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Inflationary pressures are taking a toll on the U.S. economy and American workforce.
Many industries have begun cutting back. According to layoffs.fyi, nearly 90,000 tech jobs have been lost this year alone.
If you find yourself among the throngs of people laid off, this article can provide some much-needed resources to help you.
What To Do If You’ve Been Laid Off
But don’t despair: There are some proactive things you can do so that you can keep money in your pocket, including finding a job and generating extra cash in the meantime.
What Does Laid Off Mean?
First of all, when it happened to you, the words “laid off,” may have stunned you. I mean, who among us workers is fully able to process those words when they apply to us?
If you’ve been furloughed, it means you’re technically still employed. If you’ve been fired, you don’t qualify for some of the benefits afforded to other categories of job loss.
Also what does laid off even mean? The definition is crucial because it determines whether you’ll be able to collect benefits or not. And that leads us into the initial thing you will want to do when a layoff occurs.
1. Immediate Steps: Get Your Bearings Right Away
The first 24-48 hours are crucial. Don’t panic—focus on protecting your rights and accessing quick support.
Review Your Severance and Exit Package: Read every detail of your severance agreement. Negotiate if possible (e.g., extended health benefits). In Georgia, employers must provide your final paycheck on the next regular payday or within 72 hours if you request it in writing.
Pro Tip: If your layoff involves a group (50+ employees), Georgia’s Rapid Response program kicks in for free workshops on resumes and job readiness.
2. File For Unemployment
Go to your respective Department of Labor and file for unemployment. Your former employer may have given you some guidance on this, but it’s not hard to find.
In Georgia, the Department of Labor’s website has all you need to get started. An added bonus this year is that unemployment recipients will get an additional $600 a week until July 31 due to the CARES Act passed by Congress.
One of the requirements of those who would receive unemployment benefits is that you need to be looking for a job.
Secure Your Finances: Stretch Every Dollar
A layoff hits the wallet hard, but Atlanta has targeted aid to bridge the gap.
- Build a Survival Budget: Track essentials (rent in Midtown averages $1,800/month) and cut non-essentials. Use apps like Mint or YNAB. Aim for 3-6 months of emergency savings if you haven’t already.
- Tap into Local Financial Aid: Beyond UI, check Dislocated Worker Services through WorkSource Atlanta for training funds and low-income support. A U.S. Department of Labor Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant is funding reemployment in Georgia through 2028, covering job placement and upskilling. Visit georgia.org or a local career center for eligibility.
- Explore Food and Utility Help: Atlanta’s community resources include the Atlanta Community Food Bank (for SNAP applications) and Georgia Power’s assistance programs for bills. If you’re in Fulton County, WorkSource Fulton offers free financial counseling.
Quick Financial Checklist Action Item Local Resource Unemployment Filing Apply ASAP dol.georgia.gov Health Coverage Enroll in COBRA HR or healthcare.gov Emergency Funds Apply for grants WorkSource Atlanta (worksourceatlanta.org) Bill Relief Contact providers 211.org (dial 211) In fact, proof of your job search is so important to the state, that they will require you to “certify” every week. That’s why you’ll want to …
2. Launch Your Job Search
Looking for a job is more convenient these days, yet it’s still as hard as it’s ever been. You’ll want to use all means at your disposal to find a job. Here are some resources you’ll want to tap:
- Friends and Family
- Job Sites
- Social Groups (Fraternities, Sororities, etc.)
- Help Wanted Signs
- Posters
If you’re not familiar with it, LinkedIn.com is a great resources for job seekers. Here’s how to use it in your job search.
Atlanta’s job market is resilient—think Delta hubs, CNN Center gigs, and booming green energy. But competition is fierce, so leverage local hubs.
- Polish Your Toolkit: Update your LinkedIn and resume with Atlanta keywords (e.g., “supply chain logistics”). Free resume help is available at American Job Centers, like the Atlanta Career Center at 650 Northside Dr. NW.
- Hunt Smart: Use WorkSource Atlanta’s 24/7 portal (atlworks.org) for job listings, virtual workshops, and employer matches across the 10-county metro area. Target sectors like healthcare (Emory, Grady) or tech (Microsoft’s ATL campus). For dislocated workers, ARC’s Workforce Solutions offers tailored job training in counties like Fulton and DeKalb.
- Attend Local Events: Look online for job fairs and interactions with recruiters. Stay abreast of career fairs by creating a Google Alert which send you hiring opportunities in your area.
3. Secure Health Insurance
When you get laid off or lose your job another way, your former job is required to keep your health insurance for 60 days post-dismissal.
During this crucial time, you’ll want to look for health insurance so that your coverage continues.
You may qualify for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), which is employer-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Contrary to popular belief, COBRA insurance is not free. Your monthly premium will typically cost what you’ve been paying plus a 2% service fee.
4. Network
Another thing you’ll want to do is network, network, network. We mentioned checking with family and friends as well as social groups to help you find a job.
Turn this setback into a pivot. Atlanta’s ecosystem is perfect for reinvention.
- Upskill for Free: Enroll in Georgia Quick Start programs for manufacturing/tech certs, or WorkSource’s virtual career resources for soft skills like interviewing.
- Network Like a Pro: Eventbrite lists gems like the Atlanta Mentorship Breakfast or Tech and Beauty AI networking. Join Atlanta Tech Village meetups or Black Enterprise’s job forums.
- Consider Gig Work: Platforms like Upwork or local spots (TaskRabbit for ATL errands) can tide you over while you search.
You can kick things up a notch by networking online. Join Facebook groups that are job-focused. You can also join “who’s hiring” groups on LinkedIn and other sites.
The bottom line is that you may have to get out of your comfort zone. Talk about yourself, brag about your accomplishments. Some ways to do that are:
5. Start A Side Hustle
While your job search is in high gear, take advantage of the time by looking at what side jobs, projects and hustles you can do to generate income.
Do you like to paint? Maybe you can paint birdhouses or fences? Are you an artists? Perhaps you can do graphics for small businesses or individuals.
If you need some help coming up with ideas, check out our 15 Hobbies You Can Turn Into Side Hustles.
Bonus: Prioritize Your Well-Being: Mental Health Matters
Job loss can trigger stress, anxiety, or isolation—especially in a fast-paced city like ours. Seek support early.
- Access Free Counseling: Samaritan Counseling Center in Atlanta offers sliding-scale therapy (show unemployment proof for reduced rates). NAMI Georgia’s resource finder connects you to peer support groups metro-wide.
- Build a Routine: Exercise at Piedmont Park, join free yoga via Fulton County Libraries, or volunteer with Hands On Atlanta to stay connected.
- Hotlines for Tough Days: Call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 (24/7) or text “HOME” to 741741 for crisis support.
Remember: Weekly UI requires three job search contacts, but self-care counts as part of your resilience toolkit.
The U.S. economy is teetering on a recession because of the coronavirus pandemic. If you’ve been laid off, here are some steps you need to take to get back to work.
The bottom line is that even though you may be idle from a working standpoint, you want to stay productive for your mind and wallet’s sake.
Don’t get down on yourself or wallow in pity. Millions of people transition from one job to the next in any given year. In fact, it’s the only way your career can grow.
Metro Atlanta’s hot economy has slowed of late, but that’s OK. There are many ways to make and save money today.
We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.
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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Starbucks, the Seattle-based coffee giant, has announced the closure of several locations across Atlanta as part of a broader initiative to shutter hundreds of stores in the U.S. and Canada.
The closures, which began immediately following the announcement on September 25, 2025, are a key component of the company’s “Back to Starbucks” transformation plan under new CEO Brian Niccol.
Starbucks to Close Multiple Atlanta Locations as Part of Restructuring
According to reports, at least three Atlanta locations are confirmed to close, including the drive-thru-enabled store at 1870 Piedmont Avenue in Piedmont Heights, which opened in 2019, and the location at 100 Peachtree St NW in downtown Atlanta.
A third store, situated along Piedmont and Auburn roads, is part of Starbucks’ “Pick Up” model and is slated for closure as the company phases out this mobile-order-only format.
These Atlanta Starbucks Locations Will Close
Store Location Address Store Type Closure Status Piedmont Heights 1870 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA Drive-thru Confirmed Closing Downtown Atlanta 100 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA Traditional Cafe Confirmed Closing Piedmont & Auburn Piedmont Rd NE & Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA Pick Up (Mobile Order) Confirmed Closing Notes:
- The table reflects the three Atlanta locations specifically mentioned in reports from September 2025.
- Starbucks has not released a comprehensive list of all closures, so additional Atlanta locations may be affected.
- For the most current information, check the Starbucks app or website for store status updates.
The closures are part of a strategic effort to address declining sales and refocus on creating a “warm and welcoming” customer experience.
Niccol, who joined Starbucks in September 2024 after leading Chipotle, stated in a letter to employees that the company identified stores “where we’re unable to create the physical environment our customers and partners expect, or where we don’t see a path to financial performance.”
The restructuring is expected to reduce Starbucks’ North American footprint by approximately 1%, leaving around 18,300 stores by the end of the fiscal year on September 29, 2025.
The Atlanta closures align with Starbucks’ broader plan to shut down 150 to 200 underperforming or outdated locations, including 80 to 90 “Pick Up” stores introduced in 2019.
The company has not released a comprehensive list of closures, but updates to the Starbucks app will reflect current store hours and closures by Sunday, September 28, 2025. Employees at affected Atlanta locations were notified this week, with Starbucks pledging “generous severance and support packages” for impacted workers.
Local reaction to the closures has been mixed
“It’s disappointing to lose the Peachtree Street location; it was a convenient stop for downtown workers,” said Sarah Mitchell, a regular customer. “But I understand they’re trying to focus on stores that fit their vision.”
Meanwhile, posts on social media reflect broader sentiment about Starbucks’ challenges, with some users speculating about competition and changing consumer habits driving the closures.
Final Word
Starbucks’ restructuring also includes the elimination of approximately 900 non-retail positions, with costs for lease terminations, employee severance, and asset write-downs estimated at $1 billion. The company reported a decline in U.S. same-store sales for several quarters, citing increased competition and price sensitivity among consumers.
As Atlanta bids farewell to these Starbucks locations, residents can stay updated via the Starbucks app or website for the latest information on nearby stores. The company has emphasized its commitment to reinvesting in coffeehouses that align with its brand identity, promising a renewed focus on quality and customer connection.
Need help navigating unemployment? Read our Layoffs Guide.
For more information on local business news, subscribe to our newsletter at AtlantaFi.com/Subscribe.
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The Atlanta Falcons have dismissed wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard, with passing game coordinator T.J. Yates expected to take over his responsibilities for the remainder of the Falcons 2025 schedule.
Yates previously served as the Falcons’ receivers coach from 2022-23. Hilliard had been in the role since Raheem Morris became head coach in 2024.
This season, no Falcons receiver has caught a touchdown pass as we enter the fourth week. Miscues were common.
Last season, Falcons receivers excelled under Hilliard.
Drake London set personal bests with 100 receptions, 1,271 yards, and nine touchdowns, becoming the third player in franchise history—alongside Roddy White (2010) and Terance Mathis (1994)—to reach those marks in a single season.
Free agents Darnell Mooney and Ray-Ray McCloud also achieved career highs, with Mooney nearly hitting 1,000 yards (992) and McCloud recording 62 catches for 686 yards.
This season, however, the receiving corps has struggled. London has 16 catches for 159 yards and no touchdowns, Mooney has six receptions for 64 yards, and McCloud has five catches for 71 yards.
The Falcons’ offense has been stagnant, with no wide receiver or tight end scoring a touchdown from quarterback Michael Penix Jr. through the first three games.
The team has managed just one touchdown in their last eight quarters, including a shutout loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 3.
“We didn’t play well as a team, particularly at the quarterback position,” Morris said Monday. “I appreciate Mike’s accountability and that of his teammates. We didn’t support him enough offensively or on special teams to win that game.”
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Ponce City Market is set to unveil Terminal 26, a vibrant Thai street food restaurant drawing from Thailand’s legendary floating markets.
Terminal 26 Coming To Atlanta in 2026
Slated for a spring 2026 debut on the ground floor of the Central Food Hall, the concept hails from sisters Niki and Tanya Pattharakositkul—Thailand natives who also helm Atlanta’s 26 Thai Kitchen and Bar, Pink Lotus, and Blackjack Bar Tapas, the latter blending craft cocktails with Asian small plates.Open daily for lunch and dinner, Terminal 26 showcases Niki’s expertise in traditional and inventive Thai seafood, honed over a decade in the culinary scene.
Her passion for Thailand’s bold flavors—gleaned from restaurant ventures and global travels—drives a mission to elevate Thai cuisine’s depth and ingenuity.
Here, “street food on water” transforms into a sleek, modern waterfront vibe, capturing the lively pulse of those iconic markets.
The menu brims with irresistible hits: soul-warming Thai Boat Noodles in a spiced, aromatic broth; the Bangkok Oyster Omelette, a textural marvel of crispy-chewy egg and rice flour crowned with succulent oysters and a zesty chili-lime dip.
Standouts also include Crispy Turmeric Fried Chicken (Hat Yai style), raw oysters bathed in nahm jim mignonette, and grilled jumbo river prawns with chili-lime vinaigrette—fusing authentic street grit with refined, ingredient-focused twists. Sweeten the deal with Khanom Krok: warm coconut-rice cakes with caramelized edges, topped seasonally in true street fashion.
Drinks lean into the theme with a robust wine and beer list, plus craft cocktails evoking floating markets—bursting with tropical fruits, chili heat, fresh herbs, and enigmatic layers.
Crafted by Thai architects, the space immerses diners in riverine reverie, mimicking a meal on a drifting boat. A central reflective table simulates a rippling waterway, fishing nets dangle overhead, and cascading water illusions line the walls. Live seafood displays and a chef’s-view window add to the theater.
Born from the sisters’ shared Thai roots, Terminal 26 embodies their enduring love for the homeland. After U.S. college stints—Tanya in engineering at Georgia Tech, Niki with honors in marketing at Georgia State—Niki pursued culinary training in Thailand.
She launched the inaugural 26 Thai in Buckhead’s Lindbergh area in 2016, with Tanya stepping in as co-owner and COO to fuel its growth.
Final Word
Ponce City Market continues to pull in some top eateries for Midtown Atlanta. If you want to check out some other date-night restaurants in Atlanta, these are hard to beat. But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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As the leaves begin to hint at autumn’s arrival in the Peach State, Atlanta welcomed a fresh symphony of sophistication and soul this past weekend.
The inaugural Soul Symphony Weekend, held from Friday, September 19, through Sunday, September 21, reimagined the city’s beloved Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic into a three-day celebration of cultural fusion, high-end leisure, and philanthropic spirit.
Speaking to AtlantaFi.com, Wilson said that he was attracted to polo many years ago. “I’ve been into polo for 20 years. I already loved horses, so it became a natural progression.”
Hosted by fashion icon and entrepreneur Miguel Wilson of the Miguel Wilson Collection and the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, the event drew a stylish crowd of locals, celebrities, and dignitaries to venues across metro Atlanta, blending orchestral grandeur with equestrian thrills and runway glamour.
What could have been just another fall festival stood out as a bold statement of Black excellence and accessibility in luxury experiences.
Benefiting the Ride to the Olympics Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to introducing underserved youth to equestrian sports — the weekend raised awareness and funds for opportunities often out of reach.
Attendees raved about the seamless blend of elegance and energy, with one social media post capturing the sentiment: “This weekend was top tier. The set and show was amazing. This was an experience and a cultural education for the world.”
Friday Kickoff: Tee Off with Style and Sunset Vibes
The festivities launched on Friday afternoon with the Soul Symphony Golf Outing at the pristine Eagles Landing Country Club in Stockbridge, about 30 minutes south of downtown.
Early birds teed off amid rolling fairways and Spanish moss-draped oaks, networking over birdies and business cards.
“It was the perfect low-key start — golf for the pros, cocktails for the rest of us,” shared one participant via social media, highlighting the inclusive vibe that mixed competitive swings with casual camaraderie.
As the sun dipped low, the action shifted northward to the rooftop of the Kimpton Overland Hotel in the heart of Midtown.
The Welcome Party pulsed with Atlanta’s signature energy: skyline views, signature cocktails from Bentley Atlanta (the event’s presenting sponsor), and previews of the weekend’s fashion-forward agenda.
DJ sets and light bites set a sultry tone, drawing influencers and executives who mingled under string lights. If Friday was the appetizer, it whetted appetites for the main course, proving Atlanta’s rooftops remain unbeatable for sunset schmoozing.
Saturday’s Black Tie Crescendo: A Symphony for the Senses
Saturday evening at Enon Ranch in Chattahoochee Hills elevated the weekend to symphonic heights — literally and figuratively.
The Black Tie Soul Symphony transformed the sprawling equestrian venue into a black-tie wonderland, where attendees in tuxedos and gowns gathered for a groundbreaking fusion of genres.The Soul Symphony Orchestra, led by composer Camden Stewart, wove soul, R&B, country, Latin, and classical threads into a tapestry of sound, backed by powerhouse vocalists Kevin Ross, Syleena Johnson, Madelyn Brené, and Brady Turner.
Interwoven with the music was a live fashion show from the Miguel Wilson Collection, showcasing bold prints, tailored silhouettes, and nods to equestrian heritage.
“The lights and production: stellar. The sound: tremendous. The crowd: passionate,” tweeted one enraptured guest, echoing the electric atmosphere.
The presence of multiple celebrities amplified the night’s inspirational undercurrent, with his remarks on equity in sports and arts landing like a perfectly timed crescendo.
From the opening notes to the final bow, the event felt like Atlanta at its finest: innovative, inclusive, and unapologetically soulful.
One attendee called it “the best concert I’ve ever been to. 10/10 no notes a true emotional rollercoaster,” a sentiment that rippled through post-event chatter.
Minor gripes about timing — some wished for an earlier start to avoid late-night fatigue — were drowned out by praise for the production’s polish.
Sunday Closer: Polo, Picnics, and Parting Shots
The grand finale unfolded Sunday at Bouckaert Farm in Chattahoochee Hills, where the Atlanta Polo Party unfurled like a high-society tailgate.
Formerly the heart of the Fashion & Polo Classic, this daytime affair featured thundering polo matches, gourmet spreads from local chefs, and craft cocktails flowing freely.
Vendors dotted the grounds with artisanal goods, while live music and equestrian demos kept the energy buoyant under clear September skies.
Celebrities, influencers and fashionistas alike sat under the white tents on the grass, cheering mallet-cracking plays and snapping pics of impeccably attired riders.
“I was there. It was an electric, amazing atmosphere,” posted one family-oriented attendee, noting the all-ages appeal.
The event’s charitable core shone through, with silent auctions and youth equestrian clinics reminding guests why they came: to support dreams on horseback.
Why It Worked — and What’s Next for Atlanta’s Cultural Calendar
In a city that thrives on reinvention, Soul Symphony Weekend hit all the right notes. It honored Atlanta’s equestrian legacy while pushing boundaries with orchestral innovation and fashion flair, all while funneling proceeds to a cause that levels the playing field for young riders.
Attendance estimates topped 2,000 across the three days, with sold-out tickets signaling strong demand for future iterations.
Standouts included the orchestra’s genre-bending prowess and Wilson’s designs, which felt both timeless and timely.
If there’s a critique, it’s that traffic to the southern venues tested even the most patient Atlantans — a reminder that MARTA expansions can’t come soon enough. Still, the overwhelmingly positive buzz, from “fantastic show” raves to calls for encores, cements this as a must-return staple.
Final Word
As we wrap up another vibrant weekend, Soul Symphony leaves us humming with possibility. Mark your calendars for 2026 — if this debut is any indication, Atlanta’s symphony of soul is just getting started. For more on upcoming events, visit our calendar at AtlantaFi.com.
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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Atlanta Falcons suffered a crushing 30-0 defeat at the hands of the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Bank of America Stadium, marking their first shutout loss since 2021.
The Week 3 matchup left the Falcons with a 1-2 record and raised serious questions about their offensive execution and playoff aspirations in the NFC South.
Coming off a morale-boosting 22-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2, the Falcons entered the game as favorites, with a -5.5 spread according to ESPN Analytics.
However, the Panthers, desperate for their first win of the 2025 season, dominated from the opening drive, showcasing a balanced offensive attack and a stifling defense that kept Atlanta scoreless.
Game Breakdown
The Panthers set the tone early, with quarterback Bryce Young scoring a 4-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter to give Carolina a 7-0 lead. A 57-yard field goal by Ryan Fitzgerald in the second quarter extended the lead to 10-0 at halftime.
The third quarter proved decisive, as Panthers cornerback Chau Smith-Wade intercepted a pass from Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., returning it 11 yards for a touchdown.
Fitzgerald added two more field goals (35 and 41 yards), and running back Rico Dowdle sealed the 30-0 rout with a 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Atlanta’s offense struggled mightily, failing to reach the red zone and committing two turnovers. Penix Jr., in his third start of the season, completed 18 of 36 passes for 172 yards but threw two interceptions, including the pick-six to Smith-Wade.
With the game out of reach, head coach Raheem Morris pulled Penix in favor of veteran Kirk Cousins, who went 5-for-7 for 29 yards in limited action. Despite the switch, Morris emphasized post-game that Penix remains the starter moving forward.
“We got out-coached, out-played, and out-executed,” Morris said during his post-game press conference. “Credit to the Panthers for a complete performance. We had issues, including headset problems early, but we make no excuses.”
Special teams also faltered, with kicker John Parker Romo missing both of his field goal attempts, a stark contrast to his perfect 5-for-5 performance in Week 2.
The defense, while limiting Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard to 95 yards, couldn’t generate a sack and allowed Carolina to control the game’s tempo.
Bright Spots Amid the Loss
Running back Bijan Robinson was a lone bright spot for Atlanta, rushing for 72 yards on 13 carries and adding 39 yards on five receptions.
His 17-yard run in the third quarter pushed him to 97 scrimmage yards, extending his streak of 90-plus yard games to nine, tying for the second-longest in Falcons history.
Linebacker Kaden Elliss also continued his strong play, recording a solo tackle to extend his streak of games with at least four combined tackles to 20, tied for fifth in the NFL.
Impact on the NFC South
The loss drops the Falcons to 0-2 in NFC South play.
Meanwhile, the Panthers improve to 1-2 overall and 1-0 in the division, sitting in second place behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-0). With four divisional games remaining, Atlanta’s path to the playoffs—elusive since 2017—grows steeper.
What Went Wrong?
The Falcons’ offensive woes were evident in their inability to sustain drives or convert in critical situations.
The two turnovers, including Penix’s first interception of the season, proved costly, and the absence of red-zone opportunities underscored a lack of rhythm.
Injuries also played a role, with tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. (toe), linebacker James Pearce Jr. (groin), cornerback Mike Ford Jr. (groin), and wide receiver Casey Washington (concussion) listed as questionable going into the game.
On the Panthers’ side, quarterback Bryce Young delivered a composed performance, going 16-for-24 for 121 yards and adding the early rushing touchdown.
Carolina’s defense, led by cornerbacks Mike Jackson and Chau Smith-Wade, capitalized on Atlanta’s mistakes, while head coach Dave Canales’ game plan kept the Falcons off balance.Looking Ahead
The Falcons’ 2025 schedule doesn’t let up. Atlanta now faces a critical Week 4 matchup against the Washington Commanders, who are coming off a 41-24 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Atlanta will need to regroup quickly to address their offensive struggles and shore up their special teams.
Fans and analysts alike are left wondering if this shutout is a mere stumble or a sign of deeper issues for a team with postseason ambitions.
“We’ll go back, watch the film, and fix what we can,” said Robinson post-game. “This one hurts, but we’ve got a long season ahead.”
The Falcons return to action next Sunday, September 28, 2025, against the Commanders at 1:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on FOX.
Follow AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons and other local sports stories.
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Sellers retreated from the U.S. housing market in August, reacting to subdued interest from budget-constrained buyers, per Zillow’s latest report. Active buyers face a wealth of choices, particularly in regions with robust inventory levels.
Yet the rapid shift toward buyer-friendly conditions seen in prior months is stalling on a national scale.
“Buyers who can swing a purchase and have held off for the ideal entry point should scrutinize current listings,” advised Zillow Senior Economist Kara Ng. “Homes are available, though not always the newest arrivals. Those on the sidelines should reassess their finances—mortgage rates are down from recent peaks, and in certain areas, sellers are open to negotiation. That said, this buyer edge won’t last forever. Leverage is waning as more sellers delay their listings.”
Key Market Shifts: Cautious Buyers Prompt Seller Caution
Soaring home prices keep many would-be buyers out, benefiting those still searching. Zillow’s market heat index indicates a balanced landscape nationally, with buyer competition at its lowest for any August since 2018.
Consequently, home values have flatlined. Zillow’s Home Value Index reports zero growth over the past year—the weakest annual pace for any month since early 2018, the second-slowest overall in that period.Homes are lingering longer on the market as well.
Buyer-Friendly Markets: Southern Swing States Tip Toward ShoppersBuyers wield the greatest leverage in the South, where pandemic-fueled boomtowns have cooled into opportunity zones.
Cities like Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Austin now boast more active listings than pre-2020 levels, bolstered by builders ramping up construction to satisfy pent-up demand.
Even Seattle has flipped the script—from a seller’s stronghold to a buyer’s playground in just one year—fueled by a 22% surge in inventory.
Metro Area* Zillow Home
Value Index
(ZHVI)ZHVI Year
over Year
(YoY)Share of
Listings With
a Price CutMarket Favors
(Zillow Market
Heat Index)Inventory
Change YoYNew
Listings
Change
YoYMedian
Days to
PendingUnited States $363,946 0.0 % 25.8 % Neutral 15.3 % -3.0 % 27 New York, NY $705,186 2.9 % 13.7 % Strong Seller 7.4 % -1.2 % 32 Los Angeles, CA $945,166 -1.3 % 23.5 % Seller 24.1 % -6.0 % 28 Chicago, IL $341,381 3.3 % 27.7 % Seller -3.5 % -7.3 % 13 Dallas, TX $365,592 -3.9 % 33.0 % Neutral 19.0 % -5.8 % 42 Houston, TX $307,762 -2.0 % 29.3 % Neutral 28.0 % -5.2 % 46 Washington, DC $575,681 0.8 % 26.0 % Seller 36.0 % -1.0 % 19 Philadelphia, PA $381,504 3.1 % 23.2 % Seller 9.3 % -3.8 % 14 Miami, FL $471,510 -4.9 % 20.3 % Buyer 18.2 % -12.4 % 65 Atlanta, GA $382,242 -3.2 % 30.4 % Buyer 20.8 % -9.5 % 47 Boston, MA $720,695 1.0 % 19.0 % Strong Seller 21.0 % 3.7 % 21 The median August sale took 27 days to close, up a full week from last year and a day beyond pre-pandemic averages. Defying usual late-summer slowdowns, however, buyer rivalry edged higher in the period’s final weeks.
Homeowners, mirroring buyer hesitance, have largely shelved listing intentions. New listings hit an August record low in Zillow’s data, with a 7.3% month-over-month plunge exceeding typical seasonal dips.
Good Advice for Buyers in the Atlanta Housing Market
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage early: In Atlanta’s buyer-friendly market, where inventory has surged 37% year-over-year and homes linger for 47+ days, a strong pre-approval letter gives you an edge in negotiations and shows sellers you’re serious—potentially unlocking concessions like closing cost help.
- Leverage the increased inventory for better deals: With over 9,100 homes listed in Atlanta last month (up 10% from prior) and more than 30% of listings seeing price cuts, shop around without rushing—aim for properties that have sat on the market longer to negotiate reductions of 5-10% off asking price.
- Reassess your budget amid stabilizing rates: Mortgage rates are dipping toward 6-6.5% by year-end, boosting purchasing power in a market where median prices hover around $380K-$400K (down 2-3% annually)—factor in extras like 2-3% property taxes and HOA fees to avoid overextending
- Target affordable suburbs for value: While Buckhead and Midtown may see 2-3% appreciation, explore stable, lower-cost areas like East Atlanta or Decatur for better entry points and less competition—suburban inventory is up, offering negotiation room without sacrificing Atlanta’s job-driven growth.
- Work with a local Atlanta realtor: Partner with an agent who knows neighborhood trends—like the 9% sales uptick in metro areas—to navigate the balanced market (4.6 months of supply) and spot off-market deals before they hit listings.
- Build a buffer for closing costs and inspections: Expect 2-5% of the home price in fees; in Atlanta’s cooling scene, insist on thorough inspections to uncover issues in older stock, and use findings to renegotiate—especially with 25%+ of homes needing price adjustments.
Final Word
Don’t wait for a crash—act if it fits your needs: Nationally and in Atlanta, experts predict gentle 2-3% price rises through 2025 with no downturn; if the home meets your long-term plans and finances, buy now to lock in before demand rebounds with lower rates.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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Dr. Tashinea Bernadin, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician, is thrilled to unveil The Healthy Woman Primary Care Newnan, a fresh primary care practice tailored for the South Metro Atlanta community.
This innovative clinic combines empathetic medical care with a serene, spa-inspired atmosphere to enhance patient comfort and well-being.
Where Is The Healthy Woman Primary Care Newnan?
Situated at 1111 Highway 34, Suite 7, Newnan, GA 30265, the practice is set to welcome its first patients by late October. Here’s a map to help you find it.
It emphasizes holistic primary care, prioritizing a supportive and inviting space for all.
“I’m beyond excited for this venture,” Dr. Bernadin says in a written statement. “As a doctor, nothing brings me greater fulfillment than positively shaping my community’s health. At The Healthy Woman Primary Care Newnan, we’ll deliver exceptional care that truly meets patients’ needs. My vision is a space where everyone feels valued, understood, and motivated to own their health journey—merging thorough primary services with targeted therapies to shift focus from reactive treatment to proactive vitality.”
Core offerings include full-spectrum primary care like chronic condition oversight, routine screenings, prompt same-day appointments for urgent needs, and integrated mental health resources.
Dr. Bernadin will further specialize in aesthetic enhancements, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), personalized weight loss programs, and regenerative therapies to support comprehensive wellness aspirations.
With a robust background from roles at Piedmont Healthcare and Gwinnett Medical Center, Dr. Bernadin excels in managing chronic illnesses, women’s health issues, and musculoskeletal conditions. She holds her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Georgia Campus-Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (GA-PCOM) and finished her family medicine residency at Northside Hospital Gwinnett.
This marks the fifth outpost for The Healthy Woman franchise, established by Dr. Jocelyn D. Slaughter, DO, a board-certified OB-GYN. The brand fuses obstetrics, gynecology, and primary care under a deeply personal, patient-first model. Existing sites include OBGYN Snellville, OBGYN Lawrenceville, PCP Lawrenceville, and PCP Atlanta East.
“We’re delighted to team up with Dr. Bernadin to extend our signature, relationship-driven care to Newnan,” Dr. Slaughter remarked. “We’ve always aimed to recapture the close-knit bonds that define great medicine in today’s fast-paced world. Dr. Bernadin perfectly captures our ethos, inspiring patients to lead their own paths to better health. We can’t wait to celebrate the grand opening.”
Final Word
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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Perhaps you’ve seen the white Jaguars whizzing around Atlanta with no one in the driver’s seat. Uber has made them a big part of their rideshare fleet in Atlanta. Well, that lane’s getting wider, so to speak.
Self-driving startup May Mobility said recently that it will launch a driverless taxi service in Atlanta in 2026 in partnership with Lyft Inc.
May Mobility Teams With Lyft in Atlanta
The service will initially operate in a limited area of the city, with plans to expand over time.The move intensifies competition in the race to deploy robotaxis on a large scale.
Waymo, which launched its commercial service in Atlanta in March, is already operating in parts of the city, including downtown, Midtown and the southside.
May Mobility’s service will use a fleet of about 50 Toyota Sienna minivans equipped with the startup’s autonomous technology.
The vehicles will be fully driverless, without safety drivers on board, the company said.Lyft, which has a partnership with May Mobility dating back to 2020, will integrate the service into its app, allowing riders to hail the autonomous vehicles the same way they do human drivers.
“This is a big step forward for autonomous mobility in Atlanta,” said Edwin Olson, chief executive of May Mobility. “We’re excited to bring this technology to one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens praised the partnership, saying it would create jobs and reduce traffic congestion.
“Autonomous vehicles have the potential to transform how we move around our city,” Dickens said in a statement. “This partnership with May Mobility and Lyft will help us get there.”
May Mobility, based in Ann Arbor, Mich., has been testing its technology in Austin, Texas, and other cities. The company has raised more than $150 million in funding, including from Toyota and Japan’s Mitsui & Co.
The startup’s technology relies on a combination of lidar, radar and cameras to navigate roads. Unlike Waymo, which uses a more complex array of sensors, May Mobility says its approach is simpler and cheaper to scale.
Waymo, a unit of Alphabet’s Google, has been the leader in the robotaxi space, operating in Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles and now Atlanta. The company has completed millions of miles of autonomous driving and is expanding its fleet rapidly.
But May Mobility’s entry could pressure Waymo to lower prices or expand faster. Lyft, which has struggled to compete with Uber Technologies Inc., sees autonomous vehicles as a way to cut costs and improve reliability.
“Partnering with May Mobility allows us to offer riders a new option that’s safe, reliable and affordable,” said Lyft Chief Executive David Risher.
The launch comes amid regulatory scrutiny of autonomous vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating incidents involving Waymo and Cruise, General Motors Co.’s robotaxi unit, which suspended operations last year after a pedestrian accident.Georgia regulators have been supportive of AV testing, approving May Mobility’s permit to operate driverless vehicles earlier this year.
Still, challenges remain. Atlanta’s streets are narrower and more congested than those in Phoenix, where Waymo got its start. Bad weather and construction zones can also complicate autonomous navigation.
Final Word
May Mobility plans to start with supervised testing later this year before going fully driverless in 2026.“We’ve learned a lot from our operations in other cities, and we’re applying those lessons here,” Olson said.
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Luxury jewelry retailer Bvlgari recently celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new boutique at Phipps Plaza in Atlanta’s prestigious Buckhead district.
This marks the Maison’s triumphant return to the city, bringing its signature blend of Roman heritage and contemporary sophistication to a vibrant cultural hub.
Spanning 2,200 square feet, the boutique showcases dedicated spaces for Bvlgari’s exquisite collections, including High Jewelry, fine jewelry, watches, and handbags. It also features a private salon for an elevated client experience. The design pays homage to Rome’s timeless grandeur, incorporating luxurious materials and meticulous Italian craftsmanship in every detail.
Herve Perrot, President of Bvlgari North America, expressed enthusiasm about the opening: “Entering the Atlanta market is an exciting milestone for Bvlgari. Atlanta is a dynamic city that embodies creativity, innovation, and a deep appreciation for luxury. We are proud to share the Roman Spirit of Bvlgari with this community.”
The boutique’s exterior, set within a heritage-protected building, features a striking pelmet crafted from Grand Antique Black Marble, engraved with the iconic BVLGARI logo in Roman capitals. Inside, the space seamlessly weaves tradition and innovation.
Travertine columns and fluted walls evoke classic Roman architecture, while a breathtaking Serpenti Chandelier by Venini—featuring 300 custom Murano glass wands inspired by the Roman sunset—illuminates the boutique, reflecting Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti collection.
Where Is Bvlgari Located in Atlanta?
Bvlgari is located at 3500 Peachtree Rd Unit 1018, Atlanta, GA 30326. Here is a map to help you find it.
This new location underscores Bvlgari’s commitment to expanding its presence in key markets while celebrating the artistry and heritage that define the Maison.
The Atlanta boutique is now open, inviting visitors to experience the elegance and legacy of the Eternal City.
