Relocating or Retiring to the Upper Cumberland?
We’ve already built the dream home for many families just like you.
You’re Not the First — and You Won’t Be the Last
More people every year are discovering Cookeville and the surrounding Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. They’re trading traffic, high taxes, and high costs for…. rolling hills, friendly neighbors, four true seasons, and a quality of life that simply feels better.
At L & J Contractors we’ve been part of that story for over 28 years. Owners Larry and Jon have guided many families who were still living in Texas, Florida, California, the Midwest, the northeast, and beyond through every step of building a custom home on their new Tennessee land — while they were still hundreds of miles away.
Why So Many Are Choosing This Area?
True Financial Freedom
- No state income tax
- Some of the lowest property taxes in the nation
- Housing and living costs 30–50% lower than most metro areas
- Your retirement dollars stretch much further
The Perfect Location
- About 80 minutes to Nashville
- 90 minutes to Knoxville
- Close to lakes, state parks, and endless outdoor recreation
- Small-town feel with real amenities and a university town energy
A Place That Feels Like Home
- Safe, welcoming communities
- Strong local roots and genuine neighborliness
- Rolling hills, lake views, and quiet country roads
- Ideal for both active retirees and families starting fresh
We’ve Walked This Road With Many Families
A Ranch Farmhouse for a Texas Couple Ready to Retire
We recently completed a beautiful custom ranch farmhouse for wonderful folks who lived in Texas and relocated here to enjoy their retirement years. Board-and-batten siding, a standing-seam Galvalume metal roof, a wrap-around porch with 13 solid Douglas Fir posts, 10-foot ceilings, hickory cabinets, a natural-gas fireplace, a tornado shelter, a generator, and even a 30×45 drive-through RV storage/workshop garage.
They trusted us to handle everything while they finished their lives in Texas — and they moved into the home of their dreams.
Currently under construction: A stunning custom home in the popular Cumberland Cove subdivision in Monterey for another out-of-state couple who will be retiring and making the move to Tennessee in just a few short months. They chose L & J because they wanted a local builder who understands both the land and the process of building from a distance.
These are not isolated stories. Year after year, families who are still living out of state contact us, send us their plans or ideas, choose their lot (or ask for our help finding one), and we take care of the rest — permits, site work, construction, regular photo and video updates, and a smooth final walkthrough when they arrive.
How We Make Building from Afar Simple
You don’t have to live here yet to build here with confidence.
- Easy First Conversations
Call, text, or email. We talk through your vision, timeline, budget, and any questions about the area — no pressure, just honest conversation. - Plans & Land Guidance
Bring your own house plans, magazine clippings, or sketches. We help refine them for local codes, climate, and your lifestyle. We can also share insight on neighborhoods and building sites. - Full Project Management
From site preparation and permitting through framing, finishes, and final inspections — we manage every detail while you stay in your current home. - Clear Communication
Regular photo and video updates, straightforward pricing, realistic timelines, and direct access to Larry and Jon. You’ll always know exactly where your home stands. - Ready for Your Arrival
When you arrive in Tennessee, your custom home is ready for the final walkthrough. Many clients tell us the process felt surprisingly easy because we handled the heavy lifting locally. - Still Here After You Move In
We’re not a fly-by-night builder. Cookeville is our home, always has been and will continue to be long into the future. We’ll still be right here years after you hang the last picture — for any questions or future needs.
Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?
Whether you’re months or a couple of years away from making the move, the best time to start the conversation is now. Building a custom home takes time, and the earlier we talk, the smoother everything goes.
We’ve helped many families make the successful jump to Tennessee. We’d be honored to help you do the same.
Let’s Talk About Your Dream Home in Tennessee
Call or text Larry or Jon, or send us an email. Tell us a little about where you are now and what you’re hoping to build. We’ll take it from there.
Larry: 931-261-7979
Jon: 931-260-4227
Email: LandJcontractors@gmail.com