Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Irwin.
Hi Nick, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m originally from Alabama, and I think my love for homes started before I even realized it. My dad worked as an electrician, wiring houses on the side to earn extra income for our family. I’d tag along to job sites, and watching those homes come together from the ground up fascinated me. That early experience planted a seed that never really went away.
My first career was actually in healthcare — I studied business and worked in electronic health record implementation and project management. It was a rewarding field, but it required constant travel, and I eventually realized I wanted something that felt more connected to home and community. Real estate offered that — it blended my interest in how homes are built with my love of working directly with people.
Now, as a Realtor and Broker with Onward Real Estate here in Nashville, I focus primarily on the East Nashville neighborhoods of McFerrin Park, Cleveland Park, and Highland Heights. These communities have such character — historic homes alongside new builds, neighbors who actually know each other, and a shared pride in the area’s growth and preservation. Helping people buy, sell, and invest here is truly special because it’s also where I live and spend my days.
My approach has always been about education and advocacy — I want my clients to feel informed, confident, and supported at every step. Outside of work, I recharge with my husband, Mark, and our chihuahua, Bruno, at our family lake property. Those slower moments remind me why “home” matters so much — it’s not just a place, it’s a feeling, and helping others find that will always be the most rewarding part of what I do.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like most good stories, mine hasn’t been a straight line. The early years in real estate were exciting, but they came with a steep learning curve. I transitioned from a structured corporate environment into running my own business, which meant I had to build everything from scratch — systems, marketing, and client trust. There were plenty of late nights and moments of doubt along the way.
Another challenge has been keeping perspective in a constantly shifting market like East Nashville. Neighborhoods such as McFerrin Park, Cleveland Park, and Highland Heights have changed so quickly over the years. It’s rewarding to be part of that growth, but it can also be emotional — watching long-time residents adjust to rising values and new faces moving in. Balancing progress with preservation is something I think about often.
The biggest lesson through it all has been to stay adaptable and authentic. Real estate is personal — these aren’t just houses; they’re people’s lives. Staying grounded in that truth, and in my connection to this community, has kept me steady even when the road wasn’t smooth.
As you know, we’re big fans of BaseNashville at Onward Real Estate. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am a Broker and team leader at Onward Real Estate, and I specialize in helping people buy, sell, and invest in East Nashville Real Estate — with a particular focus on the neighborhoods of McFerrin Park, Cleveland Park, and Highland Heights. These communities have such a mix of old and new, and I love helping clients navigate what makes each one unique — from zoning quirks and development plans to architectural character and neighborhood culture.
I’m known for being detail-oriented and data-driven, but also deeply people-focused. I believe clients deserve clarity, not confusion. That’s why I’ve built systems and tools to make the process transparent — whether it’s a seller net sheet that clearly outlines every number or updates that keeps clients in the loop without them ever needing to ask.
What sets me apart is that I don’t just work in these neighborhoods — I live here. I know which streets get the morning sun, where the train noise carries, and how each block feels on a Saturday afternoon. That local insight helps my clients make confident decisions that align with how they actually want to live.
Brand-wise, I’m proud that Onward Real Estate is built on community and authenticity. Our team culture is “neighbors first, Realtors second.” We host events like neighborhood trick-or-treats and yard sales, we highlight local businesses in our newsletters, and we see real estate as a way to strengthen the community — not just sell homes.
For me, success is when clients feel like they had an advocate who cared, communicated clearly, and made the process feel manageable. I want readers to know that real estate doesn’t have to feel transactional — it can be personal, empowering, and even enjoyable when you’ve got the right guide walking you through it.
What were you like growing up?
I was pretty entrepreneurial from the start. I joined the Boy Scouts just so I could sell the popcorn — and as soon as I hit my sales goal, I decided scouting wasn’t really for me. Same with T-ball — I stuck around long enough to sell the team chocolates, won the prize for top seller (or at least I think I did), and then hung up the glove.
When I wasn’t chasing sales, I was running small “businesses” around the neighborhood. I’d color pictures from my coloring book, load them in my wagon, and go door to door selling them to neighbors. By middle school, I had a grass-cutting business using my dad’s lawnmower — though he usually ended up helping. I also did odd jobs for my grandparents and other relatives, and they’d pay me in cash, which taught me early on how good it feels to earn and save money.
I don’t think I was the most outgoing kid, but I had a big network of cousins and school friends, so there was always someone around. Looking back, that mix of curiosity, independence, and a drive to connect with people shaped who I am today. It’s probably why I’ve always been drawn to community-driven work — and why East Nashville neighborhoods like McFerrin Park, Cleveland Park, and Highland Heights feel so much like home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://basenashville.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickirwin_basenashville/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickirwinbasenashville
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/basenashville/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@basenashville
- Yelp: https://www.youtube.com/@basenashville
- Other: https://onwardre.com/
