Moving was an annual tradition for Casey Griffin and Samantha Bily, for seven years. It was tiring, amid commitments such as graduate school.
After getting married in 2013 and moving again in 2014, the couple decided they were ready to purchase their first home.
Casey, 27, a physical therapist, and Samantha, 25, an attorney, told Jeff Jackson with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services they wanted a townhome with at least two bedrooms and two baths, in a walkable area. They were willing to sacrifice indoor and outdoor space, after being swayed by choices in some of Atlanta’s hottest neighborhoods.
No. 1
Near Krog Street Market
A two-bedroom, one-bath loft in Atlanta’s Mill Town Lofts grabbed their attention for its location near the Beltline and Inman Park’s new Krog Street Market, with restaurants and shops. Design elements included an exposed brick wall, and the unit had stainless steel appliances. The gated Reynoldstown complex had a saltwater pool, Jacuzzi, gym and clubhouse, but lacked a separate backyard for their pug, Caray. The loft, built in 2003, was listed for $210,000.
No. 2
Modern in West Midtown
A two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath townhome in the M West II community was walking distance to places such as Bone Garden Cantina and Topgolf. The unit had a colorful, modern exterior and a loft feel inside with large windows. The gated community offered a pool, fitness center and dog park, plus there was a deck, small backyard space and single-car garage. The home, built in 2007, was listed for $269,000.
No. 3
Enclave of townhomes
A two-bedroom, two-bath townhome in the Village at Grant Park seemed to have everything they wanted, including a Beltline location. Inside, the home boasted gray walls and trim, new hardwood floors and carpet. Stainless steel appliances were included. Outdoor space included a patio, deck and fenced yard. A pool and garden were neighborhood amenities. The townhome, built in 2004, was listed for $199,900.
The Choice
No. 1. First, they put an offer on the townhome near historic Grant Park (No. 3), but another buyer’s offer was chosen. They saw the loft (No. 1) the next day and took a quick tour. Samantha said she didn’t seriously consider the loft because it didn’t have a yard. As they left, Casey said they should put in an offer, which surprised her. The next day, they parked at the loft and walked to Krog Street Market. The location won them over, and they decided to compromise on the outdoor space, since there was a community greenspace and places to walk their dog. “I was stuck on one thing,” Casey said. “I didn’t know I was going to love this.” They celebrated their April purchase by riding their bikes to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner.
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