Most Googled Questions About Real Estate in 2025

In 2025, both buyers and sellers are turning to search engines more than ever for real estate guidance. From understanding market trends to learning about financing, the digital age has made access to real-time information easier—but also more overwhelming. For those navigating the market in places like Knoxville, Tennessee, it’s not just about gathering information, but about having the right context to apply it to local conditions. That’s why working with a seasoned professional who understands both national trends and regional nuances is crucial. As a trusted real estate professional based in Knoxville, Jennifer Scates provides clarity on what many consumers are asking by answering the most googled real estate questions 2025.

One of the most googled real estate questions 2025 is whether now is the right time to buy a home. After the fluctuating interest rates of the past few years and shifts in inventory, many potential buyers are understandably cautious. However, market data suggests that 2025 is presenting strong buying opportunities, especially in cities like Knoxville, where housing affordability remains better than in many larger metro areas.

According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors, while interest rates remain higher than pre-2020 levels, they have begun to stabilize. Additionally, Knoxville’s housing market continues to show healthy appreciation without the inflated pricing seen in some coastal markets. Buyers who have stable employment, strong credit, and a long-term outlook can find meaningful opportunities, especially in suburban areas like Farragut, Hardin Valley, and Powell, where new construction and community development are active.

Working with a local real estate agent allows buyers to evaluate market timing not just broadly, but within the context of neighborhood trends, school district growth, and development plans.

Another of the most googled real estate questions 2025 focuses on the trajectory of home prices. After years of significant increases in many parts of the country, there’s been much speculation about whether prices will cool or correct. In Knoxville, the trend is more nuanced. Home prices have continued to climb, but at a slower, more sustainable pace.

Local housing analysts predict moderate appreciation throughout the year due to steady population growth and limited housing supply. Knoxville remains an attractive market for both in-state buyers and out-of-state relocators drawn to the area’s cost of living, natural beauty, and job market. New employers and infrastructure investments are also driving long-term confidence in the region’s housing market.

Sellers benefit from these steady conditions, while buyers gain peace of mind knowing that their investment is less likely to be impacted by market volatility. The key takeaway? Home prices are not expected to drop significantly in Knoxville, but rather continue a healthy upward trend, which supports strong long-term equity growth.

Understanding down payment requirements continues to be among the most googled real estate questions 2025. Many buyers, particularly first-time homeowners, believe a 20% down payment is mandatory, but in today’s financing landscape, that’s not always the case.

In Knoxville, buyers can access a variety of loan programs that require as little as 3% to 5% down. For veterans, VA loans offer 0% down options. FHA loans remain a popular choice for those with modest savings, requiring just 3.5% down. Conventional loans with private mortgage insurance (PMI) are also accessible with less than 20% down, depending on creditworthiness.

Working with a knowledgeable local lender is essential. They can evaluate credit, income, and future goals to identify the most appropriate financing option. Real estate professionals like Jennifer Scates guide clients through these conversations early in the home-buying process, ensuring they are financially prepared and confident.

Pre-approval versus pre-qualification continues to confuse many buyers, making it one of the most googled real estate questions 2025. In short, pre-qualification is an initial assessment based on self-reported financial information. It’s useful for early planning but does not carry the same weight as a pre-approval.

Pre-approval, on the other hand, is a verified statement from a lender indicating that a buyer is financially positioned to purchase a home up to a certain price. It involves a hard credit check, income verification, and debt analysis. In a competitive market like Knoxville, where homes in desirable neighborhoods such as Sequoyah Hills or West Hills can receive multiple offers, having a pre-approval letter strengthens a buyer’s position significantly.

A real estate agent plays a central role in helping buyers gather documentation, communicate with lenders, and understand how different financial scenarios affect their pre-approval amount.

This is another question gaining traction among the most googled real estate questions 2025, especially among move-up buyers. The answer often depends on the current equity in the home, available financing, and market conditions.

In Knoxville’s balanced market, sellers who have built substantial equity often choose to sell first, using the proceeds as a down payment for their next property. This strategy can reduce financial stress and eliminate the need for a contingent offer. However, those who qualify may pursue a bridge loan or home equity line of credit to buy before selling, offering greater flexibility.

A real estate professional can help assess market timing and available resources to determine the best approach based on financial comfort, risk tolerance, and the speed of local inventory movement.

This practical concern also ranks among the most googled real estate questions 2025. Buyers want to know not only the cost of the home itself, but what other expenses they should anticipate. These include closing costs (typically 2–5% of the purchase price), home inspections, appraisals, insurance, and potential homeowner association (HOA) fees.

In Knoxville, property taxes are relatively low compared to national averages, which helps ease long-term carrying costs. However, buyers should still budget for annual maintenance, utilities, and potential updates after move-in. For example, homes in older neighborhoods like North Hills may come with character and charm—but also the need for roof, HVAC, or plumbing updates.

A strong real estate agent will outline these expenses early and provide estimates based on the type and location of the home. This level of preparation prevents surprises and ensures a smoother transaction from contract to close.

This classic debate still holds a spot among the most googled real estate questions 2025, particularly for newcomers to the area. While renting may offer short-term flexibility, buying continues to be the better long-term investment in Knoxville’s appreciating market.

With monthly rents rising steadily, especially in urban districts like Downtown and South Knoxville, many renters find that monthly mortgage payments for a starter home are comparable or even lower than rent. Homeownership also offers tax advantages, equity growth, and the freedom to personalize the property.

Buyers who plan to stay in the area for at least three to five years generally benefit more from buying. However, a professional real estate consultation can help evaluate lifestyle needs and financial goals to determine which path offers the most value.

In an age of fast-paced information and evolving market conditions, having trusted guidance is more important than ever. Whether you're curious about buying, selling, or simply evaluating your options, the answers to the most googled real estate questions 2025 offer a valuable starting point—but personal advice brings clarity. Jennifer Scates is a leading Knoxville real estate professional committed to delivering expert insight, local knowledge, and a personalized approach to every client relationship. Connect with Jennifer Scates today to explore your next move with confidence and clarity.