Are you considering condo living in Metro Atlanta?

Condos offer several fantastic benefits, such as the opportunity to secure a prime location for your investment. You'll often find that you get more bang for your buck, and they come with a host of amenities that you might not have access to in a single-family house. However, it often involves certain compromises, such as limited space and potential HOA restrictions.

Watch this week Landis Look as we take a closer look at everything you need to know about condo living in Metro Atlanta. Check out condos for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Atlanta is well-known for having a wide variety of housing options– it is equally plausible to purchase a gorgeous historic Queen Anne Victorian in an urban neighborhood as it is to live in a modern, new building out in the suburbs. Buying a condo can be a great choice if you’re interested in living right in the heart of the city but aren’t particularly interested in renting or maintaining a single-family home.

There are lots of compelling reasons why a condo might be the perfect housing option for you. At the same time, there are some drawbacks you’ll want to consider when you’re making such a big decision that impacts both your finances and your lifestyle.

So, what can you expect when you live in a condo right in the center of all the action? What perks will you enjoy, and what compromises will you likely have to make? Furthermore, what steps can you take to make sure you choose the right condo?

Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about condo living in ATL.

The Benefits of Buying and Living in a Condo in Atlanta

There’s a long list of reasons why living in a condo might be the right choice for you. Let’s look at some of the benefits you can enjoy with an Atlanta condo compared to buying a home.

Low Maintenance

In general, condos typically involve less maintenance compared to single-family homes.

The condo association usually handles exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common area upkeep, so you won’t have to spend your free time mowing the lawn every weekend.

Amenities

Many condos offer shared amenities such as gyms, pools, clubhouses, and even security services.

These can provide a luxurious and convenient lifestyle and add serious value when you consider the cost of paying separately for these perks when living in a single-family house.

Security

It’s common for Atlanta condos, particularly the fancier ones, to have security features like gated entrances, security personnel, and surveillance systems.

This can enhance safety and provide peace of mind, allowing you to truly relax both when you’re at home and when you’re away.

Location, Location, Location

Buying a condo in the heart of Atlanta means that you’ll have easy access to restaurants, shops, public transportation, and entertainment.

All of the city’s best amenities can be right at arm’s reach, with all of the delights of Atlanta only a short walk, drive, or ride away.

Community

Another one of the great things about living in an Atlanta condo is that it can foster a sense of community since residents often share common spaces and interact through homeowners’ associations or social events.

This can be particularly meaningful if you’re moving to the city from NYC or another spot in the U.S. If you’re interested in speeding up the process of getting to know people in your new home, buying a condo can provide a foundational community.

Affordability

Of course, there’s a wide range of price points when it comes to Atlanta condos. While they aren’t always cheaper than single-family homes– the specifics are going to have to do with location, amenities, size, and so on– they certainly can be more affordable than single-family homes in the same neighborhood or area.

This makes it so condos are often a solid choice for first-time buyers or those looking to downsize.

The Drawbacks of Buying and Living in a Condo in Atlanta

What are some of the more negative aspects of condo living in Atlanta that you’ll want to keep in mind? Before you make any big moves, you’ll want to consider these potential drawbacks.

Monthly Fees

Condo owners are typically required to pay monthly HOA and maintenance fees to cover amenities and common area expenses.

These fees can vary widely and may increase over time– it’s easy to get surprised about just how costly this expense can be. You’ll also want to learn about special assessments, additional insurance premiums, pet fees, and higher mortgage rates that are commonly associated with purchasing condos.

Less Privacy

Of course, this drawback is going to apply to just about any home you find in the heart of Atlanta unless you can shell out the big bucks for a lavish estate.

Still, it’s worth noting that living in close proximity to neighbors means you might have less privacy than in a standalone home. Noise and shared walls can be issues for some residents, so you’ll want to think about how much this bothers you.

Limited Control

When you buy a single-family home that isn’t a part of an HOA, you have a lot more freedom to do what you want with the interior and exterior of your home.

Condo associations often have rules and regulations that dictate what you can and cannot do with your property, which can limit your freedom in terms of renovations or even pet ownership.

Resale Value

Another important point is that condos can appreciate in value, but they may not appreciate as much as single-family homes in the same area.

The resale value can be influenced by the health of the condo association, the specific location of your condo, and a number of other factors.

Lack of Outdoor Space

If you dream of having a garden or a little yard to call your own, a condo might not be the best option.

Condos typically have limited or no private outdoor space, so this can be a drawback if having a quiet place outside of your own is a priority.

Association Politics

Finally, it’s important to recognize that living in a condo complex means dealing with association meetings, rules, and potential conflicts with other residents.

The vibe of condo associations can range significantly from very laid-back to pretty intense, and you’ll want to think about what is ideal for you on that spectrum.

The Perks of Being Right in the Heart of Atlanta

So, what’s the big deal about living right in the city? Is it worth buying a condo so you can be in the heart of it all?

Access to Cultural and Entertainment Hub

Atlanta’s downtown and Midtown areas are home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, art galleries, and music venues.

You’ll have easy access to events, concerts, and performances– if you’re always looking to get out and have new experiences, this is the spot to be.

Dining and Culinary Delights

Atlanta boasts a diverse and thriving food scene. Living in the heart of the city means you can explore a wide variety of restaurants, from Southern comfort food to international cuisine, often within walking distance.

If you’re a foodie through and through, this is a great spot for you.

Career Opportunities

Atlanta is a major business and economic hub with numerous corporate headquarters, startups, and job opportunities. Living in the center of Atlanta can mean a shorter commute or even the ability to work within walking distance of your residence.

Traffic in Atlanta can be pretty rough if you live in the suburbs and commute to the city, so you might find that a condo in the city is the perfect choice.

Public Transportation

Atlanta has an expanding public transportation system, including MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority).

Living right in the center of it all means easy access to public transportation, reducing the need for a car, and minimizing dealing with the sometimes frustrating traffic of Atlanta.

Proximity to Parks and Recreation

While Atlanta is a bustling, world-class city, it also offers green spaces and parks.

Piedmont Park in Midtown, for example, provides a truly lovely escape for outdoor activities, recreation, and relaxation.

Sports and Entertainment

Are you a sports fan? If so, you’ll be pleased to know that Atlanta is home to several professional sports teams, including the Atlanta Braves (baseball), Atlanta Hawks (basketball), and Atlanta Falcons (football).

Living in central Atlanta allows you to easily attend sporting events– going to a game can be the norm rather than a special occasion!

Shopping

There’s also a wide range of shopping options if you live right in the city, from high-end boutiques to trendy shops and markets.

No matter your style, you’ll always find something new and interesting to explore when you’re walking around Atlanta.

Historical and Architectural Charm

The heart of Atlanta is rich in historical landmarks and architecturally significant buildings, providing a sense of character and history to the area. If you hate the “new build” feeling of the suburbs, you’re going to love living right in the city.

A truly remarkable array of architectural styles can be viewed just by walking around different neighborhoods– everything from Victorians and Tudors to four squares and bungalows.

Tips For Finding the Perfect Atlanta Condo

If you’re sold on the idea of buying a condo, your hard work isn’t quite done.

Here are some steps you’ll want to make sure you find the one that’s perfect for your lifestyle:

Define your priorities: Before you start your search, make a list of your priorities. Consider factors such as location, size, budget, amenities, and any specific features you desire.
Set a realistic budget: Determine how much you can comfortably afford for the purchase price, monthly mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowner association (HOA) fees, and insurance. HOA fees can vary quite a bit depending on the condo, so it’s important to get a clear sense of how much you’ll be required to pay each month so you don’t strain your budget.
Choose the right location: Atlanta has diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and amenities. Research different areas to find one that suits your lifestyle, work, and commuting needs. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out our post about Atlanta’s hidden gem neighborhoods.
Work with a real estate agent: Consider hiring a local real estate agent who specializes in condos in Atlanta. They’ll be able to provide valuable insights, show you listings that match your criteria, and negotiate on your behalf.
Visit multiple properties: Don’t rush into a decision. Visit several condo complexes to get a sense of the options available. Take notes and pictures to help you compare properties.
Review condo association rules: Every condo complex has its own set of rules and regulations. Ensure you understand these rules, as they can impact your lifestyle and property use.
Assess amenities: Determine which amenities are essential to you. Condo buildings often offer amenities such as fitness centers, pools, concierge services, and more. You’ll want to consider which ones are needs, which ones are wants, and which ones you can live without.
Consider resale value: Think about the potential resale value of the condo. Research the neighborhood’s history of property appreciation and the overall real estate market in Atlanta.
Consider the future: Consider your long-term plans and whether the condo will meet your needs in the years to come. Will the condos on your list be big enough for your growing family? Are your kids moving out soon, and you’ll be planning to downsize down the road?
Get pre-approved for financing: If you require a mortgage, get pre-approved for a loan before you begin your search. This can make your offer more appealing to sellers, particularly in a competitive market.
Be patient: Finding the perfect condo may take time. Avoid settling for a property that doesn’t meet your needs or feels like a compromise– patience can leave you with a much more appealing outcome in the long term.
Consider the resale or rental potential: Consider whether you may want to rent out the condo in the future. Some condo associations have restrictions on rentals, so you’ll want to review these policies before making any moves.

Are You Ready to Buy a Condo in Atlanta?

Finding the perfect condo can feel like an enormous task, but having the right team on your side can make the entire process a lot smoother. At the Justin Landis Group, you’ll have a real estate agent who acts as your primary point of contact and an entire team of world-class experts working in the background to help you achieve your real estate dreams.

Whether you’re just starting your search or you have a shortlist of properties you want to see, we’re here to help. To get started, reach out today!