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In a major boost for retail and economic development in the eastern suburbs, Target has announced plans to construct its largest store in the metro Atlanta area in more than 10 years.
The 128,500-square-foot superstore will anchor the expanding Covington Town Center, a sprawling mixed-use development poised to transform the local landscape.
State’s Largest Target To Be Built in Newton County
Located off Alcovy Road near Interstate 20, approximately 35 miles east of downtown Atlanta, the new Target will join other anchors like Publix and a lineup of national chain restaurants, alongside planned housing units and hotels.
This 180-acre project, seven years in the making, represents a significant investment in Newton County and a shift back to larger-format stores for the Minneapolis-based retailer.
“This is a monumental day through solidifying recruitment and support of our partners,” said Serra P. Hall, executive director of the Newton County Industrial Development Authority. The announcement underscores efforts to curb “retail leakage” — when locals shop elsewhere — by keeping more consumer dollars in the community.
The store’s size, equivalent to more than two football fields, marks a departure from Target’s recent trend of smaller urban formats. Since 2015, the company has favored outlets under 147,000 square feet, but recent earnings reports signal a return to bigger boxes to enhance in-store experiences and digital fulfillment capabilities.
While specific features for the Covington location haven’t been detailed, similar large Targets often include expanded grocery sections, dedicated in-store shops, and partnerships with brands like Disney or Apple.
Atlanta-based Fuqua Development, in partnership with the Foxfield Company, Harry Kitchen, and the Newton County Industrial Development Authority, closed on 20 acres for the site last week. The project is expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction and operation, injecting vitality into Covington’s growing economy.
Target’s expansion comes amid a broader retail renaissance in metro Atlanta’s suburbs, where mixed-use developments are blending shopping, dining, and living to attract families and young professionals. The last major Target opening in the region was over a decade ago, leaving a gap that this Covington store aims to fill.
Final Word
Residents and business leaders alike are optimistic about the ripple effects. “It’s exciting to see this level of investment right here in Newton County,” Hall added.
As construction timelines firm up, the community eagerly awaits the grand opening, which developers say is slated for “soon.”For more updates on local developments, stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com.
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While Atlanta will never be mistaken for Detroit, Georgia’s largest city does have an unheralded relationship with major automobile manufacturers.
In this article, we’ll cover the automakers that have invested in the Atlanta area.
Mercedes-Benz USA
Headquartered in Sandy Springs, GA, since 2018, Mercedes-Benz USA manages distribution and marketing for Mercedes-Benz and smart products in the U.S.
The company announced in 2025 plans to establish its North American headquarters in metro Atlanta, adding approximately 500 jobs and a new multimillion-dollar R&D center nearby.
Porsche Cars North America
Based in Atlanta since 2015, Porsche’s North American headquarters includes the Porsche Experience Center, featuring a 1.6-mile test track, a classic car restoration shop, and a business center.
This $100 million facility enhances Porsche’s logistics and distribution capabilities in the region.
Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America
Located in Ellabell, GA (near Savannah but within the broader metro Atlanta economic sphere), the Hyundai facility began producing the Hyundai IONIQ 5 in October 2024, ahead of schedule.
The plant is expected to employ 8,100 workers and represents a significant investment in Georgia’s automotive sector.
Kia Georgia, Inc.
Kia operates a major manufacturing plant in West Point, GA, approximately 80 miles southwest of Atlanta, employing around 3,000 workers.
The facility, with a $1 billion expansion, produces vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Sorento, contributing to Georgia’s automotive manufacturing hub.
Cox Automotive
Headquartered in Atlanta, Cox Automotive provides a range of services for the automotive industry, including inventory management, car acquisition and disposal, floor planning, and transportation solutions.
It supports dealerships and manufacturers nationwide from its Atlanta base.
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
Based in Duluth, Asbury is one of the largest automotive retailers in the U.S.
The company operates multiple dealerships in the metro Atlanta area under brands like Nalley Automotive Group, which represents 13 brands including Audi, Acura, BMW, Bentley, Honda, Hyundai, INFINITI, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen.
Jim Ellis Automotive Group
A family-owned business operating since 1971, Jim Ellis manages 21 dealerships across metro Atlanta (Atlanta, Buford, Kennesaw, Marietta, McDonough, Sandy Springs, South Fulton, and Union City), offering 17 brands.
It is a leader in electric vehicle sales and provides access to a private network of charging stations in the region.
Hennessy Automobile Companies
Operating since 1964, Hennessy manages 11 brands across metro Atlanta dealerships, offering new and pre-owned vehicles with a focus on customer service.
MotorCars of Atlanta
Located in Atlanta, this dealership specializes in exotic and luxury vehicles, including McLaren, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Lotus, Rolls-Royce, and Koenigsegg, serving the metro Atlanta area.
ALM Automotive Group
Operating since 2004, ALM has multiple dealerships in the metro Atlanta area, including ALM Newnan, focusing on luxury and pre-owned vehicles at competitive prices.
Final Word
These companies contribute to metro Atlanta’s status as a hub for automotive manufacturing, headquarters, and retail, leveraging the region’s skilled workforce, robust infrastructure (e.g., Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Port of Savannah), and business-friendly environment.
Georgia’s automotive industry is further supported by suppliers like Yokohama Tire Corporation (Cartersville, GA) and logistics providers like Buske Logistics, which cater to the warehousing and distribution needs of these automotive giants.
Final Word
Automakers aside, Atlanta has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year.
The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
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As Atlanta’s vibrant culinary scene continues to evolve, Clayton County is taking center stage this week with the return of Black Restaurant Week, a delicious celebration of Black-owned businesses and Southern hospitality.
Running from Monday, October 13, through Sunday, October 19, the event invites foodies, families, and locals to explore the diverse flavors of the area—just a short drive south of the city—while supporting entrepreneurs who have shaped the community’s rich gastronomic tapestry.
Organized by the Clayton County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Black Restaurant Week aims to boost tourism and highlight the resilience of Black-owned establishments, many of which faced unique challenges during the pandemic.
“This is more than just a week of deals—it’s a chance to build lasting connections, honor culinary traditions, and put Clayton County on the map as a must-visit foodie destination,” said a bureau spokesperson.
With cuisines ranging from soul food and BBQ to vegan delights and seafood boils, participants are offering exclusive promotions that make dining out affordable and unforgettable.
Reservations are recommended, and diners can redeem deals by mentioning the event or using specific promo codes at checkout.
Whether you’re craving crispy wings, hearty Southern plates, or plant-based innovations, here’s the full lineup of participating restaurants and their mouthwatering specials
All deals are valid only during the event dates—don’t miss out!
Participating Restaurants and Deals
- 404 Sports Bar & Grill
Location: 1000 Southlake Cir, Store 2348, Morrow
Cuisine: American
Deal: 20% off your entire bill (Not valid on alcoholic beverages, hookah, or cigars; dine-in only for food menu items. Promo Code: BRW25) - Atlanta Philly Italian Pasta & Subs
Location: 1510 Southlake Parkway, Suite 1E, Morrow, GA 30260
Cuisine: American, Jamaican, Vegan
Deal: 10% off your entire bill (Promo Code: AtlPhilly123) - Da Royal Vegan
Location: 7109 Highway 85, Riverdale, GA 30274
Cuisine: Vegan
Deal: 6pc vegetarian boneless wings with tots for $12.00 or Royal Vegan Burger with tots for $10.99 (Not valid with other offers. Promo Code: DRV25) - Di-Vine Plant Based Cuisine
Location: 4595 Jonesboro Road, Forest Park, GA 30297
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican, Vegan
Deal: 10% off any large meal (Only valid on large meals. Promo Code: DPBC10) - Eggs Up Grill Morrow
Location: 1990 Mt Zion Rd, Morrow, GA 30260
Cuisine: American, Specialty Beverages
Deal: 20% off your entire bill (Not valid on alcohol. Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Five Star Seafood
Location: 555 GA-138 Suite B, Riverdale, GA 30274
Cuisine: Seafood
Deal: 10% off entrée (Riverdale location only. Promo Code: 10SCCRW) - Georgia Potato Factory (Tara Blvd Location A)
Location: 8057 Tara Blvd, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American
Deal: 20% off entire bill (Valid at both Tara Blvd locations. Promo Code: ClaytonBRW25) - Georgia Potato Factory (Tara Blvd Location B)
Location: 10459 Tara Blvd, Unit 106, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American
Deal: 20% off entire bill (Valid at both Tara Blvd locations. Promo Code: ClaytonBRW25) - It’s About South!
Location: 7681 Southlake Pkwy, Suite 700, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: Soul Food
Deal: Buy one entrée, get one 50% off (Promo Code: BRW25) - Jamaican Taste
Location: 10219 Tara Boulevard, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
Deal: 10% off any combo (Promo Code: CCBRW25) - JR Crickets
Location: 11353 Tara Blvd, Hampton, GA 30228
Cuisine: American
Deal: 20% off regular price meal (Not valid on alcoholic beverages. Promo Code: JRCRICKETS25) - Kick’n Chick’n
Location: 2084 Rex Rd Ste 8, Lake City, GA 30260
Cuisine: American, Desserts, Seafood
Deal: Free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée (Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Lewis’s Little This Little That
Location: 7929 N Main St, Jonesboro, GA 30236 (Main location; also 834 Hwy 138 for express)
Cuisine: American, Desserts, Soul Food, Southern
Deal: 5 Dinner Special: 5 plates for $5.00 at N Main St (Tuesday 12-8pm) or Express Lane $5.00 (5 wings w/fries or 2pc fried chicken w/fries at Hwy 138, Wed-Fri 11am-8pm). Special menu item: Surprise Item (Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Linq Breakfast and Brunch Bar
Location: 1943 Mt Zion Rd, Morrow, GA 30260
Cuisine: American
Deal: 10% off entire bill (Not valid on daily specials or alcohol. Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Mommadede’s Southern Cooking Soulfood & BBQ Cafe
Location: 11350 Tara Blvd, Hampton, GA 30228
Cuisine: BBQ, Soul Food, Southern
Deal: 10% off your meal (Promo Code: DineInClayCoBRW25) - Nouveau Jonesboro
Location: 103 W Mill Street, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American, Desserts, Seafood
Deal: 10% off your entire bill (Not valid on alcoholic beverages) - Papa James Country Cooking
Location: 253 N Main St, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: Soul Food
Deal: 10% off entire order (Promo Code: PAPABRW25) - Ray’s Place
Location: 265 Jonesboro Rd, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American, BBQ, Soul Food
Deal: 20% off your entire bill (Not valid for alcohol. Promo Code: BRW25) - Rays Southern Foods
Location: 4150 Jonesboro Rd Building B Suite 800, Forest Park, GA 30297
Cuisine: BBQ, Soul Food, Southern
Deal: 15% off your entire bill, max $20 (Excluding lunch specials; must mention Black Restaurant Week 2025) - Riley’s Cheesesteak
Location: 7195 GA-85 Ste C, Riverdale, GA 30274
Cuisine: American
Deal: 15% off entire bill (Promo Code: BRW25) - Sumthin Fa Brunch
Location: 1820 Noahs Ark Rd Ste. 101, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Brunch, Soul Food
Deal: 15% off your entire bill (Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Sunshine Cuisine
Location: 6372 Highway 85, Riverdale, GA 30274
Cuisine: African
Deal: 20% off your entire bill (Promo Code: BRW25) - Sweet Sadie May’s
Location: 6080 GA-42 Suite 102, Rex, GA 30273
Cuisine: Soul Food, Southern
Deal: 6 Wings Dings, fries, and drink (any flavor) for $9.99 (Cannot combine offers. Promo Code: BRW25) - Sweet Treats Bake Shop
Location: 10447 Tara Blvd Ste A, Jonesboro, GA 30228
Cuisine: Desserts
Deal: 15% off entire order (Promo Code: BRW25) - The Cigar Parlour
Location: 171 N. Main St, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: Soul Food, Southern, Worldly Flavors
Deal: 20% off your entire bill (Excludes alcohol and cigars. Promo Code: CCBRW25) - The Crab Trap House
Location: 1365 Forest Pkwy Suite D, Lake City, GA 30260
Cuisine: Seafood
Deal: $9.99 10 Wings & Fries Special (Not valid on alcoholic beverages. Promo Code: CCBRW2025) - Three Dollar Cafe
Location: 3682 Hwy 138 SE, Stockbridge, GA 30281
Cuisine: American
Deal: 15% off your entire bill or lunch specials (Not valid on alcohol. Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Tookes Country Bar-B-Que
Location: 6012 GA-42, Rex, GA 30273
Cuisine: BBQ
Deal: 15% off entire order (Promo Code: Tookes25) - Traditions Global Cuisine
Location: 1140 Mt. Zion Road, Morrow, GA 30260
Cuisine: Worldly Flavors
Deal: 10% off your entire bill (Not valid on alcohol. Promo Code: DineInClayCoBRW) - Wings On Wheat
Location: 2779 Mt. Zion Pkwy, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Cuisine: American
Deal: 10pc wings & fries for $8.00 (Choose 1 flavor; must mention Clayton County Black Restaurant Week. Promo Code: CCBRW25) - Wrap A Lot
Location: 2051 Godby Road #17, College Park, GA 30349
Cuisine: American, Desserts, Seafood
Deal: 2 for $20 rice bowl and $9.99 chicken wrap (Promo Code: CCBRW25)
Final Word
From loaded potato towers at Georgia Potato Factory to global fusion at Traditions Global Cuisine, Clayton County’s Black Restaurant Week promises something for every palate.
Head to seeclaytoncountyga.com/black-restaurant-week-deals for updates, as more spots may join. Grab your crew, hit the road, and let’s eat our way through this flavorful tribute to community and culture.
Metro Atlanta continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
- Best Restaurants To Try In East Point
- Where To Eat In Atlanta
- Best Restaurants On The Atlanta Beltline Right Now
AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local stories from the heart of Georgia. Have a tip? Email us at cj@atlantafi.com.
- 404 Sports Bar & Grill
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As the leaves turn and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, Atlanta shoppers are getting a holiday gift a little early: Sam’s Club is rolling out extended weekend hours starting today, giving busy families and last-minute gift hunters more time to stock up on bulk buys without the weekday rush.
The membership warehouse giant, a staple for Atlanta’s value-driven consumers, announced the change nationwide, but it’s hitting home sweet home in the Peach State with perfect timing.
Sam’s Club Extends Hours Into Holiday Season
Beginning Sunday, October 12, all Sam’s Club locations – including the bustling clubs in Atlanta, Marietta, Lithonia, and beyond – will swing open their doors from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every single day. That’s a full two-hour extension on Sundays, where stores previously shuttered at 6 p.m., and a boost for Saturday shoppers too, who can now linger until closing without watching the clock.
“Your club has extended hours! Open ’til 8pm for all members,” reads the updated listing for the flagship Atlanta location at 2901 Clairmont Road NE.
Similar notices are popping up across metro Atlanta sites, from the Athens club on Atlanta Highway to the Buford outpost, signaling a seamless rollout for Georgia members. 10 15
Steven Zapata, Sam’s Club’s director of corporate communications, confirmed the permanent shift, noting it’s designed to “give members more flexibility – especially on weekends – as warehouse clubs compete to capture more of Americans’ grocery and bulk-buy budgets.” 0 4 Axios reports the move is part of a broader strategy to woo shoppers ahead of the holiday rush, when carts overflow with turkeys, trimmings, and toys. 3
For Atlanta’s retail scene, this couldn’t come at a better moment. With Thanksgiving looming just six weeks away and Black Friday fever already brewing, the extended hours align perfectly with the city’s high-octane shopping calendar
Local mom and Sam’s Club devotee Maria Gonzalez, spotted loading up on paper goods at the Clairmont Road store Saturday morning, called it a “game-changer.”
“Weekends are chaos with kids’ soccer and tailgates – now I can hit Sam’s after brunch and still make it to the park,” she said, eyeing a pallet of holiday-themed baking supplies.
Sam’s isn’t stopping at Sundays. The retailer is also tweaking holiday operations to keep the momentum going. Warehouses that once closed at 6 p.m. on Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and New Year’s Eve will now stay lit until 8 p.m., offering extra elbow room for festive feasts and fireworks prep.
Christmas Eve will wrap up at 6 p.m., while full closures remain in place for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Gas stations at Atlanta locations, a godsend for road-tripping Atlantans, will hum along from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Plus members – those shelling out for the upgraded tier – get early-bird access starting at 8 a.m. daily, a perk that’s already drawing crowds to the tire centers and optical departments for quick pre-holiday tune-ups.
“We’re seeing more families bundling errands here,” noted a store associate at the Marietta club, where lines for Scan & Go checkout snaked through the electronics aisle.
In a city where traffic rivals the Super Bowl halftime show, these tweaks could ease the strain on Atlanta’s retail arteries.
Competitors like Costco maintain their standard 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. weekends, but Sam’s bold Sunday stretch positions it as the go-to for night-owl negotiators hunting deals on everything from organic turkeys to LED-lit artificial trees. With Sam’s Club’s total revenue topping $57 billion last fiscal year, the chain is clearly betting big on volume – and Atlanta’s 1.5 million-plus warehouse club members are primed to deliver. 11
Whether you’re prepping for a Falcons watch party or crossing off that endless holiday list, Sam’s Club’s longer leash on the clock means more time for what matters: scoring savings and skipping the small-talk small print.
Head to samsclub.com/club-finder to confirm your local hours and snag a membership if you haven’t already – because in Atlanta, the best deals wait for no one.
Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, take a look at all the top deals on our Clothes Page, there are PLENTY of good deals that you don’t want to miss! Subscribe to our #ATLHaps Newsletter HERE and get the deals delivered to your inbox 🙂
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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AtlantaFi.com is your pulse on the city’s shopping scene, from boutique openings to big-box booms. Got a tip? Email us at tips@atlantaretailbeat.com.
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In a unanimous decision, Develop Fulton’s Board of Directors has greenlit a $149 million economic package for Hutch Development LLC, paving the way for a landmark mixed-use development poised to inject fresh investment and catalyze economic momentum along the Campbellton Road corridor in South Fulton.
Develop Fulton officials hail Sandtown Village—at 5746 Campbellton Road—as a pivotal advancement in enriching South Fulton’s residential, commercial, and leisure offerings.
Panel OKs South Fulton Development Plan for Sandtown Village
The initiative encompasses roughly 288 multifamily apartment units alongside up to 120,000 square feet of retail and commercial space.
It further dedicates over 10 acres to lush greenspace, complete with preserved wetlands, scenic boardwalks, and winding nature trails.
Beyond the incentive scope, the developer plans to add 74 single-family homes and 58 townhomes, injecting an extra $60 million in private capital.
Crafted to harmonize expansion with everyday quality of life, Sandtown Village promises substantial upgrades in infrastructure and sustainability, including:
- A $5.5 million commitment to greenspace and eco-friendly features;
- $1.3 million for addressing complex terrain and wetland restoration;
- And $7 million in road improvements, highlighted by a multi-lane roundabout endorsed by the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority to enhance safety and ease congestion.
“This is yet another dynamic venture in Fulton County, weaving together diverse housing options, economic momentum, and robust community alliances,” said Develop Fulton Chairman Kwanza Hall. “Sandtown Village signals a major infusion of resources that will revitalize this vital corridor, creating a vibrant hub where people live, work, and flourish amid innovative, community-centric design.”
Aligning seamlessly with Develop Fulton’s mission to promote intelligent, equitable progress across the county, the completed project is forecasted to generate 366 full-time positions, 191 part-time roles, and 1,800 construction opportunities—bolstering the local labor market and commercial ecosystem.
Financial forecasts underscore the project’s fiscal impact: The site presently yields about $18,199 in yearly ad valorem taxes. During the incentive term, it’s anticipated to surge to over $16.5 million in annual revenue, fortifying Fulton County’s budgetary resilience.
“Sandtown Village stands as a prime example of how strategic development can uplift an entire neighborhood and supercharge Fulton’s revenue streams,” said Develop Fulton Executive Director Sarah-Elizabeth Langford. “Backed by unanimous endorsement from the City of South Fulton, this endeavor fuses creative planning, stakeholder input, and critical infrastructure to reflect deep-rooted community and civic backing for its progressive blueprint.”
Final Word
From South Fulton to Cumming, Metro Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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As Atlanta’s real estate market heats up with a projected 3.2% rise in home prices and a 13.5% increase in sales volume this year, the industry is buzzing with opportunity. Mortgage rates are dipping to around 5.2%, drawing more buyers into the fold and signaling a more balanced market ahead.
But for those eyeing a career in real estate without the hustle of sales commissions or the need for a realtor license, the options are plentiful and diverse.
Beyond the Badge: These Real Estate Jobs Pay Well
From behind-the-scenes analytical roles to creative gigs that shape how properties shine, Atlanta’s booming sector offers paths that leverage market growth without the real estate agent’s spotlight.
With over 900 real estate-related jobs posted locally on platforms like Indeed, the demand spans far beyond traditional brokerage.
Whether you’re drawn to numbers, design, or operations, these roles tap into Atlanta’s expansion as a tech and logistics hub, where new developments in areas like Alpharetta and Midtown are creating waves of need.
Here are seven standout careers to consider:
1. Property Manager: Keeping the Portfolio Humming
Overseeing residential or commercial properties is a cornerstone of real estate operations, involving tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and financial reporting.
In Atlanta’s rental market, where average rents are set to grow 1.9% by year’s end, property managers are in high demand to handle the influx of young professionals and families flocking to affordable suburbs.
No license required, though certifications like the Certified Property Manager (CPM) can boost prospects. Entry-level salaries hover around $50,000, with experienced pros earning up to $80,000 annually.
2. Real Estate Appraiser: The Value Detective
Appraisers assess property worth for sales, loans, or taxes using market data and inspections – a detail-oriented role perfect for analytical minds.
Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods, from historic Inman Park to burgeoning Westside developments, provide endless variety.
Licensing varies by state but often requires coursework rather than a full realtor exam. With the city’s steady appreciation, appraisers command $60,000–$100,000, making it a stable entry into the field.
3. Home Inspector: The Property’s First Line of Defense
Inspectors scrutinize homes for structural issues, safety hazards, and code compliance before closings, offering peace of mind to buyers in Atlanta’s fast-paced market.
As sales ramp up, so does the need for thorough checks on everything from Victorian renovations in Grant Park to new builds in East Point. Certification through organizations like the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is key, and no sales license is needed.
Pay ranges from $55,000 for starters to $90,000 for veterans, often with flexible scheduling.
4. Real Estate Photographer: Capturing Curb Appeal
In a digital age, stunning visuals sell properties faster – and Atlanta’s vibrant listings need pros who can highlight Buckhead luxury or Ponce City Market lofts under the golden hour.
This creative role involves shooting high-res photos and virtual tours, requiring photography skills over any real estate credential. With remote work options, it’s ideal for freelancers.
Local gigs pay $40,000–$70,000, with top shooters pulling in more through volume.
5. Title Examiner: Unraveling Property Histories
Title examiners review public records to ensure clear ownership chains, flagging liens or disputes before transactions close. As Atlanta’s market matures with more flips and investments, this meticulous job prevents costly snags.
A background in legal research helps, but no license is mandatory. Salaries average $50,000–$75,000, with steady demand from title companies downtown.
6. Real Estate Staging Specialist: Transforming Spaces
Stagers furnish and decorate empty homes to appeal to buyers, boosting sale prices by up to 20% in competitive spots like Atlanta’s intown condos.
Blending interior design with market savvy, this artistic career thrives on trends like sustainable decor for eco-conscious millennials.
Certification from the Real Estate Staging Association adds credibility. Earnings vary from $45,000 salaried to $100,000+ for independents charging per project.
7. Development Coordinator: Building Atlanta’s Future
For big-picture thinkers, coordinating real estate development involves permitting, budgeting, and stakeholder management for new projects.
Atlanta’s growth as a film and tech epicenter fuels mega-developments like the BeltLine expansions. A degree in urban planning or business helps, but hands-on experience trumps licenses. Mid-level roles fetch $70,000–$120,000, with room to climb in a city reshaping its skyline.
These roles not only sidestep the variability of agent commissions but also offer work-life balance and direct ties to Atlanta’s economic pulse – from job growth in high-income sectors to a vacancy rate stabilizing around 27% in office spaces.
Final Word
As the market evolves, professionals in these positions will be pivotal in sustaining momentum.Ready to stake your claim?
Atlanta Job Hub lists hundreds of openings in these and more real estate-adjacent fields. Browse our site today, upload your resume, and connect with recruiters shaping the Peach State’s property landscape. Your next chapter in real estate awaits – no license required.
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The Home Depot – with its sprawling headquarters just north in Atlanta – is making it easier than ever for locals to break into those fields, launching free certifications through its Path to Pro Skills Program that could turn weekend DIYers into full-fledged pros.
The initiative, which kicked off earlier this year and has already trained thousands nationwide, offers no-cost online and in-person courses covering essentials like general construction, electrical work, HVAC systems, plumbing, painting, and more.
Home Depot Is Offering Free Certifications in the Trades
Participants wrap up with official completion certificates, arming them with the basics of jobsite safety, tool handling, material management, and even soft skills like team communication – all tailored for real-world home improvement gigs.
Available in English and Spanish, the program is designed for beginners eyeing a career pivot or seasoned hands looking to upskill, with flexible modules that fit around a 9-to-5.
For Atlantans, this hits close to home. Georgia’s construction sector is booming, with over 200,000 jobs statewide and Atlanta leading the charge amid projects like the $5 billion expansion at Hartsfield-Jackson and the ongoing BeltLine developments.
“We’re not just selling hammers; we’re building futures,” says a Home Depot spokesperson, highlighting how the program connects graduates to Pro Xtra members – local contractors hungry for talent. In metro Atlanta alone, dozens of stores from Buckhead to Decatur host in-person sessions, making it a hop, skip, and a MARTA ride away.
Take Marcus Johnson, a 28-year-old from East Point who’s already enrolled: “I was flipping burgers, dreaming of electrical work. Now, with this free cert, I’m wiring my first job site next month – all from Home Depot’s backyard.”
How To Enroll in the Path To Pro Program
Step 1: Head to the Official Site
Visit pathtopro.com and navigate to the “Free Training” section. Click the prominent “Start Training” button to kick things off. This lands you on the registration page where the magic begins.
Step 2: Check Your Status and Register
If you’ve already got an account, hit “Already Registered” to log in and resume any progress. New to the program? Fill out the basic required fields – like your name, email, and password – then hit “Register.” You’ll be whisked to a quick secondary page for a few more details to complete your profile.
Step 3: Answer Profile Questions
Seal the deal with a short set of demographic and background queries. Expect to share:
- How you heard about the program.
- Basic info like your age group, gender, ethnicity (e.g., Hispanic or Latino), racial background, education level, and military service status.
These help Home Depot tailor resources and track impact, but they’re straightforward and take under two minutes. Once submitted, congrats – you’re officially enrolled! No fees, no tests, and no prior experience required; it’s free and accessible to all aspiring trades folks, from high school grads to career changers.
What Happens Next: Jump into Training and Beyond
Right away, you’ll unlock “Skills Basics” – a foundational course on jobsite safety, tools, materials, and soft skills like communication. Progress through interactive modules at your own pace (they’re mobile-friendly and remember your spot if you log out).
Then, explore “Trades Essentials” tracks tailored to hot Atlanta jobs, such as HVAC or electrical work – complete one for a shiny certificate of completion.Finish up? Get an invite to the Path to Pro Network, Home Depot’s free job board connecting you to local Pro Xtra contractors hiring in real-time. Build your profile there to showcase certs and portfolios, and watch opportunities roll in – all from the comfort of your Atlanta-area home. Got questions? Email Path_to_Pro@homedepot.com for support.
Final Word
Whether you’re a high school grad eyeing trades over college debt or a parent seeking stable hours, Home Depot’s bet is on you. Want an orange apron yourself? Read our guide on how to get hired at Home Depot.
As Atlanta’s housing crunch deepens, this could be the spark that fills those hard-hat voids – one free lesson at a time.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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As the world’s busiest airport and Delta Air Lines’ global headquarters, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport stands to benefit from the carrier’s cautiously optimistic outlook for the holiday travel rush, even as third-quarter profits dipped amid higher costs and softening demand.I
In its latest earnings release, Delta reported total operating revenue of $15.4 billion for the September quarter, a 2% increase from the prior year, driven by strong demand for premium cabins and loyalty program perks.
Delta Forecasts Strong Holiday Season
However, pre-tax income fell to $1.3 billion from $1.6 billion a year ago, with net income dropping to $1.0 billion and adjusted earnings per share at $1.50, down from $2.10.
The airline pointed to moderated travel demand and elevated expenses as key factors, partially offset by a 5% surge in premium revenue from Delta One and First Class seats – a segment that’s increasingly popular among business travelers routing through Atlanta.
Looking ahead, Delta forecasts flat to 2% revenue growth for the December quarter, with capacity at its Atlanta hub expected to rise 2-3% year-over-year, prioritizing international routes that connect the city to global markets.
The airline industry has had to deal with customers’ pulling back amid inflationary pressures in the early part of the year.
Top 5 U.S. Airlines: Trailing Twelve Months Net Income
The top five major U.S. airlines by revenue—Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines—have shown varied profitability over the trailing twelve months ending June 30, 2025. Here’s a look:
Airline TTM Net Income (USD) Delta Air Lines $4.49 billion United Airlines $3.31 billion American Airlines $567 million Southwest Airlines $392 million Alaska Airlines $313 million This expansion could mean more flights and jobs for the 30,000-plus Delta employees based in metro Atlanta, bolstering the local economy during peak season.
The company also highlighted its “Win on the Wings” initiative, investing in employee training and AI-powered personalization to enhance customer experiences – potentially reducing delays at ATL and improving on-time performance, which hit record highs this quarter.
What Is Delta’ws Win on the Wings Initiative?
At the heart of the carrier’s latest strategy is the “Win on the Wings” program – a multifaceted operational excellence push designed to streamline flights, slash costs, and empower the 30,000-plus Delta workers calling metro Atlanta home.Launched as part of Delta’s broader transformation playbook, “Win on the Wings” isn’t just corporate jargon; it’s a targeted effort to make every takeoff and landing more efficient, sustainable, and employee-friendly.
The initiative sets ambitious goals: a 20% reduction in aircraft turnaround times and a 10% drop in fuel costs, achieved through smarter routing algorithms and greater adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
For ATL – Delta’s bustling super-hub handling over 1,000 daily flights – this could translate to fewer delays for passengers rushing to catch connections to Europe or the Caribbean, and a greener footprint for the world’s busiest airport.
But the real wings under this program belong to Delta’s frontline teams. A key pillar involves cross-training for ground crew, equipping ramp agents, mechanics, and baggage handlers with versatile skills to handle peak-season chaos more nimbly.
This builds on Delta’s $1 billion, three-year pledge to upskill its entire 80,000-employee workforce in digital tools and customer service mastery, fostering leadership and retention in a high-turnover industry.
Final Word
For Atlanta’s traveling public and tourism sector, the news underscores a resilient aviation giant navigating economic headwinds while doubling down on premium perks and tech upgrades. Full-year capital spending remains on track at $3 billion, with free cash flow projected to top that figure, signaling long-term stability for the Peach State’s flagship carrier.
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Kinship Butcher & Sundry is expanding to Atlanta’s Grant Park, opening its second location in fall 2026 in the former Beacon space with direct Beltline access.
Four years after launching in Virginia-Highland, owners Myles Moody and Rachael Pack are set to bring their signature sandwich shop and whole-animal butchery to a new neighborhood.
The 4,000-square-foot space will feature an enhanced butcher shop, increased whole-animal production, a new seafood butchery program, an upgraded dry-aging process, and more seasonal produce and local grocery items.
Kinship Grant Park will also debut an all-day café, serving popular breakfast sandwiches alongside new fish and meat dishes, while staying committed to its zero-waste ethos.
Final Word
Interested in dining outside? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.
If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.
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Tech founder and CEO Shay Levister of Alpharetta has unveiled HerPocket Coach—the world’s pioneering AI-powered pocket companion tailored exclusively for trailblazing women conquering love amid their high-stakes lives.
The app delivers a bespoke AI guide that crafts an intimate, transformative roadmap toward love that resonates deeply with who they are.Forget the superficial swipe-fests of conventional dating apps.
Introducing Shay Levister’s HerPocket Coach
HerPocket Coach is a sanctuary for inner work, evolution, and soulful synergy. Drawing on Shay’s decades of relational mastery and AI ingenuity, it forges a one-of-a-kind itinerary brimming with curated meditation soundscapes, restorative practices, intelligent journaling prompts, playful dating challenges, and ethereal avatar mentors that whisper guidance every step of the way.
“Our top-tier female leaders command elite arsenals for boardrooms and breakthroughs, yet love often feels like uncharted territory without the right map,” shares Shay Levister, founder and CEO. “HerPocket Coach levels the playing field, infusing their romantic worlds with the same cutting-edge empowerment they thrive on professionally. It’s infinitely adaptable, empowering them to steer relationships and claim love that’s authentically theirs—fierce, fulfilling, and fiercely on their schedule.”
Crafted for the unstoppable force of high-powered women whose ambitions fuel their hearts, Levister has mentored legions of Fortune 500 C-suite powerhouses into profound partnerships. These dynamos demand tools as bold and adaptive as they are—companions that don’t just prime them for soulmate-caliber love but flourish and refine with them through every chapter.
Final Word
Merging state-of-the-art AI with Shay’s battle-tested love frameworks, HerPocket Coach empowers women to infuse their romantic pursuits with the deliberate precision of their careers, sparking profound emotional expansion, heightened self-insight, and bonds that truly ignite.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
