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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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The New Home Lot Supply Index (LSI) has reached 60.8, indicating a 1.7% decrease from the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. That being said, Atlanta has been found to have adequate lot supply, according to a recent report from Zonda, a real estate data services company.
This suggests that the market remains “significantly undersupplied” nationally, a trend persisting since 2017, according to new figures just released in February 2025. However, on a quarter-over-quarter basis, lot supply increased by 5.4% from the third quarter of 2024, reflecting a gradual improvement in availability.
Ali Wolf, chief economist at Zonda, noted, “Land and lot supply is at the healthiest levels we’ve seen in years.”
What Is the New Home Lot Supply Index?
The New Home Lot Supply Index measures the availability of developed lots for new home construction.
A higher index indicates a greater supply of lots, which can support more new home construction, while a lower index suggests a tighter supply, potentially leading to higher home prices and slower construction growth.
Between 2021 and 2022, builders were concerned about a potential shortage of buildable lots due to rapid demand growth. However, lot supply surged in late 2022 and early 2023 as consumer demand softened while lot development continued. Currently, the market is characterized by steady growth in both lot supply and new housing starts.
Lot Supply: A Snapshot of America
Year-over-year, lot supply tightened in most major metropolitan areas during the fourth quarter of 2024, with 17 out of 30 markets experiencing a decrease, down from 22 in the previous quarter.
Notably, Orlando, San Francisco, and Nashville saw the most significant loosening in land supply. In these areas, fourth-quarter housing starts varied compared to the previous year: Orlando experienced a 7% increase, San Francisco a 5% rise, while Nashville saw a 2% decline.
Atlanta Lot Supply Deemed Adequate
Three markets—Austin, Atlanta, and Dallas—are now considered appropriately supplied, while San Antonio remains slightly undersupplied. In the fourth quarter, housing starts increased year-over-year in three of these markets, with Austin being the exception. Vacant developed lots (VDLs) also rose in three markets, excluding Atlanta.
Atlanta Housing Market Trends
Population Growth: Atlanta has been experiencing significant population growth, driven by its strong job market, relatively low cost of living, and quality of life. This growth increases demand for housing.
Housing Demand: The demand for housing in Atlanta has been robust, leading to a competitive market for both existing homes and new construction.
Supply Constraints: Like many growing cities, Atlanta has faced challenges with land availability and zoning regulations, which can impact the New Home Lot Supply Index.
Construction Activity: Despite supply constraints, construction activity has been relatively strong, with developers working to meet the high demand for housing.
Factors Influencing the New Home Lot Supply Index include land availability, which is the amount of available land for development is a critical factor. Urban areas like Atlanta often face limitations due to geographic and regulatory constraints.
Another factor is zoning and regulations. Local zoning laws and building regulations can impact the ability to develop new lots.
Final Word
Total future lots, expected to be delivered over the next 12 to 18 months, increased by 13.2% year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2024 but declined by 6.7% from the previous quarter. While the annual growth is notable, it’s important to recognize that the fourth quarter of 2023 represented a recent low point in the data. Overall, upcoming lots were 5.7% higher in 2024 compared to 2023 and 14.4% more in the fourth quarter of 2024 than in the same period in 2019.
In summary, while the national lot supply remains undersupplied, recent data indicates a positive trend toward increased availability, offering a more balanced outlook for future housing developments.
The Peach State’s largest city 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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As a major city in the Southeast, Atlanta has benefited from an influx of new employment opportunities, additional residents, and all of that has led to heightened competition for housing.
This increased demand in metro Atlanta has elevated home prices in a competitive real estate market.
A recent report from Realtor.com indicates that Atlanta is among the top real estate markets in America.
To come up with the list of hottest markets, Zillow analyzed the 50 largest U.S. metro areas for the following:
- home value growth
- projected change in owner-occupied households
- job growth compared to new construction
- the speed at which homes are sold
Top Real Estate Markets in America
Based on recent forecasts and analyses, here are the top 25 real estate markets in the United States for 2025:
- Colorado Springs, CO
- Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, FL
- Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC
- El Paso, TX
- Richmond, VA
- Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL
- McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX
- Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ
- Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, GA
- Greensboro-High Point, NC
- Tucson, AZ
- Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown, TX
- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC
- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC
- Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR
- Jacksonville, FL
- Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL
- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA
- Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO
- Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ
- Columbia, SC
- Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL
- Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL
- Greenville-Anderson, SC
Why Is Atlanta a Top Real Estate Market?
Atlanta is considered a top real estate market due to several factors that have been at play for the last few decades:
Economic Growth: The city’s robust economy, driven by sectors such as information technology, film and television production, and a growing tech industry, attracts businesses and professionals alike. This economic vitality fuels demand for both residential and commercial properties.
Population Influx: Atlanta continues to experience significant population growth, with many individuals relocating to the city for its employment opportunities and vibrant culture. This influx contributes to a strong demand in the housing market.
Affordability: Despite rising home prices, Atlanta maintains a more manageable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities. This relative affordability makes it attractive to both homebuyers and investors.
Rental Market Strength: The city boasts a robust rental market, driven by a transient population and a consistent influx of students and professionals. This dynamic supports strong rental demand, benefiting property investors.
Market Resilience: Atlanta’s housing market has demonstrated resilience, with home prices appreciating at a normalized rate of about 3-6% annually. This steady growth indicates a healthy and stable market.
Final Word
Atlanta has always been a region known for the best real estate markets, with relatively cheap 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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Rapper Cardi B. has made Atlanta her home in the last several years after marrying fellow rapper Offset, who is from Gwinnett County. Now Cardi B, who also owns a home in Los Angeles, is ready to part ways with her Atlanta mansion.
Speaking on social media, Cardi posted that “mi casa … I don’t want it no more,” referring to a photo of the mansion, one of many celebrity mansions in Atlanta. She went on to say that she didn’t feel at home in Atlanta or anywhere except New York, which is where she’s from.
Cardi B and Offset, who she has parted ways with, bought the Atlanta home in 2019 of stardom for her husband’s group, Migos.
Is Cardi B Putting Her Home Up for Sale?
While it’s not up for sale just yet, the Atlanta mansion is a contemporary structure that is sure to draw plenty of attention from rich home seekers in Buckhead, one of the city’s most expensive neighborhoods.
Cardi B and Offset’s Atlanta mansion, purchased in December 2019, is a stunning estate located in a gated neighborhood in the affluent Buckhead area of Atlanta, Georgia. Here are the details:
Square Footage and Property Size
- Square Footage: Approximately 22,500 square feet of interior space.
- Land Area: Nearly 6 acres of land, providing privacy and plenty of outdoor space.
Key Amenities
- Bedrooms and Bathrooms
- Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, including lavishly designed suites.
- Grand Interiors
- A grand foyer with high ceilings and an impressive spiral staircase.
- Spacious living areas with luxurious finishes.
- Kitchen and Dining
- Gourmet chef’s kitchen with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry.
- Formal and casual dining areas.
- Recreational Features
- A game room for entertainment.
- A private wine cellar.
- Private Theater
- A dedicated home cinema for movie nights.
- Outdoor Spaces
- Resort-style swimming pool with a spa.
- Manicured lawns and gardens.
- Multiple patios and outdoor seating areas.
- Security and Privacy
- Located in a gated community with additional security features.
- Additional Luxury Touches
- Walk-in closets, custom fixtures, and unique architectural details throughout.
The mansion’s grandeur reflects Cardi B and Offset’s bold and lavish style, and it has become a centerpiece for their family and social gatherings.
Final Word
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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Have you ever thought about renting your home out to a film production company? Atlanta, Georgia, is a movie mecca, so it’s easy to find projects that need a location. When you take a look at your home, you may not see extra money, but that’s exactly what it can be. All you have to do is rent your your home for services that are in demand. One thing that may be in need near you are filming locations. Your house no doubt is the largest purchase you’ve ever made. Now it’s time for the big pay back. Check out these ways that you could rent out your home to earn extra money.How To Rent Your House To Earn Extra Money
Not only are these methods fairly easy in a city like Atlanta, but this can work in any city in America.Let’s look at five steps you must do to rent your home and be successful:1. Make Sure You’re Landlord Material
It may sound strange, but just because you have a home for rent doesn’t mean you’re a good landlord.It’s actually a lot of work, especially in the beginning.Lots of legal paperwork as well as physical labor.Of course, you can always hire a property manager. That will drew up your time and mind, but that will also eat into your bottom line.Here are some of the tasks of a landlord:- Take care of repairs
- Handle all maintenance
- Pay insurance & property taxes
- Collect rent
- Get along with the tenant
If you’re up to the tasks, you can make some real money by renting your home.2. Clean Up
The first thing you’re going to have to do is get your home professionally cleaned or gather some friends and family for a big scrub-down.Only with a thorough cleaning can you see what kind of condition the home is in. Only then can you see how much rent your house can fetch on the open market.You will want to scrub baseboards, mop floors, wipe down walls, blinds and wash curtains. Once it’s all clean, you may decide to make some modest improvements.3. Upgrades
If you have some fixtures or appliances that work but have become dated, you may choose to upgrade them.We’re not talking about major upgrades, but smaller DIY projects that could modernize the space and persuade people to stay there.A fresh coat of paint to a room or two is just one suggestion. Here are some nice touches you could add:Diamond Brite Paint 31150 5-Gallon Oil Base All Purpose Enamel Paint Grey – $109
Solar Lights Bright Pathway Outdoor Garden Stakes – $56
Dynasty Hardware Door Handles (6 Pack) – $104
Buy It4. Market Your House
Now it’s time to market your house to see if you can rent it out. Make sure you use words like “gourmet,” and “amenities.” Of course, always be honest in the descriptions you use.Of course you could post some flyers in the surrounding area, but today it’s way easier to market online.What Is The Best Website For Rental Homes?
Here are some of the best sites to list your house for rent:Believe it or not, some Realtors will help homeowners to rent out their homes. Of course, the agent will charge a commission.5. Choose The Right Tenant
The best experience you could possibly have as a landlord has everything to do with choosing the right tenant.If you rent your home to someone that likes to throw parties all the time, or is a smoker, or takes in rescue animals, you may Ed up regretting it.It’s mandatory that you screen all potential renters by running a background check. In addition to verifying employment and credit history, you should also ask for multiple references.And note: For security reasons, all of this should be done before you meet them in person.Last Thought
Renting out your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you can make.I’d highly suggest you familiarize yourself with state tenants rights and landlord rights so you know how to operate within the law.By doing your homework and due diligence, it can be a profitable endeavor.Up Next How To Make Money From Home
Atlanta has one of thebest 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.More Articles From AtlantaFi:
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Early 2025 is anticipated to bring more competition among buyers as market activity accelerates in the Atlanta area. This will likely lead to faster transactions and fewer opportunities for negotiation compared to the slower pace observed in late 2024.
The indications are that it may be an opportune time to jump into the real estate market if you’re looking for a home in metro Atlanta. According to Zillow, the city has one of the nation’s best real estate market.
Atlanta came in at number No. 7 out of the 50 largest U.S. metro areas, according to Zillow’s latest figures.
Atlanta Real Estate Market: Expect Some Heat
Home prices in Atlanta are forecasted to grow modestly. Buyers should keep an eye on mortgage rate trends, as higher rates could affect affordability, making it essential to act strategically, around 1.5% by mid-2025, reflecting a balanced market with steady appreciation.
With increased market activity and growing buyer demand, sellers can expect quicker sales in 2025. However, setting competitive prices will remain crucial as not all homes may see significant appreciation.
Here are the hottest markets forecast for 2025:
10 Hottest Housing Markets
Metro Median rent (0-2 bedrooms) YOY (0-2 bedrooms) Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, GA $1,583 -3.4 % Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown, TX $1,495 -4.2 % Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD $1,827 0.1 % Birmingham-Hoover, AL $1,253 -2.3 % Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH $2,944 -1.7 % Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY NA NA Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC $1,520 -3.8 % Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI $1,780 -4.1 % Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN $1,397 4.2 % Cleveland-Elyria, OH $1,222 0.0 % Columbus, OH $1,210 1.1 % Why Is Atlanta’s Housing Market So Hot?
Atlanta’s housing market is bustling because the metro area continues to benefit from unique factors that make it one of the most attractive cities in the Southeast.
Job growth: Atlanta has a diverse economy that continually finds new ways to grow. In 2022, you can expect the tech sector to maintain if not exceed its growth while companies continue to choose the metro stores to bedrock their home offices and headquarters.
Looking for employment? Here’s how to get hired in Atlanta.
Population growth: Despite its fullness, the city continues to attract a crowd as job seekers and empty nesters flow into the suburbs around Atlanta.
The reason people from the West Coast and Northeast continue to find Atlanta attractive is because of the amount of house they can get for the price.
Housing affordability: Even in a pandemic, Atlanta continues to be an attractive market for families looking for relatively cheap property as well as those interested in investing in rental property in 2022.
That is especially the case when 50% of the households in the metro area rent rather than own
How To Find A Home In Atlanta
The way to go about finding a home in Atlanta is to begin your search by following three steps:
Get Your Credit Score Up
Before you’re ready to buy a home, you’re going to need to get your credit score into shape. Anything under 600 will put you in a high-interest category. The way to avoid this is to take the steps months ahead to raise your credit score. You can even boost your credit score by paying your bills.
Read up on some ways to increase your credit score.
Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage
Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, your lender and any Realtor you decide to work with will take you more seriously and devote the much-needed time and energy your home search requires.
Here’s how to get pre-approved in Atlanta.
Work With A Realtor
Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, it’s time to find a Realtor. Do yourself a favor and ask those closest to you if they have any friends you have used Realtors. Referrals go a long way in the real estate industry.
Make your decision based on someone who really knows the area you want to buy in. When you talk with them, have a conversation in which you ask the questions that will let you know how knowledgeable the Realtor is.
Some questions you might ask include:
- How long have you lived in the city?
- If you could afford to live anywhere here, what neighborhood would you choose?
- What is the most important aspect of a property in your opinion?
- What are the best schools in the city in your opinion (if you have kids)?
Some of the larger realty names you should consider are:
- Keller Williams
- Harry Norman
- REMax
- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
- Coldwell Banker
- SWG Realty
- Boardwalk Realty
- Palmer House Properties
Read our guide on the best real estate companies in Atlanta.
Final Word
Finding your dream home may seem intimidating at first, but by putting in the time, it can happen for you. The pent-up demand that has been gaining steam last year is poised to emerge this year, so it’s important that you act fast if you’re in the market to buy a home in Atlanta.
The best way to do that is to start off with learning your budget. So here’s a question for you: How Much Home Can You Afford? (Calculator)
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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So you want to buy a home. If the home inspection uncovers any issues, you can use this information to negotiate with the seller. You may ask them to make repairs before closing or to lower the price of the home to account for the cost of repairs.
In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about getting a home inspection and why it’s important.
- How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
- How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
- Why Is a Home Inspection So Important?
- Top Home Inspectors In Atlanta
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the home, as well as the complexity of the inspection. On average, a home inspection may cost between $300 and $500 for a typical single-family home. However, prices can range higher or lower based on these factors.
It’s important to note that while cost is a consideration, the quality and thoroughness of the inspection are also crucial. It’s generally recommended to hire a qualified and experienced home inspector who will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property, even if it means paying a slightly higher fee.
When budgeting for a home inspection, it’s also important to consider the potential savings or negotiation leverage that a thorough inspection can provide. Uncovering major issues with the property can allow you to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller, potentially saving you money in the long run.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
The amount of time a home inspection takes depend on several factors, including the size and condition of the home, as well as the thoroughness of the inspection. On average, a typical home inspection for a single-family home can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete.
However, larger or more complex homes may require more time to inspect thoroughly, while smaller or simpler homes may take less time. Additionally, if the inspector identifies significant issues during the inspection, they may need additional time to assess the severity of the problems or to gather more information.
Why Is a Home Inspection So Important?
Getting a home inspection before buying a home is important for several reasons:
Identifying Potential Problems
A home inspection can uncover any issues with the property that may not be visible to the naked eye. This can include structural problems, safety hazards, or issues with the electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems.
The inspector should assess the insulation levels and ventilation in the attic and crawl spaces to ensure energy efficiency and prevent moisture problems.
A good home inspector will also look for any safety hazards, such as exposed wiring, trip hazards, or other issues that could pose a risk to occupants.
Finding Out the True Condition of the Property
A home inspection provides a detailed report on the condition of the property, giving you a clear understanding of what you’re buying and any repairs or maintenance that may be needed.
Budgeting for Future Maintenance
Even if the home is in good condition, the inspection report can help you plan for future maintenance and repairs, allowing you to budget accordingly.
Top Home Inspectors In Atlanta
Although this is a partial list, we’ve really heard great things about these Atlanta home inspectors.
- US Inspect
- Atlanta Home Inspector
- Castle Home Inspections
- Discovery Inspections
- Inspect-All Services
Final Word
It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced home inspector who will take the time needed to conduct a thorough evaluation 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.
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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Rent prices are creeping up in Atlanta and across Georgia and it’s the usual culprits, demand and lack of inventory. If you’re looking to rent an apartment, you’ll almost certainly face sticker shock.
Since COVID-19 first raised its ugly head in February 2020, the average selling price of a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house in Georgia has jumped 56%, reflecting a huge demand coupled with a serious supply shortage.
What Is The Average Rent In Atlanta?
The average rent in Atlanta is $1,521 a month, according to a 2024 analysis from ApartmentList.com. The city has been one of the most expensive metropolitan areas for people looking for apartments in recent years.
Why Are Rent Prices So High?
Rent prices have skyrocketed of late because of simple supply-and-demand economics that touch on two main issues affecting Georgia and much of the nation:
- Rental Unit Shortage: There are not as many housing units to meet population demand in the Atlanta area. The same is true for much of the United States.
- Housing Shortage: Because people can’t find homes to rent, that has led to a supply issue with rental units as well. Both markets are seeing premium pricing as a result.
Here are the average prices for a studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment in Atlanta. For average apartment sizes, we used analysis from RentCafe.com.
Apartments Average Size Average Monthly Rent Studio 500-600 square feet $1,629 One-Bedroom 786 square feet $1,862 Two-Bedroom 1,125 square feet $2,431 Three-Bedroom 1,200 square feet and up $2,882 How To Lower Your Rental Costs
Saving on apartment rent can make a big difference in your overall budget. Here are some strategies to help you reduce rental costs or get more value out of your apartment:
1. Negotiate the Rent
- Timing is key: Landlords are often more open to negotiation at the end of a lease term or during the off-season (typically winter months, when fewer people are moving).
- Use market comparisons: Research similar apartments in your area. If you find similar places at a lower rent, use that as leverage when negotiating.
- Offer to sign a longer lease: If you’re willing to commit for a longer period, like 18 months or 2 years, landlords may offer a lower rate in exchange for stability.
2. Look for Apartments in Less Expensive Neighborhoods
- Expand your search area: Often, renting in up-and-coming or less trendy neighborhoods can save you hundreds of dollars each month while still offering good amenities.
- Consider proximity to transit: Apartments a few blocks from major transit lines or bus routes can be more affordable, but still offer great access to the city center.
3. Look for Rent Specials or Promotions
- Move-in incentives: Many landlords offer promotional discounts, such as one month free or a reduced rent for the first few months. These promotions can save you a significant amount over time.
- Seasonal deals: Rent prices may drop during slower times of the year (e.g., winter months), so you may get a better deal during these periods.
4. Consider a Roommate
- Split the rent: If you’re open to sharing, getting a roommate or two can dramatically lower your rent. In many cases, you can rent a two-bedroom or three-bedroom place for much less than the cost of a single unit.
- Negotiate together: If you’re moving in with a roommate, you can negotiate as a group for a better rate, especially if you’re willing to sign a longer-term lease.
5. Downsize or Adjust Your Space Requirements
- Opt for a smaller unit: Consider moving into a smaller apartment or a studio. If you don’t need extra space, downsizing can save you money.
- Adjust the amenities: If you’re currently in a luxury building with lots of amenities you don’t use, consider moving to a simpler building that doesn’t charge for features you don’t need.
Final Word
The average rent price in Atlanta tops more than $2,000, but that figure depends on several factors like unit type, which side of town it’s on and the affordable alternative housing options in the area.
Rent prices will also depend on which kinds of amenities — like nice pools — are offered.
Here’s how to find an apartment to rent.
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