Summer 20205

Are National Headlines
True for Chattanooga?
A Deep Dive Into
Chattanooga
Real Estate Trends


You’ve probably seen the headlines: Home sellers now outnumber buyers by the largest margin in 12 years. For many, these national stories stir up questions — and even a little anxiety — about what’s really happening in their own backyard. But is this national narrative reflective of what’s going on in Chattanooga?


While it’s true that some markets are seeing a shift toward more balanced conditions, Chattanooga Real Estate Trends tell a more nuanced story. To truly understand where we are today, it’s essential to look back and see how far we’ve come. Let’s take a journey through the numbers.

A Look Back to 2013: Recovery & Growth

In 2013, Chattanooga Real Estate Trends painted a picture of a market still in recovery after the Great Recession. Here’s what the numbers told us then:

  • Median Sales Price: $139,900 — a modest 2.1% increase from 2012
  • Average Sales Price: $168,753 — up 2.3%
  • Closed Sales: 7,260 transactions
  • Inventory: 8.1 months’ supply — firmly a buyer’s market
  • Days on Market: 124 days on average

At the time, homes took about four months to sell, and buyers enjoyed ample inventory. Sellers often had to be patient and price competitively to stand out. Chattanooga Real Estate Trends in 2013 clearly showed a slow and steady climb out of economic hardship.

Key Takeaway:
2013 was a time of rebuilding — slow sales cycles, abundant listings, and cautious optimism.

Pre-Pandemic Baseline: The 2019 Market

Fast-forward to 2019, just before the world changed. Chattanooga Real Estate Trends showed a robust market shift:

  • Median Sales Price: $203,085 — an 8.6% year-over-year increase
  • Average Sales Price: $238,143 — up 6.9%
  • Closed Sales: 10,714 transactions
  • Inventory: 2.6 months’ supply — a tight seller’s market
  • Days on Market: 48 days on average

This was a market defined by low inventory and high demand. Sellers held the upper hand, and homes moved quickly. Buyers faced stiff competition, often making swift decisions and offering above asking price to secure their dream homes.

Chattanooga Real Estate Trends during this time highlighted significant appreciation and competitiveness.

Key Takeaway:
2019 was a robust seller’s market with rising prices and record-low days on market — a stark contrast to 2013.

2025 So Far: Are Sellers Really Outnumbering Buyers?

Now let’s bring it to today — or rather, this year’s snapshot from January through May 2025:

What’s Different?

  • Inventory Growth: More homes on the market compared to the peak seller’s market of 2019, offering buyers more choices.
  • Days on Market: Slightly longer than 2019 but still relatively fast-moving.
  • Prices Holding Strong: Despite more listings, sale prices are stable, with little sign of distress.

Chattanooga Real Estate Trends so far in 2025 suggest a healthier balance between buyers and sellers, with market dynamics evolving rather than collapsing.

Comparison & Context:
While there’s an increase in active listings (indicating more choice for buyers), strong sales prices and near-asking sale-to-list ratios reveal a resilient market that’s not swinging dramatically in favor of buyers yet.

Let’s break down what these numbers mean depending on which side of the table you’re sitting:

  • More Inventory, Less Pressure: You’ll find more homes to choose from, reducing the frenetic pace that defined the 2019 market.
  • Negotiation Opportunities: While homes are still selling close to list price, there’s more room for negotiation compared to the tight conditions of the past few years.
  • Act Strategically: Well-priced, move-in-ready homes still sell quickly. It’s wise to be prepared with pre-approvals and clear priorities.

For buyers, Chattanooga Real Estate Trends present a promising environment to shop smarter and move confidently.

  • Price Competitively: Buyers are savvy. Overpricing can lead to longer days on market and price reductions.
  • Presentation Matters: High-quality marketing, staging, and professional photography are no longer optional — they are essential.
  • Patience is Key: Homes may take a few more days to sell than in the past, but sellers who price and market well will still see strong results.

For sellers, Chattanooga Real Estate Trends underline the importance of pricing wisely and standing out in a growing inventory pool.

Expert Predictions: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, we anticipate that:

  • Seasonal Trends Will Persist: Summer typically brings increased activity, and 2025 should be no different.
  • Chattanooga’s Fundamentals Remain Strong: Low unemployment, economic diversity, and an attractive quality of life will continue to support housing demand.
  • Balanced Market Ahead: As inventory and buyer demand find equilibrium, Chattanooga could shift toward a truly balanced market — a positive for long-term stability.

Chattanooga Real Estate Trends point to a market that is not just stable but positioned for sustainable growth over the next few years.

Key Insight:
Unlike some overheated national markets, Chattanooga’s real estate market is adjusting at a healthy, sustainable pace, positioning buyers and sellers for success in the years ahead.

Why Now Is Still a Great Time

In conclusion, while national headlines tell one story, Chattanooga Real Estate Trends offer a different narrative — one of resilience, opportunity, and steady growth. Whether you’re buying or selling, being informed and strategic is more important than ever.


Are you curious how your home compares in today’s evolving market? Or are you ready to find the perfect home in Chattanooga’s thriving community? At Jay Hudson Homes, – Keller Williams we combine market expertise with personalized service to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Contact us today — let’s navigate the Chattanooga market together and turn your real estate goals into reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fastest-growing neighborhoods in Chattanooga right now?

While the market overall is growing, areas like Ooltewah, East Brainerd, and Northshore are experiencing notable appreciation and demand due to new developments and community investments.

How does Chattanooga’s cost of living compare to national averages in 2025?

Chattanooga’s cost of living remains below the national average, making it attractive to buyers relocating from higher-cost urban areas, particularly in terms of housing affordability and property taxes.

Are new construction homes influencing Chattanooga Real Estate Trends?

Yes, new construction has ramped up post-pandemic, offering more inventory options. However, demand still outpaces supply in certain price points, keeping the market competitive.

Are out-of-state buyers impacting Chattanooga Real Estate Trends?

Absolutely. Chattanooga continues to attract buyers from markets like Atlanta, Nashville, and even California, drawn by affordability, outdoor lifestyle, and no state income tax.

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