Real Deal Column

Becoming a homeowner is one of life’s most significant milestones, offering far more than just a place to live. It provides a level of stability and security that renting often can't match. When you purchase a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payment remains steady, shielding you from the unpredictable rent hikes that tenants frequently face.

As we look at the real estate market in Greater Nashville and across the country, there are several promising signs for both buyers and sellers. While August saw a slight decline in home sales compared to the same period last year, the market is showing signs of promise, driven by a favorable shift in mortgage rates and an increase in inventory.

When people think of dangerous jobs, being a Realtor might not be the first profession that comes to mind. However, the realities of the job reveal inherent risks that are all too often overlooked. Realtors frequently meet clients they've never met before in empty homes and host open houses where strangers can walk in unannounced — situations that pose potential safety concerns.

As Nashville continues to experience unprecedented growth, our city finds itself at a critical crossroads. Our infrastructure is straining under the weight of this rapid expansion, with congestion worsening daily and the costs of inaction mounting. If we fail to act now, it may soon be too late—and too expensive—to make the meaningful changes Nashville desperately needs.

For many Americans, owning a home is more than just having a place to live—it's a cornerstone of building generational wealth. Each mortgage payment made chips away at the loan and builds equity, turning a home into one of the most valuable assets a person can own.

Yesterday, the practice changes following the National Association of Realtors Settlement Agreement that would resolve claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions was implemented across the country.

Last week, the Federal Reserve met, and Chair Jerome Powell set the stage for the central bank’s first rate cut in four years, citing greater progress toward lower inflation while keeping the key interest rate unchanged.

Tennessee is experiencing a significant demographic shift, marked by a rapid increase in its senior population. Between 2020 and 2023, the 65-and-up demographic in Nashville alone grew by 13%, outpacing all other age groups. This trend is not isolated to Nashville; it reflects a broader statewide pattern. There has been a noticeable increase in the proportion of seniors moving to Tennessee from other states. In 2021, 1.8% of the Volunteer state seniors had relocated from another state, up from 1.5% in 2019.