Updated Jan 2026
Take a stroll through 12 South, the Nations, East Nashville, Wedgewood-Houston, Germantown, SoBro, or the Gulch, and you’ll see them everywhere: tall and skinny homes. These modern, narrow houses have become a defining feature of Nashville’s evolving neighborhoods. But what’s driving their popularity—and what exactly is a Horizontal Property Regime (HPR)?
Why Do “Tall and Skinny” Homes Exist in Nashville?
Nashville’s explosive growth—over 100 new residents each day—has created a major housing shortage. To meet demand, developers turned to infill zoning. Instead of building single homes on large lots, they buy an existing property, tear it down, and divide the lot into multiple parcels. On those smaller parcels, they build multiple homes—often the tall, narrow designs that maximize space in desirable locations. You’ll find these most often in residential zones. (Curious about your zone? Check the city’s parcel viewer.)They are most common in Nashville residential zones. You can check your zone in the parcel viewer.
The Legal Backbone: Horizontal Property Regime (HPR)
Here’s where the Horizontal Property Regime comes into play. HPRs provide the legal structure for these developments. They let developers increase housing density, create multiple homes on one lot, and clearly spell out what’s private (your home and the land beneath it), what’s shared (driveways, green spaces), and how everyone must cooperate through a homeowners’ association (HOA).
Understanding Co-Ownership in an HPR
- General Common Elements: Shared by all owners (think driveways, lawns, or gardens).
- Limited Common Elements: Shared by some, but not all owners (like a designated front yard).
- Private Elements: Solely owned by you (your home and the land it sits on).
This setup gives you the benefits of homeownership, but with shared responsibilities. You’ll need to help maintain common areas and follow community rules set by the HOA.
What Should Buyers Know?
- Smaller yards (hello, less yard work!)
- Closer proximity to Nashville’s best neighborhoods and nightlife
- Denser, more social communities
- Modern features like rooftop patios or lounge spaces
Key Considerations Before Buying an HPR Home
- HOA Rules: Every HPR has a set of rules and restrictions. Read these carefully—they cover everything from pets and paint colors to noise and outdoor spaces.
- Maintenance: You’ll likely handle upkeep for your private elements, but the HOA (or all owners together) share costs for common areas. Ask for the maintenance agreement so you know your responsibilities.
- Insurance: HPRs often require both individual homeowner’s insurance and a master policy for shared elements. Confirm what coverage you’ll need.
- Resale Value: Tall and skinnies are hot now, but check recent sales and trends to make sure your investment holds value over time.
- Financing: Some lenders treat HPRs differently than traditional single-family homes. Work with a lender who understands Nashville’s infill market.
If you’re dreaming about taco Tuesdays on your new rooftop patio or want to understand the ins and outs of HPRs before you buy, Collins Legal, PLC can help.
