Intown market looks strong amid meltdown
“Area home prices drop to ’96 levels” (News, April 25) was informative. I hope readers stuck with the article long enough to read that this is aggregated information. There is more to the story. Real estate valuation is specific to the type of dwelling, neighborhood and more.
I’ve seen a lot of fluctuation in the market over the years. These last few years have been exceptional. I am frequently asked about the state of the market here, and for the first time in several years I can give an encouraging answer.
There are geographical areas and property types that are more affected than others. Some of the outer suburbs (as well as much of the condo market) have seen a huge number of foreclosures and have had considerably more depreciation.
In the intown market, there is something different going on. The market is strong, inventory is extremely low and prices are beginning to rise again.
Contrary to what some people may derive from reading articles like this, it actually can be a really good time to sell a home in many areas.
Bill Golden, Realtor, RE/MAX Metro Atlanta Cityside
Actions wrong, though likely well-intentioned
I do not know what Robert Canoles saw that night he and his son opted to hold a married couple at gunpoint (“Newton father, son released on bond,” Metro, April 26). It is easy to consider him the villain in this story, given the circumstances.
Did this happen late at night and therefore he could not make out who the possible robbers were? Does that neighborhood have many robberies and incur a lot of crime? If so, that would explain his swiftness to action.
I’m not saying that Canoles was justified in his action, but I want to point out how stereotypes and social roles can play a role in the way a crime is seen.
I believe he should have called the police. The police are available for that reason.
Kelvin Walker, Powder Springs
Politicians swayed by cash? No kidding
Your front page article (“Money flowed before big vote,” News, April 22) is no surprise to me — nor should it be to any other Georgian.
When are people going to realize that politicians are for politicians — and not for the people who voted for them?
All politicians’ middle names should officially be changed to “Lobbyist Dupe.”
Ron Ring, Austell
Retail behemoth sells low and stoops lower
No one should be shocked at the recent stories regarding the alleged bribery scandal involving Wal-Mart in Mexico.
Wal-Mart has, for the most part, pretty much done what it wanted to be sure it opened stores where it wanted them — often to the detriment of local businesses.
Anyone questioning this should drive through the downtown area of any small town in Georgia (or elsewhere) to see the stores closed and buildings left vacant when a Wal-Mart opened in the town.
If Wal-Mart truly wanted to be a good neighbor and business partner, it should put forth some effort to sustain a thriving business community — rather than eliminating the competition.
Mike Deal, Alpharetta
