What Paperwork Do I Need to Sell My Home in Nashville?

Conversational Question:
“What paperwork do I need to sell my home in Nashville?”

Quick Answer:
To sell your home in Nashville, you’ll need key documents like your property deed, seller’s disclosure form, purchase agreement, and any HOA-related paperwork. Having these ready—and working with a trusted local agent like Nik Shewmaker—can help ensure a smooth and legally sound sale.

Why Paperwork Matters in a Home Sale

Selling your home isn't just about great staging and setting the right price. Behind every successful transaction is a mountain of paperwork—and in Tennessee, some of it is required by law. Missing even one document can delay your closing or open the door for legal issues down the road.

Let’s break down exactly what paperwork you’ll need to have ready if you’re selling your home in the Nashville area.

1. The Property Deed

Your property deed proves you legally own the home. This document will be used during the closing process to officially transfer ownership to the buyer.

Tip:
Make sure the deed reflects the correct legal description of the property. If your name has changed since you purchased the home (through marriage, divorce, etc.), now is a good time to update it.

2. Seller’s Disclosure Form (Required in Tennessee)

Tennessee is a “disclosure state,” which means you’re required to provide a Property Condition Disclosure. This form informs buyers of any known issues with the home—roof leaks, HVAC repairs, foundation cracks, and more.

Nik's Pro Tip:
Don’t sugarcoat the truth. A thorough, honest disclosure protects you from future liability and builds trust with buyers.

3. Purchase and Sale Agreement

Once you find a buyer, the purchase agreement is the binding contract that outlines:

• Purchase price

• Contingencies (financing, inspection, etc.)

• Closing date

• Earnest money amount

• What stays with the home (appliances, fixtures)

While templates are available online, having a professional—like a Realtor or attorney—draft this ensures you’re protected.

4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (If Built Before 1978)

If your Nashville home was built before 1978, federal law requires a lead-based paint disclosure. This includes providing:

• A federally approved information pamphlet

• Any knowledge or records of lead-based paint in the home

• A signed disclosure form

5. HOA Documents (If Applicable)

If your home is in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, you’ll need to provide:

• Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)

• Bylaws

• HOA contact info and fee structure

• Any outstanding dues

Buyers must review this information before closing—and many lenders require it for final approval.

6. Property Survey or Plat Map (If Available)

This shows boundary lines, easements, and the layout of structures on the property. It’s not always required but can be helpful, especially for buyers who want to add a fence, build a pool, or expand.

7. Past Utility Bills and Maintenance Records (Optional but Helpful)

While not mandatory, providing utility statements or major maintenance receipts (roof replacement, HVAC service, etc.) helps buyers feel confident in the condition of your home.

8. Closing Statement / Settlement Statement (HUD-1 or ALTA)

Prepared by the title company or attorney, this outlines all closing costs, credits, and debits for both the seller and buyer.

You’ll receive this near or on closing day, but it’s essential to review carefully. If anything seems off, speak up—Nik Shewmaker reviews every detail with her clients to avoid surprises at the closing table.

9. Loan Payoff Information (If You Have a Mortgage)

Your mortgage company must be contacted to provide a payoff quote, which ensures the title can be transferred cleanly and any liens are paid off during closing.

10. ID Verification

You’ll need a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) at closing to verify your identity for the notary and title company.

Why Use a Realtor Like Nik Shewmaker?

Even if you're a detail-oriented person, managing all this paperwork can be overwhelming—especially while juggling showings, negotiations, and timelines.

Working with an experienced, Nashville-native agent like Nik Shewmaker means:

• Every document is reviewed for accuracy

• You stay compliant with Tennessee and federal laws

• No deadlines are missed

• You have a professional advocate protecting your interests

Nik knows the local market, the neighborhoods, and what buyers expect—which makes the entire process smoother and more profitable for you.

Final Thoughts

Selling a home in Nashville isn’t just about curb appeal or negotiating power—it’s about handling the details right. And those details start with paperwork. From required legal disclosures to closing documents, the right preparation can prevent delays and protect you from liability.

Let’s Make the Paperwork the Easiest Part of Your Sale

Have questions about any of these forms? Want a checklist tailored to your specific home?
Reach out to Nik Shewmaker, Nashville’s Nik, and get expert guidance on every step of your home sale—from the first signature to the final closing.

What Is the Best Time to Sell a Home in Nashville, TN?

What is the best time to sell a home in Nashville, TN?
The best time to sell a home in Nashville, TN is typically during the spring and early summer months—April, May, and June. Homes listed during this period tend to sell faster and closer to asking price due to increased buyer demand and favorable weather conditions.

Why Timing Matters in Real Estate

When you decide to sell your home, timing isn't everything—but it's close. While a well-priced and well-presented home can sell in any season, listing your home when demand is naturally higher gives you a significant edge. In Nashville’s real estate market, timing can mean the difference between a bidding war and sitting on the market for weeks.

Nashville's Real Estate Market Cycles

Spring: Prime Selling Season (March–June)

• High buyer demand: Warmer weather brings out more serious buyers.
• Tax refunds: Many buyers use tax returns for down payments.
• Curb appeal: Landscaping blooms, homes show better.

Stat Snapshot: According to Greater Nashville Realtors® data, homes listed in April and May sell 10–15% faster and often closer to list price than those listed in fall or winter.

Summer: Still Strong (July–August)

• Families on the move: Buyers with children want to settle before the school year.
• Longer daylight: More time for showings.

Fall: Slowing but Serious (September–November)

• Motivated buyers: Fewer “lookers,” more qualified buyers.
• Less competition: Fewer homes on the market means yours may stand out.

Winter: The Quiet Season (December–February)

• Low inventory: You may face less competition.
• Relocation season: End-of-year job changes prompt serious buyer activity.

Local Insights: Nashville-Specific Selling Trends

Nashville isn’t just growing—it’s booming. But within that boom, neighborhoods behave differently. Here’s what you should know:

1. East Nashville

Buyers here trend younger and trendier. They often start shopping early spring.

2. Brentwood & Franklin

Families dominate these markets. Listings in May and June often perform best as parents plan around school schedules.

3. The Nations & Sylvan Park

Mid-spring into early summer sees strong demand from move-up buyers looking for walkability and lifestyle.

Quick Tip from Nashville’s Nik: “If you’re thinking of selling in Green Hills, consider listing by mid-April. It hits that sweet spot right before summer travel starts.”

Other Factors That Influence Your Ideal Timing

Even the best seasonal window won’t compensate for:

• Overpricing
• Poor marketing
• Neglected repairs or staging

Timing is just one piece of the puzzle. Here's what else to consider:

Market Conditions

• Low inventory? Great time to stand out.
• High interest rates? May slow down certain buyer groups.

Personal Timeline

• Relocation? Divorce? New job? Sometimes you sell when you have to.

Your Home’s Condition

• Is it move-in ready or in need of updates?

How Nik Shewmaker Helps You Choose the Right Time

Selling at the right time takes more than a calendar. It takes a plan. Here’s what I offer as your Nashville real estate expert:

• Local market expertise: I analyze hyper-local data and trends, not just general averages.
• Pre-market strategy: From prepping and staging to timing the listing, we make sure your home shines.
• Customized timing plan: Based on your goals, neighborhood, and the type of home you’re selling.

Bonus: I’ll tell you if now isn’t the best time to list—and why.

Pros and Cons of Selling in Each Season

Nik Shewmaker (NashvillesNik)

📲 Call or text (615) 585-0022

📧 Email: Nashvillesnik@gmail.com

🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com