Decatur - A Walkable Eventful City!

Decatur is located less than 8 miles from Downtown Atlanta and approximately 2.5 miles from Emory University, Emory Hospital, Eggleston Children’s Hospital and the Center for Disease Control.  Decatur is a small City with major civic participation, local Police and Fire Departments and a renown School System.

Neighborhoods around Decatur contain renovated older bungalow-style homes, well-kept lawns, parks and sidewalks.  It has a vibrant, friendly atmosphere and many residents live close enough to walk to shops, restaurants, and frequent downtown events.  Annual events for Decatur are organized by the Decatur Business Association and other civic and educational organizations.  It’s a rare week when some activity is not available for residents and visitors in the downtown area near the Square.

During the month of May, Decatur sponsors Blue Sky Concerts at noon on the Square and Concerts on the Square on Saturday evenings at 7 p.m.

Perhaps the most attended event is the upcomingDecatur Arts Festival, held on Memorial Day Weekend, and celebrated throughout the month of May. A recent Lantern Parade, associated with the Arts Festival and held in the evening,  featured an exuberant gathering of adults and children with homemade lanterns, hats and parasols strolling through the darkened streets.

On Memorial Day Weekend, the main Decatur streets are blocked to traffic, and a bustling crowd gathers to enjoy a diverse Arts Festival featuring over 150 artists, dance performances and music.

Another popular annual event is the Decatur Beach Party, held June 17, sponsored by the Decatur Business Association – a ticketed event with  lots of sand, games and music.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company representing Buyers and Sellers in Decatur, Emory and close-in Atlanta neighborhoods for over 25 years. We also offer professional Property Management Services. (Originally posted on Atlanta Decatur Homes Website on 5/15/2016)

Do You Need a Property Manager Near Emory?

During the past several years, rentals have almost surpassed home ownership in popularity, particularly in the Atlanta and Decatur neighborhoods near Emory University.

While rental growth has leveled off nationwide, rents have continued to rise in close-inAtlanta areas, jumping 3% from December 2015 to January 2016  for a 1-bedroom unit. In addition, the housing market has been hampered by a severe lack of inventory, causing a flood of “would be buyers” to seek rental possibilities.  Increased demand in desirable areas near Emory, downtown Decatur and Atlanta has also led to higher rents and fewer available properties to lease.

A recent article by Phil Hudson in the Atlanta Business Chronicle indicated approximately 32% of renters in Atlanta are designated “millenials”, ages 18-34, who are young adults that can’t afford to buy or don’t want to be bothered with the hassle of owning.  They are attracted by the flexibility of leasing, including mobility to move when necessary and by the services provided by Landlords or Property Managers.

With the increase in the number of people moving into the rental market, it is important for Owners and Managers to maintain good records and provide excellent service.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local Property Management Company, representing properties  located in the Emory, Druid Hills, and Decatur neighborhoods.  One of the complaints we hear most often from prospective renters is that the Manager and/or Owner is not responsive.  Here are a few tips that may help:

• Screen tenants carefully
• Get it in writing
• Handle security deposits judiciously
• Make repairs as necessary
• Give notice before entering
• Buy adequate Insurance

Emory Property Manager

If you would prefer to live your life and focus on other priorities, Atlanta Decatur Homes will maintain your property and keep your tenants happy. We have years of experience and know the Emory Decatur neighborhoods well.

Originally posted on Atlanta Decatur Homes Website on 5/12/2016

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Emory Point - Neighborhood Retail Addition

Construction for a new retail and mixed-use development called Emory Point has been developing during the past year along Clifton Road near Emory University, and its opening has been anxiously anticipated.

Emory Point is now open and features an attractive main street with shops like Strippaggio, carrying artisan oils, vinegars & specialty foods, Fab'rik, and Lizard Thicket, as well as popular local restaurants like Bonefish Grill and Marlowes Tavern.

While not all facilities are open yet, CVS Pharmacy, Jos. A. Bank Clothiers and Ann Taylor Loft, plus a dry cleaner are open for business and 21 shops and restaurants will be available when the project is completed. Limited parking is available along the street with credit card payment, and free 2-hour parking is available in he present parking deck. There are plans for an additional parking area when the complex is finished.

Originally envisioned as a major condominium and shopping environment by Cousins Properties, partnering with Gables Residential, the project was delayed due to the economic recession. The residential aspect has been altered to offer leasing options instead of condos. Gables Emory Point is a luxurious apartment development with dozens of available floor plans, an elegant Club House and Business Center.

Located across the street from the Centers for Disease Control and surrounded by Emory University Campus and the Emory Healthcare complexes, Emory Point is within walking distance for employees in the community and easily accessible by Emory's free shuttle service, the Cliff bus. It should prove a popular lunchtime and evening destination for Emory area neighbors as well.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company serving buyers and sellers in the Emory, Decatur and Atlanta in-town neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Winston Place - Featured Decatur Condo Community

Several  features make condos and townhomes an attractive choice for home buyers.   Winston Place is a charming small complex conveniently located close to shopping, restaurants, and medical facilities like Emory and the VA hospitals.

Winston Place is one of the few complexes in the area with full garages and some one-level units.  It also has a strong Homeowners Association and well-landscaped grounds and pool area. According to the Atlanta area multiple listing service,  two and three bedroom units here sold last year between $200,000 and $269,000.

Home buyers who choose condos and townhomes are looking for well-kept complexes in desirable neighborhoods close to work and shopping.  Buyers want less exterior upkeep,  ample interiors, updated kitchens and lots of storage.   Winston Place, built in 1985, is an older neighborhood but has many of the features that buyers are looking for today.

Winston Place is conveniently located less than 3 miles from Emory University,  approximately 1 mile from major grocery chains in Toco Hills Shopping Center, and 1/2 mile from  popular neighborhood Oak Grove Shopping Center.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company, serving buyers and sellers in the Emory University, Decatur and Atlanta neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Dog Friendly City - Dog Parks in Decatur, Georgia

Posted on March 31, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

The Dog Park

Decatur, Georgia is one of the loveliest small cities in the Atlanta area, well-known for its walkability factor, for charming Decatur homes, friendly neighborhoods and fine restaurants and shopping. It’s also a dog-friendly city with some great local Decatur Dog Parks.

In a comprehensive article by Wikipedia, the Dog Park is described as “ a facility set aside for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owner.

Dog Parks are popular everywhere, offering safe exercise areas for dogs and an opportunity for owners to gather and socialize while their dogs play. Several excellent Dog Parks are located in neighborhoods around the Emory University area in Decatur, Ga:

Mason Mill Dog Park – N. Jamestown Road Decatur, Ga. – Recently renovated – Flat open space with double fences, adjacent parking, water fountains, baggies and trash deposit plus a covered picnic area. Could use more benches.

 

 

 

 

 

Glenlake Dog Park – 1121 Church Street, Decatur, Ga. – Recently renovated – smaller Dog Park within the larger Glenlake Park with water fountains/baggies and trash deposit and a covered picnic area. Suggest entering off Church Street by the Pool and Tennis Courts, as the other entrance is a bumpy ride over stones. Good Parking

 

 

 

 

Adair Dog Park – Trinity Place next to Mary Gay House, Decatur, Ga. – This large park is one of the more appealing with benches and abundant shade – double fences/water fountains/benches/baggies and trash deposit. Limited parking but handy.

 

 

 

 

 

What Makes a Good Dog Park?

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers lists several points that constitute a Good Dog Park on their website. Good Dog Parks generally have the following:

• Parking Close to the Site
• Materials for Cleaning UP – Bags and Garbage Cans
• Drinking Fountains and Shade
• Enough Space to Avoid Crowding
• Separate Entrance & Exit Gates to Enter and Exit
• Two-Gate System to keep dogs from accidentally Escaping

Is Your Dog Ready for a Dog Park?

Dogs come in all shapes and varieties. Some are quiet and shy, some are friendly and outgoing. Aggressive dogs are not generally welcomed in dog parks and basic obedience skills are desirable. Your dog should be able to respond to basic commands, particularly the recall command. It also helps if your best friend is friendly with all types of people and has a history of amiable play with other dogs. Dog parks may be intimidating for pets that are less than 5 months old.

Visit one of these convenient Decatur Dog Parks when you have an opportunity – your dog will thank you!

Atlanta Decatur Homes, a local Atlanta real estate company, selling homes in Atlanta, Druid Hills, Decatur, Medlock Park, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years. Professional Rental Management services are also offered.

Emory Area Neighborhood - Medlock Park

Posted on March 20, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

The Medlock Park area is nestled between Scott Boulevard, North Superior Avenue and North Decatur Road in Decatur, Georgia. Small well-kept bungalows and brick ranches predominate, with newer construction interspersed. Families and individuals are drawn to the neighborhood by affordable housing and the convenience to Emory University, located less than 3 miles away.

Medlock Park Sales Update

Thirty-seven homes sold in the Medlock Park area during 2011, with prices ranging from $90,000 – $350,000, selling for slightly less than in 2010, The average list price was $192,424 and the average sale price was $180,497, averaging 100 days on the market.

Medlock Park Shopping/Hospital Facilities

Popular restaurants, grocery stores, shops, doctors and hospitals are all located close by

• Evans Fine Foods – N. Decatur Road
• Rainbow Grocery – N. Decatur Road
• UPS & Kinko’s – N. Decatur Road
• Emory Hospital – Clifton Road
• Egleston Children’s Hospital – Clifton Road
• DeKalb General Hospital – N. Decatur Road
• Publix Pharmacy – N. Decatur Road
• Clairmont Animal Hospital – N. Decatur Road

Medlock Park Area Parks

DeKalb County has numerous parks and walking paths convenient to the Medlock Park area, including recently completed bike and walking trails that lead through the woods, connecting two county parks, Medlock Park and Mason Mill Park. Both parks have been extensively renovated and offer tennis courts, playgrounds, ball fields, picnic areas and Medlock Park has a community pool. The Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve, located in the Medlock Park area, is a 28-acre nature preserve with walking trails, bogs, and bird-watching sites.

Medlock Park offers prospective homeowners a convenient location, reasonable home prices and recreation facilities within the neighborhood.

Atlanta Decatur Homes, a local Atlanta real estate company, selling homes in Atlanta, Druid Hills, Decatur, Medlock Park, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years. Professional Rental Management services are also offered.

Atlanta Real Estate Outlook

Posted on March 16, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

Although the national housing market is showing some signs of recovery, much of the Atlanta real estate market is still playing “catch up”.

There are bright spots in certain areas of the City. For Example, in-town neighborhoods like the Druid Hills/Emory University area are beginning to increase slightly in value and volume of sales. Other parts of the metro area are reeling from numerous foreclosures and mortgage fraud, which tend to affect recovery figures for the the overall Atlanta Metro real estate market. Foreclosed homes owned by banks made up 53% of metro Atlanta sales in January, while foreclosures and short sales made up 35% of sales nationally.

Comparison figures for the number of homes sold in neighborhoods near Emory University indicate that fewer homes were sold in 2011 in the $350,000 – $$900,000 price range than in 2010, but slightly more homes were sold in 2011 in the same area in the $150,000 – $300,000 price range. This is an indication that first-time homebuyers and investors are taking advantage of very low interest rates, and lower-priced homes. The Emory area is also experiencing an increase in the number of homes that are being leased.

The Atlanta Journal indicated in a recent article that “…the region may be seeing the first glimmers of a sustainable housing market recovery with realtors and builders reporting increased interest from potential buyers in recent months.” The Real Housing Market Report reports that housing units in the South for January were up 8.1%, but average prices were down 2% from January, 2011. Economist for the National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, says “record-low interest rates, bargain home prices, rising rents and sustained job creation are helping to spur sales.”

A report published by Brookings, using recent Census Data indicated some interesting statistics. In general, Americans move around more than their counterparts in other countries, but a lot less than they used to. Homeowners are stuck in places with too few jobs and not able or willing to move to areas with healthier labor markets. The Nation is growing and moving more slowly and struggling economically between two recessions.

• U.S. is growing more slowly
• Americans are increasingly stuck at home
• Minorities are driving growth
• Boomers continue to age – age 45 and over grew 18 times as fast as under age 45 – transforming American households
• Americans lost ground on income and poverty in the 2000’s

72% of renters in a recent poll indicated their desire to own a home one day. When the job market and the economy improves, there is a healthy backlog of prospective buyers waiting to buy homes!

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company selling homes in the Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years, offering Professional Management Services as well.

Home Won't Sell - Consider Renting It

Posted on March 8, 2012 by atlantadecaturhomes

The National Association of Realtors thinks that property values will rise 1.1% this year, but this modest rise in value may not help your home to sell.  Popular realtor site, Active Rain,  indicates mixed expectations from various sources.

Our economy is still fragile and home sales are up only slightly.  Until the job market and the building industry improve considerably and foreclosures and short sales ebb, home prices will not go up. 

If Your Home Doesn’t Sell, Is Renting the Best Move?

Maybe.  If  you are offered a new position across the country, the opportunity may be too good to pass up.  The decision will be whether to sell your home at any cost, even at a loss, or to consider leasing the property. 

If you decide to rent your home, it will now become an investment property, and you will still be responsible for paying the principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.  You must continue to maintain the property and pay any homeowner fees that are required as well.  An investment property could have significant tax advantages, but you should talk to your accountant or tax professional before you make this decision.

Hiring a Property Manager

Once you have made a decision to lease, consider hiring a professional Property Manager to take care of your home.  Absentee Landlords are at a severe disadvantage, and a “hands on” manager will act as a surrogate landlord to protect your interests in the property.  A good Manager will:

• Advertise your property
• Screen potential tenants – check references and credit
• Prepare Leases and Move/In-Move/Out Agreements
• Collect the Rent – pay Bills – Generate Monthly Reports & Checks to Landlord
• Handle Repairs & Maintenance
• Act as a Buffer between the Tenant and Landlord

In addition, professional Property Managers are versed in local ordinances and Fair Housing Laws and are subject to strict regulations regarding Escrow Accounts and handling of other peoples money.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company selling homes in the Atlanta, Decatur and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years, providing professional Property Management Services as well.