Moving to Franklin, TN? Here’s What to Know Before You Build
If you’re moving to Franklin, TN, congratulations—you’re about to land in one of the most charming and desirable towns in the country. From historic homes and walkable streets to luxury estates and new construction neighborhoods, Franklin offers something for nearly every lifestyle.
But if your plan includes building your dream home here, there are a few things you should know first. This guide walks through the essential considerations for newcomers—from neighborhoods and permitting to builder selection and resale strategy.
Why People Are Moving to Franklin
- Top-rated schools and private school options
- Safe, family-oriented neighborhoods with walkability and charm
- Historic downtown filled with restaurants, shops, and music venues
- Proximity to Nashville (25–30 minutes to downtown)
- Luxury amenities without losing small-town warmth
Franklin regularly ranks among the top places to live in Tennessee and the U.S. If you’re looking for an elevated lifestyle with community and character, it’s hard to beat.
Custom vs. Semi-Custom: What’s Right for Franklin?
Franklin offers a mix of opportunities to build both fully custom homes on private lots and semi-custom homes in curated neighborhoods. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Fully Custom Homes
You’ll work with your builder from scratch—designing everything from layout to finishes. This approach is ideal if you already own land, want total control, or are targeting specific architectural styles. Learn more about the distinction in Semi-Custom vs. Fully Custom Homes: What’s the Difference?.
Semi-Custom Homes
With this option, you start with a well-designed base plan and make modifications to fit your needs. It’s typically faster, more cost-efficient, and ideal for new residents who want luxury without complexity. See also What to Expect When Building in a New Community.
Top Franklin Neighborhoods for New Builds
- Westhaven – Known for its walkability, amenities, and vibrant community. Lots are limited, but semi-custom opportunities remain.
- South Franklin – More availability and larger lots. Great for buyers who want to build from scratch.
- Leipers Fork – Rural, scenic, and perfect for estate homes. You’ll likely need to purchase raw land.
- Downtown Franklin – Mostly infill and renovation opportunities, but teardown-and-build is occasionally possible.
Not sure which area fits your vision? Start with Where to Build a Custom Home in Middle Tennessee: Top Locations in 2025.
Zoning, Permits, and Utilities: What to Watch For
Franklin Building Permits
Williamson County has clear but strict permitting guidelines. Expect longer timelines if your build is within city limits or involves historic overlays.
HOAs and Architectural Review
Many Franklin neighborhoods—especially Westhaven and new developments—have HOA guidelines and architectural review boards. Your builder should know how to navigate these efficiently.
Utility Access and Septic
If you’re building outside the main utility grid (like in Leipers Fork), septic approval and well water logistics may affect your timeline and costs. If you’re unsure if your lot is ready, see How to Know If Your Land Is Build-Ready (And What to Do If It’s Not).
Cost Considerations: What to Budget
- Land: Premium pricing—especially inside Franklin city limits
- Construction: Varies by design, finishes, and lot prep needs
- Site Prep: May include tree clearing, grading, utility extensions
- Soft Costs: Permits, engineering, architecture, and financing
Want to avoid unexpected surprises? Learn about fixed pricing models in Fixed Pricing in a Custom Build: What It Is and Why It Matters.
Tips for a Smooth Move and Build
1. Secure Your Temporary Housing Early
Many custom homebuyers rent nearby during construction. Franklin’s rental market is competitive, so plan ahead.
2. Find a Builder With Local Experience
Your builder should understand Williamson County zoning, local subcontractors, and community dynamics. Look for experience with both custom and semi-custom homes.
3. Lock in Your Build Timeline
Construction in Franklin can take 10–14 months depending on scope and permitting. For more, read How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home in Tennessee?.
How Hewn Helps Franklin Homebuyers
At Hewn, we’ve helped dozens of families relocate to Franklin and build the home they envisioned—from curated neighborhoods to one-of-a-kind estates. Our process is designed for out-of-state buyers and locals alike, offering:
- Land procurement and walk consultations
- Full-service design and customization
- Concierge-level communication and transparency
- Expert project management from planning through final inspection
Considering a move to Franklin? We’d love to guide you from the search phase through your first night in your new home. Reach out to start the conversation—and let’s bring your next chapter to life in Middle Tennessee.