Real Deal Column

As affordability remains a challenge for many Americans seeking to buy a home, there is encouraging news: between 2013 and 2023, the U.S. homeownership rate rose, with 11.8 million more homeowners added during that decade, according to the National Association of REALTORS®' 2025 Snapshot of Race and Home Buying in America report.

The latest home sales report for March is out, offering a detailed snapshot of housing activity across Greater Nashville’s 9-county region. According to figures provided by Greater Nashville Realtors, there were 2,831 home closings in March, representing a slight 0.2 percent decrease from the 2,837 closings reported in the same period last year. For the first quarter of 2025, the region saw 6,868 closings—down just 1.5 percent from the 6,970 closings in Q1 2024, reflecting a market that has remained relatively stable year-over-year despite broader economic uncertainties.

Last week, Greater Nashville REALTORS® members rolled up their sleeves and picked up their hammers for our association’s 29th Habitat for Humanity build. For nearly three decades, we’ve partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville to bring the dream of homeownership to life for local families — and every year, this project reminds us why that dream matters so much.

This Friday marks the 57th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act by Congress—a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability.

You’ve likely heard it before: buying a home is one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make. And for most of us, that statement holds true. With such a major investment on the line, it’s crucial to be as prepared as possible—understanding every aspect of the property before you finalize the deal.

On March 6, we hosted our first NASHONOMICS NOW of the year, featuring an insightful discussion on the economic and housing trends shaping Middle Tennessee. Led by our President-Elect, Jack Gaughan, this virtual series brings together industry experts throughout the year to break down key market forces affecting real estate professionals and the broader community.

The latest home sales data from Greater Nashville Realtors was recently released, offering key insights into the region's housing market compared to last year.

Homeownership has long been a cornerstone of the American Dream, providing financial stability and a reliable path to building long-term wealth. Across the country, rising home prices have reinforced this reality, making real estate one of the most effective investments for wealth accumulation.