Why Knoxville is a Prime Investment Market
Population growth and diversified employment continue to drive demand for land across Knoxville.
Corporate expansion and infrastructure investment support long-term appreciation and development viability.
Limited supply in key corridors, paired with strong demand, keeps the market competitive and resilient.
Knoxville
Prime Growth Market
Why Choose Acreage Sale for Knoxville Land?
Skip traditional real estate hassles and connect directly with motivated sellers
Success Stories from Knoxville Investors
Real results from real investors
"Found the perfect 10-acre plot in Knoxville through Acreage Sale. The process was seamless and saved me thousands in fees."
"The market data and aerial imagery helped me make an informed decision. Closed on 25 acres in just 45 days."
Complete Knoxville Land Guide
Everything you need to know about buying land in Knoxville
Land for Sale in Knoxville
Looking to buy land for sale in Knoxville? There are plenty of options out there, ranging from homesites with utilities to raw acreage and everything in between. Before you jump on the first piece of land for sale that you see, however, it pays to do your homework first.
The type of property you're looking for will largely depend on your personal circumstances and whether or not you have plans to build a house. Raw land is ideal if your only intention is to build and live on that land. If you don't plan to build right away but would like a home sometime in the future, purchasing a homesite might make more sense.
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Knoxville Regional Submarkets
Understanding the distinct characteristics of different areas within the Knoxville region
West Knoxville
The western corridor offers excellent access to major highways and is experiencing significant residential and commercial growth. This area is particularly attractive for mixed-use developments and master-planned communities.
East Knoxville
Eastern areas provide a blend of suburban development and rural character, with excellent schools and family-friendly communities. This region is ideal for residential subdivisions and recreational properties.
North Knoxville
Northern areas feature rolling hills and scenic views, making them perfect for luxury residential developments and recreational properties. The terrain offers unique development opportunities with natural beauty.
South Knoxville
Southern corridors offer industrial and commercial development opportunities with excellent transportation access. This area is experiencing significant growth in logistics and manufacturing sectors.
How to Find the Best Land for Sale in Knoxville
When you think of buying land, you probably imagine a sprawling ranch with rolling hills, a picturesque stream and enough pasture to support a small herd of cattle. Unfortunately, those kinds of properties are extremely difficult to find. In most areas of the country, finding land for sale is more like trying to find a needle in a haystack than anything else.
Even if you know which counties or townships you'd like to settle in, finding the right property can be an arduous process. Unless you have connections with real estate agents who specialize in selling rural properties, it can be difficult to find what you're looking for. However, with the right research and some determination, it is possible to discover the perfect plot of land for sale sooner rather than later.
Narrow down your search by location
The first thing you'll want to do is decide where you'd like to buy land. Even though you might have a general idea of the types of properties you'd like to see, it's important to be as specific as possible when you're hunting for land for sale. This will help you focus your research, and make your hunt more efficient. There are a number of factors to consider before narrowing down your search. You'll need to decide whether you want to buy land in a rural or urban area, what size property you are looking for, and how much you're willing to spend.
Check the property's zoning regulations
Once you've narrowed down the locations you'd like to buy land, you'll need to do some research on the zoning regulations in each area. This will help you discover what you're allowed to build on the property, and if you are allowed to build on it at all. In most cities or townships, a large portion of the land is designated as "commercial land" or "residential land." On the other hand, around 80 percent of the land in rural areas is used as agricultural land.
Ask other landowners about the area
Before you buy land, it's a good idea to ask the current landowners about what life is like in the area. This will help you get a feel for the neighborhood, and discover if there are any issues you should be aware of before buying. A good way to start this process is by asking the real estate agents who are selling the properties if they know any landowners in the area. If that doesn't work, you can ask your local Chamber of Commerce if they have a list of landowners in your area. If you don't want to ask the landowners directly, you can also ask your neighbors about their experiences living in the area.
Look for signs of natural regeneration
One of the best ways to tell if a piece of land has potential is to look for signs of natural regeneration. You can do this by searching for plants like clover, dandelions, or wildflowers in areas that have not been cultivated in years. If the land you're interested in buying has been left alone for a few years, there's a good chance that it has the ability to naturally regenerate itself. This means that it's not reliant on reseeding efforts or chemical applications to survive. If a piece of land is reliant on these kinds of things, it's a good sign that it's not very strong.
Summing up
When you're looking for land for sale in Knoxville, it's important to remember that the perfect property doesn't exist. There are many different types of properties for sale in the Knoxville, and you'll need to find the one that is right for you and your lifestyle. That being said, there are a few things you can keep in mind as you search for the perfect property. The first is that you'll need a certain amount of capital to buy property. You'll also want to make sure that your property has access to utilities, and that it's in a location where you can build whatever kind of structure you want.
Knoxville Zoning and Development Guide
Understanding zoning classifications and development processes in Knoxville
Residential (R-1, R-2, R-3)
Single-family and multi-family residential development with varying density requirements.
Commercial (C-1, C-2, C-3)
Retail, office, and service commercial development with different intensity levels.
Industrial (I-1, I-2)
Manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution facilities with appropriate infrastructure.
Development Process Timeline
Pre-Application
Initial consultation with planning department, site analysis, and preliminary design review.
Application Submission
Submit complete application package including plans, studies, and required documentation.
Review Process
Staff review, public notice period, and planning commission consideration for approval.
Approval & Permits
Final approval, permit issuance, and preparation for construction or development activities.
Disclaimer: Development timelines and requirements may vary. Always consult with local planning officials and qualified professionals before making development decisions.
Knoxville Utilities and Infrastructure
Essential infrastructure information for land development in Knoxville
Electric Service
Water and Sewer
Telecommunications
Climate & Terrain
Knoxville Transportation Corridors
Strategic transportation access enhancing land values and development potential
Interstate 40
Major east-west corridor connecting Nashville to Asheville, providing access to regional markets and distribution networks.
McGhee Tyson Airport
Regional airport serving passenger and cargo operations, enhancing accessibility for business developments.
Norfolk Southern Railway
Major freight rail service supporting industrial and manufacturing land uses throughout the region.
About Acreage Sale
We at Acreage Sale striving to create the most cutting-edge and engaging property market by connecting all aspects of land ownership, from locating land for sale in Knoxville to connecting landowners with prospective buyers. For professionals, we're striving to improve by collecting, analyzing, and improving in order to deliver the highest quality leads in the industry.
Our firm believes that helping others is a responsibility, as well as being honest and open to learning. We work tirelessly to create more value for our customers and passionately advocate for responsible land ownership everywhere. When we make mistakes, we admit them, work hard to create more value for our clients, and advocate for responsible land ownership everywhere.
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Tips to Find Cheap Land for Sale in Knoxville
There is no getting around it. Buying land can be an expensive proposition, especially when the land you're looking to buy is in a prime location and will likely only appreciate in value over time. If you are planning on building a home or other structure on the land that you are buying, there are ways to lower the cost of that property.
1Check out foreclosure listings in your area
Buying a foreclosed property can be a great way to get a cheap piece of land for sale in Knoxville. A lot of times, the owners of these properties get behind on their mortgage payments and the bank ends up taking possession of the home and selling it at auction. These properties will often come with reduced prices or even be free of charge. You may be able to find cheap land sales in your area by checking the listings of your local government. Many municipalities have a database of foreclosed properties that they will make available to the public. Keep in mind that foreclosures can come with their own set of issues. You will likely have to deal with a lot of red tapes in order to get the title transferred in your name. You may also run into problems with neighbors or adjacent property owners who don't want a foreclosed property nearby.
2Take advantage of the seller's desperation
While foreclosures present a great opportunity for buying cheap land for sale near me, you can also get a great deal simply by buying from someone who desperately wants to unload their property. The key here is to find people who are motivated to sell but are unable to find a buyer for any number of reasons. Start by looking for signs of desperation in nearby properties. If properties for sale have been on the market for more than a few weeks and don't appear to be generating much interest, these could be good candidates for buying cheap land for sale. Take a look at the asking prices of these properties and the reasons they're being sold. If there are signs of desperation in the seller, such as a low starting price or a "make an offer" strategy, consider buying cheap land for sale near me.
3Look for land development opportunities
The best way to find cheap land for sale near me is to look for properties that either have development potential or are in areas that see rapid growth. The types of developments that work best for this strategy include high-density housing, retail spaces, and commercial real estate. Land in areas that are expected to grow will generally be cheaper than those in regions that are stagnant. You can also look for signs that an area is expected to grow, as the presence of a new highway or railway line. When considering the potential for growth in an area, keep in mind that these forecasts are often wrong. You don't want to invest in a piece of land that you think will grow only to find that the area doesn't develop as quickly as you expected. Try to buy cheap land for sale in areas that have demonstrated growth in the past.
4Finding Cheap Land for Sale Doesn't Mean Strictly Buying
You don't have to buy cheap land for sale near me in order to get a good deal. You can also consider renting or leasing the property instead of purchasing it. This can be a great option if you're not yet sure if you want to commit to owning a piece of land. You can also consider renting or leasing cheap land for sale near me if you are having trouble getting financing or have credit issues that would make it difficult to secure a loan. The only downside to this strategy is that you don't have any equity in the property, so you can't turn it into a source of income if you need money in the future.
5Take the time to find the right property for you
Finding cheap land for sale near me is only half the battle. You also need to make sure that the property you plan to buy is actually worth the price. The best way to do this is to look at comparable sales in your area and make sure that you aren't paying too much for the land. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to find cheap land for sale near me. There are a variety of websites that specialize in helping people find cheap land for sale, and you can also use general real estate websites to your advantage.
Key Takeaway
The best way to find cheap land for sale near me is to look for properties in areas that are expected to grow and that are being sold by owners who are desperate to sell. You should also consider renting or leasing cheap land for sale near me if you are having trouble finding financing. Make sure you take the time to thoroughly assess the value of the land before making an offer.
Knoxville Land Investment Insights
Key factors driving the Knoxville land market and investment opportunities
Population Growth
Knoxville metro continues to attract new residents, driving demand for both residential and commercial land development opportunities.
Economic Diversification
Strong economy across technology, finance, healthcare, and energy sectors creates stable demand for various types of land development projects.
Strategic Location
Central location in Tennessee with excellent transportation infrastructure makes Knoxville land attractive for logistics, distribution, and manufacturing developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about buying and developing land in Knoxville
What are the property tax rates for land in Knoxville?
Property tax rates in Knoxville vary by location and property type. Knox County has a combined rate of approximately 2.47%, while city properties may have additional municipal taxes. Agricultural and forestry land may qualify for reduced assessment programs, significantly lowering annual tax obligations.
How do I determine if utilities are available to my Knoxville property?
Contact Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) for city properties or Knox County for rural areas. Most developed areas have water, sewer, and electric service available. Rural properties may require well and septic systems. Always verify utility availability and capacity before purchasing.
What building restrictions apply to land in Knoxville?
Building restrictions depend on zoning classification, subdivision covenants, and environmental factors. Common restrictions include setback requirements, height limits, architectural standards, and environmental protections. Always review zoning ordinances and deed restrictions before development.
Is Knoxville land a good investment for out-of-state buyers?
Knoxville attracts many out-of-state investors due to its affordable land prices, strong economic growth, and business-friendly environment. Tennessee has no state income tax, making it attractive for retirees and businesses. The region's growth trajectory supports long-term appreciation potential.
What are the best areas for commercial development in Knoxville?
Prime commercial areas include West Town Mall corridor, Turkey Creek, and downtown Knoxville. Highway frontage along I-40, I-75, and major arterials commands premium prices. Consider traffic counts, visibility, and access when evaluating commercial land opportunities.
How long does the development approval process take in Knoxville?
Development approval timelines vary by project complexity and jurisdiction. Simple residential subdivisions may take 3-6 months, while complex commercial or industrial projects can require 12-18 months. Early consultation with planning staff helps establish realistic timelines.
Are there any environmental concerns with Knoxville land development?
Common environmental considerations include wetlands protection, stream buffers, steep slope restrictions, and potential archaeological sites. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation regulates environmental compliance. Professional environmental assessments are recommended for larger developments.
What financing options work best for Knoxville land purchases?
Local and regional banks familiar with Knoxville market conditions often provide the most competitive terms. Owner financing is common for rural properties. Construction-to-permanent loans work well for build-to-suit projects. Consider working with lenders experienced in Tennessee real estate markets.