What this site covers
This site started in the 2000s as a local Atlanta real estate website and is now kept up as an independent guide. It covers the cities and counties of metro Atlanta, practical checklists for home buyers and sellers, and local history. We do not represent buyers or sellers, and the listings shown on the site are archived examples, not homes currently for sale.
Agent designations worth knowing
Client-oriented service, and exceeding the client's expectations, is what separates the agents Atlanta buyers and sellers recommend to friends. When you choose an agent, these designations and awards tell you something about their training and track record:
- CRS — Certified Residential Specialist: a professional designation held by about 4% of real estate agents. The Georgia Chapter of CRS supports local members.
- GRI — Graduate, REALTOR® Institute: a core education program on contracts, finance and ethics.
- Associate Broker: an agent who holds a broker's license but works under a managing broker.
- Million Dollar Club (Atlanta Board of REALTORS®): recognizes sales volume; Life Members have qualified many years in a row, and the Phoenix Award recognizes ten years or more in the club.
- Commercial experience: agents with commercial, industrial and retail sales, leasing and property management backgrounds are a plus for commercial real estate and investment property.
North Georgia weekend escapes
One of the best parts of living in Atlanta is how close the mountains are. A few favorite places:
- The view from the overlook on the way to the Cohutta Wilderness, north Georgia.
- Lake Conasauga, Georgia — quality family time at the highest lake in the state.
- Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- The trail to Mt. LeConte and Mount LeConte Lodge — yes, it's a cabin, but a really cool cabin, and worth the 4 hour climb!
- Little River Falls, Lookout Mountain, Alabama, during the dry fall season.
- Farther afield: Angel's Landing in Zion National Park.
And if you fall for the really cute cabins you'll see in the mountains, you're not alone — mountain cabins are a popular second-home purchase for Atlanta families.