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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.
Some websites you can look for parcels of land on are:Know The Zoning Laws
Once you’ve found a piece of land you like, familiarize yourself with the local zoning laws.Some areas won’t let you build wooden structures. Other areas won’t let you build with stone. Others won’t allow livestock. Research what’s allowed where you want to live.The typical zoning regulations govern such things as:- Building specifications of the type of buildings allowed.
- Where utility lines must be located.
- Restrictions on accessory buildings, building setbacks from the streets and other boundaries.
- Size and height of buildings.
- Number of rooms in a structure.
In addition to knowing what type of structures are allowed to be built, you’ll need to know land use rules as well.Here are some common land-use zones that could apply to the area you’re interested in:- Agricultural Zoning
- Commercial Zoning
- Combination Zoning
- Historic Zoning
- Industrial Zoning
- Residential Zoning
- Rural Zoning
You may be saying to yourself, “How do I find out about zoning laws?”The best place to start is with the locality’s department of city planning, or similar office. They’ll tell you all you need to know about the zoning laws in that area.3. Compare Your Land Choices

Photo credit: Observer.globe.gov 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:
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.
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As Atlanta’s real estate market heats up with a projected 3.2% rise in home prices and a 13.5% increase in sales volume this year, the industry is buzzing with opportunity. Mortgage rates are dipping to around 5.2%, drawing more buyers into the fold and signaling a more balanced market ahead.
But for those eyeing a career in real estate without the hustle of sales commissions or the need for a realtor license, the options are plentiful and diverse.
Beyond the Badge: These Real Estate Jobs Pay Well
From behind-the-scenes analytical roles to creative gigs that shape how properties shine, Atlanta’s booming sector offers paths that leverage market growth without the real estate agent’s spotlight.
With over 900 real estate-related jobs posted locally on platforms like Indeed, the demand spans far beyond traditional brokerage.
Whether you’re drawn to numbers, design, or operations, these roles tap into Atlanta’s expansion as a tech and logistics hub, where new developments in areas like Alpharetta and Midtown are creating waves of need.
Here are seven standout careers to consider:
1. Property Manager: Keeping the Portfolio Humming
Overseeing residential or commercial properties is a cornerstone of real estate operations, involving tenant relations, maintenance coordination, and financial reporting.
In Atlanta’s rental market, where average rents are set to grow 1.9% by year’s end, property managers are in high demand to handle the influx of young professionals and families flocking to affordable suburbs.
No license required, though certifications like the Certified Property Manager (CPM) can boost prospects. Entry-level salaries hover around $50,000, with experienced pros earning up to $80,000 annually.
2. Real Estate Appraiser: The Value Detective
Appraisers assess property worth for sales, loans, or taxes using market data and inspections – a detail-oriented role perfect for analytical minds.
Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods, from historic Inman Park to burgeoning Westside developments, provide endless variety.
Licensing varies by state but often requires coursework rather than a full realtor exam. With the city’s steady appreciation, appraisers command $60,000–$100,000, making it a stable entry into the field.
3. Home Inspector: The Property’s First Line of Defense
Inspectors scrutinize homes for structural issues, safety hazards, and code compliance before closings, offering peace of mind to buyers in Atlanta’s fast-paced market.
As sales ramp up, so does the need for thorough checks on everything from Victorian renovations in Grant Park to new builds in East Point. Certification through organizations like the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is key, and no sales license is needed.
Pay ranges from $55,000 for starters to $90,000 for veterans, often with flexible scheduling.
4. Real Estate Photographer: Capturing Curb Appeal
In a digital age, stunning visuals sell properties faster – and Atlanta’s vibrant listings need pros who can highlight Buckhead luxury or Ponce City Market lofts under the golden hour.
This creative role involves shooting high-res photos and virtual tours, requiring photography skills over any real estate credential. With remote work options, it’s ideal for freelancers.
Local gigs pay $40,000–$70,000, with top shooters pulling in more through volume.
5. Title Examiner: Unraveling Property Histories
Title examiners review public records to ensure clear ownership chains, flagging liens or disputes before transactions close. As Atlanta’s market matures with more flips and investments, this meticulous job prevents costly snags.
A background in legal research helps, but no license is mandatory. Salaries average $50,000–$75,000, with steady demand from title companies downtown.
6. Real Estate Staging Specialist: Transforming Spaces
Stagers furnish and decorate empty homes to appeal to buyers, boosting sale prices by up to 20% in competitive spots like Atlanta’s intown condos.
Blending interior design with market savvy, this artistic career thrives on trends like sustainable decor for eco-conscious millennials.
Certification from the Real Estate Staging Association adds credibility. Earnings vary from $45,000 salaried to $100,000+ for independents charging per project.
7. Development Coordinator: Building Atlanta’s Future
For big-picture thinkers, coordinating real estate development involves permitting, budgeting, and stakeholder management for new projects.
Atlanta’s growth as a film and tech epicenter fuels mega-developments like the BeltLine expansions. A degree in urban planning or business helps, but hands-on experience trumps licenses. Mid-level roles fetch $70,000–$120,000, with room to climb in a city reshaping its skyline.
These roles not only sidestep the variability of agent commissions but also offer work-life balance and direct ties to Atlanta’s economic pulse – from job growth in high-income sectors to a vacancy rate stabilizing around 27% in office spaces.
Final Word
As the market evolves, professionals in these positions will be pivotal in sustaining momentum.Ready to stake your claim?
Atlanta Job Hub lists hundreds of openings in these and more real estate-adjacent fields. Browse our site today, upload your resume, and connect with recruiters shaping the Peach State’s property landscape. Your next chapter in real estate awaits – no license required.
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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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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:
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.
Up next: The best Airbnbs in Atlanta
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.More Articles From AtlantaFi:
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Though home sales have slightly declined recently, metro area home values remain steady, per recent real estate data.
You may be curious to know how much an average Atlanta home costs in the current real estate market.
What Is The Average Price Of A Home In Atlanta?
According to recent figures from Zillow, the average value of a home in Atlanta is $396,813, which is down more than 4.6% compared to last year. Obviously, the state’s capital city would have the highest home values.
The average home in Atlanta consists of:
- 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
- A one-quarter acre lot
- Central air and heating unit
In Georgia, the average home value is about $301,978, according to Zillow. The Peach State has experienced about a 23.7% increase in home values over the last 18 months.
Are Home Prices Dropping In Atlanta?
In Atlanta, home prices are starting to cool after a string of months that saw gains across all types of units. Even the cost of land is high in Georgia now.
Here are the average home prices across the top 10 metro areas, according to Realtor.com’s latest calculations.
April 2024 Housing Overview of the 50 Largest Metros
Metro Area Active Listing
Count YoYNew Listing
Count YoYMedian Days
on MarketMedian Days
on Market Y-Y
(Days)Price–
Reduced
SharePrice-
Reduced
Share Y-Y
(Percentage
Points)Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, Ga. 42.7 % 27.4 % 39 -4 17.7 % 6.1 pp Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown, Texas 23.6 % 36.1 % 42 -3 24.7 % -2.5 pp Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, Md. 15.3 % 3.8 % 36 -1 12.0 % 2.6 pp Birmingham-Hoover, Ala. 36.5 % 23.6 % 46 1 14.9 % 2.6 pp Boston-Cambridge-Newton, Mass.-N.H. 7.5 % 4.5 % 24 -1 10.4 % 1.2 pp Buffalo-Cheektowaga, N.Y. 5.1 % 3.4 % 34 -6 5.3 % -0.3 pp Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, N.C.-S.C. 31.9 % 20.3 % 37 -2 16.9 % 5.7 pp Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Ill.-Ind.-Wis. 0.1 % 7.4 % 34 -4 8.5 % 0.2 pp Cincinnati, Ohio-Ky.-Ind. 23.2 % 9.4 % 32 1 10.7 % 3.3 pp Cleveland-Elyria, Ohio -2.4 % 3.4 % 39 -3 11.1 % 1.7 pp 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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Porsha Williams, star of Real Housewives of Atlanta, has listed her Duluth, Georgia home for $1.85 million, where her mother currently lives.
Williams, navigating a divorce from businessman Simon Guobadia, cited financial protection as the motive, stating, “I’m not gonna let a foreclosure notice come to my house and I can’t pay it.”
Selling the property is crucial for her to qualify for a mortgage on the marital home post-divorce. Although her other home is where she films at.
Porsha has said that her divorce has really affected her emotionally.
“My divorce from Simon, I haven’t dealt with the emotional part yet. I’ve had to deal with logistics. It’s really weird. It feels really cold,” was quoted as saying.
“The hardest part is that we are in this place and that we are not friends and we don’t speak. And I don’t know if we’ll ever hold space again together. I really hate that,” she told one publication.
The 6,166-square-foot estate, built in 2004, boasts five bedrooms, 5½ bathrooms, and sits on a 0.77-acre lot.
It features high ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, premium finishes, and a three-car garage. Priced at approximately $300 per square foot with a $246 monthly HOA fee, the home has been on the market for over three weeks.
Porsha Williams’ Duluth Home for Sale: Details

Based on the provided information, Porsha Williams’ Duluth, Georgia home, listed for $1.85 million, includes the following amenities:
- Size: Approximately 6,166 square feet
- Bedrooms: 5
- Bathrooms: 5½
- Lot Size: 0.77 acres
- Year Built: 2004
- Features:
- High ceilings
- Gourmet kitchen
- Upscale finishes
- Three-car garage
- HOA Fee: $246 monthly
View an online gallery of the home.

Final Word
“So even though divorce is a horrible thing, it’s like a death in the family, it was something that was right for me to do and something that was right for him as well,” Porsha said.
Given her ability to bounce back, we think Porsha’s going to be alright.
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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While being a necessity, paying property taxes can be a burden on the oldest citizens among us. A new initiative from the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta makes it easier for residents to pay their property taxes.
The City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta have launched an anti-displacement tax relief fund program for older residents. The program is funded by $10 million from the Centennial Yards Housing Trust Fund.
How To Quality for Atlanta’s Tax Relief Fund Program
For qualified applicants, the tax relief program will pay an increase in taxes above the homeowner’s base taxes, for 20 years. All they have to do is continue to qualify for the program.
To be eligible, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be a City of Atlanta homeowner since 2015;
- Be aged 60 or older;
- Have proof of ownership;
- Have a household income of 60% AMI or below;
- Be actively enrolled in qualifying homestead exemption programs; and
- Go to https://fultonassessor.org/exemption to apply.
How Long Is the Anti-Displacement Program Open?
The Atlanta Anti-Displacement Program is open through May 31, 2025.
Apply to the tax relief program here.
Displacement among elderly Americans is driven by a mix of economic, social, and environmental factors, often intertwined with their unique vulnerabilities. Here’s a breakdown of key contributors:
- Economic Pressures:
- Rising Housing Costs: Fixed incomes from Social Security or pensions often can’t keep up with increasing rent or property taxes, especially in urban areas. For example, gentrification in cities like San Francisco has priced out many seniors.
- Healthcare Costs: High medical expenses can drain savings, forcing elders to sell homes or move to cheaper areas. The Kaiser Family Foundation notes that seniors spend about 16% of their income on healthcare.
- Lack of Affordable Housing: Limited access to subsidized senior housing or low-income units pushes many into precarious living situations.
- Social and Family Dynamics:
- Loss of Support Networks: Death of a spouse or family members can leave elders isolated, prompting relocation to be closer to caregivers or assisted living.
- Family Financial Strain: Adult children facing their own economic challenges may be unable to support aging parents, leading to moves to more affordable regions or facilities.
- Health and Accessibility Issues:
- Physical Limitations: Aging in place becomes difficult if homes aren’t modified for mobility issues (e.g., stairs, no elevators). Many seniors relocate to assisted living or single-story homes.
- Access to Care: Rural elders may move to urban areas for better healthcare access, while urban seniors might move to suburbs for quieter, more manageable environments.
Final Word
The City of Atlanta has forwarded several initiatives to help its oldest residents, including a successful food program.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Summer Wilson of Atlanta, Georgia says she has her goals on a micro home on the city’s south side.
“I’ve pretty much just been doing my research, looking for the right area and situation,” the Maryland native says. Micro homes are becoming a literal cottage industry around Georgia’s largest city.
Where Are the Micro Home Communities in Atlanta?
In the Atlanta area, South Park Cottages is a notable micro-home community, offering 29 homes on a 2.5-acre property.
It’s located about 10 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and is known for its modern, smaller homes and community focus. Techie Homes, founded by Booker T. Washington, is also developing micro-home communities like Union Park Cottages and South Park Cottages in the Atlanta area.
South Park Cottages

The South Park Cottages in College Park, Georgia, have limited availability (three were listed as of this writing) priced between $200,000 and $300,000.
- Location: College Park, near Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
- Features: 29 micro homes, walking trails.
- Home sizes: 400-600 square feet.
- Price range: Under $300,000.
- Developer: Booker T. Washington.
Union Park Cottages

Union Park Cottages offer a micro-home community with a technology lab and coffee. The structures also offer financing programs that include $5,000 in builder purchases, which can be utilized for closing cost or upgrades.
Mustard Seed Tiny Homes

At Mustard Seed Tiny Homes in Buford, Georgia, buyers get a premium tiny house in modular structures. These are permanently placed homes that become a landmark in the community and city.
The homes are small, but are known to be high-end designed, yet affordable. They are built with high quality materials and modern amenities.
Tiny Homes of The South
Venture to Tiny Homes of the South and you’ll find park model tiny homes and connects with manufacturers for cost-effective options.
Heritage Housing
Heritage Housing: A mobile home dealership with a wide array of new mobile homes for sale.
Wilson, mentioned earlier, says she prefers a micro home because of the cost savings compared to a regular-sized home.
“What I like most is that tiny homes are portable, which is something I’ve researched. They give me more flexibility to relocate without the commitment of a permanent residence, if that’s what I choose to do,” she says.
Micro Homes: Pros and Cons
Here’s a table outlining the pros and cons of living in a tiny home:
Pros Cons Affordability: Lower purchase price and reduced maintenance costs compared to traditional homes. Limited Space: Restricted room for belongings, furniture, and living activities, which can feel cramped. Lower Utility Costs: Smaller space means reduced energy consumption for heating, cooling, and electricity. Storage Challenges: Minimal storage space can make organization and clutter management difficult. Environmental Impact: Smaller footprint reduces resource use and carbon emissions. Lifestyle Adjustments: Requires significant downsizing and adaptation to minimalist living. Mobility: Many tiny homes (especially on wheels) allow for easy relocation. Zoning Restrictions: Local laws may limit where tiny homes can be placed or lived in long-term. Simpler Living: Encourages minimalism, reducing clutter and focusing on essentials. Privacy Issues: Limited space can make it hard to host guests or find personal space in shared living. Quick Build Time: Tiny homes can be built or purchased faster than traditional homes. Resale Value: May have lower resale value or a smaller market compared to conventional homes. Customizability: Easier to design or personalize a small space to fit specific needs. Utility Limitations: Some tiny homes lack full plumbing, electricity, or modern amenities. This table reflects common considerations based on why people like and dislike micro homes, although considerations may vary based on specifics like location, materials and climate.
Want to know 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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The average cost of an Atlanta home has edged upward over the past year, putting even more strain on local affordable housing. Is the trend expected to continue in the short term? Keep reading.
How Much Does A Home Cost In Atlanta?
The median price for a home in Atlanta sold for $404,000, an increase of 1.0% from last January. The average sales price was $500,500, up 4.1% from the previous year.
Are Houses Expensive In Atlanta?
The median sales price continues to increase for single-family residential properties in Atlanta as well as other major cities across the country. That means homes in Georgia’s largest city are considered expensive.Here are some more Atlanta housing statistics from Rocket Homes from January 2025, the latest available at this writing:
What Is The Price Of An Atlanta Home By Bedroom Count?
Beds Jan 2024 Jan 2025 Change YoY 1 Bedroom $254.9K $256.3K +0.6%2 Bedrooms $333.2K $345K +3.6%3 Bedrooms $381.6K $399.2K +4.6%4 Bedrooms $575K $586.8K +2.0%5+ Bedrooms $899.2K $955.5K +6.3%Atlanta Housing Market: A Refresher
Atlanta’s leaders in the late 1990s took on the challenge of breaking up the city’s concentrated poverty. This meant that housing projects had to be demolished. That’s exactly what happened.
The large-scale demolition helped spread low-income families throughout metro Atlanta, especially in Clayton and Fayette counties.
Due to the rising costs of inflation, affordable housing began to dwindle in Atlanta. This has increased due to the growth of the Beltline.
Since 2005, more than 2,600 affordable workforce units have been created within walking distance of the Atlanta Beltline. But more must be done.
The city is committed to building 5,600 housing units that are affordable.
Final Word
Purchasing a home may not be as affordable as it used to, but as long as you take the proper steps, including getting an inspection, it can work out.
When it comes to buying land your risk is not as great, but it still takes strategy. On the other hand, you may want to explore the rental market if it makes more dollars and sense for your wallet.
If a home is what you need for you or your family, it may be time to make some money moves to come up with a mortgage.
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Former NBA star Dwight Howard listed his expansive 32,000-square-foot Rose Hill Estate in Suwanee, just outside Atlanta, for $11.25 million on January 31, 2025.
The property, known as Rose Hill Estate, is located at 5200 Moore Road, approximately 35 miles northeast of Atlanta.
Dwight Howard Lists Atlanta-Area Mansion
Built in 2010 at a reported cost of $40 million, the mansion features 10 bedrooms, 12 full baths, 9 half-baths, and six full kitchens. Amenities include a home theater, game room, gym, heated saltwater pool, half-court basketball court, and a private lake with a dock.

Photo credit: Zillow
Howard’s Rose Hill Estate in Suwanee, Georgia, is a luxurious 32,000-square-foot mansion situated on 14 gated acres. Built in 2010 at a reported cost of $40 million, the property blends European-style architecture with modern amenities. Howard purchased the estate in 2016 for $8.8 million, and as of January 2025, it is listed for sale at $11.25 million.
Key Features:
- Bedrooms and Bathrooms: 10 bedrooms, 12 full baths, and 9 half-baths.
- Kitchens: Six full kitchens equipped with high-end appliances.
- Primary Suite: Includes a private balcony, two fireplaces, and separate baths and closets.
- Entertainment Spaces: Home theater, game room, gym, and a unique custom-built snake room featured on Animal Planet’s “Tanked.” Online Athens
- Outdoor Amenities: Heated saltwater pool, half-court basketball court, private lake with a dock, and landscaped grounds.
- Additional Features: Elevator, multiple living and dining areas, and a garage accommodating over 10 vehicles.
Dwight Howard’s mansion in Suwanee, Georgia, is a 32,000-square-foot estate with luxury amenities, including:
- 10 bedrooms
- 12 full bathrooms & 9 half-baths
- 6 full kitchens
- Home theater
- Game room
- Gym
- Indoor basketball half-court
- Heated saltwater pool
- Private lake with a dock
- Aquarium & snake room
- Outdoor kitchen & entertainment area
- Multiple living and dining spaces
Howard purchased the estate in 2016 while playing for the Atlanta Hawks. Given the recent listing, his current residence is not publicly disclosed.

Photo credit: Zillow
Final Word
This high-profile listing highlights the luxury real estate market in the Atlanta metro area, showcasing a property with significant size and amenities drawing attention to the region’s upscale housing trends. It also is a symbol of the many celebrities with Atlanta-area mansions.
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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