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Just days after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris, the veteran NFL coach is already generating buzz around the league as a top candidate for multiple head coaching vacancies.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Morris is scheduled to interview for the head coaching positions with the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans.
The report indicates that Morris will conduct in-person meetings with all three teams over the next eight days, marking a quick rebound for the 49-year-old coach following his dismissal in Atlanta.
The Falcons finished the 2025 campaign with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season under the current regime. Morris, who was hired in 2024, compiled a 16-18 record over two seasons in Atlanta.
The move came as a surprise to some fans but was seen as necessary by team owner Arthur Blank, who cited the need for “new leadership” after repeated disappointing finishes despite high expectations surrounding the team.
Despite the short tenure in Atlanta, Morris remains highly regarded league-wide for his defensive expertise and leadership. He previously served as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011 and as interim head coach for the Falcons in 2020.
More recently, he has been praised for his work as a defensive coordinator and assistant coach with several teams.
Morris was let go by the Falcons on Sunday night alongside general manager Terry Fontenot, hours after the team’s season-ending 19-17 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
The Cardinals, Giants, and Titans are all in the market for new head coaches following their own disappointing 2025 seasons.
The Giants and Titans made midseason changes earlier in the year, while the Cardinals are seeking fresh direction as well.
Morris’s quick pivot to these interviews underscores his strong reputation among NFL decision-makers.
With a packed schedule ahead, the former Falcons coach could be one of the first major hires of the 2026 coaching carousel.
Falcons fans will be watching closely as Morris looks to land his next opportunity, while the search for Atlanta’s next head coach continues with several names already emerging as potential candidates.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons’ coaching search and the ongoing NFL hiring cycle.
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Want that head-turning, confident physique without waiting forever? Getting a bangin’ body is totally achievable quickly—if you do it smart and safe. “Fast” means noticeable changes in weeks to months, like dropping fat, building muscle tone, and boosting energy.
This article is going to show you some easy steps you can put in place to get in shape right now and get that hot body.
How To Get Back In Shape Fast: 7 Easy Steps
When it comes to fitness, the key is to start making better choices for your well being.
1. Challenge Yourself
The way to begin to make better choices is to challenge yourself that you can. Nobody knows you like you know yourself.
Make a pact with yourself that you’re going to change your habits and keep your word… to yourself if no one else.
2. Start Exercising
You don’t have to do crazy with it, but see if you can carve out 15-30 minutes a day. Working up a sweat is the #1 way you can lose weight by being active.
Start off working out twice a week, then ramp it up to three times a week in the second way. By the third week see if you can exercise five times a week.
Tip: Schedule your workouts in our Google calendar so they can pop up on your phone or laptop. That way, you’ll be more likely to see it as a priority you need to stick to.
3. Nail Your Nutrition
The Fat-Loss Foundation)Diet drives body composition. Create a moderate calorie deficit while prioritizing protein to preserve (and build) muscle.
- High-Protein Foods: Aim for 1.6-2.2g per kg of body weight daily. Think chicken, fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, and legumes. Protein keeps you full and supports muscle repair.
- Veggies and Fiber: Fill half your plate with greens, broccoli, spinach, etc. They add volume without calories.
- Smart Carbs and Fats: Choose whole grains, sweet potatoes, avocados, nuts. Cut processed junk and sugary drinks.
- Meal Prep for Success: Batch-cook to avoid temptations.
Now that you have an exercise regimen, you’ll need to change the way you eat. Consuming fewer calories is a great way to drop some pounds.
You’ll need some nutritional guidance on this one:
- Remember to eat vegetables (green ones, if possible)
- Limit your meats to lean pieces with very little fat.
- Stay away from sugar and processed foods altogether (I know, I know)
4. Get Some Sleep
Experts say healthy humans need around eight hours of sleep to properly function. Not only is this a sweet spot for clear thinking, but you’ll find that this gives you optimal metabolism.
If you get less than seven hours of sleep, consider going to bed earlier so that your body can have more time to heal itself when you finally do fall asleep.
5. Stay Motivated
One of the main things that stops people from transforming their lives is that they eventually lose interest. It could be because of an unexpected life event that sets them back, or just an inability to stay focused.
Whatever it may be, remember that you can stay motivated by joining groups of like-minded people. Go to the gym with friends, family or co-workers. Join Facebook groups with your same goals.
6. Track Your Progress
There’s no shortage of fitness apps and trackers to keep tabs on your weight loss. While these can be a good thing, it’s important to remember you don’t want to get too caught up in numbers.
No matter what the scale says, your main judge will be how you feel in the morning, noon and night. Your body will be the first to let you know if something’s not right — not the meter.
7. Splurge Once In A While
Because you’re not a robot, it’s OK to splurge once in a while. A scoop of ice cream is not going to destroy your life if you are determined to remain on track.
Treating yourself every now and then (I stress, every now and then) is actually healthy for your well being. It not only encourages you, but reinforces that rewards are part of your journey.
How Long Does It Take To Get In Shape?
If you’re watching your clock, you’re going to be disappointed. The length of time it takes to get in shape depends on several factors.
This time course is changeable but only if the person increases in either of three main areas, according to experts.
“The ‘time course’ of fitness changes depends on the training stimulus: intensity, duration and frequency,” Friederike Scharhag-Rosenberger, a researcher at the University of Potsdam in Germany who published a study on the topic, told the Globe & Mail.
Further research also indicates that as little as a single workout can trigger proteins in your muscles that can begin to effectively change your tissue for the better, but it takes more than that to “get in shape.”
Some people think six weeks is enough to see changes, but that’s not true for everybody. Each person is different. Each person’s body is even more different.
Final Word
The truth is that you shouldn’t focus on a time course. The reason why you begin working out or pick up weights is because you’re serious about a lifestyle change.
When it comes to time, after about two months of strength-training, eating healthy and getting plenty of rest, your body should look different from Day One. But again, it’s a process.
The shape your body’s in at the two-month mark may be a pit stop to where it will be in four months or six months. The bottom line is to keep going!
If you’re serious about your well being and nutrition, you might want to read up on the keto diet. It is a no-sugar regimen to help you live a healthy life.
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In a move that signals a significant shift in the Atlanta Falcons’ front office structure, the team is set to introduce a new president of football operations role, with former star quarterback Matt Ryan emerging as the frontrunner for the position.
Ryan is set to interview this weekend — Friday or Saturday, signaliing he and the organization’s willingness to get a deal done quickly.
This development, widely reported by football insiders including Adam Shefter, comes as longtime executive Rich McKay steps away from his CEO duties with the Falcons, transitioning to a broader role within owner Arthur Blank’s business empire.
It also occurs one day after Blank fired Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot.
Falcons Set To Hire Matt Ryan in Front Office
Sources close to the organization indicate that the new president of football operations will hold primary decision-making authority over all team-related matters, including personnel, coaching, and strategy. This restructuring aims to streamline football decisions and inject fresh leadership into a franchise looking to build on recent progress under head coach Morris.
Ryan, who spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback from 2008 to 2021, is widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in team history.
Although it was first reported that Ryan may wish to hold onto his NFL commentator job for TV, it looks like he is willing to let it go and give the Falcons his all.
The 2016 NFL MVP led Atlanta to a Super Bowl appearance and holds numerous franchise records, including passing yards and touchdowns.
After retiring following a stint with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, Ryan has stayed connected to the game through broadcasting and philanthropy, often expressing his deep ties to the Atlanta community.”Matt Ryan embodies the Falcons’ spirit—resilient, intelligent, and deeply committed to winning,” said a team insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His football acumen and understanding of the organization’s culture make him an ideal candidate to guide the team forward.”
McKay, who has been with the Falcons since 2003 and served as CEO since 2011, will no longer oversee day-to-day football operations. Instead, he will focus on Arthur Blank’s expansive portfolio, which includes AMB Sports and Entertainment, encompassing the Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
McKay’s tenure has been marked by key achievements, such as the construction of the state-of-the-art stadium and navigating the team through multiple rebuilds.
“Rich has been instrumental in shaping the Falcons into a first-class organization,” Blank said in a statement released earlier today. “His expertise will continue to benefit our entire family of businesses as we evolve.”
The creation of this new position reflects a growing trend in the NFL, where teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have empowered dedicated football executives to handle on-field decisions separately from business operations.
For the Falcons, who finished the 2025 season with a 8-9 record but missed the playoffs, this could provide the stability needed to contend in the competitive NFC South.
Final Word
Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement about Ryan’s potential return. “Matty Ice back in the building? That’s the spark we need!” one supporter posted on social media.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days, with the team holding a press conference at Flowery Branch.
As the Falcons prepare for the offseason, including free agency and the NFL Draft, this leadership change could be the catalyst for a new era of success in Atlanta.Stay tuned to Atlanta Pro Football Insider for updates on this story and all things Falcons.
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Fawn Weaver, the founder of popular premium whiskey brand Uncle Nearest, is urging a federal judge to end the company’s court-appointed receivership, arguing that it has led to a sharp decline in sales for the Tennessee-based distillery.
The high-profile brand, known for honoring Nearest Green—the enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel the art of whiskey-making—entered receivership in August 2025 after Kentucky-based lender Farm Credit Mid-America filed suit.
Uncle Nearest Founder: Receivership Has Hurt Sales
The lender alleged that Weaver, her husband Keith, and the companies Nearest Green Distillery and Uncle Nearest defaulted on over $108 million in loans.
Weaver has continued marketing efforts, including bottle signings and public events, but cites partial Nielsen data showing significant drops in retail volume since the receiver took control. She claims the receivership has damaged the brand’s reputation, leading to:
- Removal from cocktail menus at a luxury Chicago hotel due to perceived instability.
- Delisting from a high-end account in Oregon following negative news coverage.
- Being pulled from shelves at a major regional grocery chain with over 500 locations.
Distributors have reportedly cut incentives, and retailers have canceled planned single-barrel purchases over concerns about the company’s future.
Weaver wants control returned to the board, which includes herself, her husband, and an investor, and seeks to block the receiver from sharing proprietary information with potential buyers.
This development comes as the American whiskey industry faces widespread headwinds, including overproduction, declining domestic sales, and international trade disruptions. Major players like Jim Beam have announced production pauses at key facilities for 2026, while inventory levels hit record highs.
Final Word
For Atlanta-area whiskey enthusiasts, Uncle Nearest remains widely available at local bars, restaurants, and retailers. With that being said, liquor sales in metro Atlanta have been more or less flat.
The brand’s premium offerings, including its bourbon and rye expressions, continue to be a favorite in the city’s vibrant spirits scene alongside Georgia-made options from distilleries like ASW at The Battery and Distillery of Modern Art.A joint status report in the case is due by January 30, 2026.
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With the new year upon us, we’re tracking the key laws passed during the 2025 Georgia General Assembly session that take effect on January 1, 2026 or later in the year.
These changes, signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp, impact areas like taxes, homeownership, insurance, vehicles, courts, health services, and more.
They generally focus on consumer protections, government efficiency, and professional standards.
New Georgia Laws for 2026
Here are some of the most notable ones affecting Georgians:
Tax and Financial Changes
- State income tax rate reduction — Georgia’s flat individual income tax rate continues its phased decrease (as part of multi-year reform), dropping further toward a target of 4.99% by January 2027. This applies to taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2026.
- Catastrophe savings accounts — All Georgia taxpayers can now open a single designated “catastrophe savings account” for disaster-related expenses, with contributions and interest deductible from state taxable income.
Homeownership and Consumer Protections
- Automatic HVAC warranty transfer (Georgia Act 285) — Manufacturer warranties on certain HVAC systems will automatically transfer to new homeowners when a house is sold. This applies to units sold or installed starting January 2, 2026, and manufacturers cannot require registration for validity.
- Extended insurance notice period — Homeowners receive stronger protections: insurers must provide 60 days’ notice (up from 30 days) before canceling or non-renewing a policy.
Vehicles and Transportation
- “America First” specialty license plate — A new tag featuring the U.S. flag and phrase “America First” becomes available, with proceeds benefiting the state’s general fund.
- Updated temporary operating permits and vehicle booting rules — Private property owners gain authority to boot trespassing vehicles (if local rules allow), with required warning signs posted. Businesses also get streamlined digital access to Department of Revenue vehicle data for faster temporary plates and reduced fraud.
Courts and Legal Processes
- Digital recording in courts — Certain court proceedings can now use digital recordings instead of live court reporters for transcripts, aiming to improve efficiency.
- Litigation financing regulations (Georgia Courts Access and Consumer Protection Act) — Third-party litigation funders must register with the state, with prohibitions on involvement from foreign adversaries and new consumer protections (full requirements effective January 1, 2026).
Health, Professional Services, and Other Updates
- Teledentistry authorization — Dentists can provide care via telemedicine, with dental benefit plans required to cover it (regulated by the Georgia Board of Dentistry).
- Public Accountancy Act of 2025 — New pathways created for becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), including easier transfers for out-of-state professionals.
- Solid waste facility rules (Georgia Act 259) — Outdated definitions removed, and applicants for new or modified waste facilities (e.g., landfills) must prove compliance with local zoning/land-use rules.
- Behavioral health oversight shift — Responsibility for substance abuse and behavioral health programs transfers from the Department of Community Health to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
Additionally, updated building codes (including the 2024 International Building Code, Residential Code, and others with Georgia amendments) take effect January 1, 2026, impacting construction and permitting statewide.
Many other changes streamline state systems or update professional licensing, but these stand out for their broad impact on everyday Georgians. Note that several major updates (e.g., school device restrictions, further tax tweaks) take effect later in 2026, often July 1.
For the full list of enacted bills, check the Georgia General Assembly website or the Governor’s Office signed legislation page. If you’re affected by any of these (e.g., buying a home, filing taxes, or dealing with insurance), consult a professional for personalized advice.
Stay tuned for more Atlanta-focused coverage as these laws roll out! What change are you most curious about? Let us know in the comments.
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With the new year upon us, Georgia drivers – especially those in metro Atlanta – are being urged to take extra precautions after a new report identified the state’s most stolen vehicles.
According to data compiled by USInsuranceAgents.com and released on December 23, Ford F-Series pickups (including popular F-150 and Super Duty models) lead the list as the most stolen vehicle in the state for 2025.
Ford Pickup Trucks Top List as Georgia’s Most Stolen Vehicle in 2025
Thieves are drawn to these trucks due to their widespread popularity, high demand for parts, ease of resale, and the potential for valuable tools often left inside by contractors.
The report highlights the following as among the most stolen vehicles in Georgia this year:
- Ford F-Series pickup trucks
- Honda Accord
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Camry
- Chevrolet pickup trucks (such as Silverado)
- Dodge RAM
While national trends show vehicle thefts declining overall in 2025 – with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reporting a drop toward pre-pandemic levels – certain models remain prime targets, particularly in urban areas like Atlanta and Savannah where theft rates are higher than in rural parts of the state.
Melanie Musson, a car insurance expert with USInsuranceAgents.com, noted that holidays like New Year’s Eve pose special risks. “With parties and late nights, vehicle owners are more likely to be distracted, and thieves take advantage of the decreased vigilance,” she said.
How To Prevent Vehicle Theft
Local authorities and experts recommend these practical steps to protect your vehicle, especially during the holiday season and year-round:
- Park in a garage whenever possible – this is one of the most effective deterrents.
- Always lock your doors and close all windows, even for short stops.
- Store key fobs in an RFID-blocking pouch or box to prevent relay attacks on keyless entry systems.
- Choose well-lit, high-traffic areas for parking to increase visibility and reduce opportunity for thieves.
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended (a common issue in Atlanta, especially during cold weather or delivery stops).
- Remove valuables from plain sight – don’t leave electronics, bags, or tools visible inside.
- Consider additional deterrents like steering wheel locks, alarms, or GPS tracking devices.
Comprehensive insurance coverage is also recommended for newer vehicles (under 10 years old) to provide financial protection in case of theft, though owners are typically responsible for the deductible.
Final Word
Atlanta police and Georgia law enforcement continue to emphasize that vehicle theft is often a crime of opportunity. Simple habits like locking up and staying vigilant can make a big difference.
Drivers with information about vehicle theft or suspicious activity are encouraged to contact local authorities or the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB. Stay safe on the roads this holiday season!
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Buying your first home in Atlanta can feel overwhelming, but the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, growing job market, and relatively balanced housing market make it an exciting time for beginners.
In this article, we’ll go over how to buy a house in Atlanta.
How Much Do You Need To Make To Buy A House In Atlanta?
According to recent data, the median home price in Atlanta is around $440,000. However, home prices can vary widely depending on the neighborhood and type of property you’re interested. If you’re a novice homeowner (or not), it’s best to do your homework on the front end.
Read our guide on how much home to afford.
Atlanta’s real estate market features the best of the Southeast, which means you’ll likely get plenty of land, but the prices continue to encroach upon what you’d find in the Northeast.
Thinking about buying a home this year? Here are a few factors you might want to consider:
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Shop lenders early. Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) to show sellers you’re serious. This involves a hard credit pull and providing documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements.
Popular loan options in Georgia:
- Conventional — Good credit needed.
- FHA — Low down payment (3.5%), flexible credit.
- VA/USDA — Zero down for eligible buyers.
Current mortgage rates are stabilizing around 6-7%, so lock in when it feels right.
There’s nothing like falling in love with a home you know you can’t afford. Places like Buckhead, Dunwoody, Fayetteville and Locus Grove have big homes but so are the mortgages.
Before you start looking for a house, it’s important to understand your financial situation. This includes knowing your credit score, saving for a down payment, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage.
Read our guide on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Understand the Atlanta Market
The Atlanta real estate market is a volatile one in that it can trend in different directions throughout the year. It’s your job to stay on top of the changes.
Real estate markets can vary widely depending on location and economic conditions. Research the housing market in the area where you want to buy to understand pricing trends, inventory levels, and competition.
Research Neighborhoods and Start House Hunting
Atlanta’s diversity means options for every budget:
- Affordable starter areas — East Atlanta Village (EAV), Kirkwood, Capitol View, Sylvan Hills, or West End for charm under $400K–$500K with BeltLine access.
- Emerging value spots — Grove Park, Venetian Hills, or South Fulton for lower entry points and growth potential.
- Family-friendly suburbs — Areas like Douglasville, Jonesboro, or Stone Mountain for more space and lower prices.
Use sites like Zillow, Redfin, or Realtor.com, but drive neighborhoods to feel the vibe — walkability, schools, parks, and commute times matter in traffic-heavy ATL.
Make a Wish List
It’s important to get what you want out of your home. Some people need privacy; others need entertainment space.
Make a list of what you’re looking for in a home, including must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your criteria.
Attend open houses and private showings. Bring your agent to spot issues. When you find “the one,” your agent will help craft a competitive offer — include earnest money (1-2%), contingencies (inspection, appraisal, financing), and ask for seller concessions like closing costs.
In 2026’s market, you might negotiate repairs or price reductions, especially with longer days on market.
Hire a Real Estate Agent
A good real estate agent can be invaluable in helping you find the right home, negotiate a fair price, and navigate the buying process.
The best real estate companies take their time with you and provide excellent customer service all while making you feel heard and seen.
Get a Home Inspection
Once you’ve found a home you like, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. This can uncover any potential issues with the property that could affect its value or your decision to buy.
A home inspection can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re making an informed decision about the condition of the property.
Overall, a home inspection is an important part of the home buying process that can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential issues down the road.
Make an Offer
When you’re ready to make an offer on a home, your real estate agent can help you determine a fair price based on comparable sales in the area and other factors. They can also guide you through the negotiation process.
Secure Financing
Once your offer has been accepted, you’ll need to finalize your mortgage. This involves providing documentation to your lender, getting an appraisal, and completing the underwriting process.
Close on the House
The final step in buying a house is the closing process, where all the necessary paperwork is signed, and the ownership of the property is transferred to you. This usually involves paying closing costs and fees, so be prepared for these expenses.
Closing takes 30-45 days. Bring a cashier’s check for down payment/closing costs. You’ll sign mountains of paperwork, get the keys, and celebrate!
Final Atlanta Tips for Beginners:
- The market is more balanced than last year — inventory is up, and homes sell closer to list price.
- Factor in Atlanta-specifics like traffic, MARTA access, and flood zones in some areas.
- Work with professionals — agent, lender, inspector — to avoid costly surprises.
Final Thought
Buying a home is a wonderful experience when you think about the dream of homeownership and its many benefits.
The process of buying a house can vary depending on your individual circumstances, so it’s important to do your research and work with professionals who can help guide you through the process.
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.
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Tyler Perry, the powerhouse filmmaker and founder of Tyler Perry Studios here in Atlanta, has been hit with a new lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault and battery.
The complaint, filed Thursday in Los Angeles Superior Court by actor Mario Rodriguez, who had a small role in Perry’s 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween, seeks at least $7.7 million in damages.
Actor in ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’ Sues Tyler Perry
According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez first connected with Perry in 2015 after a trainer at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles passed along his phone number, saying Perry wanted to discuss acting opportunities.
Perry allegedly encouraged Rodriguez to audition for Boo! A Madea Halloween, telling him, “I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.” Rodriguez landed a minor part as “Frat Guy #10” in the Lionsgate-distributed film.
The suit claims that after filming began, Perry made repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years, including at his Los Angeles home. Specific allegations include inappropriate touching while watching a movie, attempting to unbuckle Rodriguez’s pants, and placing the actor’s hand on Perry’s genitals.
The complaint also states that Perry provided Rodriguez with $5,000 on multiple occasions following these encounters.
Rodriguez alleges he resisted the advances and eventually cut contact in 2019, though Perry periodically reached out afterward.
Rodriguez is pursuing claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
The lawsuit also names Lionsgate, accusing the studio of ignoring Perry’s alleged misconduct during the production and distribution of the film.
This marks the second recent legal challenge for Perry involving similar accusations. In June 2025, actor Derek Dixon, who appeared in Perry’s BET series The Oval, filed a separate lawsuit claiming sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation, seeking over $260 million.
That case, originally filed in California, has since moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry’s massive Atlanta studio complex is located. Both Rodriguez and Dixon are represented by the same attorney, Jonathan Delshad.
A representative for Perry strongly denied the allegations in a statement, calling the new lawsuit a “failed money grab” and noting the shared legal counsel with the prior case.
Lionsgate did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Perry, one of Atlanta’s most prominent entertainment figures, has built an empire with his studio in the city, creating thousands of jobs and boosting Georgia’s film industry for years.
Final Word
No criminal charges have been filed in either matter, and both cases remain ongoing.
This story is developing, and we’ll continue to follow updates as they become available.
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Foreclosures can offer significant discounts, often 20-40% below market value, making them a powerful tool for building wealth through rentals, flips, or personal residences. However, they’re not for beginners. The process involves unique risks, competition, and Georgia-specific rules. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps.
Buying a foreclosure in Atlanta, Georgia, can pay off with a little persistence.
With the local real estate market teetering on unaffordability you can be sure to find several foreclosed properties in the area for sale right now.
What makes a foreclosure so attractive? Well, the primary draw is that these homes are cheaper than market value, so they are very attractive to people looking to get into home investing.
How To Buy A Foreclosure: Everything You Need To Know
This article will tell you everything you need to know about buying a foreclosure.
What Is A Foreclosure?
A foreclosure is a process in which the deed holder of a property seeks to take ownership of it, usually due to unpaid debt.
Here’s how a foreclosure typically works: For one reason or another, a distressed homeowner finds himself or herself in danger of defaulting on their mortgage. When a mortgage payment or perhaps several payments is missed, the bank sends the homeowner a notice of trustee’s sale.
Because the debtor loses possession — and rights — to the home, the lender will look to sell the home under its value.
This makes the home especially attractive to investors. Meanwhile it is an understandably emotional transaction for the previous owner.
Pros and Cons of Buying Foreclosed Homes
Pros:
– Deep discounts in hot Atlanta markets.
– Potential for high equity gains, especially in revitalizing areas.
– Less competition than traditional sales in some cases.Cons:
– Sold “as-is”—major repairs common (e.g., mold, plumbing issues from neglect).
– Limited inspections, especially at auctions.
– Title risks (liens, back taxes).
– Cash often required for auctions; financing trickier for distressed properties.Is It Smart To Buy A Foreclosed Home?
Buying a foreclosed home is a great way to get a property for less money than it’s worth. Buying a home in pre-foreclosure — meaning, before it enters the foreclosure phase — may be when the owner is at their most motivated state.
That being said, the wisdom in buying a foreclosure rests entirely with your plans to profit from it. If you don’t have a plan, then buying a foreclosure may be a terrible idea, especially if you don’t get a home inspection done.
Now let’s go over some steps you need to buy a foreclosure. There are three ways you can buy one:
But first, you need to know where the foreclosures are U.S. foreclosure filings are down across most of the U.S., but they’re up double digits in these cities:
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana (43%)
- Atlanta, Georgia (up 25%)
- Salt Lake City, Utah (up 17%)
- Orlando, Florida (up 16%)
- Portland, Oregon (up 16%)
Now, if you live in one of these cities, all you need to do is get a foreclosure filings list to see the properties. Let’s go over the three ways you can buy a foreclosure:
In Pre-Foreclosure
If you learn that a home is in pre-foreclosure, that means that the bank or lender has notified the homeowner that they plan to foreclose on the property.
This creates a motivated seller. If you happen to approach the homeowner about selling the property, you can get it for a good price.
The key to buying a pre-foreclosure home is to get while the owner still has control. Once the property goes into foreclosure, the owner loses all rights and you have to deal with the bank.
What’s different about buying a home in pre-foreclosure is that, you typically have to pay the following:
- Loan balance
- Any liens on the property
- homeowners insurance
After that, you take over possession of the home from the seller. Again, remember to handle the transaction with all due care, dignity and respect.
Where To Find Pre-Foreclosure Homes
You can find real estate listings that will show you plenty of pre-foreclosure homes.
You may also try to get the a distressed property at foreclosure. Let’s talk about it:
At Foreclosure Auction
A foreclosure auction often takes place on the courthouse steps. The Sheriff conducts the auction and ensures that order takes place.
A bailiff or another official may preside over proceedings, reading out properties from a foreclosure list. All you have to do is be present and bid on the properties to participate.
Be wary of some foreclosures if you haven’t done your research or driven by the properties. Many of them are uninhabitable and may required extensive repairs.
If you end up buying a money pit, you’d better have a plan. That’s because once you buy a foreclosure, you’re liable for all expenses related to the home.
Bank-Owned Property
You may choose to buy a property straight from the lender. This is typically considered a bank-owned property.
The bank has a right to hold onto a property as long as possible, so be aware that sales often take months and maybe even years.
Where To Find REO Properties
- Familiarize yourself with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which has a list of REO properties.
- Contact Realtors: Real estate agents know where all the REOs are in any given area.
- Go online and Google search “REOs near me” to find listings in your area.
With any real estate transaction, make sure you get in touch with a real estate attorney so that you’re protected legally.
Final Thoughts
When you buy a foreclosure, you have to purchase it with cash, so you should make sure that your money is right.
Ether you have to put together a plan to save or take out a loan. Either way, you need to have cash money. So here’s my closing advice: Count the cost.
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.
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In a season that has seen more struggles than successes for the Atlanta Falcons, two standout performers have brought some much-needed positive news to the locker room and the fanbase.
Running back Bijan Robinson and right guard Chris Lindstrom have been officially selected to the 2026 Pro Bowl Games, the NFL announced today.
Falcons Make 2026 Pro Bowl
The honors highlight the elite-level play from two of the team’s cornerstone talents, even as the Falcons sit at 6-9 and out of playoff contention with two games remaining in the 2025 regular season.
Robinson, the dynamic third-year back out of Texas, earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod with a historic campaign.
He currently leads the NFL in yards from scrimmage with over 2,000, including 1,250 rushing yards on 250 carries (averaging a solid 5.0 yards per carry) and 71 receptions for 776 yards.
Just this past Sunday in a 26-19 road win over the Arizona Cardinals, Robinson surpassed the 2,000-yard mark from scrimmage, becoming only the third player in franchise history to achieve the feat — joining legends Jamal Anderson (1998) and William Andrews (1981 and 1983).
“Bijan has been the real deal all year,” said Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. “When you put up 2,000 yards from scrimmage, you’re in elite company. He’s the heartbeat of this offense.”
Lindstrom, meanwhile, continues to anchor the right side of the Falcons’ offensive line with his trademark consistency and dominance
The veteran earned his fourth straight Pro Bowl selection, starting all 15 games this season and posting top-tier Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades in both pass protection and run blocking.
His stellar play has been instrumental in opening lanes for Robinson’s explosive ground game, while allowing just one sack in pass protection — a testament to his elite technique and toughness.
As a first-round pick in 2019, Lindstrom has established himself as one of the league’s premier guards, and this latest honor solidifies his status as a perennial All-Pro caliber player.
While the Falcons’ overall record has been disappointing, with the team eliminated from postseason contention earlier this month, the selections of Robinson and Lindstrom provide bright spots and reasons for optimism heading into the offseason. Tight end Kyle Pitts was named an alternate for the tight end position, amid some fan discussion about other potential snubs across the roster.
The 2026 Pro Bowl Games are set to take place in early February, offering fans a chance to see these two Falcons stars showcase their skills on a national stage.
For Robinson and Lindstrom, the Pro Bowl nods are well-deserved recognition of individual excellence in what has otherwise been a challenging year for Atlanta. As the team looks to build momentum in the final two games — including a Monday Night Football matchup against the Los Angeles Rams — these honors serve as a reminder of the talent already in place for future success.
