The Complete First-Time Home Buyer Checklist for Nashville, TN: 2026 Guide
Buying your first home in Nashville can feel complicated, especially when you're trying to understand financing, neighborhoods, new construction, inspections, closing costs and monthly payments at the same time.
The good news is that you don't have to figure everything out at once.
You start with your finances. Then you get pre-approved. Next, you determine where you want to live, compare homes and floor plans, evaluate the total cost of ownership, complete your due diligence and prepare for closing.
If you're considering East Nashville new construction homes, there are additional questions to ask about the builder, floor plan, community, construction timeline, warranty and available incentives.
As a New Home Specialist with Legacy South, Adam Myrick helps first-time buyers navigate the Nashville new construction process and understand what to look for before purchasing their first home.
Use this first-time home buyer checklist for Nashville as your roadmap from renter to homeowner.
Quick Answer: What Should a First-Time Home Buyer Do First?
The first steps for buying a home in Nashville are:
1. Review your finances.
2. Determine a comfortable monthly housing payment.
3. Check your credit.
4. Talk to a mortgage lender.
5. Get pre-approved.
6. Choose your preferred Nashville neighborhoods.
7. Compare new construction and resale homes.
8. Tour communities and floor plans.
9. Understand the complete cost of ownership.
10. Choose a home and complete the purchase process.
The most important rule is simple:
A pre-approval gives you a realistic starting point, while a personal budget helps you determine how much you actually want to spend.
First-Time Home Buyer Checklist: Before You Start Shopping
Before you schedule your first home tour, complete these steps.
☐ Review Your Income
Start by understanding your gross monthly and annual income.
If you're self-employed, receive commission income or have multiple income sources, your lender may need additional documentation.
Understanding your income is the foundation for determining your potential purchasing power.
☐ Review Your Monthly Debts
Make a list of recurring debts, including:
* Car payments
* Student loans
* Credit cards
* Personal loans
* Other monthly obligations
Your debt affects your mortgage qualification.
Two buyers with identical incomes may have different purchasing power because their monthly debt obligations are different.
☐ Check Your Credit
Your credit profile can influence your mortgage options and loan pricing.
Before applying for a mortgage, review your credit and address potential errors.
If you're planning to buy within the next several months, avoid making major financial changes without discussing them with your lender.
☐ Determine How Much Cash You Have Available
Calculate your available savings.
But don't assume every dollar should go toward your down payment.
You'll also need to consider:
* Closing costs
* Prepaid expenses
* Moving costs
* Furniture
* Initial maintenance
* Emergency savings
The goal isn't simply to get to closing.
It's to be financially prepared after closing.
First-Time Home Buyer Mortgage Checklist
Once you've reviewed your finances, it's time to talk with a mortgage professional.
☐ Get Pre-Approved
A mortgage pre-approval can help you understand:
* How much you may qualify to borrow
* Potential loan programs
* Estimated monthly payment
* Down payment requirements
* Estimated cash to close
It also makes your home search more efficient.
Instead of looking at every Nashville home, you can focus on properties within your financial range.
☐ Compare Loan Programs
Depending on your qualifications, potential financing options may include:
FHA
FHA financing can be an option for qualified buyers seeking a lower down payment structure.
Conventional
Some conventional programs offer low down payment options for qualified borrowers.
VA
Eligible veterans and active-duty service members may qualify for VA financing.
Down Payment Assistance
Some buyers may qualify for assistance programs depending on eligibility and program availability.
Don't choose a loan based solely on something you read online.
Ask your lender to compare the options available for your specific financial situation.
☐ Ask About Your Estimated Cash to Close
Your down payment isn't necessarily your only upfront expense.
Ask your lender to estimate your:
* Down payment
* Closing costs
* Prepaid taxes
* Insurance
* Escrow
* Other transaction expenses
Knowing your estimated cash to close prevents unpleasant surprises later.
First-Time Home Buyer Neighborhood Checklist
Once you understand your finances, start thinking about where you want to live.
Nashville is a collection of very different neighborhoods and communities.
If you're interested in East Nashville, don't simply ask:
Ask:
"What's the best neighborhood for my lifestyle and budget?"
☐ Consider Your Commute
How long will it take to get to work?
If you commute regularly, test the route during your actual travel times.
A home that's 15 minutes closer to your workplace could have a meaningful impact on your weekly lifestyle.
☐ Consider Your Lifestyle
Think about what you want nearby:
* Restaurants
* Coffee shops
* Parks
* Entertainment
* Shopping
* Fitness
* Family
* Downtown Nashville
East Nashville is particularly attractive to buyers who want convenient access to the city's urban core while maintaining a neighborhood-oriented lifestyle.
☐ Research ZIP Codes
East Nashville home searches frequently include areas associated with ZIP codes such as:
* 37206
* 37207
* 37216
But ZIP code alone shouldn't determine your purchase.
Look at the specific location, community, property and surrounding area.
New Construction vs. Resale Checklist
One of the most important decisions for a first-time buyer is whether to purchase an existing home or new construction.
☐ Compare Resale Homes
Resale homes can offer:
* Established neighborhoods
* Mature landscaping
* Unique architecture
* Existing renovations
* Different pricing opportunities
But older homes can also require repairs or updates.
☐ Compare New Construction
New construction can offer:
* Modern floor plans
* New appliances
* New mechanical systems
* Contemporary finishes
* Builder warranty coverage
* Less immediate maintenance
For first-time buyers, the reduced uncertainty around immediate repairs can be particularly attractive.
Legacy South's Nashville communities are designed around modern urban living, with a range of floor plans and price points intended to give buyers more options close to downtown.
First-Time Buyer New Construction Checklist
If you're considering a new construction home, add these questions to your checklist.
☐ Research the Builder
Look at:
* Builder experience
* Warranty
* Construction quality
* Customer reviews
* Communities
* Floor plans
* Communication process
You want to understand not only the house but the company building it.
☐ Compare Floor Plans
Don't choose a home based solely on square footage.
Ask:
* Where will I work?
* Where will I entertain?
* Where will I store things?
* Where will I relax?
* Do I need flexible space?
* Do I need additional bedrooms?
* How does the layout function vertically?
Legacy South currently offers multiple Nashville floor plans, including the Eason, Charlotte, Avery, Harper, Camden and Sutton, with different bedroom counts, square footage and home types.
☐ Understand What's Included
Ask what comes standard with the home.
Depending on the plan and community, this may include different combinations of:
* Appliances
* Cabinets
* Countertops
* Flooring
* Lighting
* Fixtures
* Outdoor features
* Parking
Also ask which features are upgrades.
☐ Ask About HOA Fees
If the community has an HOA, understand:
* Monthly or annual cost
* What's included
* Community rules
* Maintenance responsibilities
* Potential future assessments
Include the HOA in your monthly affordability calculation.
First-Time Buyer Home Tour Checklist
When you tour a home, don't get distracted by beautiful finishes.
Look at how the home works.
☐ Check the Floor Plan
Does the layout make sense for your daily routine?
☐ Check Storage
Look at:
* Closets
* Pantry
* Cabinets
* Garage
* Under-stair storage
* Utility areas
Storage becomes more important after you move in.
☐ Check Natural Light
Walk through the home at different times of day when possible.
Think about where natural light enters the home.
☐ Check Outdoor Space
Depending on the property, look for:
* Balcony
* Patio
* Yard
* Porch
* Courtyard
* Shared community spaces
Outdoor space can significantly affect how you use your home.
☐ Check Noise
Listen.
Can you hear traffic?
Neighbors?
Mechanical systems?
Community activity?
Location and surroundings matter as much as interior finishes.
First-Time Buyer Affordability Checklist
Before making a decision, calculate the total monthly housing cost.
Don't look only at principal and interest.
Include:
☐ Principal
☐ Interest
☐ Property taxes
☐ Homeowners insurance
☐ HOA fees
☐ Mortgage insurance, if applicable
☐ Utilities
☐ Maintenance
This is your real cost of owning the home.
Don't Buy the Maximum You Qualify For
Your lender may approve you for a specific loan amount.
That doesn't mean you should automatically spend the maximum.
Consider your other financial goals.
Do you want to:
* Travel?
* Save?
* Invest?
* Pay off debt?
* Start a family?
* Change careers?
* Build an emergency fund?
Your home should support your financial life—not consume it.
A smaller home with a comfortable payment can be a better first purchase than a larger home that stretches your budget.
First-Time Buyer Incentive Checklist
When buying new construction, always ask:
☐ What Builder Incentives Are Available?
Possible incentives may include:
* Closing-cost assistance
* Lender credits
* Rate incentives
* Design incentives
* Other promotional offers
Availability changes, so verify current terms.
☐ Do I Qualify for the Front Door Program?
Legacy South's Front Door Program is specifically designed for qualifying first-time buyers.
Current Legacy South information states that qualifying buyers can get into select homes with $1,000 down, with Legacy South contributing 100% of eligible closing costs. Current eligibility includes a household income below $95,000 and being a first-time buyer—or not having held an ownership interest in a primary residence during the previous 36 months. The program is available on select homes and is subject to program terms, buyer/property qualification and financing approval.
This can be particularly relevant for renters who have enough income to support a monthly mortgage but haven't accumulated a large down payment.
Always verify the current program requirements before relying on an incentive in your purchasing plan.
First-Time Buyer Contract Checklist
Once you've found the right home, carefully review the purchase agreement.
☐ Understand the Purchase Price
Confirm the agreed purchase price.
☐ Understand Deposits
Know when deposits are due and how they are applied.
☐ Review Deadlines
Understand important dates throughout the transaction.
☐ Understand Financing Requirements
Make sure your mortgage process remains on schedule.
☐ Ask Questions
Never sign a contract you don't understand.
Your real estate professional can explain the transaction process and help you identify questions for the appropriate legal or lending professionals.
New Construction Inspection Checklist
Buying a new home doesn't necessarily mean you should skip an inspection.
☐ Consider an Independent Inspection
An independent inspector can evaluate the property and identify potential issues.
☐ Understand the Builder's Quality-Control Process
Ask how the builder handles:
* Inspections
* Punch lists
* Final walkthrough
* Warranty claims
☐ Review the Warranty
Understand:
* What is covered
* How long coverage lasts
* How claims are submitted
* Who handles repairs
Final Walkthrough Checklist
Before closing, complete a final walkthrough.
Look at:
☐ Doors
☐ Windows
☐ Fixtures
☐ Appliances
☐ Plumbing
☐ Lighting
☐ Flooring
☐ Cabinets
☐ Walls
☐ Agreed-upon repairs or punch-list items
Your real estate professional and builder can help explain the walkthrough process.
First-Time Buyer Closing Checklist
You're almost there.
Before closing:
☐ Finalize mortgage
☐ Obtain homeowners insurance
☐ Review closing disclosure
☐ Confirm closing funds
☐ Complete final walkthrough
☐ Review required documents
☐ Sign closing documents
☐ Receive keys
Then you're officially a homeowner.
First 30 Days of Homeownership Checklist
Your checklist shouldn't end at closing.
During your first month:
☐ Change Your Address
Update:
* Employer
* Banks
* Insurance
* Government records
* Subscriptions
☐ Change or Re-Key Locks
Consider updating access to your new home.
☐ Locate Your Main Systems
Know where to find:
* Water shutoff
* Electrical panel
* HVAC controls
* Gas shutoff, if applicable
☐ Set Up a Maintenance Calendar
Create reminders for:
* HVAC filters
* Smoke detectors
* Gutters
* Exterior maintenance
* Appliances
* Landscaping
☐ Build Your Home Emergency Fund
Continue saving after closing.
Homeownership is a long-term financial commitment.
The Ultimate Nashville First-Time Home Buyer Checklist
Here's the condensed version.
Financial Preparation
☐ Review income
☐ Review debt
☐ Check credit
☐ Determine savings
☐ Set comfortable monthly payment
☐ Get pre-approved
Home Search
☐ Choose neighborhoods
☐ Compare new construction and resale
☐ Research builders
☐ Compare floor plans
☐ Tour communities
☐ Calculate total monthly cost
Purchase
☐ Review price
☐ Review incentives
☐ Understand deposits
☐ Review contract
☐ Complete inspection
☐ Finalize financing
Closing
☐ Obtain insurance
☐ Review closing disclosure
☐ Confirm funds
☐ Complete walkthrough
☐ Sign documents
☐ Get keys
After Closing
☐ Change address
☐ Set up utilities
☐ Create maintenance calendar
☐ Build emergency savings
☐ Learn your home's systems
Why East Nashville New Construction Deserves a Look
For first-time buyers who want to remain close to Nashville's urban core, new construction can offer an interesting combination of **location, modern design, community and functionality**.
Legacy South's City Living Collection focuses on homes close to downtown and includes communities designed around connection and contemporary urban lifestyles.
Current Legacy South floor plans range from smaller townhomes such as the 954-square-foot Eason to larger townhome and single-family layouts, giving buyers multiple ways to approach their first purchase.
The Eason is particularly relevant to first-time buyers because Legacy South describes it as a compact, flexible plan with 954 square feet, 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths and a third-floor flex space with balcony.
That illustrates an important principle:
Your first home doesn't have to be the biggest home.
It needs to be the home that fits your budget and the way you live.
Your First Home Should Be a Financial Foundation
Buying your first home in Nashville is about more than getting out of a rental.
It's about creating a foundation for the next stage of your life.
The smartest buyers don't rush directly from apartment hunting into homeownership.
They prepare.
They understand their finances.
They get pre-approved.
They compare neighborhoods.
They evaluate new construction.
They understand the complete monthly payment.
They ask questions.
And they choose a home that fits their life—not simply the home with the highest price tag they can qualify for.
Ready to Start Your Nashville Home Search?
If you're a first-time buyer considering **East Nashville new construction**, Adam Myrick with Legacy South can help you take the next step.
Adam helps buyers compare communities, floor plans, pricing and available homeownership opportunities throughout the Nashville market.
Whether you're just starting to research or already have a mortgage pre-approval, the right information can make the process much easier.
Ready to find your first home?
Contact Adam Myrick for current Legacy South availability, floor plans, pricing and first-time buyer opportunities.
Stop renting. Start building equity. Find your front door in Nashville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing a first-time home buyer should do?
The first step is to review your finances and speak with a qualified mortgage lender. Getting pre-approved helps you understand your potential purchasing power before you start shopping.
How much money should a first-time buyer have saved?
There isn't one universal amount. You should account for your down payment, closing costs, prepaid expenses, moving costs and an emergency fund. The amount needed depends on the home price and financing program.
Do I need 20% down to buy my first home?
No. Some mortgage programs allow qualified buyers to purchase with a lower down payment. Your lender can explain the options available based on your financial circumstances.
Is new construction a good option for first-time buyers?
New construction can be attractive to first-time buyers because it typically offers modern floor plans, newer systems, contemporary finishes and builder warranty coverage. Buyers should compare the total cost and benefits against resale homes.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Yes. Pre-approval gives you a clearer understanding of your potential purchasing power and allows you to focus on homes that fit your financial parameters.
What should I look for when buying a new construction home?
Look at the builder, location, floor plan, construction quality, included features, warranty, HOA costs, monthly payment, construction timeline and available incentives.
Do I need an inspection on a new construction home?
Many buyers choose to have an independent inspection performed on new construction. Ask your builder and real estate professional about the appropriate inspection and walkthrough process.
What is the Legacy South Front Door Program?
The Front Door Program is designed for qualifying first-time buyers purchasing select Legacy South homes. Current program information states that eligible buyers can get into qualifying homes with $1,000 down and that Legacy South contributes 100% of eligible closing costs, subject to income, first-time-buyer, property and financing requirements.
What are the best neighborhoods in East Nashville for first-time buyers?
There isn't one best neighborhood for everyone. Buyers should compare location, commute, home type, price, lifestyle, amenities and future needs. Areas associated with 37206, 37207 and 37216 are commonly considered in East Nashville home searches.
How do I know how much house I can afford?
Start with a mortgage pre-approval, then establish your own comfortable monthly housing budget. Include principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA fees and mortgage insurance when applicable. Your maximum approval is not necessarily your ideal budget.
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