Q1 2025 Market Snapshot (with Deborah Morton, Host of Inside Georgia Real Estate | WSB 95.5 FM)

Hi friends,

As we close out March, I wanted to share a high-level market update based on what we know so far about the first quarter of 2025. While the full March numbers haven’t been finalized yet (so stay tuned for a more detailed follow-up in a couple of weeks), I’ve pulled key insights from January and February data to give you a pulse on where we’re headed—and what it means for buyers, sellers, and investors across metro Atlanta.

📈 Home Equity Growth Is Still a Real Opportunity

Let’s start with something encouraging: the long-term outlook for homeownership remains strong. According to the most recent Home Price Expectations Survey, homeowners who purchased a $450,000 home in January 2024 could see an average equity gain of nearly $93,657 over five years.

This projection isn’t just theoretical—it’s based on forecasts from over 100 housing market experts, economists, and investment strategists. It’s another reason why real estate continues to be a smart long-term play, especially in desirable markets like ours.

🏡 Inventory Is Climbing, but Still Below Peak Levels

Locally in Cobb County—and across metro Atlanta—we’ve seen listing counts begin to rise compared to last year. This is good news for buyers who’ve been struggling with tight inventory and intense competition.

From December 2023 to February 2025, Cobb’s listing count increased from 2,208 to 2,767. That’s a 25% jump, though still not quite back to the high inventory levels we saw during the peak of last year’s summer season (July–October 2024, when we topped 3,100 active and pending listings).

Sellers: More competition is coming. But if your home is well-prepped and properly priced, it can still stand out—and sell strong.

🗳️ Sales Are Down, But Prices Are Up

Across the metro area, we saw fewer closings compared to last year—especially in attached (townhomes, condos) and detached single-family homes:

📊 Detached Homes

• February 2025 Closings: 3,960 (▼ 8% from 2024)

• Avg. Sales Price: $501,211 (▲ from $479,995 in 2024)

📊 Attached Homes

• February 2025 Closings: 855 (▼ 15% from 2024)

• Avg. Sales Price: $413,465 (▲ from $396,589 in 2024)

While fewer homes are selling, those that do are commanding higher prices—particularly if they’re move-in ready or located in popular zip codes. We’re also seeing DOM (Days on Market) stay relatively stable around 50-60 days.

🌆 City of Atlanta: Sales Snapshot

In the first quarter (through March 30), we recorded 1,943 total sales in Atlanta proper with an average sales price of $592,827, up from last year’s Q1 average. Here are a few highlights from the Sales Summary Report:

• Zip Code 30305 (Buckhead): Avg. Sales Price (Detached): $2.46M

• Zip Code 30318 (West Midtown / Riverside): 99 closings, Avg. Price: $510,747

• Zip Code 30316 (East Atlanta): 54 detached home sales, Avg. Price: $424,610

We’re seeing strong luxury movement in areas like 30327 and 30306, and more affordable options trading hands in 30310, 30311, and 30315.

🌟 Key Takeaways (So Far)

• 🔹 Buyers: Inventory is increasing, which can work in your favor—but prices aren’t dropping. Be prepared, pre-approved, and strategic with offers.

• 🔹 Sellers: Demand remains steady, but buyers are value-conscious. Presentation, pricing, and prep still matter.

• 🔹 Investors: The long game looks solid. If you’re watching the 5-year equity outlook and have capital to deploy, timing your next move wisely could pay off.

📣 Stay Connected with Inside Georgia Real Estate

We’ll share a complete Q1 wrap-up soon—but in the meantime, don’t miss our weekly insights and updates:

✅ Sign up for our weekly newsletter
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @InsideGeorgiaRealEstate
📱 Download the free mobile app on Google Play or the App Store to catch replays, submit questions, and stay connected to the show.

Until next time—stay smart, stay bold, and remember: real estate isn’t just about buying or selling houses—it’s about building your future.

— Deborah
Founder of Clareo Real Estate & Host of Inside Georgia Real Estate on WSB 95.5 FM