The Lap of Luxury

METRO ATLANTA’S HIGH-END HOME MARKET IS ONE OF THE HOTTEST RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS TODAY

What constitutes a luxury home? According to Lori Lane, Senior Vice President of the New Homes Division for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties, “There are several factors that help distinguish a luxury community. Location, amenities and school system are usually the main ones we consider when defining a luxury neighborhood.” A location near hot spots in the metro area, access to both designer features within the home and unparalleled amenities in the neighborhood itself and proximity to a highly rated school district makes quite a difference when it comes to a community’s standing and price points. Here, Lane shares her insights about this segment of the local residential market and how to approach the home buying process in this high-end arena.

How do you describe the luxury home market in the metro Atlanta area?

The luxury market throughout Atlanta was incredibly strong in 2021, and that was reflected in the sales at some of the extraordinary communities that we represent. From Milton, where we sold out Milton Run in 2021 and represent several high-end neighborhoods including the Manor Golf and Country Club, to Trilith, located south of the city in Fayetteville, we experienced astounding sales numbers. We have several additional luxury communities coming soon this spring in both Fayette and Coweta County, including the Gin Property in Senoia, which was the location for the filming of the TV show “The Walking Dead.”

How has the current state of the real estate market affected luxury communities?

With the high demand for new homes and inventory levels still historically low, we are seeing many luxury buyers turning to new construction as an option. Our builders, while still dealing with ongoing supply chain issues, are starting homes as quickly as they can just to see them go under contract as soon as they are started. A trend we are noticing is that to get into a new home as quickly as possible, many luxury buyers are satisfied with the builder’s design selections to close as quickly as possible.

What are the top locations currently in the metro area for luxury living?

It seems as though every market is hot right now. Second home properties like mountain and lake view properties are in high demand. In addition, with the shift to working from home, many of our high-end clients are leaving their homes in the city and seeking destination and lake properties as their first home. We also noticed that some buyers are opting for the lock-and-leave lifestyle of condo and townhome living that is walkable to restaurants and entertainment and are then purchasing a second home in the mountains, on a lake or at the beach. The demand is incredible as more and more buyers are looking for homes that align with their active lifestyles.

What are some of the features someone can expect from a luxury home community?

We are seeing a large emphasis on elevated amenities like outdoor living areas with private pools and spas. In addition, many builders are opting to include dedicated spaces for home offices, gyms and game rooms to provide the ultimate oasis for work and play. Natural amenities such as mountain and lake views also are becoming increasingly popular.

What are your top tips for home buyers who are interested in a luxury home community?

I think it is extremely important to be sure of the location and type of home that best suits your needs. You may even want to have backup locations in mind. With low inventory and the high demand continuing, luxury homes are not staying on the market for long. Wherever you decide to purchase, it is important to have an experienced agent to help navigate the ever-evolving real estate market. n

For more information, visit Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division at BHHSgaNewHomes.com.

Are you ready to find your dream home in metro Atlanta? Check out these fantastic new home communities around metro Atlanta as you begin your search:

Trilith: A mixed-use development designed for creatives, Trilith is located south of Atlanta and is adjacent to Trilith Studios, one of the most popular movie production locales in the U.S. This walkable community offers everything from single-family homes to terrace homes and micro-homes. The community is dedicated to helping homeowners live an eco-friendly lifestyle. Homes range from the $500s to $2 million+. LiveatTrilith.com

Hillandale: Hillandale is a charming Charlestoninspired neighborhood located just minutes from the heart of historic Roswell. It offers sophisticated three- to five-bedroom homes with designer features priced from the $900s to $1 million+. Each plan is thoughtfully curated with an abundance of entertaining spaces both inside and out. Homeowners enjoy a convenient location with easy access to local dining and shopping. Districted in Roswell’s highly acclaimed school system, Hillandale is a neighborhood suited for any lifestyle. PMCommunities.com The Manor Golf & Country Club Nestled in the heart of Milton, The Manor Golf & Country Club offers an unparalleled lifestyle, world-class amenities and a Tom Watson-designed championship golf course. The community features custom homes by award-winning Loudermilk Homes and is located just minutes from historic downtown Alpharetta, Avalon and GA 400. Homes are priced from $2 million to $7 million+. TheManorHomes.com

Enclave on LaVista: Discover a curated collection of 63 luxury executive homes behind the gates of JW Collection’s newest community, The Enclave on LaVista in Dekalb County. Each home will feature sophisticated finishes, modern details, the highest level of craftsmanship and prices starting in the $700s. This state-of-the-art community offers convenient access to I-285 and downtown Tucker and is a short distance from everything Atlanta has to offer. JWCollectionHomes.com

Introducing The Homestead at Milton

The Homestead at Milton, a private gated community, sits on a stunning property that formerly served as a 180-acre golf course. Its location, surrounded by sprawling rural and equestrian land, offers easy access to Alpharetta and its incredible growth. The community itself offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build in an exclusive neighborhood, with 30 wooded home sites that range in size from three to 10 acres and residences designed by award-winning architect Stephen Fuller and built by top custom homebuilder Loudermilk Homes. Homes start at $3.5 million, with some residences expected to exceed $10 million. Every residence will feature its own unique characteristics brimming with outstanding Southern architecture and outstanding amenities. thehomesteadatmilton.com