By Carolyn Crist
For the AJC
Working at an investment firm in Atlanta, Leah Williams is surrounded by financial advice daily. Several coworkers suggested it “wasn’t smart” to rent if she could buy, so she checked out the housing market. With the low interest rates and some townhomes priced in the $100,000s, she realized that buying her first home was feasible.
Williams, 26, a marketing and client services associate, talked about her two-bedroom unit in south Buckhead’s Townegate Townhomes.
Q: What were your priorities?
A: Location. I was renting a condo in Midtown that was convenient for walking and not dealing with parking, and I wanted to stay close to my job. I also wanted to be around activities and things to do. Safety was a concern also. I didn't want to be in an environment where I would be nervous about coming out of the house.
Q: How did you find this location?
A: My Realtor (Helen Simmons, with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) sent me several options, and we looked all over the place. When I first saw this listing, I didn't like the outside, but she encouraged me to go look at it. I fell in love with it.
Q: What do you love about the house?
A: I wasn't too impressed with the outside at first, but as soon as I opened the door, it felt welcoming. It felt like me. The kitchen has granite and the upgrades that I wanted but didn't think I'd be able to afford. I also like that the neighborhood is nestled away from the main road. You'd think you'd hear the hustle and bustle of Peachtree Road, but it feels like a suburb that's close to everything.
Q: What have you added so far?
A: Two months after I moved in, the condensation line busted and the floor in my kitchen was ruined. The hardwood had to be pulled up, but we found a beautiful concrete black and gray floor that gave the kitchen character. I decided to leave it to give a rustic and eclectic feel to the house.
Q: What was the closing process like?
A: It was a little stressful, and I was warned about that. There was a lot of negotiation back and forth about the price, and thankfully, Helen was helpful. The sellers were nice as well and willing to answer any questions, which helped to minimize the confusion and frustration.
Q: What’s a tip for first-time buyers?
A: Ask the seller's agent if you can talk to the seller and have that open line of communication. They may say "no," but at least you tried. It helped me when they were open, helpful and communicative.
At a Glance
Leah Williams’ home, built in 1975, has two bedrooms, one-and-a-half bathrooms and 1,100 square feet. Townegate Townhomes in Atlanta range from the low to high $100,000s.
About the Author
