Coming To Visit - Need Info regarding Neighborhoods/Commute Time, etc.

[GolfMomTN]

Originally Posted by ariesjow

If you like the tree-lined, sidewalked neighborhood feel of Whitland, then you may also want to check out Richland which is just on the opposite side of West End Avenue from Whitland. They're practically sister neighborhoods. Of course, if you don't mind being closer to the core then you should also take a gander at Belmont/Hillsboro and Hillsboro Village. You will definitely get gorgeous, sidewalked neighborhoods. The trade off would likely be finding one in budget with the space and style you want. Many of those homes will be the traditional four squares and tudors which do not exactly sound like your style, but it's certainly worth a look.

One other neighborhood that hasn't been mentioned that may be worth checking out is the Hillwood area. This area will be further west than Whitland/Richland and north of Belle Meade along Hillsboro Boulevard, but in the same zip code as those. I mention this area because the estates there will vary in style and age. Most home styles will still be traditional, but there are definitely some contemporary and some mid-century homes in that area. You may actually be able to find a mid-century split-level there that you could renovate to your liking. Of course, if you really want a show-stopper of a contemporary and are not opposed to new, I would also consider building your own. Nevada Heights is a neighborhood of brand new, ultra modern and contemporary homes on a hill overlooking the entire city. There are still a handful of lots available there. The neighborhood would lack the cachet of the others we've been discussing, but the homes in that area are super contemporary and have views that are virtually unparalleled for homes in this metro. However, you will likely not have much of a yard at all and that's definitely more of an area for "urban pioneers," but very unique for Nashville.

Your price range definitely opens up a range of options. It just sounds like it may take some time and compromise to get something that you'll love in the right neighborhood for you. I wish you the best of luck!

Ariesjow, thank you also for mentioning specific neighborhoods (the inner city homes do require a sacrifice) -- and the new homes on Nevada Heights will be great to see. Your suggestion of Hillwood was so apropos since I just saw a house that may or may not be available on Hillwood Blvd which looked flat roof/old modern.

Now we will have a year before we actually make a move (May 2013) so we can buy/renovate/build during the next year. For our trip, we are going to explore what Nashville has to offer in its various neighborhoods - so the more places to put on our list to visit, the better.