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Single women have made some serious strides toward homeownership in the last 15 years, according to a recent report from Zillow.
The real estate platform says the share of female renters who can afford a home has increased in 37 of the top 50 metros that Zillow analyzed, including Atlanta.
Women See Increased Buying Power In Atlanta, Says Report
The metro areas with the highest single female buying power rates are:
- Cleveland (29.5%)
- Cincinnati (26.9%)
- Atlanta (25.1%)
As great as the progress for women has been, none of the metropolitan areas analyzed by Zillow show them having more purchasing power than men.
For the most part, the challenges of getting equitable pay, affordable child care and other benefits, continue to play a role in gender disparities, according to Zillow.
Here are some key findings about Atlanta:
- 25.1% of single women renters can afford a home in Atlanta. That’s 7.9% their male counterparts.
- Single female buying power increased 4.5% since 2005.
- The gap between single men and women buying power has increased 4.5% over the past 15 years.
Zillow also estimates that nearly 2 million renter households could afford homeownership if given the flexibility to work from home and move into starter homes in cheaper locales.
Are You Saving For A Home?
Although homeownership is on the rise among women in Atlanta, many still aren’t in a position to afford it.
As many businesswomen that the city produces, it seems just as many of them aren’t able to get ahead.
Because you’ll need to save money incrementally, it’s good to put together a plan to set cash aside each month. How much should you save? It depends.
Looking for a new house? Here’s how to save for a home.
Final Words
Homeownership is one of the best purchases an American can make. In Atlanta, women are making strides in that regard.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
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A new report lists Druid Hills as one of the nation’s best suburbs based on several economic factors including household income, house prices and more.
Now, while it’s certainly a nice enclave that people want to live in, Druid Hills is not really a suburb, but we’ll take it.
Home lending site RenoFi analyzed more than 600 suburban areas in the United States to arrive at its list. The criteria used in the study are:derived from eight livability factors that would make the destination more livable.
In addition to home prices, some of the factors included:
- Crime rate
- Unemployment ratio
- Property taxes
- Clinician to patient ratio
Let’s look at the numbers:
Here Are The Most Livable Cities In The USA
Rank
Suburb
City
Population
Median household income
Median household income growth
Median house price
Median house price growth
Overall livability score /10
1
Druid Hills
Atlanta
8,365
$123,405
31.10%
$573,400
15.60%
7.6
2
Falls Church
Washington, D.C.
14,128
$124,796
8.71%
$757,300
2.06%
7.57
3
Pimmit Hills
Washington, D.C.
6,223
$131,118
14.80%
$612,900
16.60%
7.52
4
Melrose
Boston
28,113
$103,743
11.00%
$508,700
9.80%
7.41
4
Pleasant Ridge
Detroit
2,431
$116,583
14.00%
$332,900
12.50%
7.41
Another metro Atlanta location makes an appearance in the statistics when it comes to real estate property values. East Point, Georgia is listed 9th when it comes to suburbs with the greatest annual home prices growth.
East Point, which is about four miles from downtown Atlanta, has some great things to do there.
You can view the full study here.
When it comes to a livable area, Atlanta’s neighborhoods have quite a few amenities to chose from. If you like food halls, there’s quite a few as well as the walking space provided by the Beltline.
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.
More Articles From AtlantaFi:
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There’s more to the Atlanta area than what’s inside the perimeter. If you’re looking for a place to live in Georgia, you might want to consider somewhere in metro Atlanta.
The metro Atlanta area consists mainly of five counties that make up the bulk of where nearly 6 million people live.
If you’re thinking about moving to Georgia and looking for an affordable apartment, this article is a resource. But what are some of the best places?
Apartment Therapy recently listed some of the top spots to reside in the Atlanta area.
1. Sandy Springs
Population: 108,797
Median home listing price: $491,008
Median monthly rent: $2,0882. Roswell
Population: 94,650
Median home listing price: $411,516
Median monthly rent: $1,9953. Johns Creek
Population: 84,310
Median home listing price: $430,525
Median monthly rent: $2,0004. Alpharetta
Population: 66,255
Median home listing price: $410,134
Median monthly rent: $1,8955. Marietta
Population: 60,806
Median home listing price: $301,631
Median monthly rent: $1,6476. Dunwoody
Population: 49,459
Median home listing price: $460,077
Median monthly rent: $2,2007. Milton
Population: 39,217
Median home listing price: $558,765
Median monthly rent: $2,0958. Peachtree City
Population: 35,766
Median home listing price: $346,716
Median monthly rent: $1,9009. Kennesaw
Population: 34,172
Median home listing price: $254,303
Median monthly rent: $1,58510. Woodstock
Population: 32,234
Median home listing price: $276,799
Median monthly rent: $1,600Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.
Where Do Black Professionals Hang Out In Atlanta?
Atlanta has been called the black mecca due to its large African-American population. If you’re wondering where many black people in Atlanta hang out, here are some of the nightlife establishments they frequent.
Revel
1778 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, (404) 355-6800
Revel is one of Atlanta’s hottest clubs, catering to the young millennials looking for a respite from the professional world on the weekends. Every Friday and Saturday, it’s ladies free til 12 am with open bar til midnight as well. Come and see Big Tigger x V103 Dj Pnut on the ones and twos.
One Google reviewer says: “This is a world-class first-class venue with an excellent light show and definitely an upscale feel I love the fact that you can run into any and everybody from celebrities athletes to your neighbor.”
Here’s what it’s like inside Club Revel in Atlanta.
Truth Lounge
1100 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 262-7112
Photo credit: Youtube Truth Lounge is another club on the well-known party strip Crescent Avenue in Midtown. Known for “Krave Saturdays,” Truth Lounge is also a great happy hour option afterwork.
One Google reviewer says: “Cool spot. Really loud music, maybe too loud. Cool place to bring your friends to dance & smoke a few hookahs(if you’re into that kinda stuff). It can also be a bit crowded.”
Whiskey Blue located in the W Hotel in Buckhead is a cool, hip place for young professionals to gather for an afterwork drink. The rooftop lounge allows you to enjoy a cocktail looking out on the Buckhead skyline.One Google reviewer says: “The staff is always nice. Really good drinks. Beautiful views. It’s a very small lounge so it gets crowded fast. They recently redesigned the interior. This is a great place to visit for a weekend cocktail or beer after work.”The Gold Room is a favorite spot for visitors looking to experience some authentic Atlanta nightlife. The place can be a bit smokey at times, but the music is on point.One Google reviewer says: “he DJ was freaking awesome! I wouldn’t go again without a section. You could barely even make way to the bar. Hookah was great. That “body to body” stuff is not the wave anymore. Other than that, two thumbs up!”Club LaCura ATL
1919 Metropolitan Pkwy SW A, Atlanta, GA 30315, (404) 749-7898
Club LaCura is a vibrant “neighborhood” club catering to Zone 3 on Metropolitan Parkway. The club that brings a lot of med-level rappers and entertainers to rock the crowd. If you’re a fan of underground rappers, LaCura often books those types of artists.
One Google reviewer says: “I am from Jacksonville FL was visiting for my Birthday July 7. This place was the Best they showed so much love to a sister in there. I will definitely recommend anyone to celebrate their whatever in Lacura. Thank you to the Beautifull bar tenders, The DJ you sir who had on the black pants and black n white shirt you yeah you with the dreads omg I can’t stop thinking of you and More importantly thank you Mr. Peewee… Love from DUVALLL Baby.”Mansion Elan
3595 Clairmont Rd, Atlanta, GA 30319, (404) 997-6901
Photo credit: Youtube Mansion Elan is a relatively new addition to Atlanta’s nightlife, but you should definitely add it to your things to do in Atlanta list. Although they advertise a “free with text” option, it may make you wait in line, but that’s OK. Once inside, you’ll enjoy the vibe.One Google reviewer says: “Music Great !!!!! A mix of sounds Grade equipment you can breathe not a smoke-filled environment….. yeah. The renovations are spectacularly beautiful to any clubs from Vegas to Miami recommend this spots.”Interested in more places to party in Atlanta? Check out these Atlanta clubs.Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit to a craft brewery in the city.
Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
- For a month’s view: The Official Atlanta Events Calendar
- For a more immediate look, check Things to do in Atlanta This Week
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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If you’re facing the foreclosure of your home, it can be an anxious time. In Georgia, you have good reason to be. Atlanta also has the fourth-highest share of mortgage delinquencies.
This article will show you what you need to do to stop a foreclosure in your home in Georgia.
What Is The Foreclosure Process?
The foreclosure process begins when the bank sends you notification that your home will be repossessed in a matter of days.
The actual foreclosure typically occurs on the steps of City Hall and is administered by the sheriff of the presiding county of where the property is located.
For example, to witness or take part in a foreclosure auction in Fulton County, you’d need to be on the Fulton County Courthouse steps as the sheriff’s deputy begins the process by listing properties.
By federal law, foreclosure auctions must be advertised in a newspaper of record. That’s why it’s important to check newspaper listings, especially papers that specialize in real estate listings.
In addition to newspapers, foreclosure listings can also be found:
- Legal publications
- Courthouse steps
Now that you know what to expect at a foreclosure auction, let’s talk about how to avoid it.
How Can I Stop My Home From Foreclosure?
Here are some ways you can stop your home from being foreclosed on.
1. Reach Out To Your Lender
The #1 way to avoid foreclosure is to contact your lender and see if you can renegotiate your mortgage. This may involve setting up a payment plan to catch up or agreeing to make a balloon payment.
The lender may have tried to get you to work something out earlier, but now that you’re more motivated, they may be willing to listen to what you have in mind.
2. Apply For Deferred Payments
A payment deferral moves your past-due payments to the end of your loan and brings your account current. To qualify for the deferred payment option, you typically have to:
- Contact your mortgage lender and inquire about deferred payments.
- Show them that you are able to resume regular payments after the deferred payments process.
3. Apply For Forbearance
Sometimes, the lender doesn’t want to grant you deferred payments due to your history. That’s when it’s time to ask about a forbearance plan.
Many homeowners don’t like forbearance plans because they may typically end with you owing a balloon payment at the end of the process — but it doesn’t have to end that way.
If you are able to apply and be accepted into a forbearance plan, make sure to tell the lender that you still don’t have the money to make the back payments.
The lender’s options at this point usually are to grant you a deferred payment plan or let you refinance at a more favorable rate. Let’s talk about that.
4. Refinance Your Mortgage
Because lenders ideally don’t want to get stuck with stale properties due to foreclosures, they’d rather you continue to make your mortgage payments.
One to ensure that you continue to pay is if you refinance your mortgage. This is a preferable option for lenders who know that homeowners in financial trouble.
5. Loan Modification
Similar to a refinance, a loan modification typically lowers your payments so that you can afford to begin paying your mortgage again.
Even before you miss a payment, a lender usually will be willing to set you up with a loan modification because they know that you’re still interested in paying for your mortgage.
Lenders don’t mind making loan modifications if they see that you’re sincere about repayment. In many cases, the loan modification amount will include a small fee each month to help the lender recoup what was lost during the months you didn’t pay.
6. Sell Your Home
The last resort in many foreclosure cases is for the distressed homeowner to sell their property. While this is not an ideal situation — namely because it may hurt your credit a bit — it is a viable way to get out of a mortgage you’ve fallen behind on.
If selling your home before it goes into foreclosure is your only option, make sure to try to get rid of it before it officially goes into the foreclosure process. Once a home enters the foreclosure process, the bank is presumed the owner — not you.
That means you lose all the bargaining power you previously had and you may not see a dime of the money from the sale.
Final Words
Foreclosing on a home can be a demoralizing ordeal and is not for the faint of heart, but these things do happen.
Always try to work with your mortgage lender before you get in arrears so that losing your home is never an option on the table.
To recap, here are the steps you can take to avoid having your home foreclosed on.
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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Atlanta homeowners have the highest anxiety about facing foreclosure going into 2021, according to a new report from RedFin.
About 3.8% of the city’s property owners are concerned about their mortgages. Atlanta also has the fourth-highest share of homeowners who are delinquent on their mortgage payments (13.5%).
Atlanta Homeowners Concerned About Foreclosing In 2021
The high numbers can be attributed to a misconception that Atlantans had over what to do with their mortgages when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“There was a misunderstanding in Atlanta for what the different options are for people in forbearance,” said Atlanta Redfin agent Ronisha Carson. “People didn’t know they could refinance, do a prorated monthly payment or tack it on to the end of their loan.”
“In my experience selling foreclosed properties, some people don’t take advantage of forbearance because they aren’t educated on what it entails,” said Redfin agent Gina Sapnar. “There are people who are in forbearance who don’t understand how repayment works. For some people payments are tacked on to the end of the loan, but for others it may be a large payment due immediately at the end of forbearance as a lump sum, which could be very tough for people to repay.”
Wave Of Foreclosures Likely In 2021
Because many mortgage lenders are ending their assistance programs, RedFin is forecasting a wave of foreclosures in 2021. How bad will it be? Not as bad as the Great Recession of 2009, according to real estate professionals.
Experts are hoping that federal and state authorities step up this time — not lenders — to buoy homeowners.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a homeowner in financial distress, there are some avenues you can take to get assistance. Here are some housing resources you can take advantage of.
Thinking of acquiring a property in foreclosure? Here’s what you need to know.
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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If you need help with your rent in Atlanta, you’re not alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has put millions of Americans in financial distress. But at the very least, you should be able to keep a roof over your head.
This article is going to show you how to apply for rental assistance in Atlanta. It will also give you some helpful tips on how to avoid eviction.
How To Apply For Rent Aid In Atlanta
Like many major metropolitan cities, The City of Atlanta has taken steps to protect its most vulnerable populations from being evicted and ending up homeless during this time.
The rental assistance program, administered through The United Way Atlanta of Greater Atlanta, provides $22 million from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) to the Atlanta COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
First of all, you should know that the City of Atlanta Rental Assistance program provides up to $3,000 in funds to avoid eviction. If you need more than that, you should explore other rental assistance options.
What Kinds Of Rent Assistance Are Available In Atlanta?
You may be wondering what kind of assistance is available to tenants in Atlanta. Here are the different types of aid you can get:
- Rent Payment Assistance
- Utility Assistance
- Security Deposit Assistance
What Are The Eligibility Requirements For Rent Assistance In Atlanta?
To get help with your rent in Atlanta, there are some eligibility requirements you need to meet before you can apply for consideration. They include:
- You must be a resident of Atlanta
- Your gross household income must not be more than 60% of the HUD 2020 Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, Georgia Metro Area Median Monthly Income Limit as shown in the chart below.
Household Size Annual AMI (60% of AMI) Monthly Income 1 $34,740 $2,895.00 2 $39,729 $3,310.80 3 $44,700 $3,725.00 4 $49,620 $4,135.00 5 $53,640 $4,470.00 - Access the Atlanta Rental Assistance Application at unitedwayatlanta.org
What To Do If You Need Help With Your Application
If you need help filling out your application or have questions, you can visit http://211online.unitedwayatlanta.org/ to get some assistance. Call 2-1-1 to speak with a live 2-1-1 Community Connection Specialist between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Final Thoughts
You should know that you’ll be required to verify your financial situation by providing documents. The whole application process, from beginning to end, should take you about 15-20 minutes to complete.
At the end of the application you will be required to upload documentation to prove your identity, your income, the loss of income caused by the pandemic and the amount of your need based on past due bills or a move-in deposit. Until that point in the application..
If you’re interested in finding a place to rent in Atlanta, here are some steps to follow.
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A new workspace, CommonGrounds, recently opened in Atlanta, according to a news release.
The new 49,506 square-foot office is the company’s first foray on the East Coast.
Where Is CommonGrounds Workspace Located In Atlanta?
The CommonGrounds Workspace is located at 999 Peachtree Street NE. Here’s a map to help you find it.
“Our Midtown Atlanta workplace meets the needs of companies that are expanding in Atlanta and looking to take advantage of our enterprise-grade Space-as-a-Service platforms,” said Jacob Bates, Chief Executive Office for CommonGrounds Workplace.
CommonGrounds Workspace is situated in 999 Peachtree, a 28-story building with awesome views of the Midtown Atlanta skyline. Here are some of the amenities included in the building:
- Roof deck
- Fitness Center
- Peachtree Club restaurant
Some of the best restaurants in Atlanta are located in Midtown. Check out our guide to the best Midtown Atlanta restaurants.
And don’t miss the best things to do in Midtown Atlanta.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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This article is reprinted with permission from Redfin.com.
Housing Market Trends
The median sale price of homes in Atlanta is $322,000, with an average of 50 days on
the market and homes selling for 2.3% under list price. The typical down payment
hovers around 12.9 percent. Compare these prices and view trends in the real estate
industry using the US housing market page. Click here to compare these prices to
the US Housing Market.The Atlanta housing market is considered somewhat competitive, with a Compete Score
of 59 out of 100 according to Redfin’s Compete Score. Compete Score rates how
difficult it could be to buy a home in a certain area. In Atlanta, homes sell for about 2%
below list price and will have a pending offer around 50 days.What are the Most Popular Neighborhoods in Atlanta?
These are the top 10 most popular neighborhoods in Atlanta based on the total views
from real estate customers over the past year. Read more about the most popular neighborhoods in Atlanta or view homes for sale in each of these neighborhoods below.Neighborhood Average Home Price
Neighborhood Average Home Price Buckhead $496K Midtown $332K Grant Park $480K Virginia Highland $507K Inman Park $503K West End $293K East Atlanta $398K Morningside Lenox-Park $601K Old Fourth Ward $270K Ormewood Park $426K What are the Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Atlanta?
These are the most affordable neighborhoods in Atlanta based on the median home
price in each area where at least 20 homes have been sold in 2020. Read more about
the most affordable neighborhoods in Atlanta or view homes for sale in these
neighborhoods below.Neighborhood Median List Price
Neighborhood Average Home Price Pittsburgh $150K Southside $149K Glenwood Hills $170K Venetian Hills $173K Glenrose Heights $177K Southwest Atlanta $181K Sandy Springs $183K Collier Heights $200K Grove Park $220K McAfee $224K Which Atlanta School Districts are the Best?
GreatSchools' Summary Rating calculation is based on four of the school's themed
ratings: Test Scores, Student/Academic Progress, College Readiness, and Equity. Find
out more about the themed ratings.Elementary School: With a rating of 10/10, Oakhurst Elementary School, located in
Decatur, is the top elementary school in Atlanta. Oakhurst has 544 students enrolled,
making up grades preschool through third. Oakhurst has top scores in equity with 9/10,
and test scores with 10/10.Middle school: Inman Middle School, with 1,075 students, grades six through eight,
holds the number one spot for middle schools in Atlanta with a score of 8/10. Inman
also has top test scores, rating 10/10.High school: Decatur High School, grades 9 through 12, is the number one high school
in Atlanta, with a score of 10/10 for college readiness, and 9/10 for test scores. Decatur
High School has a population of 1,339 students.Atlanta Employment Information
Employment Information (March, 2020) Atlanta, GA United States Income per Capita $40,595 $31,177 Household Income $51,701 $57,652 Unemployment Rate 4% 3.70% Recent Job Growth 2.88% 1.59% Future Job Growth 46.78% 33.51% Living in Atlanta
What is There to Do and See in Atlanta?
If you’re moving to Atlanta, you’ll quickly realize that there is no shortage of things to do.
Whether you’re a history buff, a food connoisseur, a thrill seeker, or simply enjoy theoutdoors, there’s something for you. Read more about local insights on great
restaurants, attractions, and outdoor activities.Atlanta Attractions
- Georgia Aquarium: With over 100,000 animals it’s no wonder the Georgia
Aquarium is considered one of the largest in the United States. - High Museum of Art: Founded in 1905 and located in the city’s art district,
Midtown, the High Museum of Art collection includes over 15,000 pieces. - The Zoo Atlanta: Spend the day learning about various animals from all different
regions of the globe, including the African Elephant, African Lion, Bornean
Orangutan, and the Clouded Leopard.
Best Eats in Atlanta
- Busy Bee Cafe: Located in downtown Atlanta, the cafe has been popular among
residents since opening in 1947, bringing customers traditional soul food in a
cozy environment. - Southern City Kitchen Midtown: Situate yourself by the fireplace in the 1920s
bungalow and enjoy the creative approach Southern City Kitchen Midtown takes
on classic Southern cuisine. - Poor Calvin’s: Enjoy thai cuisine with a southern twist at this modern and
intimate fusion restaurant.
Outdoor Activities
- Atlanta Botanical Garden: Escape the city and visit this 30-acre garden oasis,
located in the heart of Midtown. Spend time wandering through the different
gardens, including the Edible Garden, the Lou Glenn Children’s Garden, and the
Cascades Garden. - Centennial Olympic Park: This park dates back to 1996 where spectators of the
Centennial Olympic Games would gather. You can escape the hustle and bustle
of the city in this 22-acre park filled with artwork, playgrounds, and fountains. - Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail: Ride your bike or walk along the Atlanta Beltline
Eastside Trail and take in views of the city, stop and grab a bite to eat at a
restaurant along the trail, and access several parks easily, including the
Piedmont Park, Fourth Ward Park, and Inman Park.
Atlanta Weather Trends
Type Atlanta United States Rainfall 51.5 inches 38.1 inches Snowfall 1.4 inches 27.8 inches Precipitation 109.3 days 106.2 days Sunny 217 days 205 days Average July High 88.3° 85.8° Average January Low 32.6° 21.7°
What is Atlanta’s Public Transportation Like?
Transportation in Atlanta ranks 15th in the country for best public transit systems. There
are many options for transportation, including by car, MARTA Public Transit System,
streetcars, rideshare services, walking, and biking. You’re able to find routes and
information for public transit through the MARTA website, and information for cyclists on
the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, site.How are the Traffic Conditions in Atlanta?
Because of the city's growing popularity, Atlanta’s traffic trends have seen better days.
And, like any bustling city, there are times of the day you’ll want to avoid driving or
commuting if possible. If not, make sure to plan ahead and be prepared for a slight
delay. According to TomTom, the best time to avoid commuting on weekdays is 7 a.m.
to 9 a.m., and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Depending on the day of the week, the trends may differ
slightly. For example, Thursday seems to be more congested from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. than
other days of the week. However, no matter the day, the traffic in the evening seems to
be slightly more congested than during the morning commute.Atlanta Moving and Real Estate
Resources
Moving Companies: Atlanta Home Movers, Top Dawg Moving, Bring it! Movers, Mark
and Mover, B&B Movers, Inc..
Storage Companies: Life Storage, Your Extra Attic, Cross Country Movers, Atlanta
PRO Moving Services, CubeSmart Self Storage.
Cable Services: AT&T, Xfinity, HughesNet, Viasat.
Water and Sewage: Atlanta Watershed Management. - Georgia Aquarium: With over 100,000 animals it’s no wonder the Georgia
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The color of your skin can dictate where you live in America, according to findings from the Pew Center for Research.
In Atlanta, like many other areas, you can’t help but notice some areas are heavily populated by one race, even though its features are similar to other areas of town.
Over the past 30-plus years, residential segregation by income has skyrocketed nationwide, the Pew Center said in an analysis on the top. The issue is especially pronounced in 27 of the nation’s 30 largest major metropolitan areas.
The institution analyzed housing patterns and incomes in large metropolitan areas to arrive at the figures. Atlanta makes the top 10 on the list.
Here Are The Top 10 Most Racially Segregated Metro Areas In America
The study concludes that housing patterns are largely shaped by income inequality. which has led to fewer neighborhoods of mixed income or middle class.
The study said key differences separated the cities on the list. For instance, the study noted:
“For example, 41% of the lower-income households in the New York metropolitan area are situated in a majority lower-income census tract, compared with 26% of the lower-income households in the Atlanta area.”
To quantify the cities, the Pew Center devised a single Residential Income Segregation Index (RISI) score for each of the nation’s top 30 metropolitan areas.
Atlanta had a 41 RISI score among the nation’s 10 largest metro areas, which was on the lower end. Houston (61) and Dallas (60) have the highest RISI scores, followed closely by New York (57). At the other end of the scale, Boston (36) and Chicago (41).
Other studies indicate that residential segregation is a key metric in health disparities across the country.
Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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If you live in a big city like Atlanta or another area where real estate prices are going through the roof, it may be tempting to relocate to a cheaper area.
After all, the pasture always look greener on the other side. Furthermore, big cities have made it cool to live in large homes.
But big homes often mean big mortgage payments, so it may be time for you to make an adjustment to keep your mortgage from eating your paycheck.
Downsize Your Home
If you don’t have a family, it may make sense to downsize your home. Not only will the mortgage payments be easier to handle, but you may be able to the equity in your big home to add to your savings.
Other benefits to downsizing include:
- Lower energy bills
- Less maintenance
- Less financial stress
So many people believe moving to a cheaper city or state is going to make a difference, but the reality is that if you have a decent job, maybe you shouldn’t relocate.
Here are three other options that can help you downsize fast:
1. Set Goals
Re-align your financial goals based on where you want to be, not where you are now. Do you still need the amenities you bought the phone for? Do you still use that pool or sauna?
2. Refinance
Mortgage rates are approaching low levels again, and that makes a refi very attractive to people who have huge monthly payments.
3. Re-Invest Your Equity
If you’ve been in your big home for a nice period of time, it’s likely that your home has appreciated to the point that you have a pretty large nest egg inside of it.
Instead of continuing to pay that big mortgage, find a cheaper home in the same area or city and use that equity for the downpayment.
Better yet, you could use that equity to invest in a retirement fund like a 401(k).
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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