EAST NASHVILLE

Go East, Young Homebuyer

While Belle Meade is one of Nashville’s most misunderstood neighborhoods, East Nashville is one of Nashville’s most confusing. In dealing with East Nashville, one must first master the pronunciation of the area. For the old guard, it is "Es NISH ful" or "easNashvull." Under no circumstances is "East-Nash-ville" acceptable.

It is a resilient village, having overcome the fire in 1916 – which destroyed over 1,000 homes and spurred the exodus into West Nashville – only to endure the ravages of the tornado in 1998. Today, it is thriving and bursting with creativity and excitement.

East Nashville is divided into two historic districts, Lockeland Springs and Historic Edgefield, and has one conservation district. Such designations were once accompanied by federal funding, but that’s not the case today. The historic and conservation overlays do require that any additions and alterations to the exterior of structures be approved by a group of brilliant folk. The Metro Historical Commission has jurisdiction over the historic districts, while a neighborhood organization rules the conservation district.

East Nashville boasts several noteworthy residences including, but not limited to, that of the honorable Bill Purcell, mayor of "Neischfull." Apparently Mr. Purcell first moved to Woodland Avenue on the East Side, then moved to Holly Street before settling in a 4,000-square-foot mansion on Stratton Avenue.

It’s easy to fall in love with some of the beautifully restored homes in this area. Most have hardwood floors throughout, rooms connected by large cased openings with French doors. Brace yourself. They even have true divided lite windowpanes.

It’a also easy to fall in love with the East Nasvhille neighborhood, which offers a golf course and a park at the end of the street, and fashionable restaurants – as diverse as it gets. For your listening pleasure, Radio Café is located down the street and hosts most of Nashville’s great songwriters regularly.

What a great opportunity for the first-time homebuyer. If you happen to be buying your first home, East Nashville has a reputation for being a wise place to make your first investment. Plus, the market has become so competitive that there are some great programs for you now, and new packages are appearing daily. Several offer programs with no out-of-pocket cash.

Take your choice: Lockeland Springs, East End, Eastwood – be it historic or conservation, you will be protected. When you’re there, ask Mayor Purcell for a major league baseball team. We haven’t had a tax raise in a few years now.

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