"I wanted something to call home," says Alexis MacKenzie. "I've lived in apartments for the three years I've been in Atlanta, and I wanted an investment. I knew I wanted to be inside the Perimeter, and I love Buckhead, close to all the shopping and the restaurants and close to my work at Emory University Hospital. When I saw City Park Townhomes, I was sold on the location."

Definitely a townhome: "I was certain I didn't want a condo, the market is so saturated. I was looking for resale value. I looked at single-family homes in the area, too, but being a young professional, I didn't want to have to worry about fixing things, so I decided to focus on a new townhome in a safe community near the places I spend my time. I wanted two bedrooms and a garage for the safety factor."

What she bought: MacKenzie bought a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, four-level townhome with a garage and balcony. "Our garbage is picked up right at our doorstep every week, so there are no trips to the Dumpster. The townhome came with a washer and dryer and stainless-steel appliances. I upgraded to hardwood floors throughout. Everything came beautifully finished, from the crown moldings to the big jetted tub and huge walk-in closet. I had every single friend give me their opinion of my top three choices. They all agreed this one was the best buy.

Safety: "There's a key code entry so you don't have to take your keys when you leave, just press the number pad. I'm a runner and there are three parks within walking distance, and a dog park, which will be great when I get a dog soon.

Advice to other home buyers: "Make sure you walk through with an inspector before you go to closing. You'll sleep better knowing you didn't make a mistake."

AT A GLANCE

City Park Townhomes

Address: 200 26th St., Atlanta

County: Fulton

Information: 404-888-8889; www.cityparktownhomes.com

Price range: $250,000s to $270,000s

Year built: 2007-2008

Standard features: Garages; I-Pods with docking station; granite countertops and stainless appliances; hardwood floors

Amenities: Tennis courts; paved walking path to Ardmore Park; walk to Peachtree St. with restaurants and shops.

Number of units: 143

Square footage: 1,200-1,300

Association fee: $116-$126/month; covers water, all exterior building and landscaping maintenance, tennis, security cameras and insurance.

Broker: Superb Properties, Inc.

Builder: Betancourt Communities, LLC

Schools: East Rivers Elementary, Sutton Middle, North Atlanta High

Getting there

Take Peachtree Street north to 26th Street and turn left. The townhomes are near the end of the street on the left.

Search thousands of condo and townhome listings online at ajchomefinder.com