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November 14, 2024
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Invest in Georgia Real Estate: 6 Cities with Opportunities for Foreign Nationals

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Georgia, known for its rich history, diverse culture, thriving economy, and of course– being the top peach producer in the United States. It offers foreign nationals a fantastic opportunity to invest in real estate at different price points with upside. In addition, the state has traditionally been favorable to landlords as opposed to tenants, making it easier to evict if that situation were to arise.

With a mix of urban excitement and Southern charm, the Peach State presents a variety of lucrative options for investors seeking residential investment properties. If you’re a foreign national interested in real estate investments in Georgia, here’s where you should consider placing your money.

1. Atlanta  

  • Median Property Price: $395,201
  • Median Rental Income: $2,035/monthly
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +0.5%
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: -$105
  • Average Property Tax: 0.97%

As the capital and largest city in Georgia, Atlanta is a booming economic hub with a vibrant culture and a growing population that has steadily increased since 2020. It now exceeds 5.2 million residents in its metro area.

If you like movies, chances are something you’ve watched recently was filmed here such as Stranger Things, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Hunger Games. Known for its film industry, tech startups, and diverse job market— which saw an increase of 41,000 job openings over the past year—Atlanta attracts a steady influx of professionals. This, in combination with a high percentage of renters makes this an intriguing option for foreign investors.

2. Savannah  

  • Median Property Price: $320,328
  • Median Rental Income: $2,100/monthly
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +7.1%
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: +$45
  • Average Property Tax: 1.01%  

Savannah, with its historic architecture and coastal charm, offers unique investment opportunities in both short- and long-term rentals. Tourism, which generated nearly $5 billion in 2023, creates steady demand for rental properties. Additionally, 54% of Savannah's households are renters, reflecting a strong local rental market. For foreign investors seeking a blend of culture and financial potential, Savannah is a solid choice.

3. Athens  

  • Median Property Price: $323,206
  • Median Rental Income: $1,830/monthly
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +5.4%
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: +$30
  • Average Property Tax: 0.99%  

Home to the University of Georgia, which boasts 41,615 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs, Athens boasts a young population and a strong demand for rental properties. This demand has contributed to higher-than-average home prices and consistently high rents. These factors make Athens an attractive option for investors seeking reliable returns.

4. Marietta  

  • Median Property Price: $471,583
  • Median Rental Income: $2,275/monthly
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +3.9%
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: +$75
  • Average Property Tax: 0.73%  

Located about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta, Marietta is known for its family-friendly environment and strong community vibe. With a diverse economy and proximity to major employers in the Atlanta area, Marietta offers excellent rental opportunities that fetch over $2,000 each month on average.

5. Augusta  

  • Median Property Price: $173,416
  • Median Rental Income: $1,225/monthly  
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +3.5%  
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: +$0  
  • Average Property Tax: 1.01%  

Famous for hosting The Masters golf tournament, Augusta has a vibrant tourism sector alongside a growing local economy. The city's housing prices are considerably less than those in the Atlanta metro area, offering a lower barrier to entry for non-U.S. residents looking for cash flow opportunities. With a strong rental demand fueled by both tourism and the local workforce, Augusta presents a great opportunity for those looking to enter the Georgia market at bargain prices relative to other places in the state.

6. Decatur  

  • Median Property Price: $299,942
  • Median Rental Income: $1,790/monthly  
  • Median Home Value Adjustment Year-over-Year: +0.6%  
  • Median Rent Adjustment Year-over-Year: -$10  
  • Average Property Tax: 1.02%  

With a vibrant downtown, high-performing public schools, and close proximity to Atlanta, Decatur is a prime spot for those looking to attract long-term renters. Consistently recognized for its livability, Decatur has been named Georgia’s best city to live in, the most bikeable, and is now ranked among the top five cities where Americans most want to move. Decatur’s appeal to young professionals, families, and other demographics creates a strong rental market, offering promising opportunities for foreign investors.

Let Waltz be your guide to Georgia real estate

Georgia is a land of opportunity for foreign investors, with a diverse range of cities offering unique real estate investment prospects. Georgia's real estate market offers potential for a blend of cash flow and appreciation. From bustling urban centers to charming historic areas and college towns, there’s plenty of opportunity. Interested in exploring real estate investment opportunities in Georgia? Check out our guide for non-U.S. citizens looking to invest in the Peach State.

All figures are accurate as of October 2024 and may change over time.* Sources for all city-related statistics:

Home price data: Zillow Housing Market

Rental price data: Zillow Rental Market Trends

Property tax data: Smart Asset Property Tax Calculator

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