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In Atlanta’s ever-changing housing market, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is one of the wisest first steps for prospective homebuyers. And to get a mortgage, you need to be pre-approved.
For 2026, the metro area is transitioning toward a more balanced market, with inventory levels rising to around 4-5 months of supply and median home prices hovering near $380,000-$440,000, depending on the neighborhood.
While prices have seen slight dips in some areas over the past year, demand remains steady thanks to job growth and events like the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
At this point, you should have saved up all the money you can for a down payment.
If you’re already pre-approved for a home loan, it signals to the loan officer, real estate agent and seller that you’re ready to purchase — and not playing around.
What Is The Best Way To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage?
The best way to get pre-approved for a mortgage is to have all your paperwork in order, but it includes more than that.
Your credit score is of paramount importance to a mortgage lender, but more on that later.
Current 30-year fixed mortgage rates in Georgia are averaging around 6.0%-6.6%, offering relative stability compared to recent highs.
With forecasts suggesting a balanced market in 2026, pre-approval positions you to act quickly on opportunities. Many Atlanta sellers and agents prefer or require a pre-approval letter with offers.
Follow These 3 Steps To Get Approved For A Mortgage
This article will go over the steps you need to get pre-approved so that you can get a mortgage.
First, let’s go over what a mortgage pre-approval is and how it works for you.
A mortgage pre-approval is a preliminary step to buying a home. It involves an initial offer from a lender to loan you a certain amount of money so that you can buy a home.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Approval And How Does It Work?
The amount of money that the lender pre-approves is based on their evaluation of your three things:
- Your Creditworthiness
- Your Finances
- Your Job Outlook
A mortgage pre-approval will require that you hand over a lot of your personal information, including your Social Security number for a credit check and more.
1. Get Your Free Credit Report
The first step you need to do is get a free copy of your credit report. You can do that by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.
Start by reviewing your credit report (free annually from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Aim for a score of 720+ for the best rates. Pay down debts and avoid new credit applications to keep your score strong.
AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-backed website that shows you your credit reports from the Big 3 credit Bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
2. Shop Around for a Lender
Different lenders offer different mortgage products and may have different criteria for pre-approval. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best terms for your situation
3. Get Your Credit Scores
You’ll also want to find out what your credit scores are from the Big 3 credit bureaus. If your credit scores are low with a particular credit-reporting agency or with all of them, you should try to improve them.
Here’s how to improve your credit score easily.
What Credit Score Is Needed For A Home Loan In Georgia?
In Georgia, as well as elsewhere, you’re going to need a credit score on the high end to qualify for a home loan.
According to Credit Karma, which uses the Average VantageScore 3.0 model, the national qualifying average credit score is 717. In Georgia, you’ll need a score around 700 to purchase a home.
f your credit score is lower than you’d like, take steps to improve it before applying for a mortgage. This can include paying down existing debts, making all your payments on time, and avoiding opening new lines of credit.
4. Have Your Financial Paperwork In Order
Before you get pre-approved, you’ll need some documents for verification purposes. These include:
- Recent pay stubs (last 30-60 days)
- W-2s or tax returns (past two years)
- Bank statements (2-3 months)
- Proof of assets (investments, retirement accounts)
- Information on debts (loans, credit cards)
- ID (driver’s license, Social Security card)
If you plan to have someone on the loan with you — perhaps a spouse or significant other — they will have to submit some personal information as well.
To apply for a mortgage pre-approval, you’ll need to provide various documents, including proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns), proof of assets (such as bank statements), and information about your debts (such as credit card balances and loan payments).
Submit Your Application
Apply online, by phone, or in person. The lender will run a hard credit inquiry and verify your info. This typically takes a few days to a week.
5. Get Pre-Approved!
Once you gather all of that financial information, you can submit it for mortgage pre-approval to your lender of choice. You will get a pre-approval letter informing you of the amount.
Here’s a pro tip you might want to consider: Always try to get pre-approved with more than one lender. This increases your chances of getting pre-qualified exponentially.
Once you’ve chosen a lender, you can apply for pre-approval either online, over the phone, or in person. The lender will review your financial information and credit history to determine how much they’re willing to lend you and at what interest rate.
If you meet the lender’s criteria, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating the maximum amount you can borrow and the terms of the loan. This letter can be used to show sellers that you’re a serious buyer when making an offer on a home.
Once you’re approved, you can start to search for your dream home in Atlanta or any city you want to live in.
Conclusion
Your mortgage pre-approval is just that, a pre-approval. That means it still might not go through due to financial issues that come up.
Let’s say you lose your job during the pre-approval process. Then it’s a good chance, the lender will back out and your mortgage won’t be approved.
That’s why it’s a good idea to dispute any issues on your credit report or any other issues that come up. Here’s how to dispute your credit report.
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.
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Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has stepped forward with an offer to personally cover the salaries of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers amid the ongoing partial government funding standoff that’s left thousands of airport security personnel working without pay.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on March 21, 2026, Musk wrote: “I would like to offer to pay the salaries of TSA personnel during this funding impasse that is negatively affecting the lives of so many Americans at airports throughout the country.”
The proposal comes as a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—which oversees the TSA—enters its second month, having begun on February 14, 2026, after Congress failed to pass funding legislation amid partisan disputes over immigration and border policies.
Impact Hits Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Hard
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest airport, the effects are particularly acute. ATL handles millions of passengers monthly, and TSA screening lines are a critical chokepoint for smooth operations.
With hundreds of TSA officers nationwide having already quit since the shutdown started—376 reported by DHS as of mid-March—call-out rates have surged, leading to longer wait times, flight delays, and mounting traveler frustration.
Local TSA workers in Atlanta, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck with average salaries ranging from $46,000 to $55,000 annually, have faced severe financial strain.
Reports from affected employees describe mounting bills, overdrawn accounts, and even eviction risks after missing multiple paychecks. The shutdown marks the third funding lapse in less than six months for DHS employees, with TSA staff required to continue as essential workers despite the lack of pay.
Airports across the country, including ATL, have resorted to setting up donation boxes and calling for public support to help unpaid staff.
Major airlines have also voiced concerns, warning that prolonged disruptions could worsen travel chaos, especially during peak spring travel periods.
Musk’s Offer Sparks Debate
Musk’s gesture has quickly drawn attention, with some praising it as a pragmatic solution to help frontline workers and keep airports running smoothly.
Others question the logistics of a private individual funding a federal workforce or see it as highlighting deeper issues in government operations.
The offer arrives against a backdrop of failed Senate votes on DHS funding bills, including recent attempts that fell short of the required support. Senate leaders continue negotiations, with proposals floating to fund TSA separately, though progress remains stalled.
For Atlanta travelers, Musk’s proposal—if pursued—could provide immediate relief at one of the nation’s most congested air hubs. As the standoff drags on, all eyes are on whether Congress will resolve the impasse or if unconventional measures like this will fill the gap for essential airport security staff.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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The Atlanta luxury housing market remains robust, particularly in upscale neighborhoods like Buckhead, Chastain Park, and surrounding areas.
Listings fluctuate frequently, but current data from major platforms like Zillow, Redfin, and Sotheby’s International Realty shows the ultra-luxury segment featuring even more ambitious properties.
The market has seen continued interest in expansive estates with privacy, large lots, and high-end amenities, though overall median home prices in Atlanta hover around $360,000–$370,000, making these top-tier homes exceptional outliers.
Here are the most expensive homes currently listed for sale in Atlanta (as of mid-March 2026, based on aggregated real-time listings from Zillow, Redfin, and luxury brokers).
Note that real estate is highly dynamic—prices and availability can change quickly, and some ultra-high-end sales occur off-market.
Always verify directly via listing agents or sites like Zillow or Redfin for the latest details.
Atlanta’s White House
3687 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30345
- Price: $35,000,000
- Key Features: 6 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, approximately 16,500 sq ft.
- Highlights: This standout property, often described as a White House-inspired estate, sits on a generous lot and offers palatial scale with luxury finishes. It’s currently the highest-priced active listing in the Atlanta area. Listed by Serhant Georgia, LLC.
881 W Conway Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30327 (Buckhead)
- Price: $25,000,000
- Key Features: 6 bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms (8 full + 3 partial), around 15,000 sq ft on nearly 17 acres.
- Highlights: A gated, private compound known as “Woodbine,” this epic estate emphasizes seclusion and luxury in one of Atlanta’s most prestigious neighborhoods. It hit the market in late 2025 and remains a top contender. Listed by Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty.
4615 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
- Price: $22,500,000
- Key Features: 6 bedrooms, 10.5 bathrooms, about 13,000 sq ft.
- Highlights: Another Buckhead-area gem with expansive grounds and high-end design, appealing to buyers seeking classic Atlanta luxury.
Additional notable high-end listings in the $10M+ range include properties on Moores Mill Rd NW ($10.9M, 7 beds/10 baths) and others in Buckhead/Sandy Springs corridors.
The luxury market in 2026 shows steady demand for turnkey, move-in-ready estates with privacy and amenities, driven by high-net-worth buyers (often cash transactions).
Inventory in the ultra-luxury segment remains limited, but Atlanta continues to attract interest for its value relative to cities like New York or Los Angeles.
For the absolute latest and most accurate information, check sources like Zillow’s luxury homes in Atlanta, Redfin’s most expensive listings, or consult a local luxury realtor. The market
Final Word
You may be asking yourself how you can afford a mansion like the ones you see in Buckhead and surrounding areas. Check out these cheap properties for sale.
If you’re looking for a temporary home, Atlanta has some affordable apartments for rent.
Aside from the most expensive homes in Atlanta, the larger market is going through usual ebbs and flows. The city’s upscale home market continues to expand as developers see value in areas other than Buckhead such as Midtown’s Old Fourth Ward and along the Northside corridor into Vinings.
Meanwhile, the median home market has experienced a slight dip, according to prognasticators.
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.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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Cobb Foodie Week is returning in 2026 with an exciting twist: it’s shifting to summer dates for the first time, running from June 20–27.
Hosted by Cobb Travel & Tourism, this week-long celebration spotlights the vibrant and diverse dining scene in what many call Atlanta’s Sweet Spot—Cobb County.
Cobb Foodie Week: What To Know
The move to June aligns the event with one of the area’s peak tourism seasons and adds a global flair. It coincides with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawing international visitors who can pair their match-day excitement with unforgettable meals right here in Cobb.
Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler exploring metro Atlanta, this is the perfect opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the county’s top eateries while enjoying special savings.
During Cobb Foodie Week, food enthusiasts can unlock exclusive digital coupons and meal deals at dozens of participating restaurants countywide.
The offerings span a wide range—from authentic international flavors like Mexican, Asian fusion, Indian, and Mediterranean to classic Southern comfort food, upscale American fare, seafood spots, and hidden-gem casual dining.
Expect discounts on entrees, prix-fixe menus (multi-course meals at set prices), special bundles, and more. It’s a delicious way to support local restaurants, try new places, and save money without any hassle.
Best of all? Participation is completely free—no app download required, no tickets to buy. Simply head to cobbfoodieweek.com to sign up for your Meal Deals Pass.
Once registered, you’ll get instant access to the digital coupons and full list of participating spots. Redeem them directly at restaurants during the event week for instant savings.
Past editions of Cobb Foodie Week (which previously ran in the fall) have drawn huge crowds and set participation records, proving how much locals and visitors love celebrating the area’s culinary talent. With the 2026 summer timing and World Cup buzz, this year’s event promises to be bigger and more flavorful than ever.
Mark your calendars for June 20–27, 2026, grab your Meal Deals Pass at cobbfoodieweek.com, and get ready to eat your way through Cobb County.
Whether you’re craving a quick bite, a family dinner, or a special night out, Cobb Foodie Week has something to satisfy every palate.
For the latest updates, participating restaurants, and deal details, visit travelcobb.org or cobbfoodieweek.com. Bon appétit, Cobb!
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest passenger hub, took to social media on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with a clear message for domestic flyers: stick to the Domestic Security Checkpoints.
In an official X post from @ATLairport, accompanied by a TSA Wait Times Update graphic timestamped 10:40 AM, the airport highlighted growing chaos at the International Terminal Checkpoint.
Atlanta Airport Urges Domestic Travelers: Stop Using the International Security ‘Hack’ – It’s Backfiring Amid TSA Shortages
The culprit? A surge of domestic passengers trying to shortcut long domestic lines by clearing security in the international terminal and hopping the SkyTrain (Plane Train) to reach domestic concourses.mr1tV”LARGE”VukdW”LARGE”
The full advisory reads:
“Currently, at Hartsfield-Jackson, we are seeing increased congestion at the International Terminal Checkpoint caused by domestic travelers attempting to bypass lines in the Domestic Terminal.If you are flying domestically, please use the Domestic Security Checkpoints. At this time, wait times at the International Checkpoint are longer than those at the Domestic Terminal.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as our TSA partners and airport teams work to move passengers safely and efficiently.”
By mid-morning, the strategy had flipped: international waits hit around 90 minutes in spots, while domestic main and north checkpoints hovered at 47–57 minutes.
Why This Is Happening Now
This isn’t just random congestion. ATL has battled unusually long security lines for weeks due to a partial U.S. government shutdown affecting Department of Homeland Security funding.
Read up on how to beat airline delays.
TSA officers—essential workers—are operating without full paychecks, resulting in elevated call-out rates (reported at 36% at ATL). Multiple domestic checkpoints have closed temporarily, and spring-break travel volumes have piled on the pressure.
Matters worsened on March 16 when severe thunderstorms triggered FAA ground stops, sparking more than 1,300 delays and hundreds of cancellations.
Lines snaked through terminals, and frustrated passengers turned to a long-circulating “life hack”: using the international checkpoint (often quieter under normal conditions) for domestic flights, then riding the SkyTrain to their gates.
Social media had amplified the tip for years, but the current crisis made it go viral—until too many people tried it at once.
Airport officials, including General Manager Rickey Smith, have repeatedly urged travelers to arrive three hours early and check real-time wait times at atl.com/times.
Traveler Reactions and Broader Impact
On X and other platforms, reactions ranged from annoyance to dark humor. Some passengers thanked the airport for the clarification; others pointed fingers at Washington over the funding standoff.
Airlines like Delta issued travel waivers, but missed flights and frayed nerves remain common.
The situation isn’t unique to ATL. Similar staffing-driven delays have hit major hubs nationwide, turning routine security into hours-long ordeals.
Tips for Smoother Travel at ATL Right Now
- Use the right checkpoint: Domestic flyers—use Domestic Terminal options (Main, North, South PreCheck, etc.). International checkpoint is for international departures only in this context.
- Arrive early: Three hours minimum is the official recommendation.
- Monitor live data: Visit atl.com/times or the ATL app for checkpoint wait times.
- PreCheck & Clear: If enrolled, stick to dedicated lanes—they’re still moving faster.
- Stay updated: Follow @ATLairport on X and other official channels for real-time alerts.
As the shutdown drags on without resolution, ATL and TSA teams continue working to keep passengers moving.
The airport’s message is simple: cooperation helps everyone get where they’re going faster and safer.
Safe travels— and remember, the “hack” that once saved minutes is now costing everyone time. Monitor those official channels, pack your patience, and fly smart.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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There’s rarely a chance I don’t look to take advantage of bueno new food when it presents itself. And right on “Que,” a delicious addition has joined metro area’s growing Latin cuisine scene when it comes to new Atlanta area restaurants.
Que Delicia, a vibrant new Puerto Rican restaurant, is officially opening its doors today, March 17, 2026, in Peachtree City—bringing authentic island flavors to the southern suburbs just outside Atlanta.
Que Delicia Opens in Peachtree City
Owned and led by Alexandra Mendoza, Que Delicia promises to transport diners straight to the streets of San Juan with a menu rooted in traditional Puerto Rican comfort food. Expect classics like:
- Mofongo (mashed plantains stuffed with garlic, pork cracklings, and your choice of protein)
- Arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas and sofrito)
- Pasteles and alcapurrias (savory fritters)
- Lechón or pernil (slow-roasted pork)
- Fresh empanadas, tostones, and tropical desserts like tembleque or flan
The spot earned a perfect 100 on its initial health inspection earlier this month (March 3, 2026), signaling a clean, welcoming kitchen ready to serve the community.
Located at 1980 Hwy 54 W E, Peachtree City, GA 30269 (in the Governors Walk shopping center), Que Delicia is targeting a soft or grand opening vibe today.
While the exact ribbon-cutting time wasn’t finalized in advance reports, the team has been gearing up for this launch, and early buzz suggests walk-ins and takeout will be available starting today.
Peachtree City and Fayette County residents have been waiting for more diverse dining options, and this family-focused eatery fills a gap for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine in the area.
Mendoza shared with local business outlets that the restaurant aims to feel like “de vuelta a casa” (back home), emphasizing hearty portions, bold flavors, and warm hospitality.
If you’re in the south metro today, head over to check it out—whether for lunch, dinner, or to grab some empanadas to go. With spring weather arriving, outdoor seating (if available) could make it even more inviting!
Have you tried Puerto Rican food in the ATL area before? Drop your thoughts or tag us if you visit Que Delicia—we’d love to hear (and see!) your first bites. ¡Buen provecho, Atlanta!
Stay tuned for more metro openings as the city heats up toward summer and the 2026 FIFA World Cup festivities. What’s next on your dining list?
A burgeoning Latin population and dedicated food enthusiasts have fueled demand for authentic and diverse Spanish cuisine. To dig into these wonderful delights, check out the best Mexican restaurants in Atlanta.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Atlanta’s culinary scene just got a whole lot smokier—and more sophisticated—with the grand opening of Que-Riosity, the latest venture from acclaimed chef and Atlanta icon Todd Richards.
The highly anticipated restaurant debuted last Thursday at 1931 Jonesboro Rd. in McDonough, bringing Richards’ signature blend of Southern tradition, modern flair, and legendary hospitality to the fast-growing suburb just south of Atlanta.
James Beard-Winning Chef Opens New Restaurant in McDonough
Founded by Chef Richards and his wife Gloria under their Richards Hospitality group, Que-Riosity elevates authentic Southern-inspired barbecue to an upscale experience while paying deep respect to the Black pitmasters who shaped the region’s ‘cue culture.
The name “Que-Riosity” (a playful nod to curiosity and barbecue) reflects the restaurant’s mission: to reimagine Southern dining with intention, quality ingredients, and a refined touch.
What’s On the Cue-Riosity Menu?
Diners can expect marble tables, linen napkins, and gracious service paired with soulful, smoke-kissed flavors.
The menu honors tradition while pushing boundaries. Standout dishes include Hot Honey & Pineapple Glazed Baby Back Ribs served with Sea Island Red Peas, Smoked Half Chicken, and Smoked Chicken Wings accompanied by a “true” red velvet waffle.
Everything emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients—from free-range chicken and line-caught fish to ethically raised meats.
“For us, keeping true Southern barbecue traditions alive means giving them the same care and attention you’d see in a fine-dining kitchen,” Chef Richards said. “We’re blending barbecue, soul food, and all the flavors that make this region’s cooking special to create something really fresh and exciting for the city.”
The dinner menu, available Thursday through Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., kicks off with shareable starters like Fried Heirloom Okra, Moulard Duck ‘n Waffle, and Richards’ now-signature build-your-own Deviled Eggs.
Sides shine too, with options such as Sugar Cane & Soy Sauce Glazed Heirloom Carrots & Peas and Baked Mac ‘n Cheese. Weekend specials feature limited-quantity coffee-rubbed Smoked Bone-In Short Rib perfect for sharing.
Beverage Director Ramsey Kashlan curates a dynamic cocktail program to match any vibe.
Highlights include classics like martinis, creative sips such as Death in the Afternoon (with St. George Absinthe), You Said You Are a Baller? (Belvedere 10 and fresh Meyer lemon), Tipsy Garden Gnome (gin, St. Germain, prosecco), and Upper Manhattan spotlighting Uncle Nearest Whiskey.
Sparkling options like the Seelbach Cocktail and Dior Dior add elegance, while zero-proof choices (Taking the Keys, No L’s Here) ensure inclusivity. A curated wine list and indulgent desserts—Green Tea Crème Brûlée and Banana Foster Cheesecake—complete the experience.
Chef Todd Richards brings an impressive pedigree to the project.
A self-taught talent and four-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Southeast semifinalist, he has over 25 years in the industry. He recently took on the role of Executive Chef at the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead, where he fuses Southern roots with refined technique.
Previously, as Culinary Director for Jackmont Hospitality, he oversaw acclaimed airport concepts One Flew South and Chicken + Beer (with Chris “Ludacris” Bridges) at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—both perennial top-ranked airport restaurants nationwide. His résumé also includes high-profile kitchens at The Ritz-Carlton properties and other Atlanta staples.
Beyond the plate, Richards is a celebrated author. His cookbook SOUL: A Chef’s Culinary Evolution in 150 Recipes earned a James Beard nomination, the IACP Award for American Cookbook, and praise from Garden & Gun, Food52, The Atlantic, and more.
His 2024 release, Roots, Heart, Soul: The Story, Celebration, and Recipes of Afro Cuisine in America, inspired a namesake podcast exploring the Pan-African Diaspora through food. His work has appeared in The New York Times, Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, People, Esquire, and Garden & Gun.
Located just 25 minutes south of the airport, Que-Riosity is perfectly positioned as an “OTP” (Outside the Perimeter) destination for Atlantans craving a modern, elevated take on barbecue and Southern soul food.
With Chef Richards’ vision, top-tier ingredients, and warm hospitality at its core, Que-Riosity is already generating buzz as McDonough’s—and greater Atlanta’s—must-visit spot for ‘cue done right.
For more details and reservations, visit the restaurant’s website or OpenTable.
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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Sonia Williams loves what’s happening in her neighborhood these days. The Sylvan Hills resident can’t wait for all the dust to clear at the corner of Murphy Avenue and Sylvan Road in southwest Atlanta.
”They’re starting to clean up all the vacant lots,” the Delta Air Lines employee said. “And when they enclose the lots in fences, that’s the look of progress.”
The ambitious Murphy Crossing redevelopment project is set to transform a 20-acre site in Atlanta’s Oakland City neighborhood into a vibrant mixed-use destination, with plans calling for approximately 625 new residential units.Located at 1050 Murphy Avenue, the BeltLine-owned property sits adjacent to the Westside Trail and holds potential as a future MARTA infill station site.
It lies near ongoing revitalization efforts, including the nearby Oakland Exchange project, which is converting historic warehouses across Sylvan Road into affordable housing and commercial space.
The Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. is leading the effort as master planner and co-developer following the termination of a prior development agreement with Culdesac Inc. and Urban Oasis in early 2025.
The organization now plans to issue phased requests for proposals (RFPs) to select development partners.
Key elements of the proposed buildout, spread across five phases, include:
- A blend of apartments and townhomes totaling roughly 625 units (specific affordable vs. market-rate breakdowns will likely emerge in future RFPs, with expectations for some affordable and for-sale commitments).
- Around 82,000 square feet of commercial space.
- Approximately 70,000 square feet dedicated to retail.
- Roughly 103,000 square feet of light-industrial uses, which could range from makers spaces and barbershops to veterinarian clinics.
- Preservation of existing historic warehouses as an integral part of the design.
- A total of 1,711 parking spaces, including 786 allocated for non-residential uses.
The project is currently in the entitlement phase. Pre-development milestones have been completed, and community engagement continues.
A Development of Regional Impact (DRI) review and City of Atlanta rezoning application are expected to wrap up in winter or early spring 2026. Horizontal site work and land-disturbance permitting are targeted for fall/winter 2026, with Phase 1 RFP releases on the horizon.
Andrea Foard, the BeltLine’s senior development manager, emphasized a phased approach: “We’re not going to develop this all at one time.”
Ryan Snodgrass, a senior urban designer at Perkins & Will, highlighted the flexibility of the light-industrial component, noting it could accommodate diverse small-scale businesses.
As planning advances through 2026, local residents and advocates are expected to advocate strongly for firm commitments around affordable housing levels, support for neighborhood-serving retail, job creation, and other community benefits during ongoing engagement sessions.
The site is viewed as a major catalyst for growth in southwest Atlanta, leveraging its BeltLine proximity and transit potential to drive economic activity while balancing historic preservation and new density.
Downtown 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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It won’t be anything historic, but this winter storm is one to watch.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has upgraded its Freeze Watch to a full Freeze Warning for most of North and Central Georgia, including all of metro Atlanta.
The warning goes into effect at 11 p.m. tonight (Monday, March 16) and continues until 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 17.
Freeze Warning in Effect for Metro Atlanta: Prepare for Hard Freeze Tonight
Overnight lows are forecast to drop into the mid- to upper 20s, with some spots possibly reaching near 20°F. Winds will make it feel even colder. A hard freeze is likely, posing a significant risk to any spring vegetation, crops, and unprotected outdoor plumbing.
This sharp cooldown follows Monday’s stormy weather and strong cold front. Another round of sub-freezing temperatures is possible again Wednesday morning, so stay alert for updates.
Warming centers are open across the region for anyone without adequate heat. Check with your county emergency management office or visit Atlanta News First for locations and hours.
Steps to Stay Warm and Safe
Here are simple, effective ways to protect yourself and your family during this brief but intense cold snap:
- Layer up indoors and out: Wear multiple thin layers of clothing. Keep hats, gloves, and scarves handy even inside.
- Stay inside if possible: Limit time outdoors, especially after dark. Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets.
- Use blankets and space heaters safely: Electric blankets and battery-powered devices are great. Never use ovens, grills, or stoves for heat.
- Keep pets inside: Bring dogs, cats, and other animals indoors or into a sheltered, heated space.
- Hydrate and eat well: Warm soups, teas, and hearty meals help maintain body heat.
- Have an emergency plan: Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered radio ready in case power goes out.
Vulnerable residents (seniors, those with medical conditions, or no heat) should head to a warming center immediately.
Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Damage
A hard freeze this late in March can catch homeowners off guard. Follow these quick steps now while it’s still daylight:
- Protect your pipes: Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate. Let faucets drip slowly (a thin stream) overnight. Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
- Insulate outdoor spigots and exposed pipes: Wrap them with towels, foam covers, or old blankets and secure with duct tape.
- Safeguard plants: Bring potted plants indoors. Cover in-ground flowers, vegetables, and shrubs with frost cloth, old sheets, or mulch. Avoid plastic that can trap moisture.
- Check your heating system: Test your furnace or heat pump now. Replace air filters if needed and keep vents clear.
- Prep your car: Park in a garage if possible. Have an ice scraper ready and check your battery and antifreeze.
- Unplug outdoor electronics: Bring in string lights, extension cords, and tools that could be damaged by freezing.
Final Word
The National Weather Service stresses that this freeze could damage early spring growth, so farmers and gardeners should take extra precautions.
Stay warm and safe, Atlanta! This cold snap should be short-lived—warmer air returns by mid-week.
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Atlant, GA – March 13, 2026 – The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation remains wide open heading into the 2026 season, and new general manager Ian Cunningham made that crystal clear during a virtual news conference on Friday.
Speaking about the team’s recent signing of veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal following his release from the Miami Dolphins, Cunningham stressed that no one is handed the starting job.
“For Tua coming in here, he knows he’s coming in here to compete, like Michael (Penix Jr.) knows he is coming in to compete, everybody quite frankly, not just those two at the quarterback position,” Cunningham said. “There are no starters right now.”
The comments come after the Falcons agreed to terms with Tagovailoa, a former Pro Bowl selection known for his quick release and accuracy. Tagovailoa was in Flowery Branch on Friday undergoing his physical, making the move official pending final paperwork.
Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., the left-handed quarterback drafted eighth overall in 2024, is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered in November.
Penix has shown flashes in limited action but enters the offseason as a competitor rather than the presumed starter.
Cunningham’s remarks underscore a merit-based approach under the new regime, which includes president of football operations Matt Ryan, head coach Kevin Stefanski, and the revamped front office. The team has prioritized open competition across the roster as it looks to rebound from back-to-back 8-9 seasons.
“Everybody’s coming in to compete,” Cunningham reiterated. “That’s just how we operate. We want to have open conversations and communication. I feel like we did that in regards to Michael and Tua.”
The Falcons have already communicated directly with Penix—Stefanski spoke with him personally, and Cunningham reached out via his agent—ensuring transparency amid the addition of Tagovailoa.
With both quarterbacks being left-handed, the setup allows for schematic continuity in Stefanski’s offense, which emphasizes quick decisions, timing routes, and yards after catch. Tagovailoa’s experience could provide stability while Penix continues his rehab, but nothing is guaranteed.
Fans in Atlanta can expect a real battle this spring and summer as the team builds toward training camp. In Cunningham’s view, competition breeds excellence—and right now, the QB1 job is up for grabs.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFalconsNews.com for more updates on the Falcons’ quarterback competition, free agency moves, and preparations for the 2026 season.
