Category: Real Estate

Atlanta’s housing market continues to show signs of a buyer’s shift, with elevated pending home sale cancellations, rising inventory, and modest price growth, based on the latest available data as of October 2025.

Mortgage delinquency rates remain low nationally but are slightly higher in Atlanta compared to pre-pandemic levels.

’People Just Don’t Have the Money’

Kimberly Jordan, a loan officer at Regions Bank, told AtlantaFi.com that local job losses and a tightening economy have put many Atlanta homeowners in the red.

“People just don’t have the money,” Jordan said. “And if you can’t pay your mortgage — your most important bill — what does that say about your other bills?”

Another thing she’s seeing in Atlanta is that many pending home sales are falling through — buyers are pulling out.

When pressed for a reason why, she said: “It’s all about the money. Income.”

Below, I’ll break down key metrics relevant to the Atlanta homebuying trends and mortgage performance, from metrics compiled by Zillow, Redfin and Realtor.com.

Pending Home Purchase Cancellations

Atlanta has consistently ranked among the top U.S. metros for the highest share of pending sales falling through in 2025, driven by high prices, elevated mortgage rates (around 6.8% as of late summer), inspection issues, and buyer remorse in a more balanced market.

This is far higher than the national average of ~15% for recent months.

Month/Quarter	Cancellation Rate	Key Notes	Source
January 2025	19.8%	Highest in the nation; up from 16.6% in Jan 2024.	Redfin
April 2025	20.0%	Led all major metros; national rate was 14.3%.	Redfin
June 2025	19.6%	Third-highest among 44 metros (behind Jacksonville and Las Vegas).	Redfin
July 2025	19.7%	Fourth-highest; ~730 cancellations in metro area.	Redfin
August 2025	21.0%	Highest among analyzed metros; 1,532 cancellations. National rate hit 15.1%.	Redfin

• Trend: Rates have hovered around 20% through mid-2025, up from ~14-16% in 2024. No full September/October data yet, but seasonal patterns suggest persistence into Q4.
• Reasons: Buyers are leveraging longer inspection periods (average days on market: 66-84) to negotiate repairs or walk away for better options amid 4.6 months of supply (June data).

Mortgage Delinquency Rates

Actual mortgage delinquencies (borrowers missing payments on existing loans) are low in Atlanta, reflecting strong home equity (median loan-to-value ~60%) and no widespread “walking away” from mortgages.

Rates are higher than the national average but well below 2008-2010 crisis levels (which exceeded 10%).

Period	Overall Delinquency Rate (30+ days past due)	Serious Delinquency Rate (90+ days)	Key Notes
Q1 2025	~4.04% (national; Atlanta slightly higher at ~4.5%)	~2.0% (national)	Up 6 bps from Q4 2024; Atlanta ranked 5th-highest nationally for serious delinquencies.
April 2025	3.22% (national)	4.5% (Atlanta-specific for 90+ days)	Up 1 bp from March; still below pre-pandemic norms.
Q2 2025	3.93% (national)	~2.13% (GSE loans nationally)	Down 11 bps from Q1; no Atlanta-specific Q2 breakdown, but trends stable.
Q3 2025 (prelim)	~3.4% (national estimate)	~1.6% (serious national)	Slight uptick expected; resilient due to job growth in tech/finance sectors.

• Trend: Atlanta’s rates are ~0.5-1% above national averages, tied to affordability pressures from rising prices, but foreclosures remain at record lows (0.20% initiation rate in Q1).
• Context: No evidence of 15% defaults; strategic walkaways are negligible with positive equity.

This bar chart tracks overall delinquency rates (30+ days past due), showing Atlanta’s rates running ~0.5–1% above national figures but remaining low historically. The slight uptick in Q1 2025 reflects seasonal factors and local affordability pressures, with no signs of widespread defaults.

Broader Housing Market Stats (Latest as of August/September 2025)

• Median Home Sale Price: $400,000 (up 2.6% YoY as of August); Zillow typical value: $379,911 (down 2.3% YoY). Forecasts: +1.5-3% growth in 2025.
• Inventory: 20,582 active listings (June; +36.8% YoY); 9,122 for sale (July; +9.9% MoM). Months of supply: 4.6 (balanced market).
• Sales Volume: 5,277 closed (June; +8% YoY); 4,272 (October 2024 data, +4.1% YoY). Pending sales: Down 9% YoY in March.
• Days on Market: 66 days average (up from 55 in early 2024); hot homes pending in 27 days.
• Market Competitiveness: Somewhat competitive (Redfin score ~50/100); homes sell 2-3% below list; 13% sell above list (down YoY).
• Forecast for Q4 2025/2026: Sales up 6-11% nationally; Atlanta prices +3-4%; rates to 6.0-6.5% by year-end, boosting affordability.

Final Word

Atlanta’s market is transitioning to more buyer-friendly conditions, but strong in-migration (metro population ~6.4M, +4.7% since 2020) and job growth (266K in business/finance) support steady demand. For personalized advice, consult local realtors or recent MLS reports.

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.

More Articles From AtlantaFi:

• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
• Apartment Resource Guide: Atlanta
• How To Rent An Apartment In Atlanta

If you’ve been scrolling Zillow or peeking at open houses, you’ve likely noticed the headlines: home prices in Atlanta are indeed dropping. According to Redfin’s latest data for September 2025, the median sale price in the city dipped 5.1% year-over-year to $375,000, with homes taking an average of 76 days to sell.

This softening isn’t a crash, but a welcome shift toward balance after years of skyrocketing values. With inventory climbing and buyer power rising, the question on everyone’s mind is: Does this mean it’s time to jump in as a buyer, or pull back as a seller?

Let’s break it down.

The Current Atlanta Market: A Buyer’s Breeze Emerges

Atlanta’s housing scene has cooled considerably since the height of the seller’s market in 2021-2022.

Metro-wide, the median sales price for single-family homes and condos held steady at $450,000 in Q3 2025, showing 0% change from last year, per Sotheby’s International Realty.

But drill down to the city core, and you’ll see that 5%+ decline, signaling broader pressure on prices as more homes linger unsold. Key trends as of October 2025:

• Inventory Surge: Active listings in Metro Atlanta jumped 24% year-over-year to 15,700 properties by the end of Q3. marketupdates.sothebysrealty.com Nationally, new listings rose 4.1% in early October—the biggest bump in months—giving Atlanta buyers more options than they’ve had in years. redfin.com
• Slower Sales Pace: Closed sales totaled 11,100 units in Q3, down 2% from 2024, while days on market stretched to 47— a 42% increase. marketupdates.sothebysrealty.com In the city, that figure hits 76 days, meaning sellers are more open to negotiations.
• Months of Supply: Hitting around 4.6 months in mid-2025, we’re squarely in balanced territory—neither favoring frantic bidding wars nor leaving homes to rot. noradarealestate.com

Mortgage rates play a starring role here, hovering at 6.69% for a 30-year fixed as of early October.

That’s down from summer peaks but still above the sub-4% glory days. Add in Atlanta’s robust job growth in tech, film, and logistics, and you’ve got a market that’s thawing without boiling over.

Forecasts point to modest price growth of 1.5-4.9% through 2026, but only if rates ease further. In short: Prices are dropping (or at least plateauing), choices are multiplying, and fall—especially mid-October—is prime time for deals, with up to 15% more listings and less competition.

For Buyers: The Stars Are Aligning—But Act Smart

If you’re eyeing a bungalow in Inman Park or a townhome in Midtown, this dip is your green light. Here’s why now could be golden:

Pros for Buying Now	Cons to Consider
Lower Entry Prices: Save $20K+ on a median home compared to last year—enough for closing costs or upgrades. redfin.com	Interest Rate Hurdles: At 6.69%, monthly payments on a $375K loan (20% down) run about $1,920—still a stretch for first-timers.
Negotiation Leverage: With homes sitting longer, sellers are slashing prices (21% of Southwest listings cut in September) and throwing in concessions like repairs or rate buydowns. churchillmortgage.com	Potential for Further Drops: If rates fall more in 2026, prices could soften another 1-2%—but waiting risks missing inventory.
More Choices: 36% more homes hit the market mid-year, from affordable East Atlanta gems to luxury Buckhead condos. noradarealestate.com	Qualifying Challenges: Rising incomes help, but only 24% of 2025 buys were first-timers—explore down payment assistance programs.

My Advice: Buy if your finances are solid and you’ve got a 3-5 year horizon. Atlanta’s population boom (projected 1.8 million new residents by 2025) ensures long-term appreciation.

Get pre-approved, target motivated sellers (look for “price reduced” listings), and focus on neighborhoods like West Midtown or Decatur, where values hold strong. Mid-October’s “best week” (Oct 12-18) could net you even sweeter deals.

For Sellers: Patience Pays, But Don’t Drag Your Feet

Sellers, you’re not sidelined yet—Atlanta’s demand remains fueled by transplants and upsizers. But with inventory up and competition fiercer, strategy is key.

Pros for Selling Now	Cons to Weigh
Steady Demand: Sales may rise 9-13.5% in 2025, driven by job growth and suburban appeal. lamonteam.com +1 Cash buyers (26% of transactions) love turnkeys.	Longer Market Time: 47+ days means staging, marketing, and showings stretch out—factor in carrying costs.
Capture Equity Gains: Even with softening, prices are up 230-328K range long-term; lock in before any deeper dips. sageandgracere.com	Price Pressure: Expect 5-10% cuts in hot spots; overpricing leads to expired listings (up metro-wide).
Buyer Incentives: Offer closing help to close faster in this negotiation-heavy environment.	Balanced Shift: No more multiple offers—price realistically to avoid stagnation.

My Advice: Sell if you’re relocating, downsizing, or cashing out (hello, empty nesters at age 63 average).

Price at or below comps, invest in curb appeal, and list in fall for serious buyers avoiding holiday chaos. Neighborhoods like East Cobb or Alpharetta still move quickly despite the cool-down.

Final Thoughts: The Time Is Now—For the Right Move

Atlanta’s dropping prices aren’t a red flag; they’re a recalibration, creating a fairer market for all. Buyers, this is your moment to snag value in a city that’s only growing hotter. Sellers, leverage your equity before the pendulum swings back.

Whichever side you’re on, consult a local pro (hint: that’s me) to tailor a plan—rates could dip more, but opportunities won’t wait.

Whether you’re dreaming of a BeltLine loft or selling your Sandy Springs starter, Atlanta real estate rewards the prepared. Let’s chat; your next chapter starts here. What’s your move?

Given how much homes cost in Atlanta, if you’re an investor, this may be a great time to buy. On the other hand, if you’re selling a home, you may get less than you anticipated.

Read about cheap homes for sale in Atlanta.

Paula Swinson of Atlanta says that her two-bedroom apartment is not that bad, considering what she paid in New Jersey over the past 10 years. The Atlanta tech industry worker is thankful that rents seem to have settled down after skyrocketing over recent years. Her sentiments are right on the money.

Rental affordability in Atlanta is at its best in four years, offering prospective renters a welcome breather on new leases.

Rent Affordability in Atlanta More Attainable, Says New Study

Modest rent growth and unprecedented concessions from landlords are emerging as a wave of newly constructed apartments floods the market following last year’s building boom, per the latest rental market report from Zillow.

Developers in Atlanta and across the South capitalized on pandemic-era housing demand, completing more multifamily units in 2024 than in any year over the past half-century. With fewer zoning hurdles in the region, Southern builders—including those in metro Atlanta—ramped up supply swiftly and effectively, fostering areas of relative affordability amid national pressures.”

Top Markets for Rent Affordability

Rent affordability improved over the past year in 38 of the 50 largest U.S. metros, and renters in Denver, Austin, Miami, San Antonio and Phoenix were the biggest beneficiaries. Here are the stats, according to Zillow.

Metro Area*	Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI)	ZORI Year over Year (YoY)	ZORI as Share of Median Family Income	ZORI as Share of Median Family Income in Sept. 2024	Share of Rentals with a Concession	ZORI Multi- family YoY	ZORI Single- Family YoY
United States	$1,979	2.3 %	28.4 %	28.8 %	37.3 %	1.7 %	3.2 %
New York, NY	$3,512	5.2 %	40.6 %	40.0 %	18.2 %	5.3 %	4.1 %
Los Angeles, CA	$2,954	2.4 %	35.5 %	35.9 %	27.6 %	1.6 %	3.9 %
Chicago, IL	$2,113	6.0 %	26.8 %	26.2 %	22.6 %	6.0 %	5.5 %
Dallas, TX	$1,706	0.1 %	21.8 %	22.5 %	58.9 %	-0.6 %	0.9 %
Houston, TX	$1,675	0.5 %	23.4 %	24.2 %	47.9 %	-0.1 %	1.4 %
Washington, DC	$2,414	1.4 %	22.0 %	22.5 %	53.4 %	0.3 %	3.6 %
Philadelphia, PA	$1,881	3.7 %	24.2 %	24.2 %	30.4 %	3.1 %	4.2 %
Miami, FL	$2,679	0.8 %	38.6 %	39.7 %	25.3 %	1.5 %	1.0 %
Atlanta, GA	$1,882	2.5 %	24.1 %	24.3 %	55.9 %	1.4 %	3.8 %
Boston, MA	$2,965	2.9 %	29.7 %	29.9 %	31.0 %	2.7 %	4.1 %

Markets that built more—and faster—like Atlanta—are reaping the rewards, with more renters now able to secure apartments without stretching their budgets,” said Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow. “This underscores how easing supply constraints through smart policy can rein in housing costs when demand runs hot.”

In Atlanta, Rents Finally Cool Off

In Atlanta, the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) rose just 2.5% year-over-year in September—well below the peaks of recent years and a sign of cooling momentum.

Multifamily rents, the focus for many urban renters, grew even more modestly at 1.4% annually, while single-family rents ticked up 3.8%.

A softening job market nationally is also tempering growth: Fewer new hires mean less residential churn, keeping tenants in place longer.

Zillow’s updated rent dashboard highlights Atlanta’s position in the Sun Belt, where supply outpaces demand in spots, though the city hasn’t seen outright declines like some peers.

Year-over-year apartment rents are dropping sharpest in Austin (-4.7%), Denver (-3.4%), San Antonio (-2.3%), Phoenix (-2.2%), and Orlando (-0.8%).

Meanwhile, hotter growth persists in tightly regulated or high-demand zones outside the South, such as Chicago (6%), San Francisco (5.6%), New York (5.3%), Providence, Rhode Island (4.8%), and Cleveland (4.2%).Even single-family rentals in Atlanta—which have outpaced apartments in growth lately—are hitting softer winds.

The city’s 3.8% September increase marks a slowdown from prior years, aligning with the smallest national annual uptick (3.2%) in Zillow data dating back to 2016.Concessions Hit New Highs for Atlanta RentersLandlords here have leaned heavily into perks like waived rent months or complimentary parking rather than slashing base prices.

Now, a record 55.9% of Atlanta listings on Zillow dangle some incentive—up dramatically from 14.4% in 2019 and far exceeding the national September high of 37.3%.These giveaways are poised to climb further, often peaking in the off-season winter and early spring.

As they proliferate, managers might pivot to outright reductions, especially with holiday slowdowns looming. Renter competition typically dips in cooler months, giving leverage to those hunting for deals in neighborhoods like Midtown or Buckhead.

Final Word

Affordability Gains Ground in the Peach State CapitalTamer growth—and pockets of stability—in Atlanta’s rental scene is boosting affordability citywide to levels unseen in four years.

A typical apartment now claims just 24.1% of the area’s median household income, a slight dip from 24.3% last September and comfortably under the 30% “burden” line.

That’s a brighter picture than the national 28.4% ratio, thanks in part to the South’s aggressive building response. For Atlanta families eyeing moves to suburbs like Decatur or Roswell, this supply-driven ease signals a renter’s market taking shape.

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.

More Articles From AtlantaFi:

• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
• Apartment Resource Guide: Atlanta
• How To Rent An Apartment In Atlanta

After you’ve saved up enough money to buy some real estate, it’s time to look high and low for cheap homes for sale in Atlanta, Georgia. In and around Georgia’s largest city, there are plenty of deals for the prospective homeowner or investor.

It happens to be a good time to buy homes these days because the market continues to be red hot. In this article, we’ll show you some of the best cheap homes for sale in Atlanta.

Best Cheap Homes for Sale in Atlanta

Below is a curated table of 15 currently available homes under $300,000, based on the latest market data. Prices and availability can change quickly, so click the links to view full details and contact agents.

Address	Price	Beds	Baths	Sqft	Link
1065 United Ave SE Unit 202, Atlanta, GA 30316	$275,000	1	1	N/A	View Listing
4732 Carson Pass SW, Atlanta, GA 30331	$200,000	4	1.5	1,269	View Listing
805 Peachtree St NE Unit 214, Atlanta, GA 30308	$300,000	1	1	990	View Listing
855 Peachtree St NE Unit 2004, Atlanta, GA 30308	$289,850	1	1	702	View Listing
106 Brighton Point, Atlanta, GA 30328	$299,000	3	2	N/A	View Listing
190 Judy Ln SW, Atlanta, GA 30315	$250,000	3	2	1,176	View Listing
1227 Kenilworth Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30310	$295,000	3	2	1,280	View Listing
215 Piedmont Ave NE Unit 1406, Atlanta, GA 30308	$245,000	2	2	1,256	View Listing
3999 Bayside Cir, Atlanta, GA 30340	$235,000	1	1.5	1,584	View Listing
1381 Benteen Way SE, Atlanta, GA 30315	$269,000	3	1	912	View Listing
1468 Briarwood Rd NE Unit 2003, Atlanta, GA 30319	$300,000	2	2.5	1,290	View Listing
5300 Peachtree Rd Unit 3601, Atlanta, GA 30341	$210,000	1	1	627	View Listing
400 17th St NW Unit 1133, Atlanta, GA 30363	$205,000	1	1	884	View Listing
5780 Bearing Way, Atlanta, GA 30349	$240,000	2	1.5	N/A	View Listing
3563 Bolfair Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30331	$215,000	4	2	1,075	View Listing

Data sourced from Homes.com as of October 18, 2025.

Ready to find your dream home? Search more on our site or get in touch with a local agent!

One of the best ways to find cheap homes is to look at vacant homes in your area.

How To Find Abandoned Homes For Cheap

The first thing you need to do to identify cheap homes that are abandoned is to:

1. Search for Properties

Take a ride in older neighborhoods in your city to see if you can find homes that are empty. Once you find a vacant property, here’s what you should do:

2. Look It Up On The Tax Assessor’s Website

Depending on where you live, your city clerk’s office or tax assessor’s website will have a search feature that allows you to look up property owners in the vicinity.

If you live in Fulton County, the tax assessor’s website is fultonassessor.org.

Once you locate the name of the homeowner, you can give them a call and see if they are willing to sell. 

3. Tap Into Your Network

Ask your friends, family members and church members if they know someone who has a home to sell. Oftentimes, the people you know have inside information on cheap homes for sale.

Plenty of online sites have homes for sale, including Zillow, RedFin and Trulia. We’ve searched these sites to bring you some of the cheapest homes you’ll find in Atlanta.

Bottom Line

If you can’t find a home that fits your budget or style, don’t give up. Oftentimes, you have to wait a while before the right home becomes available. Don’t look now but Atlanta home prices have fallen of late, but that doesn’t mean the local real estate market is still not one of the hottest in the nation. Cheap homes can still be had in Georgia’s largest city.

Due to the weather, the warmer months are the perfect time to go home-shopping. And if you’re interested in renting, here are some cheap Atlanta apartments.

Atlanta is enjoying one of the best real estate markets in America, 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.

More Articles From AtlantaFi:

• How To Save Money on Rent in Atlanta
• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
• Atlanta’s Most Pricey Neighborhoods

The cost of land has increased dramatically over the past several years, no matter if it’s in Atlanta or across Georgia.

If you’re in the market for some Georgia land,  you’re making a wise decision. Real estate prices in rural areas are going up, but are still affordable.

With real estate prices continuing to increase, now’s a good time to buy property. Are you uncertain about the process of buying land in Georgia? Read on….

How Do I Buy Land In Georgia?

In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to buy a plot of land in Georgia.

My family owns several plots of real estate around metro Atlanta and because I’m constantly looking for real estate, I’ve also researched the process thoroughly.

Land prices vary wildly. In rural areas like South Georgia, you might find acres for $2,000-$5,000 each. Near Atlanta or Savannah, expect $10,000-$50,000+ per acre, depending on development potential. Factor in taxes, closing costs, and any financing fees.

First things first, you need to get pre-approved for a loan.

1. Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved for a loan to buy land is exactly like getting pre-approved for a mortgage. The reason why this initial step is so important is because Realtors will have an incentive to work with and for you.

Once you’re pre-qualified for a loan, the real estate professionals you’re dealing with will take you more seriously because they want your business.

If you apply and are not approved, take these steps to improve your credit fast.

2. Search For Land

It’s time to begin your search for affordable land for sale.

In a large metropolitan area like Atlanta, parcels of land sell at a premium. If you want several acres, you’ll have to expand your search to cities about an hour’s drive from downtown Atlanta.
How Much Does An Acre Of Land Cost In Georgia?
The price of an acre of land in Georgia depends on where it’s located and whether it is improved or unimproved.

Last year, the average price per acre in Georgia increased by 11% to $4,550 per acre. Irrigated land averaged $4,060 per acre while the value of non-irrigated land dropped 5% to $3,010 per acre.

If you’re looking for farmland or just some acreage, if you don’t know a Realtor, then you can begin your search online.

Once you’ve done all your zoning research, it’s time to whittle down your list of land parcels you like and choose one.

Some things you may want to consider are:

• Access: How far is the property from the interstate or major highway?
• Privacy: How close are you to the neighbors and nearby noise?
• Terrain: Are there hundreds of trees, woods or just undeveloped land, dirt or grass?
• Irrigation: Is there a water source nearby? A lake or creek that runs through the property?

All of these things may increase or decrease the value of the land depending on your intentions for it.
In any event, once you’ve made your decision to buy the land, it’s time to put it in writing.

4. Make An Offer On The Land

To make a formal offer on a piece of land you’ll need a real estate agent’s Bid Offer form. You can find samples of a Bid Offer form online.

When making an offer, you don’t want to go too high in price. Let your offer be based not on the property’s asking price, but on the amount you’ve been pre-approved for.
Should You Offer Over The Asking Price?
If you offer over the asking price, you’ll have to go back to your lender to make sure you can get financing to cover it.
You’ll also want to know if the appraisal of the land justifies the asking price.
If you make an offer too low, it may not attract the seller because they may get higher offers from others looking to buy the property.
Bottom line: Your offer will have to be higher than the others if you want the land.
Let’s say the seller accepts your offer. What now?

5. Sign The Land Sale Contract And Purchase Agreement

Once the offer is accepted, the buyer and seller typically sign a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement.
This is a legal document that solidifies the intentions of both parties to make a real estate transaction.
Here are some terms typically found in a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement:

• Price
• Property size, boundaries and description
• Title
• Seller disclosures

Typically, the buyer’s agent will have the purchase agreement written up by a practicing real estate attorney.

The Land Sale and Purchase Agreement becomes binding when all signatures have been obtained.

6. Prepare For Closing

Unlike a home closing, when you’re buying land you don’t have to worry about such things as an inspection and making some demands for last-minute repairs and replacements.

As a buyer, you will typically be expected to provide for anywhere between 2% to 5% of the closing costs. However, depending on other concessions you make, it’s possible that you may not pay any money at all at closing.

One thing you don’t want to skip is a soil test. A soil test also indicates which elements are missing from your soil and how much to add them if you plan on growing fruits, vegetables and other crops.

A soil test will also tell you:

• The pH level in the soil.
• What nutrients and minerals are in the soil such as nitrogen and phosphorus.

You can buy a soil kit from various retailers such as Lowes and Home Depot. You can also order a soil test kit online. Here’s a comprehensive one that I like:

Buy Here for $29.99

Once you sign all the appropriate documents at closing, the land will be yours! Some real estate lawyers may break out a bottle of Champagne to celebrate, but that’s optional:)

Final Words

Buying a piece of land is a great investment and something that can stay in your family for generations. If you do it right — following all the steps from zoning laws and getting a soil test, etc. — it can be a smooth process.

Because of the many parts involved in buying land, it’s highly advisable that you use the services of a professional real estate agent. A Realtor can walk you through the land-buying process more easily. Also, many of them have the professionals you need already in their network.

More From AtlantaFi.com:

• How To Avoid The Heir Property Arrangement
• Best Neighborhoods In Atlanta
• The Cheapest Apartments In Atlanta Right Now

As Atlanta’s real estate market heats up with a projected 3.2% rise in home prices and a 13.5% increase in sales volume this year, the industry is buzzing with opportunity. Mortgage rates are dipping to around 5.2%, drawing more buyers into the fold and signaling a more balanced market ahead.

But for those eyeing a career in real estate without the hustle of sales commissions or the need for a realtor license, the options are plentiful and diverse.

Beyond the Badge: These Real Estate Jobs Pay Well

From behind-the-scenes analytical roles to creative gigs that shape how properties shine, Atlanta’s booming sector offers paths that leverage market growth without the real estate agent’s spotlight.

With over 900 real estate-related jobs posted locally on platforms like Indeed, the demand spans far beyond traditional brokerage.

Whether you’re drawn to numbers, design, or operations, these roles tap into Atlanta’s expansion as a tech and logistics hub, where new developments in areas like Alpharetta and Midtown are creating waves of need.

Here are seven standout careers to consider:

1. Property Manager: Keeping the Portfolio Humming

Overseeing residential or commercial properties is a cornerstone of real estate operations, involving tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and financial reporting.

In Atlanta’s rental market, where average rents are set to grow 1.9% by year’s end, property managers are in high demand to handle the influx of young professionals and families flocking to affordable suburbs.

No license required, though certifications like the Certified Property Manager (CPM) can boost prospects. Entry-level salaries hover around $50,000, with experienced pros earning up to $80,000 annually.

2. Real Estate Appraiser: The Value Detective

Appraisers assess property worth for sales, loans, or taxes using market data and inspections – a detail-oriented role perfect for analytical minds.

Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods, from historic Inman Park to burgeoning Westside developments, provide endless variety.

Licensing varies by state but often requires coursework rather than a full realtor exam. With the city’s steady appreciation, appraisers command $60,000–$100,000, making it a stable entry into the field.

3. Home Inspector: The Property’s First Line of Defense

Inspectors scrutinize homes for structural issues, safety hazards, and code compliance before closings, offering peace of mind to buyers in Atlanta’s fast-paced market.

As sales ramp up, so does the need for thorough checks on everything from Victorian renovations in Grant Park to new builds in East Point. Certification through organizations like the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is key, and no sales license is needed.

Pay ranges from $55,000 for starters to $90,000 for veterans, often with flexible scheduling.

4. Real Estate Photographer: Capturing Curb Appeal

In a digital age, stunning visuals sell properties faster – and Atlanta’s vibrant listings need pros who can highlight Buckhead luxury or Ponce City Market lofts under the golden hour.

This creative role involves shooting high-res photos and virtual tours, requiring photography skills over any real estate credential. With remote work options, it’s ideal for freelancers.

Local gigs pay $40,000–$70,000, with top shooters pulling in more through volume.

5. Title Examiner: Unraveling Property Histories

Title examiners review public records to ensure clear ownership chains, flagging liens or disputes before transactions close. As Atlanta’s market matures with more flips and investments, this meticulous job prevents costly snags.

A background in legal research helps, but no license is mandatory. Salaries average $50,000–$75,000, with steady demand from title companies downtown.

6. Real Estate Staging Specialist: Transforming Spaces

Stagers furnish and decorate empty homes to appeal to buyers, boosting sale prices by up to 20% in competitive spots like Atlanta’s intown condos.

Blending interior design with market savvy, this artistic career thrives on trends like sustainable decor for eco-conscious millennials.

Certification from the Real Estate Staging Association adds credibility. Earnings vary from $45,000 salaried to $100,000+ for independents charging per project.

7. Development Coordinator: Building Atlanta’s Future

For big-picture thinkers, coordinating real estate development involves permitting, budgeting, and stakeholder management for new projects.

Atlanta’s growth as a film and tech epicenter fuels mega-developments like the BeltLine expansions. A degree in urban planning or business helps, but hands-on experience trumps licenses. Mid-level roles fetch $70,000–$120,000, with room to climb in a city reshaping its skyline.

These roles not only sidestep the variability of agent commissions but also offer work-life balance and direct ties to Atlanta’s economic pulse – from job growth in high-income sectors to a vacancy rate stabilizing around 27% in office spaces.

Final Word

As the market evolves, professionals in these positions will be pivotal in sustaining momentum.Ready to stake your claim?

Atlanta Job Hub lists hundreds of openings in these and more real estate-adjacent fields. Browse our site today, upload your resume, and connect with recruiters shaping the Peach State’s property landscape. Your next chapter in real estate awaits – no license required.

Atlanta is riding the wave of a robust U.S. apartment construction boom in 2025, contributing significantly to the estimated 506,353 new apartment units expected to open nationwide by year’s end.

While this figure falls short of last year’s record-breaking numbers, it remains well above the annual averages seen since 2015, underscoring the sustained demand for rental housing across the country—and Atlanta is at the heart of this trend in the South.

Atlanta Among Top Cities for Apartment Growth

The South, driven by its status as a “migration magnet,” accounts for more than half of the nation’s new apartment developments this year.

Atlanta, with its thriving economy and growing population, is a standout in this regional surge, alongside major Texas metros like Dallas, Austin, and Houston.

The city’s appeal lies in its business-friendly environment, relative affordability, and less restrictive zoning laws, which have fueled a construction boom in contrast to the more regulated coastal markets.

“Atlanta continues to attract developers and residents alike, thanks to its dynamic job market and economic growth,” said Doug Ressler, senior analyst at Yardi Matrix. “The South’s favorable conditions, including those in Atlanta, make it a hotspot for new apartment projects, meeting the needs of a growing population drawn to the region’s opportunities.”

Top 10 Cities for Apartment Growth in 2025

Rank	City/Metro Area	New Apartment Units (2025)	Key Notes
1	Dallas, TX	~30,000 (est.)	Leading the South with strong job growth and high demand.
2	Austin, TX	~25,600 (est.)	High construction activity, but softening rents due to supply surge.
3	New York City, NY	~20,000 (est.)	Major urban market with consistent high-rise development.
4	Phoenix, AZ	~18,000 (est.)	Sun Belt growth driven by affordability and population influx.
5	Atlanta, GA	17,512	Metro Atlanta ranks fifth nationally, with 6,359 units in the city core (Queen City). Fueled by tech, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
6	Miami, FL	~15,000 (est.)	Strong rental demand and urban development focus.
7	Houston, TX	~14,000 (est.)	Robust multifamily construction in suburban and exurban areas.
8	Charlotte, NC	~12,000 (est.)	Growing as a financial hub with increasing renter interest.
9	Denver, CO	~10,000 (est.)	High construction but softening rents due to oversupply.
10	Raleigh, NC	~9,000 (est.)	Emerging Sun Belt market with strong job and population growth.

Metro Atlanta is projected to complete 17,512 new apartment units in 2025, making it the fifth-busiest market nationally.

While New York leads the nation in total apartment deliveries, edging out Dallas by just over 1,000 units, Atlanta’s contributions are helping solidify the South’s dominance in the 2025 apartment construction landscape.

The city’s growth mirrors that of Austin, which has emerged as a national leader at the city level, while other Southern markets like Naples, FL, have seen their apartment completions nearly quadruple in a single year.

Final Word

As Atlanta continues to expand its rental housing stock, the city is well-positioned to accommodate its influx of new residents, driven by job opportunities and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

With the South leading the charge in the nation’s apartment construction boom, Atlanta’s role as a key player in this trend is undeniable, shaping the future of housing in the region for years to come.

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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• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
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Renting an apartment in Atlanta, Georgia, can be an expensive endeavor if you don’t have a strategy in mind.

After all, owning a home is just a dream for many people. If you’re interested in renting an apartment or home, you need to know how to do it and keep your shirt on. Otherwise, you could give away some key concessions to your landlord.

In this article, we’re going to go over how you can rent an apartment in the city. There are some affordable options to choose from.

Here’s How To Rent An Apartment In Atlanta

If you want to rent an apartment in Atlanta and don’t know where to start, here are the steps:

1. Shop Around

First thing you need to do before you rent an apartment in Atlanta is find one. To do that, you can use a number of online services to help find an apartment in Atlanta:

• Promove
• Apartment Finder
• A Plus Locators Apartment Finders

If you don’t already know, apartments on the northside, in places like Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Roswell and Alpharetta are more expensive.

Midtown Atlanta apartments have gone up in price dramatically over the last few years as well.  The most affordable apartments will be a short distance from downtown in either east Atlanta or the westside next to West Midtown.

Once you make a list of Atlanta apartments you want to check out from one of the services above, you can begin to make appointments to visit.

You’ll want to pay special attention to the amenities that each apartment offers. You may put a big emphasis on on-site laundry facilities, a pool, a courtyard, lounge and other things.

2. Have Your Finances in Order

Before you begin to schedule visits, you need to have your financials in order. Landlords don’t just let you move in, you’ll need a credit check. The idea behind this is that you have to show income stability.

Get a free credit report at annualcreditreport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports from the three major credit bureaus Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

When you get the credit reports, go over them with a finetooth comb to make sure they’re accurate.

If you see a discrepancy on your credit report, here’s how to dispute it:

https://atlantafi.com/how-to-dispute-your-credit-score-really-easily/

Not only will you need to have your first and last month’s rent in your account (as we’ll get into), but you’ll need to have more money on hand for some incidentals.

3. Visit The Apartment

When you visit the apartment, make sure you the age of the building and style is to your liking. Feel the walls so that you can gauge whether they’re thin and well built.

Look out for loud neighbors and other things that may affect your ability to have a good night’s rest.

If you like what you see, make an offer.

4. Negotiate Your Rent

You don’t have to accept what the landlord offers. See if you can negotiate. If you sign a two-year lease rather than one year, you may be able to get a better deal. You won’t know what’s capable until you ask.

If the leasing agent can’t make any concessions, see if you can get the hookup on parking or a one-month discount in lieu of a move-in special.

Here are some methods on negotiating your rent.

5.  Sign The Dotted Line

When you sign the lease, you may need to have a list of references. These should be people you’ve contacted ahead of time who will have only good things to say about you.

Their input will be what decides your worthiness.

Before you sign your lease, you need to know what to expect as far as charges and fees. Here are some of the charges you may be asked to pay:

• Rental application fee
• Security deposit
• Last month’s rent
• Move-in fee or finders fee

Depending on where you rent your place and your specific circumstances, you may also be asked to pay a pet fee or even parking space fee.

Before you sign an apartment lease, read this.

Once you pay what you owe, your landlord or leasing agent will hand over the keys to your new apartment. Remember to keep it down and always be considerate of your neighbors.

What if you have bad credit?

How To Rent An Apartment With Bad Credit

The first thing you need to do is look for apartments that don’t do credit checks on potential tenants.

You’re also going to want to entice the landlord by offering to pay more upfront or even every month.

So, to recap, if you have bad credit, the way to rent an apartment is:

• Find apartments with no credit checks
• Offer to pay more upfront

Atlanta is a great place to live.

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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.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.

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