Atlanta lags in home sale prices

Metro Atlanta's home sales prices lag the nation, says the latest report from the National Association of Realtors.

The region's median home sales price in the first quarter was $87,800, down from $99,800 in the first quarter of 2011. The national median existing single-family home price was $158,100, which is 0.4 percent below $158,700 in the first quarter of 2011.

About half of metro areas home prices gained a bit in the first quarter, which is up from last year. Home sales are up more than 4 percent nationally, the association says, which reflects metro Atlanta's experience.

Here, sales rose 11.8 percent from 2010 to 2011, according to Smart Numbers, a Marietta real estate tracking firm. But average prices are down from $135,000 to $115,000 in that period.

--Christopher Quinn

About the Author

Atlanta’s short-term rentals are starting to fill up for the World Cup

Airbnb is predicting about 6,000 guests will stay with Atlanta hosts during the World Cup, representing about 45,000 guest nights.

Paramount makes hostile bid for Warner Bros., including CNN, Turner networks

Days after Netflix announced its plans to acquire the storied Hollywood institution’s studio and streaming businesses, Paramount has launched an all-cash offer.

Medical company announces expansion in Columbus with 480 jobs

A medical logistics company that makes health care kits announced an expansion plan for its Columbus operations, which will add 480 new jobs to the region.

The Latest