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If you’re looking for a new home in 2026 in Nashville and trying to stay under $600,000 without giving up quick access to downtown, you’re not alone.

The good news: there are still real options—especially if you’re open to townhomes, efficient single-family plans, and close-in neighborhoods like East Nashville, Madison, and South Nashville.

Even better? If you want the best shot at inventory that fits your budget, the “secret” isn’t refreshing listings 20 times a day—it’s getting early access when new homes and homesites release. This is why you need the City Living Intel from The Ashton Group.

One of the best opportunities for that is the City Living Intel Preview Event on Saturday, January 10, 2026 (11:00 AM–2:00 PM)

To get exclusive access and VIP access register at www.CityLivingIntel.com

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What “close to downtown” usually looks like under $600K

In today’s market, being near downtown under $600K often means:

  • Townhomes (often 2–3 stories, low-maintenance, great use of space)

  • Smaller-lot single-family homes (more house than yard)

  • New construction communities located strategically around Davidson County with quick access to downtown routes

If that sounds like what you’re looking for, here are the areas and price points I’d focus on first.


1) East Nashville: Close-in energy + strong under-$600K options

East Nashville is a top choice for buyers who want to be near downtown’s restaurants, entertainment, and major employers—without paying “downtown proper” pricing.

Communities to watch in the East Nashville orbit

Taylor (East Nashville)

If you like the idea of a modern townhome with community amenities, Taylor is one to keep on your list. Pricing is advertised starting at $399,900, with townhome floorplans available.

Highland Gardens (East Nashville)

If your goal is a single-family home and you’re trying to stay under $600K, Highland Gardens is positioned right at that upper edge, with community pricing shown starting around $549,900 and listings in the mid-to-high $500s.

Walton Station (East Nashville, coming 2026)

For buyers looking for a “get in early” opportunity, Walton Station is promoted as a coming-soon gated community in East Nashville, with details releasing Jan 10 and pricing described as starting in the high $200s (availability and final pricing can change).


2) Madison: A value pocket with fast downtown access

Madison has become a go-to area for buyers who want:

  • More budget flexibility under $600K

  • Quick routes toward downtown Nashville

  • New construction options that still feel “close to it all”

Communities to watch in Madison

The Chadwick (Madison)

This is one of the most budget-friendly new-construction entries I’m seeing close to the city, with pricing shown starting at $274,900 for certain plans (promotions/pricing can be time-limited).

It’s also marketed as a resort-style community with amenities like a pool/gym/dog park and gated access.

Soren (Madison)

Soren is positioned as a gated townhome community with pricing starting at $299,000, and it’s described as “just minutes from downtown Nashville.”

If your top priorities are low-maintenance living and a downtown-friendly commute, this is the kind of community that tends to check the boxes.


3) South Nashville: Under-$500K single-family opportunities (yes, still)

If you’re open to being a bit south of downtown, South Nashville can still deliver single-family homes under $600K—and sometimes under $500K—especially in communities designed for efficient, modern layouts.

Caraway (Nashville 37211)

Caraway is marketed as a “final opportunity” neighborhood with homes starting around $449,900, and the community page calls out “luxury homes for sale under $500K.”

It’s also positioned with practical lifestyle perks—tree-lined layout, cul-de-sac design, sidewalks—and provides straightforward driving directions from downtown via I‑40/I‑24.


The Jan 10, 2026 “first access” play: why this event matters if you’re under $600K

When you’re shopping under $600K close to downtown, the biggest challenge is usually competition and timing—the best-fitting homes can move fast.

That’s why the Legacy South City Living Collection Debut on Jan 10, 2026 is worth putting on your calendar if you want to be proactive:

  • Event-only incentives/pricing (promoted as exclusive discounts and event-only pricing)

  • First priority / early access to new homesites

  • Preview of updated 2026 design packages and the ability to see floorplans in person

  • A chance to talk 1-on-1 with financing experts, construction managers, and design leads

Event details:

Saturday, January 10, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Legacy South Model Home Gallery & Design Studio | 115 Hart Ln, Nashville, TN 37207

And importantly for budget-focused buyers: the event information specifically references inventory releases and early access connected to communities like Taylor, The Chadwick, Highland Gardens, Soren, and the first releases at Walton Station.


Quick cheat sheet: under $600K, close to downtown (starting prices)

Prices are “starting at” figures and can change with availability, upgrades, promotions, and homesites.

  • The Chadwick (Madison): starting at $274,900

  • Soren (Madison): starting at $299,000

  • Walton Station (East Nashville, coming 2026): starting in the high $200s (details release Jan 10)

  • Taylor (East Nashville): starting at $399,900

  • Caraway (South Nashville): starting at $449,900

  • Highland Gardens (East Nashville): starting at $549,900 (and shows listings under $600K)


5 smart moves for buyers trying to stay under $600K near downtown

  1. Get fully pre-approved (not just pre-qualified).

    It strengthens your offer and helps you move fast when the right home hits.

  2. Be open to townhomes.

    Townhomes can be the “sweet spot” for close-in Nashville living under $600K: newer construction, efficient layouts, and often less maintenance.

  3. Ask about incentives and rate options.

    Builder incentives can meaningfully impact monthly payment—even if the purchase price stays the same.

  4. Prioritize commute routes, not just miles.

    In Nashville, a few miles can feel very different depending on your route and time of day.

  5. Get ahead of releases.

    Events like the Jan 10 preview are designed to give serious buyers an early lane before the broader crowd shows up.