Moving to Tennessee? Whether you're relocating from out of state or just settling into your first home here, welcome! The Volunteer State offers charming neighborhoods, scenic views, and four full seasons—but it also comes with some Southern quirks that new homeowners should know.
Before you go all-in on heated driveways or wine cellars, let’s break down what Tennessee homeowners really use, love, and brag about. Consider this your Southern Homebuyer Starter Pack—approved by locals and backed by real experience (and a few fun facts).
🌀 1. A Good Ceiling Fan (or Three)
Yes, central air is great, but in Tennessee, ceiling fans are your best friends. They help keep rooms cool without cranking the AC—and give that relaxed, breezy Southern vibe.
💡 Fun Fact: A ceiling fan can make a room feel up to 4°F cooler, which could cut your energy bill by up to 15% in summer.
🌿 2. A Covered Porch or Screened-In Patio
You’ll want a spot to sip sweet tea, chat with neighbors, or watch a summer storm roll in. Outdoor living space is huge here—especially one that offers shade and a bug barrier.
💡 Fun Fact: In Tennessee, screened porches can add up to 75% ROI when selling a home, especially in warmer metro areas like Nashville or Memphis.
🐜 3. A Pest Control Plan
Warm weather means longer bug seasons. Think mosquitoes, ants, and the occasional palmetto bug. Most locals have a pest control subscription service, and trust us—it’s worth it.
💡 Fun Fact: Tennessee ranks in the top 10 most bug-friendly states due to its humid climate and mild winters.
🏡 4. A Lawn Mower (or a Lawn Care Crew)
Grass grows fast in the South. Whether you DIY or hire out, you’ll quickly learn that lawn maintenance isn’t optional—especially in HOA neighborhoods.
💡 Fun Fact: Bermuda and fescue are among the most common grasses in Tennessee—and in peak growing season, they can grow up to an inch per day!
🌡️ 5. Programmable Thermostat
Tennessee summers can be humid and winters surprisingly chilly. A smart thermostat helps keep your home efficient year-round and cuts down on those surprise energy bills.
💡 Fun Fact: Studies show programmable thermostats can save homeowners 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills annually.
🧊 6. Backyard Ice Chest or Outdoor Cooler
Tailgating, BBQs, and porch hangs happen often. Having a go-to cooler or ice chest setup makes you a party host favorite. Some folks even build them into outdoor furniture!
💡 Fun Fact: Tennessee hosts over 100 outdoor festivals annually—many of them BYO-chair and cooler events!
🐾 7. A Mudroom (or at Least a Shoe Drop Zone)
Whether it's red clay, grass clippings, or rainy days, your floors will thank you for a place to ditch shoes. Tennessee homes benefit from a designated entry zone to keep the mess contained.
💡 Fun Fact: The state’s rich red soil contains iron oxide, which can permanently stain flooring if not wiped off quickly.
🌬️ 8. A Whole-House Fan or Dehumidifier
Especially in older homes or basements, humidity can be a challenge. Whole-house fans or dehumidifiers help control moisture and keep indoor air fresh.
💡 Fun Fact: Tennessee’s average summer humidity level is over 70%, making mold and mildew prevention a top priority for homeowners.
🪟 9. Double-Pane Windows
You’ll appreciate the insulation during both summer heat waves and winter cold snaps. Plus, they help block noise if you live near lively areas like Knoxville, Nashville, or Chattanooga.
💡 Fun Fact: Energy-efficient windows can reduce heat gain/loss by 25–30%, which adds up quickly during long Tennessee summers.
🔦 10. Emergency Storm Supplies
Tennessee weather can change in a blink—especially in spring and summer. Every home should have a weather radio, flashlights, and a stash of batteries and bottled water for those quick pop-up storms.
💡 Fun Fact: Tennessee experiences an average of 50+ tornadoes per year, most frequently in March through May.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Tennessee living is about comfort, charm, and staying prepared. With a little Southern know-how and these must-haves in your home, you’ll fit right in—and stay cool doing it.
Have you moved to Tennessee recently? Tell us what you found surprisingly useful as a new homeowner in the South! Let’s swap stories in the comments.
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Partners Realty Group
(865) 789 – 6677
“Turning newcomers into neighbors, one home at a time.”
