Atlanta's Sellers' Market Not Gone With The Wind Realty Times Feature Article by Blanche Evans

For the same reason it was a major target of the Union army during the Civil War, Atlanta remains a desirable Southern strategic location today. A major airport, ground transportation and cultural hub, Atlanta offers tropical warmth, room for growth, and a romantic, star-crossed history. It is one of the most important relocation destinations in the country, with over 4.1 million residents in the metro area. But, as in other fast-growing technology hubs, the inner city is going through a home buying slump following the dot-com fallout.

Despite that, Realtors expect a busy buying season due to continuing low interest rates and the fact that the home buying market has been slightly depressed long enough for buyers to be drawn in by the inner city's values.

"In the in-town market in particular," says Realtor Chuck Cook, "I have noticed that listings are staying on the market a little longer and selling near the same price or slightly lower than this time last year. This is especially true with higher dollar homes."

However, with continuing low interest rates, buyers are starting to show more interest. "Buyers, don't wait for the interest rates to go any lower," advises Cook. "I don't see that happening. Sellers, as long as you price your home right and provide some value for the prospective home buyer, you will have no problem selling your home."