I often joke with others that I am one of the 12 born-and-raised Nashvillians that still live in Nashville.

I grew up on a working farm south of Franklin. A regular day on the farm involved raising horses, goats and going to fairs to show our award winning Shorthorn cattle.

During college I became deeply involved in agricultural mechanics, and rebuilt numerous vehicles to run on ethanol, methane from cow manure, biodiesel from soybean oil, and hydrogen from water.

To promote these "southern-fried fuels", we drove these vehicles all the way up to Canada, and competed for speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

I am currently working as development director for a software company. My hobbies involves renovating houses, gardening, cooking, and entertaining friends and family.

My wife Ellen was born in China, a true city girl, her interests are more into fashion & Electrical Engineering. She tells everyone she came to the US to study high-voltage transmission, but I really think she came here to find my secret BBQ recipes and me. ☺

We love to travel together and have been to Beijing, Hong Kong, London, Vancouver... Everywhere we go, we try to stay away from hotels, staying with locals is way more interesting.

Nashville is a very southern but also culturally diverse city, it offers amazing food and cultural experiences from across the globe. There are wonderful cultural events (many for free) and restaurants to explore.

As a true local Nashvillean, I would Love to connect you with your special interests. We are available to interact with you as much or as little as you like.

We love our city & community, and can’t wait to share it with you and help you have a fantastic visit to Nashville!

John Oden purchased this house in 2014

3 Reasons Why We Fell in Love with Heidtke House!

----- 1. The BEST Location

When you look at Metro Nashville map, you will find that Heidtke House is perfectly located at the center of all Nashville attractions! Downtown, Gulch, East Nashville, Lake resorts and Airport are all within 10 minutes drive.

----- 2. This House is Strikingly Beautiful! -----

For many years, it has been the prominent gateway to The Bluefields neighborhood, like a crown jewel. Ask any local, and they will tell you it is one of the most beautiful houses around.

----- 3. Improve the Community! -----

John, an IT professional who loves restoring historic homes, has driven past Heidtke House for 25 years. He has always admired the beauty and craftsmanship of the house. When the house was finally put on the market, he decided to purchase and restore the house to its original beauty. The community cheered the news!

----- Why We Named it Heidtke House? -----

This historic home was inspired by the German heritage of Mr. Lyman Oscar Heidtke Sr., A graduate of West Point, who then served in the US military. Upon returning to Tennessee after his military service, Mr. Heidtke worked at Dupont, and built this home for his family in 1948. We are proud to name this home Heidtke House in honor of Mr. Heidtke and his family.

During the renovation, John was careful to preserve the character of the home created by the Heidtke family. At the same time, he and Ellen added modern conveniences and high-end finishes to create a beautiful experience for all who visit Heidtke House.

5 Reasons to Stay at Heidtke House!

----- 1. Best Location -----

* You are at the perfect CENTER of Nashville attractions. Downtown, East Nashville, Opryland, Opry Mills, Percy Priest Lake, Old Hickory Lake... All within a short drive.

* You've also located a HIDDEN GEM! The Bluefields is a hip and charming neighborhood that has recently been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

----- 2. Great Value -----

* Nashville hotel prices are skyrocketing, so are the downtown vacation rentals.

* You are among the few who will enjoy luxury at a great value.

----- 3. Relax with TRUST -----

* Heidtke House is managed by experienced hosts

* We will respond to all your questions within minutes

* Your rooms are cleaned by a professional team

* Accurate calendar - our calendar is updated to the hour

----- 4. Stay Like a Local -----

Your host John is a Nashville-born and raised, fun loving person and knows Nashville inside and out. He loves to share insider knowledge of Nashville and looks forward to answering all your questions.

* Where to eat? We frequent great places all over town, and know the places that locals love. We can recommend anything from fine dining to the best cheap eats! We can also share tips to avoid long tourist lines.

* Where to go shopping? High end, bargain hunting or unique one-of-a-kind gems, we know them all.

* What to do? Fun activities around town that are current hot spots. We can make recommendations that will become your favorite memories.

* Have a Special Celebration? we have a list of known and trusted Uber, Lyft and limo drivers, flower shops, food caterers, dinner theater, event planners and more.

----- 5. Relax in So Many Ways! -----

* Enjoy Family fun in the large living room, beautiful covered patio, and expansive back yard.

* Private relaxation time in private spaces. Each equipped with luxury convenience.