Buying a lot in Gatlinburg...concerns? and how much does it cost

Buying a lot in Gatlinburg...concerns? and how much does it cost

New Orleans, LA · Member since 2014 · 56 posts · 25 votes

Hello

I think I want to buy a lot in Gatlinburg and considering building in the next 2 years. How expensive is this?  It is really tough trying to buy a finished product from where I am, because good properties fly off the market before I can get there (between work and travel nuances).

Also, a second question... if one were to purchase two lots, each approved for 2 bedroom septic capacity...can you combine that into one building with 4 bedroom capacity?

Thanks!  

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Leander TX · Member since 2020 · 179 posts · 150 votes
5y

We went this route because we also had difficulty buying an existing property due to high demand. We are currently building a house in Gatlinburg on a nice view lot. The sq ft cost for house construction is currently sitting around $207 (not including cost of the lot).

If you want to build a larger house, you may have the option of expanding the existing septic if there's enough room on the lot. We did that to build a 4 bedroom (the prior house was 3 bedroom, which burned down). Our builder added another tank and field.

Keep in mind that there are pros and cons to a custom build. Architects can be pretty expensive but you have the freedom to custom design something that can stand out.

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  • Property Manager · Pigeon Forge · Member since 2016 · 199 posts · 208 votes
    5y

    Just call a few builders to ask them their price per sf currently.  It was around 200 when I last checked a few months ago...  but getting a return call is challenging.  If that's how they are before they get a contract, imagine how hard it'll be after!

    in the city, you'll need to make sure the existing septic and well still work.  There are also more regulations around safety you need to be aware of - sprinklers,  egress, decks, etc.  Your builder will review all that with you. 

    I doubt you could merge two lots like you're asking, but any builder or.the city would be able to answer that.

    Good luck!

  • New to Real Estate · Member since 2020 · 220 posts · 107 votes
    5y

    @Andre M.

    Lots that are buildable are hard to come by in Gat. Always be sure and view the lot yourself. In the winter time lots are very deceiving. You may find the first 10ft of tree line past your survey will wipe out your view in the spring and summer. Sevierville will have more choices. My number one advise is don’t buy a lot without viewing it yourself first!

  • New to Real Estate · Member since 2020 · 220 posts · 107 votes
    5y

    @Andre M.

    Also, please note you can not put two or more houses on one lot anywhere in Sevierville county that I know of. Somebody correct me if I’m wrong.

  • New Orleans, LA · Member since 2014 · 56 posts · 25 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Kyle Smith:

    @Andre M.

    Also, please note you can not put two or more houses on one lot anywhere in Sevierville county that I know of. Somebody correct me if I’m wrong.

    Thanks Kyle...I was more interested in buying two lots and putting one larger house. But I spoke to Gennifer, my realtor, and I have essentially decided this likely wont work out for me.  

  • Leander TX · Member since 2020 · 179 posts · 150 votes
    5y

    We went this route because we also had difficulty buying an existing property due to high demand. We are currently building a house in Gatlinburg on a nice view lot. The sq ft cost for house construction is currently sitting around $207 (not including cost of the lot).

    If you want to build a larger house, you may have the option of expanding the existing septic if there's enough room on the lot. We did that to build a 4 bedroom (the prior house was 3 bedroom, which burned down). Our builder added another tank and field.

    Keep in mind that there are pros and cons to a custom build. Architects can be pretty expensive but you have the freedom to custom design something that can stand out.

  • New Orleans, LA · Member since 2014 · 56 posts · 25 votes
    5y

    Everyone, thanks again for the input! It seems like way too big a pain to get done...I'm not working with my realtor Gennifer on a new construction! cross your fingers for me haha

  • New Orleans, LA · Member since 2014 · 56 posts · 25 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Matt Mertz:

    We went this route because we also had difficulty buying an existing property due to high demand. We are currently building a house in Gatlinburg on a nice view lot. The sq ft cost for house construction is currently sitting around $207 (not including cost of the lot).

    If you want to build a larger house, you may have the option of expanding the existing septic if there's enough room on the lot. We did that to build a 4 bedroom (the prior house was 3 bedroom, which burned down). Our builder added another tank and field.

    Keep in mind that there are pros and cons to a custom build. Architects can be pretty expensive but you have the freedom to custom design something that can stand out.

    I think once I get a place, I can get a better lay of the land and maybe purchase a lot and go your route in the future. Thanks!

  • Real Estate Agent · Gatlinburg, TN · Member since 2015 · 68 posts · 70 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Kyle Smith:

    @Andre M.

    Also, please note you can not put two or more houses on one lot anywhere in Sevierville county that I know of. Somebody correct me if I’m wrong.

    That's not correct. The vast majority of subdivisions won't allow it. But there is no regulation strictly stating more than one home cannot be placed on one lot in Sevier County. There are hundreds of instances. Whether it is advisable is a different story. It makes it a little more difficult if you were to sell the place to a buyer using standard Fannie/Freddie loan terms.

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