By Carolyn Crist
For the AJC
Another cold winter in New Jersey caused Schakia and Delroy Forbes to decide to move south and escape months of snow and ice. After Schakia, 33, found an attending physician job in Atlanta, the couple looked for an intown home close to work.
Why Atlanta?
During trips to Atlanta to visit friends, they said they enjoyed the city’s diverse and metropolitan lifestyle. Though it was tough at first to leave friends and family in New Jersey and find new jobs, they said they’re glad they made the leap.
“Making new friends in your 30s is weird, but Atlanta has transplants and people from different backgrounds, which we’ve enjoyed,” she said. “When we first came into this neighborhood, we had a calming feeling and knew it felt right.”
Putting down roots
For two to three months, the couple browsed online listings and then searched in person for four days. At first, Schakia and Delroy, 37, a lab technician, had no idea where to search and pinpointed Buckhead as a strong option for young professionals. Once they contacted Brandon Patterson with Keller Williams Realty, they decided an intown community with less traffic, sidewalks and parks would be ideal. They focused on Kirkwood, which they said seemed quiet and safe.
They bought a new three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom home with 2,200 square feet in Kirkwood, where homes of similar size range from the mid-$300,000s to mid-$400,000s. The Forbes enjoy having more square footage in the three-story townhome, which would have cost twice as much in New Jersey, they said.
Living near dog parks also allows Marley to play while they socialize with other pet owners. The couple, who moved in during July 2014, have appreciated the slower pace and friendliness of Atlantans.
“In general, people up North are a little bit more closed off and don’t take the time to slow down and interact,” she said. “It’s a nice change to say hello to people walking down the street.”
Relocation tip
The couple hosted their parents for Christmas, and Schakia’s mother plans to move to Atlanta this summer. Schakia gives the same advice to her mom that she shares with other newcomers: “Explore different neighborhoods and eat at different restaurants before narrowing your sights.”
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