Service Areas · Gilmer County · ~32 mi N of HQ

Semi-Custom & Custom Home Builder in
Ellijay, GA.

Apple Country · Population approximately 1,800 · ZIP 30540

The Short Answer

Ellijay is apple country and the gateway to the Cohutta Wilderness. Ellijay is the seat of Gilmer County and the heart of North Georgia apple country. TIH builds cabin-style custom homes, mountain-modern retreats, and traditional homes for buyers escaping the metro or building a second home that earns rental income.

Ellijay, GA — Quick Facts

Seat of Gilmer County and gateway to the Cohutta Wilderness
In Gilmer County, ~32 miles N of TIH HQ in Canton
Population: approximately 1,800 within city limits
Strong second-home and Airbnb / short-term rental market
Mountain views, apple orchards, and the Coosawattee River
Custom builds in Ellijay typically $425K–$1.2M
Gilmer County has specific short-term rental regulations — we build to current compliance

Why Build in Ellijay

The TIH Perspective on Ellijay.

Ellijay has grown into one of the most-visited mountain destinations in Georgia. Apple orchards, mountain trails, the Coosawattee River, and a refreshed downtown have drawn buyers from across the Atlanta metro — some for full relocations, many for second homes that double as rental properties.

TIH Ellijay work tends to fall into one of three categories: mountain-style custom homes on private acreage for full-time owners; cabin-style or timber-frame-accented second homes for weekend owners; and Airbnb-optimized builds designed for short-term rental income while the family is not in residence. Each model has different design implications — we design the rental builds for higher durability and easier turnover.

Gilmer County rental regulations apply to short-term rental builds, and the regulations evolve. We stay current and design new builds with current STR compliance baked in

Featured Plans for Ellijay

Floor Plans That Work Well Here.

Every plan is fully customizable. These three from our 2026 collection fit Ellijay-area lots and buyer preferences best. See all our plans →

Build on Your Own Lot in Ellijay

Own a Lot in Ellijay?

If you already own land in or around Ellijay, TIH can build your custom home on it — and your paid-off land equity often replaces the cash down payment. Free lot evaluation. No obligation.

How BOL Works Schedule a Lot Evaluation

Questions About Building in Ellijay

Can TIH do log-cabin or timber-frame style?

Yes — though pure log construction is typically handled by specialty subcontractors. TIH coordinates and builds the rest of the home around the log shell. Timber-frame accents (great room beams, porch posts, exposed structural members) we do directly.

What about Airbnb or short-term rental in Ellijay?

Many Ellijay-area buyers build with rental income in mind. We design floor plans that support that — separate primary suites, larger common areas, separate entrances when possible, higher-durability finishes. Gilmer County rental regulations apply and we build to current compliance.

How long is the drive to Atlanta from Ellijay?

Approximately 75 minutes to north Atlanta off-peak via Highway 515 and I-575. Not bad for a weekend; not great for a daily commute.

Does TIH design for views?

Yes. The first conversation on every Ellijay-area lot is which views to capture, which to screen, and where to put the home so morning light, sunset views, and mountain features all work together.

How do I get started in Ellijay?

Call 678-493-5128 or use the contact form. We will set up a free site visit to walk your Ellijay lot — or talk through what you are looking for if you have not bought yet.

Resources for Ellijay Buyers