Charlotte Park? (Bells: real estate, crime, broker)

[FiveSevenNine]

I'm wondering if anyone here lives in Charlotte Park and if so, what's it like? I'm attracted to the affordability of that area and its proximity to Vanderbilt. Looking at the crime maps, it seems like that area is relatively safe. But will my partner and I be the youngest people who live there? What are the people like? Is it a tight knit neighborhood or do people keep to themselves? Any additional info would be much appreciated. Thanks!

[yank283]

Strangely, there is hardly anyone that seems to post on this site that lives in Charlotte Park or The Nations (or Sylvan Heights either) which may not be a great sign (weak neighborhood associations?). I don't think it is getting the influx of younger people moving there like East Nashville and Inglewood are right now. It is near West End and Sylvan Park is now priced out of most people's range, so these could become hot spots. I do have some friends that live over there and they are younger and have never had any issues with crime (but it seems all their neighbors are older). I believe it's a lot like other traditionaly lower middle income areas, a street to street thing. Remember to check the area out at different times of the day. As there may be peaceful times and then not so peaceful times. Also, although I'm against the idea of the new Bells Bend development (last thing we need is more sprawl in Middle TN, hello Atlanta) but if that is built, I can see The Nations and Charlotte Park possibly seeing a raise in property values (that is unless they build the new highway right next to your house).

[GoGreenNashville]

Charlotte Park is indeed seeing some growth. Many buyers who want to be on that side of town have been priced out of Sylvan Park or Sylvan Heights even and investors have responded by picking up fixer uppers in nearby neighborhoods to flip and sell at more affordable prices. This is often how you see older urban neighborhoods start to transition into more social vibrant communities as demand for the area increases. Ultimately, you hope to see small commercial, retail, restaurants follow suit as that will just cause the entire trend to snowball. The down side to buying on the front end of such a trend is that you may live with some increased crime or unattractive homes while the neighborhood improves. The up side is that your perseverance can pay off with some healthy returns on investment and prime location as the quaint restaurants and hot spots start moving in. Here is a link to a great blog about the neighborhood and the Charlotte Park neighborhood association. Just that these are here is great evidence that the community is committed to improvement. The Charlotte Parker
Charlotte Park Neighborhood Information - The Charlotte Parker Group | Google Groups

City data provides crime info by zip code but you can also contact some from the neighborhood list directly if you want direct feedback from people who live there. I hope that helps.

[yank283]

Good to hear! I stand corrected.

[FiveSevenNine]

Thanks for the feedback! I've been watching the crime maps and it looks like Charlotte Park is comparable to Sylvan Park in terms of safety. I am still considering Sylvan Heights and the Nations, but it seems like Sylvan Heights isn't as much home for the $ as Charlotte Park and the Nations seems a bit sketchy.

I've found a few homes I want to check out in Charlotte Park, without the help of a real estate agent. Is an agent really necessary?? Is there a way I can get info on comparable homes on the internet??

[Marilyn Bell]

I'm biased, but I completely think an agent is necessary. Even if you compile some comps, it really takes a good agent to both evaluate the comps and calculate necessary adjustments. A good agent will then use that CMA to negotiate with the seller's agent. An agent can also make appointments and show you several houses in a day. If you go it alone you'll have to contact each listing agent, and believe it or not, some listing agents will not come out to show a property. I know people argue you can get a better price without an agent, but I disagree. Not only do you save money by having a professional price opinion that an agent can use to negotiate the best price, but the seller has already agreed to the commission paid to the listing agent. Even if a listing agent says they'll reduce their commission, their broker will have to approve it. And a lot of listing agents won't do it because it results in more work for them.

Also, don't use "zestimates" for your comps. They're rarely accurate.

A lot has changed on the Tennessee Association of Realtors purchase contract. It's important to have an agent walk you through it all, otherwise you can forfeit your inspection rights without even realizing it. And this can happen to the most intelligent person out there. I'm in no way saying you're incapable, but a home is the biggest purchase in almost anyone's life. Wouldn't you want a professional to make sure everything from offer negotiation, inspection and other contingency removals proceed to a smooth closing? Even attorneys use real estate agents (unless they practice real estate law to save them not only time and energy but any potential problems down the road.