Middle Tennessee Real Estate News

Real Deal: Nashville area still looks ahead with optimism
The Tennessean-January, 7 2009

The title of a book I saw recently caught my eye.
It was Don't Look Back — We're Not Going That Way. There really is some value in reminding ourselves to look forward as we get ready to start 2009.
Looking ahead means that we need to have something to look forward to, and there is the real challenge. Lots of people and organizations seem to be just waiting for something to happen, not really looking forward to anything. They seem to have bought into the negative outlook fostered by media reports, and that is paralyzing their futures.
Others realize that making choices and setting goals gives them an entirely different view of life, no matter their current circumstances. They tend to be more positive and energized because they have purpose.
That outlook is true of the Greater Nashville area. We have a much more optimistic outlook, even with difficult economic circumstances, than many other cities. Why? Because we know we have a strong and vibrant future.
First, from an economic perspective, we are fortunate to have motivated leaders at area chambers of commerce and in the economic development departments of state and local government. Their strategic, focused and energetic efforts are keeping us ahead of other cities and on the right track as a region.
Second, from a leadership perspective, we have elected officials committed to wrestling with — and solving — issues such as education. The better job the government does, the more attractive the region.
Third, from a community perspective, we have much to look forward to, like NFL playoff games, exciting professional hockey, exceptional music of all kinds at world-class venues and much more. And, the world is seeing what we have to offer through extensive media coverage of presidential debates, sports, music and much more.
Finally, from an educational perspective, we have some of the best colleges and universities in the country that are creating our future leaders. Many of them graduate and move on to pursue their careers in other cities, but many, like me, stay in Nashville.
How does this all relate to real estate? It simply makes a strong case that there is no better place to be than here. People want to be here. They want to pursue their dreams here. And that means that the real estate market here, though not immune to national trends, will recover and grow sooner than other locations.
The Greater Nashville Association of Realtors is choosing to look forward to 2009 and will continue doing its part to help make this region even more attractive in the days ahead.