Down Market? I think not, Atlanta Stats Tell a Different Tale

Over the past few months I keep hearing that Atlanta is feeling the same "Down Market" symptoms as the rest of the nation. While we are seeing homes take a little longer to sell, prices are dropping for homes actively listed versus what they originally listed for (note this doesn't mean sale prices are down) and inventory is high, Atlanta is still seeing 2-3% positive appreciation year to year.

Yep that's right, let me say that again, Atlanta is still seeing home values appreciate. In Cobb County alone, Realtors sold 13,708 homes during 2007 (not bad for a "down year"). My office here at Keller Williams had the 2nd best month ever since its inception 8 years ago, April 2008 was a record breaker, so again I challenge those market critics to throw Atlanta in with the rest of the nation.

It is a perfect time to buy a home as interest rates are still holding at record lows and home prices are more reasonable due the high levels of inventory. Conversely its also a great time to sell, as there are more qualified buyers available. The key to selling your home easily and quick relative to the rest of the market is to set a realistic price and to make sure your home and property is in "show quality form". This is the time to take advantage of the real estate market. Just remember, what you see on national nightly news usually does not pertain to Atlanta, Georgia!