While Atlanta remains one of the most popular and fastest growing housing markets in America, it can also feel a bit overwhelming for first-time homebuyers — at least at first. While many “first-timers” today can afford to spend more on a first home than their parents did, budget can still be a concern when housing prices are on the rise. Some also have growing families and want to be sure their kids can attend good schools. In a hot housing market like Atlanta, how does a new homebuyer find the right home at the right price?
The good news is there are many wonderful neighborhoods in Atlanta where you can still find a starter home that is both comfortable and relatively affordable. And best of all, these neighborhoods are all projected to have excellent resale value down the road. With this in mind, we present our 2019 Atlanta Neighborhood Guide for New Homebuyers!
Buckhead
As one of Atlanta’s most affluent places to live, Buckhead has a reputation for affluence and luxury, but it is not all sprawling estates and high-priced high-rises. There are still some excellent subdivisions where you can get a great home for less money—places like Peachtree Hills, Peachtree Park, Garden Hills and Underwood Hills, for example. Buckhead is also home to some of the best schools in the state, making it an excellent choice for growing families. With fantastic shopping, eclectic dining and lots to do, you will find plenty to love about living in Buckhead.
- Median home price in Buckhead: $355,000
Brookhaven-Chamblee
Located just east of Buckhead, the two neighborhoods of Brookhaven and Chamblee offer the finest in suburban Atlanta living for the first-time homebuyer, not to mention excellent schools and convenience to downtown Atlanta attractions via I-85. If you happen to be a foodie, you will love living within minutes of the famed Buford Highway, known for its diversity of international cuisines. While Brookhaven homes are among the priciest in Atlanta, homes in Chamblee are more affordable, providing options for nearly every budget.
- Median home price in Brookhaven: $1,175,000
- Median home price in Chamblee: $339,200
Midtown
For the best in city living, you owe it to yourself to check out Midtown Atlanta. Not only will you find a wide range of home options from which to choose (ranging from historic old homes to luxury high-rise condos), but you will be in the heart of the city, within walking distance to almost everything you need or want. Enjoy the shops and restaurants along Midtown Mile, relax and explore at Piedmont Park, catch a performance of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and much more!
- Median home price in Midtown: $269,900
Old Fourth Ward
Located just east of Midtown, the historic Old Fourth Ward (O4W) is currently experiencing a renaissance, rapidly transforming into an eclectic neighborhood of restored homes, converted warehouse lofts, boutique shops and unique restaurants, all while retaining its rich historic fabric. The old Sears, Roebuck & Company Building is now the Ponce City Market, a chic collective of shops and restaurants similar to the famed Chelsea Market in New York City. The neighborhood walkability was recently enhanced by access to the Beltline, a growing network of walking paths reclaiming Atlanta’s old rail lines. Experience the dive bars of Edgewood Avenue, or relive the neighborhood’s historic past by visiting the childhood home of Martin Luther King, Jr. An inspiring blend of old and new, O4W is popular among those who love the textured feel of city living.
- Median home price in Old Fourth Ward: $223,300
Cabbagetown
Located in east Atlanta, the historic Cabbagetown district is unique both in its history and its style. First built in the late 1800s as housing for laborers in the nearby textile mill, Cabbagetown remains an eclectic blend of historic bungalows and small, restored shotgun shacks, while the old factory itself has been converted into a large complex of rental lofts. Cabbagetown’s claim to fame is its annual “Chomp and Stomp,” a hard-to-beat combination of chili cook-offs and bluegrass music that attracts thousands of people each November.
- Median home price in Cabbagetown: $295,000
Grant Park
Another product of Atlanta’s recent urban revitalization, Grant Park is the city’s oldest park, and the historic neighborhood that shares its name offers a delightful array of Victorian houses and cozy bungalows perfect for first-time buyers. Grant Park is also home to Zoo Atlanta and the historic Oakland Cemetery, and every Sunday between April and December, the park comes to life with one of the most popular farmer’s markets in the state.
- Median home price in Grant Park: $399,900
Ormewood Park-East Atlanta Village
Ormewood Park and East Atlanta Village represent the quirky, trendy side of Atlanta culture with its eclectic bars and restaurants, live music venues and happening nightlife. The EAV Farmers Market is a popular Thursday evening destination from April to December, and every September the main streets close down for the East Atlanta Strut, a fantastic one-day celebration of art and music—not to mention one of Atlanta’s hippest block parties.
- Median home price in Ormewood Park-East Atlanta Village: $307,600
Decatur
Incorporated as its own city before Atlanta itself, Decatur today is like a small town within a city—a suburban oasis nestled against Atlanta but maintaining its own small town charm. Decatur is nationally renowned for its food scene, much of which centers around the city’s own historic downtown area. Decatur is also known for having some of the finest schools in the state, making it popular with growing families. While downtown Decatur can be a bit on the pricey side, first-time buyers on a tighter budgets will especially want to check out the Oakhurst neighborhood.
- Median home price in Decatur: $471,000
If you are a new homebuyer looking for the right home in the perfect neighborhood of Atlanta, one of our experienced agents would be glad to help. Call Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 404.237.5000.