Movin’ on Up to Middle and High School

Easing the Transition
by WHITNEY BRENNAN

Middle School and High School

The transitions to middle and high school can seem daunting—to both children and parents. New middle and high schoolers enter a larger school and must deal with a larger number of new peers, new teachers and new subjects than they’re accustomed to, as well as become the youngest in the school—again. Parents hope their kids feel accepted by peers and teachers, earn high scores, meet great friends and make good decisions. And these challenges of transitioning are compounded by relocation to a new city as well. Some stress will always accompany the move to middle and high school, but there should be excitement, too, as the change also means new friends, new extracurricular activities, lockers and more freedom in the hallways. Parents, rest assured—there are ways to make the transition easier, for both you and your child.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, parents feel they can become less involved with school as their children get older, when parental involvement actually becomes more important at this time. Research has shown that involvement results in fewer absences, improved behavior and social skills, higher grades and test scores, and an increase in self-esteem and motivation. And according to the National Education Association, an organization dedicated to improving the country’s education system, students’ grades typically drop when they enter middle school, and freshmen in high school are more likely to drop out than their older peers. Clearly, it’s important to help ease this transition for your child. And one of the keys to a more successful transition is to be involved and communicate openly with the school and your child.

To help your child transition into middle or high school, you must understand what concerns they have. According to the National Middle School Association, the only national education association dedicated solely to the educational and developmental needs of middle schoolers, the main concerns of new middle school students include getting to class on time, getting lost, making failing grades, having more challenging work, being picked on and taking tests. As these students transition into high school, their concerns change somewhat: getting good grades, taking tests/final exams, taking difficult classes, preparing for college and turning in work on time. However, these concerns may not apply to all children. Your child may be more concerned about what you expect from him or her, making friends, peer pressure or getting into trouble. Discuss the transition with your child and ask how he or she feels about the change (excited, stressed, anxious) so that you can better understand what worries he or she has.

Perhaps one of the best ways to help alleviate some of your child’s fears about the transition is to make sure you and your child are familiar with the school and its transition resources. Most schools host an orientation/open house for students, which is particularly helpful to sixth- and ninth-graders. Some high schools even offer a freshman orientation for students entering the ninth grade. Orientations and open houses typically allow students to meet teachers and other students, get a copy of their class schedule, and, most important, familiarize themselves with their new surroundings. Getting to know teachers and other students helps ensure that your child will see at least one person he or she knows on the first day. Because students typically have one teacher and one classroom before entering middle or high school, having classes with more than one teacher in various rooms can be a confusing concept. Students who receive their class schedules at orientation should walk from class to class, if possible, so they feel more comfortable on the first day of school. Locating the lunch room, gym and restrooms may also help reduce first-day stress. Orientation also is a great place to practice opening a locker if your child receives his or her locker assignment. In addition to hosting orientations, some schools may also mail information packets to families, which may include materials about peer pressure and middle/ high school expectations, a student handbook and what to expect the first day of school. Be sure to speak with school administrators about options that will allow you and your child to learn more about the school. For example, middle and high schools usually offer more extracurricular activities, from drama to lacrosse, which allow your child to make friends and explore new interests—so find out as much as possible about the school.

If your child has started middle or high school this school year, then he or she has likely already attended an open house or orientation. However, transitioning is not an event, but a process that your child experiences beyond the first day of school. And there are additional ways to help ensure that this transition process continues to be a successful one. Many middle and high schools offer programs that pair an incoming sixth- or ninth-grader with an older student in the school who is available to answer any questions or concerns that the younger student may have. Typically, the older student helps with navigating the school, including finding classes, the lunch room or the gym, opening lockers, etc. But at the very least, this peer mentoring gives younger students the comfort of knowing that they have someone at the school to turn to during their time of transition. Similar to peer mentoring is teacher mentoring. A sixth- or ninth-grader is assigned to a teacher who answers questions and provides assistance. Some schools also offer Q & A sessions, where students typically meet in small groups and ask administrators or older students questions relating to the transition experience. Another valuable transition resource for students throughout the year is the school counselor, whose job is to help students with academic, career and personal objectives. Make sure your child takes advantage of opportunities to meet the counselor—at open houses, orientations or other school visits. Most important, if your child has any questions during the transition year, he or she should know who to ask—an older student, a teacher, a counselor or a school administrator.

In addition to ensuring that your children succeed socially during their first year as a middle or high schooler, you should also help ensure that they succeed academically. Schoolwork will be a bit more challenging than it was in prior years. In elementary school, your child was likely graded on a check system (check-plus, check, check-minus) or a satisfactory/unsatisfactory system. The move to middle school typically means grading will be done on an A-B-C scale (A+, A, A-, B+, etc.) or 100-point scale (scores in the 90s are typically As; scores in the 80s are Bs; 70s are Cs, etc.). If students are not exposed to the 100-point scale in middle school, then they may experience it when they enter high school. But regardless of whether your child experiences a new grading system, the grading and assignmentswill be tougher, as more is expected academically of students at these grade levels. Be sure to meet with your child’s new teachers before the start of the school year or in the beginning of the year to find out what these new expectations and grading policies are. Also, ask about homework—will your child have homework nightly; how much time will he or she be expected to spend on homework; will the homework be graded for accuracy, or will the teacher just check to make sure it was completed? Of course, share the information with your child—the more information he or she has about expectations at the new school, the more at ease he or she will feel. High school students should be encouraged to think about what they want to do after high school—if attending college, they need to choose classes, such as college prep, advanced placement, etc., that will help them reach their goal. School counselors are a great resource for helping students prepare for life after high school.

Education
Continue to meet regularly with the teachers throughout the year to track your child’s academic progress. Because of the research that suggests students’ grades drop when they enter middle school and ninth-graders have a higher risk than older students for dropping out, a smooth transition to middle and high school is critical to your child’s future academic success. High schoolers who plan to attend college will need to maintain good grades to attend the schools of their choice. Thus, it’s important to know how your child is doing in school so you can provide the assistance he or she may need. Along with parent-teacher conferences, many Metro Atlanta schools offer online programs where parents and students can monitor grades. Ask school administrators what options are available for tracking your child’s progress. Discuss any academic issues with a teacher as soon as possible. Your child may need more assistance in school, a bit more help at home or tutoring.

Because your new middle or high schooler will have classes that are more challenging and more assignments to complete, organization and time-management skills will be critical to a successful transition. Students entering middle and high school are expected to be more responsible academically, so if your child fails to complete an assignment on time, the result may be poor grades. A different colored notebook for each class may help improve organization. Also, sit down with your child, look at his or her assignments and help your child create a schedule. Don’t hesitate to ask your child if an assignment has been completed. If you ask middle schoolers now, then you should need to ask less when they enter high school. Additionally, your child’s teachers understand that the transition to middle or high school can be difficult, so if your child is feeling overwhelmed by the amount of schoolwork, discuss this with them. They may be able to help your child better organize his or her assignments. For high schoolers who attend college, time-management and organization skills will be needed to juggle even more difficult classes and assignments.

Transitioning to middle and high school certainly can be difficult for both parents and children—especially when combining this transition with a move to a new city. But by being involved and communicating with both the school and your child, the transition may indeed be easier.

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50 Great Communities

Atlanta offers a perfect place to live for every type of person

Co-written by Whitney Brennan

Smyrna Market Village

Metro Atlanta is home to numerous exceptional neighborhoods, so for practical reasons, they cannot all be included here. The following communities represent what we consider to be some of the most popular places to live in Metro Atlanta. Some have been admired for years, while others have been beautifully restored through revitalization efforts—and many are experiencing tremendous growth. Take a look—whether flying solo or with a family, you’re sure to find a neighborhood that appeals.

Alpharetta

$430,737 | F | YP | NC

Celebrating 150 years, Alpharetta offers world-class shopping and entertainment, exceptional dining, award-winning parks and numerous housing options. The Big Creek Greenway, a wide, paved path winding through wooded wetlands for more than six miles, is the ideal setting for a hike or bike ride. In May, the city celebrated the grand opening of its 12,000-seat outdoor concert venue, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, which is owned and operated by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Ansley Park/Druid Hills

$1,079,830/$691,926 | F | EN | HA | W

Some of the finest examples of period architecture can be found in these neighborhoods. Developer Edwin P. Ansley modeled his Ansley Park on park designs by famed architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The neighborhood, featuring wide winding streets, backs up to Midtown and offers a suburban lifestyle in the heart of the city. Druid Hills, designed by Olmsted, is surrounded by parks and is next door to Emory University. The neighborhood also is home to Minton Hall, an enclave of four luxurious estate homes by Whitehall Homes.

Atlantic Station Park District

Atlantic Station

$ not available | YP | EN | NC | W

This compact, walkable community for living, working and shopping boasts various housing options, from urban lofts to single-family homes to luxury condominium developments such as The Atlantic. In May, the neighborhood welcomed The Millennium Gate, a 74-foot monument that houses a 12,000-square-foot museum and resembles arches like the Arch of Titus in Rome and the St. Denis Arch in Paris.

Avondale Estates

$326,130 | F | EN | HA | W

Residents in this historic neighborhood enjoy a close-knit community feel and a one-half-mile man-made central lake. Since its inception in 1924, Avondale has continued to be the ideal suburb. The neighborhood, close to the cities of Atlanta and Decatur, also offers wide sidewalks, great dining options and a swim/tennis club.

Brookhaven

$707,070 | F | EN | HA

Developed as Atlanta’s first country club neighborhood, Brookhaven features wide winding streets, sweeping lawns and large elegant Tudor-, Colonial-, English- and Georgian-style cottage homes. The Capital City Country Club golf course is the heart of Brookhaven. The neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is conveniently located just one mile from Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza. One of its latest residential developments, 2360 Logan Circle is a community of 13 European-style luxury condos by Whitehall Homes.

Buckhead

$1,484,370 | YP | EN | NC | HA | W

Buckhead Photo: © 1998, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

People travel from near and far to visit this shopping mecca of the Southeast. The neighborhood’s more than 1,400 retail stores generate more than $1 billion in sales every year. In addition to shopping, the neighborhood offers some of the finest restaurants and homes in the Atlanta area. Multi-million-dollar estates, highrise condominium towers and luxury townhomes, such as City Park Townhomes, add to the neighborhood’s upscale appeal.

Cabbagetown

$281,419 | YP | NC | HA | W

When the Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill closed in 1977, Cabbagetown became a virtual ghost town, but that period was short-lived. Today, this six-block Atlanta neighborhood is brimming with artists and other individuals who transformed it into a funky refuge for cultural trendsetters. A rare urban tornado in March severely damaged sections of Cabbagetown, but did nothing to destroy the district’s spirit and sense of camaraderie as residents banded together to rebuild.

These neighborhoods attract a variety of residents, from poets to lawyers to computer programmers, with their eclectic mix of bungalows and cottages, as well as a quaint strip of shops and restaurants that includes one of Atlanta’s favorite brunch spots, the Flying Biscuit Café. Candler Park offers a nine-hole golf course, swimming pool, and basketball court and soccer field. Lake Claire is home to John Willis Homes’ Sutherland Place, a community of single-family homes, townhomes and lofts that blends perfectly into the existing neighborhood.

Castleberry Hill

$ not available | YP | NC | HA | W

Home to a thriving arts scene, trendy restaurants and urban loft residences, Castleberry Hill is also designated as a Landmark District, which allows the community to protect its historical integrity. Residents of the neighborhood enjoy the community events such as the annual Loft Tour and ArtStroll. The upcoming Castleberry Point Lofts, which will feature more than 100 residential units and about 35,000 square feet of retail space, is the neighborhood’s first mixed-used new construction.

Chamblee

$270,092 | F | YP | NC

Chamblee, “a city on the right track,” will proudly host its centennial celebration in 2008. This DeKalb County suburb attracts diverse residents from all over the world, thanks to its International Village, a 394-acre neighborhood that is home to people representing more than 30 countries. With three historic cemeteries and Antique Row, the largest antiques destination in the Southeast, Chamblee honors its past, but also looks toward its future with the development of new townhomes and loft apartments.

Georgia Int’l Convention Center Photo:Atlanta CVB/AtlantaPhotos.com

College Park

$153,921
| F | YP | NC | HA

With 867 structures on the National Register of Historic Places, College Park has the fourth-largest urban historic district in Georgia. It is also home to the largest private school in the United States: Woodward Academy. Called “Georgia’s Global City,” College Park is conveniently located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, I-285 and I-85, the CSX Railroad and MARTA. Its Georgia International Convention Center is the second-largest exhibit and meeting space in the state.

Covington

$168,401 | F | EN | HA | W

One of Newton County’s finest, Covington is a small city that shows big promise. A number of films and televisions series, such as The Dukes of Hazzard and In the Heat of the Night, were filmed in this picturesque town of manor homes, green space and Oxford College, the original campus of Emory University. Recreational activities abound in Covington, including hiking, concerts on the downtown Square and tours of Fox Vineyards, an award-winning winery.

Cumming

$319,459 | F | EN | NC | HA

With its prime location near Lake Lanier, Cumming attracts numerous residents and visitors. The “Gateway to Leisure Living,” the city offers the best of small-town living, but has also seen many new commercial and residential developments. Events for all ages are held every year at the Cumming Fairgrounds, including antique car shows and a Fourth of July celebration.

Decatur

$206,423 | F | YP | EN | NC | HA | W

Decatur, the second-oldest city in Metro Atlanta, is home to the first school in Georgia to be fully accredited: Agnes Scott College. The city offers a great mix of history and modernity. Residents can enjoy the more than 200 shops, restaurants, galleries and performance venues located along tree-lined streets. Events take place throughout the year at the city’s historic downtown square. Brownstones at Decatur, located less than a mile from the square, offers distinctive brownstone-style residences featuring up to 2,930 square feet.

Centennial Olympic Park Photo: © 2000, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

Downtown

$ not available | YP | NC | HA | W

With more than 100 restaurants, several shopping venues and more than 20 attractions within a four-square-mile area, Downtown offers its residents an exciting lifestyle. There are always new developments being added to the area, including W Atlanta Downtown, a hotel-condo hybrid featuring 237 hotel suites and 76 luxury residences. Downtown residents are within walking distance of Centennial Olympic Park, Philips Arena, the State Capitol, Georgia Aquarium, the NEW World of Coca-Cola and much more.

Duluth was named a Tree City in 1989 for its dedication to preserving green space. Its historic downtown features boutiques, cafes, and even an old-fashioned soda shop. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including its Flicks on the Bricks family film festival and its Summer Stage Concert Series. Duluth offers residential developments that are perfect for growing families, such as Bowen Family Homes’ Ashmore, as well as a variety of public and private school options.

$469,001 | F | YP | NC

A variety of education options are available in Dunwoody, and the winding streets and wooded lots provide a beautiful setting in which to raise a family. The very popular Perimeter Mall area is attracting young singles as well, and new developments such as Gramercy Townhomes, featuring up to 3 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths, are great for almost any home buyer, including singles, young couples and families.

East Lake/Oakhurst

$239,782/$327,720 | F | YP | HA | W

Historic bungalows from the 1900s to the 1950s line the shaded streets in East Lake and Oakhurst, and many have been beautifully restored. This revitalization has been driven, in part, by the East Lake Golf Club. The clubhouse will soon be getting a 20,000-square-foot addition that will include a ballroom to accommodate up to 200 people. In September, the club will host The TOUR Championship, a tournament open only to the top 30 money winners on the PGA Tour.

East Point

$134,568 | F | YP | NC | HA

The city of East Point is less than 14 square miles and combines the charm of a small town with conveniences of a large city. Residents enjoy the city’s prime location near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, MARTA and Downtown Atlanta. East Point is one of 100 Georgia cities to be designated a Main Street city—Main Street is a downtown revitalization program that combines economic development principles with historic preservation.

Fairburn

$192,829 | F | EN | NC | HA

As host of the Georgia Renaissance Festival every year, Fairburn offers a rich cultural heritage, along with its small-town atmosphere and rich history. Also, Phase 1 of the $10-million Fairburn Educational Campus is expected to be complete in the fall, just in time for principal tenant Georgia Military College to begin classes. A residential development of note is the master-planned arts-inspired community Le Jardin, which will feature 930 homes, sculpture gardens and the first-ever replica of Monet’s Water Garden.

Atlanta Cyclorama Photo: © 1995, Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

Grant Park

$258,139 | YP | HA | W

Grant Park is characterized by Victorian-era mansions, small cottages and early-20th-century bungalows. Brick-paved sidewalks line the streets. It is Atlanta’s largest historic neighborhood, built around Atlanta’s oldest city park. Residents enjoy local dive Ria’s Bluebird, which was featured on Food Network’s The Hungry Detective in May, and popular pub and fish house Six Feet Under, as well as their very own Zoo Atlanta, Oakland Cemetery, and Cyclorama, a 360-degree detailed panorama painting of the Battle of Atlanta in 1864.

Hapeville

$123,075 | F | YP | HA | W

Home to Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters, this historic town is welcoming many new developments, as well as redevelopments. The Arlington, the city’s first high-end mixed-use $5-million development, will feature retail/restaurants and distinctive condominium lofts. Many of the historic homes in the city’s Virginia Park neighborhood have been beautifully restored. The city will celebrate 117 years with its 2008 Happy Days Festival in September.

Johns Creek

$356,947 | F | NC

While many Metro Atlanta neighborhoods are celebrating 100 or more years, Johns Creek revels in the fact that it is only 1 1/2. In fact, the city’s new police force just hit the streets in April. Johns Creek has an upscale feel, with its elegant restaurants, shops and larger homes, such as those in RJM Development’s new community Enclave on Johns Creek. The city is experiencing phenomenal growth—a new high school is scheduled to open August 2009.

Jonesboro

$130,517 | F | EN | NC | HA

Believed to be the approximate location of Tara, the striking Southern plantation from Gone With the Wind, Jonesboro is proud to call itself the official home of Margaret Mitchell’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. The county seat of Clayton County was established on land once belonging to the Creek Indians, and many city attractions honor their legacy. Jonesboro experiences steady growth every year and offers plenty of recreation for its residents, including a beach, two golf courses and, of course, the Road to Tara Museum.

Kennesaw

$252,963 | F | EN | NC | HA

Kennesaw is a city that continues to preserve its rich history while looking to the future. Arts, education and culture play a prevalent role in a community that offers a variety of homes and subdivisions for the city’s growing families. Kennesaw State University attracts nearly 20,000 students to its campus—residents of Kennesaw enjoy the public events offered by the university’s College of the Arts. For a bit of history, residents can visit the Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History.

Kirkwood

$266,520 F | YP | HA

Kirkwood boasts homes inspired by such styles as Arts and Crafts, Victorian folk, Queen Anne and Craftsman. And the values of these homes are increasing more and more as revitalization continues. The neighborhood offers a variety of education options. Children have the option of attending the Drew Charter School, Atlanta’s first public charter school, which focuses on reading and math. Kirkwood is also near exceptional private schools.

Lawrenceville Photo: Alec Young

Lawrenceville

$199,446 | F | EN | NC | HA | W

Incorporated in 1821, Lawrenceville is the second-oldest city in Metro Atlanta. The revitalized historic downtown area offers a true sense of community, with its brick-paved sidewalks, benches and black street lamps, as well as unique shops, restaurants and coffeehouses. Once completed, Cornerstone on the Square, a development by the Morsberger Group, will offer the first opportunity for residential living on the city’s downtown square.

Lenox Park/Morningside

$223,781/$552,276 | F | YP | NC | HA | W

It’s hard to believe that the beautiful, quiet neighborhoods of Morningside and Lenox Park are located within the city of Atlanta. The route for a walking tour, created during the 1996 Olympics, can be found on the neighborhood Web site and gives potential new residents an unparalleled taste of the area. Only a few minutes from both swanky Buckhead and vibrant Midtown, the neighborhoods are at the center of an endless array of shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Little Five Points

$ not available | YP | HA | W

A visit to Little Five Points is all one needs to discover that bohemia is not dead. This self-proclaimed “coolest spot on the map between Greenwich Village and the French Quarter” is an entertainment gold mine, with venues and performers such as the Variety Playhouse, Masquerade nightclub and Dad’s Garage improv company. Restaurants and eclectic shops boasting prices that even starving artists can afford round out one of Atlanta’s most colorful and unique neighborhoods.

Mableton

$260,962 | F | EN | NC

Situated between the Cobb County cities of Smyrna and Vinings, unincorporated Mableton is one of Metro Atlanta’s best-kept secrets. It is small and charming, with plenty of beautiful homes along the Chattahoochee and even more scheduled to be built in the next few years. With all the attractions of the Cobb Galleria Centre nearby, including high-end shopping and dining, Mableton’s popularity is sure to continue to grow.

Marietta

$310,427 | F | YP | NC | HA

Beautiful parks, charming streets, 19th-century Victorian homes and historic sites make Marietta a desirable place to call home. Residents enjoy the vibrant downtown square, with its many restaurants, antique shops and happenings. In addition, the city is seeing many new developments, as well as redevelopments, so a wide variety of single-family homes, condos, townhomes and flats are available.

McDonough

$213,969 | F | EN | NC | HA

Designated a “City of Character” and a “City of Ethics” by the Georgia Municipal Association, McDonough is one of the largest cities in Henry County. The city features beautiful turn-of-the-century homes and a downtown square that hosts events such as Music on the Square and haunted ghost tours. The city welcomes The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, a 3/5 replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., on June 11—the wall will be available for viewing June 12-15.

Midtown

$647,278 | YP | EN | NC | HA | W

With dozens of entertainment options and some of Atlanta’s finest restaurants, there is no denying that Midtown is a cultural mecca. Its upscale city apartments, both new and old, offer unbeatable locations for businesspeople and artists alike, and the history surrounding its many attractions, including Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, lures visitors by the thousands. Midtown’s current project is the 1-million-square-foot Midtown Mile, a high-class shopping district designed to rival the likes of Rodeo Drive and Madison Avenue.

Newnan

$207,706 | F | EN | NC | HA

The quintessential Southern city, Newnan has the charm of a small town with all the benefits of an urban area—the city of Atlanta is only 40 miles away. Because of its six National-Register historic districts and the citizens’ Keep Newnan Beautiful campaign, the county seat of Coweta County draws more and more visitors and residents every year. A recent construction boom is helping to accommodate all of the people who choose to call Newnan home.

Norcross

$222,148 | F | NC | HA

“Respecting the past, embracing the future” is the motto of Norcross, and it couldn’t be more fitting. This former summer resort town for Atlanta’s elite now blends its surviving Victorian-era buildings with modern corporations, giving off a best-of-both-worlds appeal. Pedestrian-friendly living (the entire city is connected by a network of sidewalks), award-winning Gwinnett County schools and attractions such as the Norcross Baseball Hall of Fame make this an ideal community for families.

Old Fourth Ward/Inman Park

$317,455/$517,707 | YP | HA | W

These century-old Atlanta neighborhoods bring the city’s early days back to life. Old Fourth Ward is a construction hot spot, full of new shops and housing such as Alexan 360, a ritzy mid-rise apartment building expected to be completed in March 2010. But historic structures, such as Ebenezer Baptist Church, are constant reminders of the past. As Atlanta’s first trolley suburb, Inman Park also has a rich history, and its caring citizens work hard to preserve its beautiful Victorian-era homes.

Peachtree City Lake

Peachtree City

$300,684
| F | EN | NC | W

Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation in this planned community, and a 90-mile network of multi-use paths makes it easy and ideal to take the carts everywhere. “The Fred”—a 2,000-seat amphitheatre—Lake Peachtree and Flat Creek Golf Course are just a few of the attractions that help this Fayette County city grow in popularity every year and thus live up to its slogan: “Plan to Stay.”

Powder Springs

$206,932
| F | EN | NC | HA

With 243 acres set aside for recreation and a history dating back to Georgia’s gold rush, Powder Springs is one of Cobb County’s jewels. The 59-mile Silver Comet Trail runs through the city, and the Seven Springs Museum in Powder Springs Park houses artifacts that reflect the area’s “deep roots.” Powder Springs’ residents enjoy life in a safe and active community known for its abundance of green space and love for McEachern High School football.

Roswell

$382,666
| F | YP | EN | NC | HA

The city of Roswell has it all—from fine restaurants to great theater to some of Georgia’s best schools. Built on what the Cherokee Indians called “Enchanted Land,” this former mill town has retained its quaint Old South historic district and three notable homes—Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation—which are now open for tours. But Roswell is also a modern and welcoming Fulton County suburb, with world-class shopping, several parks and trails along the Chattahoochee River and new homes for families of any size.

Sandy Springs

$645,321
| F | YP | NC

In the past three years, Sandy Springs has gone from a neighborhood of Atlanta to a booming independent Fulton County city that is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies and thousands of happy families. Easily recognizable by its skyline, which includes the “King” and “Queen” towers of the Concourse at Landmark Center, Sandy Springs offers countless high-end shopping and dining options. Chastain Park Amphitheatre, which has attracted big-name performers since 1973, makes Sandy Springs an entertainment hub as well.

Smyrna

$331,194
| F | YP | NC

Smyrna, the small town at the center of it all, is only minutes from Atlanta, Cobb Galleria Centre and Six Flags Over Georgia, but offers plenty of its own attractions, too. The “Jonquil City” is perfect for families, with its beautiful parks, great Cobb County schools and charming old-fashioned downtown, the Village Green. Several new mixed-use communities, such as the homes and shops of West Village, add to Smyrna’s appeal.

Stockbridge

$168,986
| F | NC

Henry County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, and when it is home to cities like Stockbridge, it’s easy to see why. This former railway town is a golfer’s dream come true, thanks to the Eagle’s Landing Country Club and its 18-hole course, host of the annual LPGA Chick-fil-A Charity Championship. The brand-new City Hall and Town Center is scheduled for completion in December 2008 and will give Stockbridge residents yet another reason to be proud of where they live.

Stone Mountain

$149,541
| F | NC | HA

Located at the base of its namesake, Stone Mountain is the second-oldest city in DeKalb County and calls to mind the small Southern towns of eras past. Historic Stone Mountain Village, the downtown business district, features revitalized shops and restaurants along its Main Street and hosts a variety of family-oriented activities throughout the year. The four city parks, plus nearby Stone Mountain Park, make Stone Mountain one of the cleanest and “greenest” cities in Metro Atlanta.

In addition to being the home of Martin Luther King Jr., Sweet Auburn has been frequented by almost every well-known Civil Rights leader and houses numerous African-American landmarks. Festivals and shows keep Sweet Auburn residents entertained year-round, and several exhibits celebrate the legacy of Dr. King and his fellow peaceful protesters. A recent surge of affordable housing makes this monumental community all the more appealing.

Family-friendly Tucker in unincorporated DeKalb County offers a pleasant mix of new housing developments and decades-old businesses. A wide variety of clubs, sports leagues and houses of worship make life in this city enjoyable for residents of all ages and interests. Every spring, Tucker Celebration Day brings the town’s families together for a parade, a cookout and other general festivities that are reminiscent of a small-town gathering, but aren’t very far from the big city.

Vinings

Vinings

$622,000
| F | YP | EN | NC | HA

With its prime location and affordable new housing, Vinings is a hot neighborhood for people from all walks of life. A Cobb County city with an Atlanta address, Vinings is both sophisticated and comfortable, featuring sleek condominium towers, beautiful single-family homes and plenty of places to eat and shop. Cumberland Mall and the new state-of-the-art Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre are just a few minutes away, and the views of the Atlanta skyline are breathtaking.

Virginia-Highland 

$638,226 | YP | HA | W

The Greenwich Village of Atlanta, Virginia-Highland has long appealed to the city’s trendiest residents, which is evidenced by its ever-growing number of nightclubs, galleries and boutiques. Homes range from renovated turn-of-the-century houses to exclusive gated communities, all within walking distance from popular shops and restaurants. Virginia-Highland has a reputation for being a musicians’ haven, and the melodies of local bands permeate all corners of the neighborhood, especially during its annual Summerfest, one of the Southeast’s best art festivals.

West End

$101,565
| YP | NC | HA

West End is the perfect title for such a dramatic place—it was named after London’s renowned theater district. Home to Atlanta University Center, which includes Morehouse and Spelman colleges, this historic neighborhood is famous for its 19th-century architecture and housing prices that are even within the budgets of recent graduates. Rather than raze old buildings, West Enders choose to preserve and use them for new shops, thus ensuring that their corner of Atlanta retains the charm it has borne since its earliest days.

Woodstock

$229,682
| F | NC

Woodstock, the fastest-growing city in Cherokee County, is truly “where modern amenities meet old Southern charm,” as locals say. Historic Olde Towne pays a continual tribute to Woodstock’s pioneers through vintage shops, constant restoration and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. From summertime demolition derbies at the Dixie Speedway to the lighting of the City Park Christmas Tree in December, Woodstock residents are always finding ways to stay happy; of course, all of those beautiful new homes and excellent schools don’t hurt, either.

Vinings

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Atlanta’s Hot Housing Market

Why Now is the Time to Buy a Home
by Whitney Brennan

Hillside at Chastain’s traditional brick homes are situated near historic Chastain Park.

Founder John Wieland says, “I started the Sale of a Lifetime, because I realized that a lot of people were sitting on the sidelines, not buying. We had every home marked down. The sale was to accommodate those who were on the fence, still in the decision-making stage.”

A luxurious kitchen at the eco-friendly condo development eon at Lindbergh.

The sale was certainly a success—during the first six days, John Wieland Homes experienced a 100 percent increase in sales. Other builders and developers are seeking the same success. The Providence Group is offering no payments for six months—the company will pay new buyers’ principal and interest payments for the first six months of ownership. All Season Homes recently offered an incredible incentive to buyers in its Brickell community. The company would either pay the principal, interest, tax and insurance on a buyer’s new home in the community, or buyers could choose a free two-year lease on a BMW Z4. Monte Hewett Homes promises significantly discounted homes in all its neighborhoods, and Centex Homes also offers discounted homes, as well as its ongoing Hometown Heroes program, which provides a 2 percent discount on new homes to teachers, firefighters and police officers.

In addition, buyers at The Gramercy Townhomes, a “walking neighborhood,” receive 7 percent of the home price to spend as they want, such as on upgrades, price reduction, closing costs and more. New buyers at Paces 325, a community of luxury condos in Buckhead, receive 2 percent toward closing costs and one year of paid homeowners’ association fees. The Marketing Directors, known for its tremendous success in the sales and marketing of residential real estate, is selling the condos. David Tufts, president and founder of the Southeast division of the company, says, “Right now, there’s a healthy selection of homes available, and interest rates are very compelling. Rates continue to decline, and there is a broad range of programs available for financing. Prices and incentives in the marketplace are great.”

Although overall price is certainly important to home buyers, many have a greater concern. David Ellis, executive vice president of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, explains, “Price is important, but what many buyers worry about is the monthly payment. How much is this going to cost me? This is a big deciding factor, and of course, this relates to interest rates, which are near record lows.” The GAHBA has launched its own campaign, Get Home Atlanta, to inform buyers about the incredible opportunities available in the housing market, including the low interest rates, great prices and builder promotions. Three other builders’ associations, Barrow County, Midwest Georgia and Westside, have joined the GAHBA for the 2008 Spring Parade of Homes Apr. 19-20 and Apr. 26-27. The event is free and open to the public—prospective home buyers will be able to view hundreds of new homes throughout the Atlanta region and choose the neighborhood that is right for them. This year’s event comes at a good time—because with the deals being offered in the marketplace, now is certainly the time to buy.

The wellness-inspired condo development Mezzo features luxurious master baths

Many of these incentives and great prices may be short-lived, but buyers should certainly keep their eyes open—while builders’ inventories are high, buyers’ incentives will remain a constant. “The amount of product available in the market is very high, so builders are willing to negotiate prices—John Wieland Homes is certainly willing to negotiate,” says Wieland.

In addition to the builder incentives and great prices, the housing market in Metro Atlanta offers plenty of choices. Indeed, the supply of homes is high, but the types of living options in the area are nearly limitless. Whether a buyer wants a single-family home, townhome, condo or loft in a petfriendly, eco-friendly, recreational, active adult, mixed-use or masterplanned community, Metro Atlanta has it. There’s even a wellnessinspired condo development. Mezzo, a boutique condo with only 94 unique residences, features spainspired elements and organic features designed to soothe, including Zen-style gardens, a eucalyptus steam room and a massage room. A climate-controlled pet respite, complete with a private bathing area, will certainly appeal to pet lovers.

Another noteworthy condo development is 1010 Midtown. The 35-story mixed-use tower features 443 one-, two- and three-bedroom signature residences and up to 50,000 square feet of retail space. Home owners will enjoy state-of-the-art amenities and features, such as stainless steel appliances, stone baths, expansive balconies, fitness center and multi-level clubroom with private deck overlooking Peachtree Street. A “Park in the Sky,” with swimming pool, cabanas and manicured gardens, completes the package. Jason Winburn, vice president of residential sales and marketing at Daniel Corporation, one of the property’s developers, says, “In addition to its prime location, buyers will appreciate the attention to detail. We took great care in making sure that the community offers incredible floor plans—what are upgrades at other developments are standard at 1010.”

Buyers looking for eco-friendly communities also will be pleased with the options in Metro Atlanta. Many of the area’s builders and developers are going green, producing homes designed to reduce energy costs and promote conservation. For example, both Monte Hewett Homes and Haven Properties ensure that every home they build is EarthCraft House and Energy Star certified. Monte Hewett’s West Village, a pedestrian-friendly community of townhomes and single-family homes, was recognized by the Atlanta Regional Commission as the 2007 Development of Excellence, and Monte Hewett’s Hillside at Chastain, a community of 11 luxury estate homes, features an underground storm water detention pond with a community park above. Haven Properties’ homes, such as those at recreational community Chapel Hills Golf & Country Club, are 30 percent more energy efficient than homes built using standard construction. (For more information about recreational communities, turn to page 20.) Another green community of note is eon at Lindbergh, a Dawson Company and Lane Company development featuring 352 one- and two-bedroom EarthCraft-certified condos—free recycling is offered to all residents. For those seeking environmentally-friendly loft living, Chamblee’s Eco Lofts is Atlanta’s first-ever eco-friendly condominium development powered by 100 percent clean, renewable wind energy.

Home buyers seeking communities with a master plan will certainly not be disappointed by the options in Metro Atlanta. Indeed, master-planned communities are a growing trend in Metro Atlanta real estate. These types of communities generally encompass a large amount of land and include a tremendous amount of recreational amenities such as lakes, golf courses, bike paths, jogging trails and parks. Builders and developers of master-planned communities anticipate the future needs of residents and include these amenities in the original plans. Laurel Canyon, a master-planned mountain-golf community in Canton, features amenities such as a fitness center, children’s play park, water park, a party deck overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains and an all-sports court. Laurel Canyon comprises four neighborhoods—Longleaf, High Point, Horizons and Seasons, an active adult community—and many of the homes offer breathtaking golf course or mountain views. A truly unique master-planned community is Le Jardin in Fairburn. Inspired by nature and the arts, the community will feature spa services, sculpture gardens, internationally commissioned art and the first-ever American replica of Monet’s Water Garden.

In addition to great deals and prices, low interest rates and a healthy selection of living options, Metro Atlanta—when compared to other metro areas—offers home buyers more for their money. David Tufts of The Marketing Directors explains, “Home buyers need to know how reasonably priced homes in Metro Atlanta are, as compared to the global marketplace. In New York City, homes are roughly $1,500 a square foot, while homes in Metro Atlanta are about $300 a square foot. So, in the grand scheme of the marketplace, Metro Atlanta is very affordable.” John Wieland agrees. “John Wieland Homes builds in four other major cities, and what buyers get right now in Atlanta is really terrific. They get a lot of house, a lot of features and a lot of quality for their money.”

1010 Midtown, a 35-story mixed-use condo development, will feature up to 50,000 square feet of retail space.

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