on that promise with a location that puts downtown within reach. Located at the intersection of McCallie Avenue and Central Avenue, the community sits alongside the historic Fort Wood District, offering quick access to tree-lined streets, local restaurants, neighborhood shops, and a character-rich urban atmosphere. With the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Erlanger Hospital nearby, residents are positioned close to major employers, education, and healthcare—making everyday routines more convenient and connected to the city around them.

The Townhomes Fit Your Style

Today’s buyers care just as much about design as they do location, and modern townhomes have evolved to meet those expectations. Thoughtful layouts, open-concept living spaces, and contemporary finishes create homes that feel bright, spacious, and intuitive—proving that townhome living doesn’t mean compromising on style.

At The Bexley, RP Homes elevates this approach through modern design paired with quality craftsmanship. Each townhome is intentionally planned to maximize space, functionality, and comfort, featuring clean lines, efficient layouts, and carefully selected materials that support everyday living. These aren’t the narrow, dated townhomes of the past—they’re refined, well-designed residences created for how people live now. The result is a stylish, comfortable home that delivers modern appeal without stretching beyond a realistic budget.

A Sense of Community Without the Crowds

Townhome living offers a balance that many buyers are searching for: connection without congestion. Neighbors are close enough to feel familiar, yet the environment remains quieter and more relaxed than high-density apartment living. It’s a lifestyle that encourages community while still respecting privacy.

The Bexley reflects this balance through a thoughtfully planned neighborhood that feels welcoming, not overwhelming. Its walkable layout and intentional design create an atmosphere that’s easy to settle into—where residents can engage with neighbors when they choose, while still enjoying the low-maintenance ease often associated with suburban living. This is community living, designed with intention.

Tour New Townhomes in Chattanooga, TN

Townhome living has quickly become one of the smartest and most stylish housing choices in Chattanooga, and The Bexley stands out as a strong example of why. If you’re ready to experience a modern townhome community designed around convenience, comfort, and location, schedule a tour with RP Homes and see what makes The Bexley such a compelling place to call home.