Cozy, Smart, and Climate-ready: What to Look For When Buying a Home This Fall in Knoxville

If you’re on the hunt for a home in Knoxville this fall, you’re probably considering more than just the price or square footage. The homes that catch buyers’ eyes now are those that not only look appealing but also function well in everyday life.

That means thinking about how the layout fits your routine, how efficient the systems are, and how well the home is equipped for long-term comfort and stability. According to Zillow’s analysis of Fall 2025 listing data, buyers are increasingly interested in features that blend calm design with practical resilience. Search terms like “cozy,” “solar,” and “whole-house battery” are popping up more frequently, indicating a shift in priorities for homebuyers.

If you’re actively touring homes or getting ready to, here are some key aspects to notice as you explore each space, along with a few questions worth asking before you schedule your next showing.

Before you tour, ask yourself:

• What matters most in your daily routine?
• Are there features that make life easier, not harder?
• How much work are you willing to take on after closing?
• Do you want something already efficient, or are you open to upgrading?

Layouts that feel calm and easy to live in

This season, some of the most sought-after listings feature layouts that feel natural to navigate. Buyers are leaning towards homes that are not overly styled or oversized but rather grounded and flexible. Instead of completely open spaces, many are looking for homes with clearly defined areas. Den spaces, built-in benches, and smaller living areas that offer privacy or a place to retreat are gaining traction.

Zillow notes that the term “cozy” is appearing in listings more often this year than in the past two. This trend is also evident in design choices. Matte finishes, natural wood, stone accents, and earth-toned color palettes are becoming more common.

As you walk through a home, pay attention to how the layout feels. Can you picture yourself winding down here at the end of the day? Are there spaces to retreat to, or does everything feel like one big room?

Older charm with updated systems

If you’re touring a home with original woodwork, vintage tile, or arched doorways, take a closer look behind the walls. Many of this fall’s most competitive listings combine classic features with updated plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or roofing.

The ideal balance is a home that looks like it has history but operates as if it has already been through inspection. This includes essentials like functional outlets and working ductwork, along with newer insulation and modern water heaters.

If you're exploring an older property, ask when the last major system updates were completed. Aesthetic character can be a plus, but it’s easier to enjoy when it doesn’t come with a long repair list.

Energy efficiency and smart systems that actually work

Features that cut down on monthly costs or enhance comfort are climbing higher on buyer checklists. This includes smart thermostats, heat pump water heaters, zoned HVAC, and high-efficiency appliances.

Listings are also highlighting automated lighting, whole-home monitoring, or smart window treatments. If you're viewing a home with any of these features, ask whether the systems are connected to a central hub or managed independently. Some setups are straightforward and useful, while others may require ongoing subscriptions or complicated apps.

Focus less on the number of gadgets and more on how they enhance livability. Are the systems easy to control? Have they been maintained? Are they compatible with what you already use?

Climate-resilient upgrades

Zillow has noted a clear increase in listings mentioning solar panels or whole-house battery storage. These features are particularly appealing in areas like Knoxville, where weather disruptions, power outages, or extreme temperatures are becoming more common.

You may also come across listings that mention drainage improvements, rainwater collection, sump pumps, or drought-tolerant landscaping. These upgrades aren’t just about sustainability; they also reduce unexpected maintenance and help the home endure over time.

If you’re touring properties in regions prone to storms, heatwaves, or fire risk, inquire whether the home includes any climate-adaptive features. They might not be flashy, but they can make a significant difference in the years ahead.

Bathrooms, storage, and daily ease

One area where trends and practicality are converging is in the bathroom. Spa-style layouts, especially wet rooms that combine the tub and shower into one open waterproof space, are becoming more prevalent. These spaces are easier to clean and more adaptable for various household needs.

Buyers are also paying attention to how laundry rooms, entryways, and kitchen storage are arranged. Look for layouts that minimize friction. That could mean clean drop zones near the door, natural lighting in work areas, or well-organized utility spaces that don’t feel like an afterthought.

During your tour, consider how your daily routine would unfold in the space. Will you need to rearrange things just to function, or is it already set up for how you live?

What to watch out for

While some homes are standing out for the right reasons, others are starting to show signs of over-personalization or deferred maintenance. Highly specific paint choices, lawns that require constant upkeep, or appliances nearing the end of their life cycle are becoming easier for buyers to overlook.

Even some smart systems can become a downside if they aren’t well-integrated or come with hidden costs. If a home seems overloaded with automation but nothing is connected, or the seller can’t explain how it works, that may indicate more hassle than value.

Outdated wiring, patchy insulation, and older HVAC units are also top concerns. Many buyers are asking about energy bills upfront. If a listing can’t demonstrate how the home performs, it may not be worth pursuing further.

A practical lens for your home search

Buying a home this fall means looking beyond just a list of features. It’s about recognizing how a space will support you not just at closing, but in the seasons and years to come.

This might involve asking questions about energy performance, understanding what certain upgrades actually do, or spotting the difference between cosmetic staging and a home that is truly easy to live in.

We help buyers consider homes with both lifestyle and logistics in mind. That means identifying which elements are worth investing in and which ones could create challenges later. It also means helping you stay focused on what matters most for your goals, not just what photographs well.

What are you looking for in a new home? We can help you find it.