Category Archives for "Intown information"

Fall 2024 Market Update

Since my last update, the Fed cut interest rates, which took some pressure off mortgage rates and provided some relief for buyers. As of October 24th, the Freddie Mac 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.54%, rising slightly from the low established in September. 

As we move towards year-end, I am seeing green shoots in the market for buyers and sellers nationally and in the Atlanta metroplex. 

For buyers, inventory has been increasing, and prices have remained stable. For example, within the last month, I have two new home listings and six new luxury condos for lease, which you can see here. Likewise, as rates continue to improve, buyers have increased their purchasing power, improving affordability. 

For sellers, lower rates and strong demand increase the opportunity for faster turnarounds on properties and potential competition over price. 

Overall, we have a strong market heading into the fall. To help you make an informed decision in November, I have outlined the most recent data from a national and local market perspective.

National Market Analysis

The national median home price in September was $404,500, up 3% from September 2023. It’s the 15th consecutive month for year-over-year price increases. 

The national average for the number of days homes were on the market in September was 28, compared to 26 days in August 2024. 

The national supply for September is 4.3 months, up 26% from September 2023, when it was 3.4 months. 

First-time buyers accounted for 26% of sales in September, down from 27% from September 2023. Investors and second-home buyers accounted for 16% of home sales in September, down from 18% from September 2023.

Home sales in the country’s southern region are down 5.5% from September 2023. However, prices in the southern region have increased by .8% from September 2023. The median home price in the southern region during September was $359,700.

Atlanta Market Analysis

The Atlanta median home sale price in September was $425,000, up 3.7% from September 2023. The median sales price is 6% off it’s low of $400,000 at the beginning of the year.

The Atlanta average for the number of days homes were on the market in September was 37, compared to 30 days in September 2023. The average number of days homes are on the market is down 9.7% from the beginning of the year.

The Atlanta supply for September is 3.7 months, up 48% from September 2023. A healthy market has 4-6 months of supply, so Atlanta still has moderate supply challenges, but we have the highest supply in the last 3 years. It is also below the national average of 4.3 months.

Atlanta home sales in September were down 5.5% from September 2023 but up 38% from the beginning of 2024.

Atlanta is still challenged with finding a balance of supply and demand. However, due to its location, economy, business environment, and population growth, it continues to be one of the most resilient markets in the country.

Likewise, while I don’t have the final numbers, sellers have been listing homes this fall at the fastest pace I have seen this year. Intown listings have been increasingly popular and moving fast due to the fair prices from previous years. My current listing in Midtown at 845 Spring Street NW is an excellent example of this.

Atlanta’s market has been resilient and is starting to move in a positive direction. Right now, I see an excellent balanced opportunity for both buyers and sellers. 

Nevertheless, this fall, both buyers and sellers will need to stay informed about local market conditions, as trends can differ from one neighborhood to another in the metroplex. 

Buyers may find it an opportunistic time to negotiate or look into new construction projects, while sellers should price their homes competitively and be prepared for negotiations and buyer competition.

With so many nuances in this market, engaging with a knowledgeable and experienced Realtor like myself can be crucial for navigating the market effectively. If you are ready to buy or sell a home, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Midtown Atlanta

July 2024: Quarterly Market Update

Since my last quarterly update, mortgage rates have been steady as the Federal Reserve continues to maintain interest rates at current levels. Mortgage rates could begin to fall in the second half of the year if the FED stays committed a rate cut.

 Demand has picked back up, much of it due to seasonality, but I also get a sense that buyers cannot continue to wait in the hopes that rates will materially change. Likewise, prices continue to move slowly higher both in Atlanta and Nationally. The national median home price is the highest on record. 

As we enter summer, I expect home prices in the Atlanta metro to move higher. I am seeing more activity from both buyers and sellers in an ongoing supply-constrained market.

Below, I outline the most recent data from a national and local market perspective.

National Market Analysis

Median home price

The national median home price in May was $419,300, up 5.8% from May 2023. This is the highest national median price ever recorded. In May, all four U.S. regions saw an increase in median home prices.

Days on the market

The national average for the number of days homes were on the market in May was 24, compared to 26 days in April 2024. 

Supply

The national supply for May is 3.7 months, up 19% from May 2023, when it was 3.1 months. 

Buyers

First-time buyers accounted for 31% of sales in May, up from 28% from May 2023. Investors and second-home buyers accounted for 16% of home sales in May, up from 15% from May 2023.

Region

In the country’s southern region, home sales are down 5.1% from May 2023. However, prices in the southern region have increased by 3.6% from May of 2023. The median home price in the southern region during May was $374,300.

As of June 20th, the 30-year fixed rate mortgage average is 6.87%, up from 6.67% a year ago.

Atlanta Market Analysis

Median home price

The Atlanta median home sale price in May was $434,000, up 3.3% from May 2023. The median sales price continues to rise from its low of $400,000 at the beginning of the year.

Days on the market

The Atlanta average for the number of days homes were on the market in May was 28, compared to 30 days in May 2023. The average number of days homes are on the market is down 31.7% from the beginning of the year.

Supply

The Atlanta supply for May is 3.2 months, up 68% from May 2023. A healthy market has 4-6 months of supply, so Atlanta still has supply challenges, although they are improving. It is also below the national average of 3.7 months.

Home sales

Atlanta home sales in May were down 1.1% from May 2023 but up 86% from the beginning of 2024.

Atlanta is still challenged with finding a balance of supply and demand. However, the Atlanta real estate environment has remained positive so far this year, with healthy pricing and ongoing new construction to meet demand. 

Likewise, sellers continue to list homes on the market. Within the last several weeks, I’ve had two new Midtown properties come on the market in desirable areas: a one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo at the Mayfair Tower and a two-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom condo at 287 14th St NW.

Conclusion

Atlanta’s Home prices are increasing, and buying and selling interest has risen significantly despite historically high mortgage rates. Despite ongoing supply challenges, the Atlanta market will continue to have a resilient and optimistic back half of 2024. 

Currently, many attractive buying opportunities are available in select areas of the Atlanta market. It is essential to act quickly on these opportunities, as I see properties moving faster as the number of days homes sit on the market steadily decreases. 

Working with an experienced realtor, such as myself, is essential to ensure that you find the best home for your needs. If you are ready to buy or sell a home, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Downtown Atlanta

Atlanta Market Trends for 2024

With stabilizing interest rates, buyers and sellers are beginning to step back into the Atlanta market. In December, there was a 3.4% increase in monthly sales in what is typically a slower month. While the numbers for January are not in yet, I do expect to see another increase as, anecdotally, I have participated in an increase in client activity.

Now that we can anticipate stabilizing markets, we can forecast some key trends that may play out here in the Atlanta residential real estate market. These trends can help buyers and sellers make educated real estate decisions in 2024.

Below are four trend predictions for 2024.

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Atlanta housing market

Navigating the 2024 Atlanta Real Estate Landscape: Top Predicted Trends

2023 has been an interesting year in Atlanta residential real estate. Prices have remained stable, and inventory has remained low. Yet, the Atlanta population continues to grow, and while demand has been somewhat subdued, it is still one of the more resilient markets in the country.

As we approach 2024, I expect the real estate landscape in Atlanta to continue to evolve, reflecting changes in market dynamics, buyer preferences, and economic shifts. In this blog post, I’ll go into my top predicted trends for Atlanta’s residential real estate market in the upcoming year.

Continued Stability in Home Prices

2024 is set to have a continuation of relative stability in home prices. While specific neighborhoods may see modest increases, the overall market is expected to maintain median price fluctuations similar to 2023. This moderation is attributed to stabilizing interest rates, increased inventory, and increased demand, all leading to a balanced market. 

As of October 2023, the Atlanta median home price is $420,000, up 6.3% year over year. Additionally, there are currently 2.6 months of supply, up 8.3% year over year.

However, if we see a sharp decline in interest rates in the back half of 2024, then I would expect a relatively sharp increase in demand, which could cause an increase in the median home price.

Demand for Walkable Communities

The year ahead will see a continued preference for walkable, amenity-rich neighborhoods. Areas like Midtown, Inman Park, and Kirkwood are in high demand due to their proximity to shops, restaurants, parks, and public transportation. This trend is driving developers to create mixed-use communities, blending residential, retail, and office spaces for a vibrant living experience.

Likewise, I expect to see continued demand for property in some of the more up-and-coming neighborhoods and developments that I have written about previously, such as Blandtown and Centennial Yards.

Robust Rental Market with Affordable and Flexible Options

Atlanta’s rental market is expected to remain strong, fueled by demand from millennials and Gen Z renters. Developers are focusing on new apartment buildings with amenities like fitness centers and co-working spaces. Flexible leasing options, including shorter terms and pet-friendly policies, are becoming increasingly popular.

Affordability remains a crucial factor, especially for first-time buyers in Atlanta. This is pushing demand towards more leases in the short term. Developers are responding by focusing on smaller, flexible, and energy-efficient units, enhancing value without compromising quality.

Leasing a condo in-town remains an excellent option for those looking to experience Atlanta urban living while either waiting for interest rates to fall or looking for a property. Last month, I wrote an article on the short-term benefits of leasing in Atlanta.

Likewise, I believe that the Mayfair Tower is one of the best values in luxury condos in Midtown. It has the perfect blend of location and amenities for an optimal experience of Intown living. You can see all of my Mayfair listings here.

Sustainable Development, Eco-conscious Choices, and Technology

Sustainability is becoming a key consideration in the Atlanta real estate market. Buyers and renters seek properties that prioritize energy efficiency and use environmentally friendly materials. Developers are responding with LEED-certified buildings and sustainable designs. Georgia is recognized as one of the top states for green building initiatives.

The demand for smart homes continues to rise, with buyers seeking convenience, security, and energy efficiency. New homes are being equipped with smart thermostats, voice-controlled lighting, and automated security systems while existing homes are being retrofitted with similar technologies. Expect this to be an ongoing point of differentiation when buyers are making decisions on their future homes.

Conclusion

The Atlanta real estate market in 2024 is set to be stable and perhaps somewhat dynamic, adapting to changing preferences and market conditions. These trends highlight the city’s ongoing growth prospects, distinctive character, and innovative spirit. 

Looking beyond 2024, Atlanta continues attracting new residents and businesses, and the demand for quality housing options remains strong, paving the way for a vibrant and forward-looking real estate sector.

If you are interested in getting a head start on 2024 with a new home, please do not hesitate to contact me.

October 2023: Quarterly Market Update

Since my last quarterly update, mortgage rates have been gradually increasing. Despite this increase, the market still displays a robust demand. The limited inventories have played a key role in keeping the market steady amidst the current economic conditions.

It is important to highlight that Atlanta has emerged as one of the most resilient markets in the United States, with a significantly lower supply than the national average. As a result, the demand for properties in this area has remained high. In fact, buyers are quickly stepping in when quality properties hit the market.

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Midtown Atlanta

January 2023: Quarterly Market Update

With the continued FED rate and subsequent mortgage rate increases, it’s logical that the real estate market demand has cooled. However, because of the supply constraints over the last three years, the waning demand has not significantly affected prices here in Atlanta. I view this as a positive for our real estate market in the medium term. 

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Atlanta real estate

A City Where Everyone Belongs

I was excited but not surprised to see that Money Magazine listed Atlanta as the best place to live in the country in 2022.

Money magazine has been putting out this ranking for over 35 years. It’s among the most reputable annual “best city” rankings. 

With the ever-changing U.S. city landscape, the magazine wanted to choose a city “where anyone can feel like they belong.” This statement is an excellent city description of Atlanta and its well-deserved ranking. 

If you have read my previous posts, you know I have been very bullish on our city. Therefore, by extension, I am bullish on our real estate market. I believe that the ongoing growth of our city will help support a resilient Atlanta real estate market in the future.

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Atlanta residential real estate

Quarterly Update: July 2022

There is a lot of uncertainty in the overall economy, and it’s easy to see that uncertainty trickle down into the real estate market. However, given the widespread supply shortages, I don’t foresee any significant downside changes to the price of homes in the near term. But with rising rates and prices at all-time highs, we could see home prices start to flatten. 

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