Trying to figure out Atlanta’s market

[Demetrius T Wardsworth]

To who it may concern, 

I’m a novice investor looking to potentially purchase a multi family in the Atlanta area. I’m looking for advice of buying in gentrified areas. Where are the up and coming areas of Atlanta that have attraction to them? If Anyone can give me suggestions on the ideal areas of Atlanta I will greatly appreciate it.

[Edward Zachary Samperio]

Atlanta has undergone significant gentrification in recent years, with many neighborhoods seeing an influx of new residents and businesses. Some of the neighborhoods that are currently experiencing revitalization and have become popular areas for real estate investment include:

1. West End: A historic neighborhood with Victorian homes and a growing commercial district.
2. Kirkwood: A family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of historic and new construction homes and a vibrant commercial area.
3. Reynoldstown: A former industrial area that has been transformed into a trendy residential neighborhood with a popular Beltline trail.
4. Edgewood: A neighborhood that is seeing rapid growth and development with new retail, restaurants, and residential properties.
5. Old Fourth Ward: An area that has seen significant investment and development in recent years, with a mix of historic homes, new construction, and popular attractions like the Atlanta Beltline and Ponce City Market.

When investing in gentrified areas, it's important to consider the potential for future growth and development, as well as the current demand for rental properties. You should also do your due diligence and research the specific neighborhood, including crime rates, vacancy rates, and any planned development projects that could impact the area. It's also a good idea to work with a local real estate agent who has experience with investment properties in the area.

[James Sigsbee]

This is a good post by @Edward Zachary Samperio.  Just as an additional point to consider, gentrifying areas often get hit the hardest in a downturn.  Don't just go into them because they offer a lot of upside, they offer that upside for a reason - and that reason is they are also higher risk.  As a novice investor, just make sure you feel very good about a deal if it is going to be your first and you are committed to buying in a gentrifying area.  

[Carla Ham]

[Michael Dumler]

@Demetrius T Wardsworth, I'll have to disagree on this one. I'm sorry but in-town neighborhoods such as Kirkwood, Reynoldstown, Edgewood, and Old Fourth Ward are well past the gentrification phase. That boat sailed long ago if I'm being honest. These in-town neighborhoods are very affluent now, don't expect to find anything below $400k unless it's a total fixer-upper. 

To reiterate, when asking this question, I think there are several indicators to assess/analyze when determining a select submarket's value growth potential/gentrification. Job growth/employment history, business integration, population density, and new development projects. All of this information can be gathered and sourced from some of my favorite platforms including Bisnow Atlanta, Urbanize Atlanta, and Atlanta Business Chronicle. 

Direct answer. Many in-town neighborhoods south of ATL are showing valid signs of market growth due to new mixed-use development projects. These include West End, Oakland City, and Venetian Hills. Moreover, there is growth potential in Westside ATL. While most of Westside is still C-class and quite rundown, the announcement of Microsoft's new development campus in the Grove Park area has many investors bullish. Lastly, several Decatur neighborhoods are on my radar. Hope this helps!

[Demetrius T Wardsworth]

Would you be able to find under market value properties in these areas.

[Demetrius T Wardsworth]

Quote from @Demetrius T Wardsworth:

Would you be able to find under market value properties in these areas?

[Demetrius T Wardsworth]

Do you has any metrics you use that you can suggest I use as a novice investor?

[Demetrius T Wardsworth]

@I love your logic. I’m looking more for emerging markets, up and coming areas, where I can jump on early and reap the benefits. I’m interested in getting my first rental property at a discount price instead of retail price. Even if I have to rehab it a bit.