Introduction to Highlands of Decatur

Highlands of Decatur is a charming neighborhood located in the vibrant city of Decatur, GA. This area is known for its blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, making it a highly sought-after location for homebuyers. The community features tree-lined streets, well-maintained sidewalks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Highlands of Decatur offers a variety of home styles, from quaint bungalows to spacious family homes, catering to a diverse range of preferences and needs.

Living in Highlands of Decatur provides residents with easy access to some of the best amenities Decatur has to offer. The neighborhood is just minutes away from downtown Decatur, where you can find an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, the community is home to several parks and green spaces, perfect for outdoor activities and family gatherings. The convenient location, combined with the neighborhood's unique character, makes Highlands of Decatur an ideal place to call home.

Real Estate Market Overview

Competitive Market

The real estate market in Highlands of Decatur is known for being competitive, with homes selling quickly due to high demand. The average home price in this neighborhood is around $450,000, but prices can range from $300,000 to $600,000 depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. Homes typically spend about 30 days on the market before being sold, indicating a fast-paced market.

Market Trends

In recent years, the neighborhood has seen a steady increase in home values, reflecting the growing popularity of the area. This upward trend is expected to continue as more people discover the benefits of living in Highlands of Decatur. For potential buyers, this means investing in a property here is likely to yield positive returns in the future.

Property Types

The neighborhood offers a variety of property types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Single-family homes are the most common, with many properties featuring charming architectural details and spacious yards. Townhouses and condominiums provide a low-maintenance option for those looking for a more urban lifestyle.

Sales Data

Over the past year, approximately 100 homes have been sold in Highlands of Decatur, with an average sales price of $450,000. The price per square foot in this area averages around $250, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other parts of Decatur. Buyers can expect to find homes ranging in size from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, offering plenty of space for families of all sizes.

Investment Potential

For investors, Highlands of Decatur presents a promising opportunity. The neighborhood's strong market performance, combined with its desirable location and community amenities, makes it an attractive option for both short-term and long-term investments. Whether you're looking to purchase a primary residence or an investment property, Highlands of Decatur is worth considering.

Types of Homes Available

Highlands of Decatur features a diverse array of home styles, catering to a wide range of preferences. You'll find charming Craftsman bungalows, elegant Colonial homes, and sleek contemporary designs. Most homes in this area were built between the 1940s and 1970s, giving the neighborhood a mix of historical charm and modern updates.

Craftsman homes, known for their inviting front porches, tapered columns, and gabled roofs, are a common sight. These homes typically feature 3 to 4 bedrooms, with interior spaces ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet. Colonial homes in the neighborhood are often larger, boasting spacious floor plans that can exceed 3,000 square feet. These homes feature symmetrical facades, brick exteriors, and grand entryways.

Contemporary homes, though fewer in number, offer sleek designs with open floor plans, large windows, and modern finishes. These homes are often newer constructions or extensively renovated properties, providing modern amenities and energy-efficient features.

Square Footage and Lot Sizes

Homes in Highlands of Decatur offer a variety of sizes to accommodate different family needs. The typical home size ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, providing ample living space. Larger homes, especially those with additional finished basements or attic spaces, can offer even more square footage, making them ideal for growing families or those who love to entertain.

Lot sizes in Highlands of Decatur vary, with most properties sitting on 0.25 to 0.5-acre lots. This range provides plenty of outdoor space for gardening, play areas, and outdoor entertaining. Some properties even boast larger lots, particularly those on corner plots or in cul-de-sacs, offering even more privacy and space.

The spacious lots allow for beautifully landscaped yards, with mature trees, flowering shrubs, and well-maintained lawns being common features. Many homes also include features like patios, decks, and even swimming pools, enhancing the outdoor living experience. Whether you're looking for a cozy bungalow with a small garden or a larger estate with extensive grounds, Highlands of Decatur has something to offer.

Architectural Styles and Designs

Highlands of Decatur boasts a rich variety of architectural styles, making it a visually appealing neighborhood with plenty of character. You'll find a mix of Craftsman, Colonial, and contemporary designs, each offering unique features and charm.

Craftsman homes are prevalent in the area, characterized by their low-pitched roofs, wide front porches with thick square or round columns, and extensive use of wood and stone. These homes often feature detailed woodwork, built-in cabinetry, and large fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Colonial homes in Highlands of Decatur are known for their symmetrical facades, brick exteriors, and grand entryways with columns and pediments. These homes typically have large, multi-pane windows, providing plenty of natural light. Inside, you’ll find spacious rooms, hardwood floors, and elegant moldings.

Contemporary homes bring a modern touch to the neighborhood, with open floor plans, large windows, and sleek finishes. These homes often incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient features, such as solar panels and smart home systems. The minimalist design and clean lines of contemporary homes provide a striking contrast to the more traditional styles in the area.

Upgrades and Amenities

Many homes in Highlands of Decatur have undergone significant upgrades to meet the needs of modern homeowners. Kitchens are often updated with granite or quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and custom cabinetry. Open-concept living spaces are common, allowing for easy flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

Bathrooms in upgraded homes feature modern fixtures, double vanities, and spa-like amenities such as soaking tubs and walk-in showers. Hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and energy-efficient windows are also popular upgrades found throughout the homes.

Outdoor amenities enhance the appeal of properties in Highlands of Decatur. Many homes feature landscaped yards with mature trees, flowering plants, and well-maintained lawns. Patios and decks provide additional outdoor living space, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Some properties even include swimming pools, adding a touch of luxury.

In terms of community amenities, residents of Highlands of Decatur enjoy access to local parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities. The neighborhood's proximity to downtown Decatur means that shopping, dining, and entertainment options are just a short drive away, offering convenience and variety for residents.

Local Schools and Education

City Schools of Decatur

Highlands of Decatur is served by the City Schools of Decatur, which are known for their excellent academic performance and community involvement. The district includes several top-rated schools that provide quality education from kindergarten through high school.

Elementary Schools

For younger children, Glennwood Elementary School is a popular choice, offering a strong curriculum and a supportive learning environment. Another option is Clairemont Elementary School, known for its focus on individualized instruction and innovative teaching methods.

Middle and High Schools

Renfroe Middle School serves the neighborhood’s middle school students and is praised for its rigorous academics and extracurricular activities. Decatur High School, which caters to older students, is recognized for its comprehensive programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, sports teams, and arts programs. With a student-to-teacher ratio of about 15:1, students receive personalized attention, contributing to higher academic achievement.

Nearby Educational Facilities

In addition to public schools, there are several private and charter school options nearby, such as the Friends School of Atlanta and the Globe Academy. For higher education, Agnes Scott College and Emory University are both within a short drive, offering further educational opportunities for residents.

Nearby Communities and Attractions

Oakhurst and Downtown Decatur

Highlands of Decatur is conveniently located near several vibrant communities and attractions. Oakhurst, a neighboring community, is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and community events. The Oakhurst Village is a local favorite, offering a variety of dining options and boutique stores.

Downtown Decatur

Downtown Decatur is just minutes away and provides a bustling urban environment with a small-town feel. Residents can enjoy a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as cultural attractions like the Decatur Square, which hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Parks and Recreation

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several parks and recreational facilities nearby. Glenlake Park, for instance, offers tennis courts, a pool, and walking trails. Adair Park is another local gem, featuring green spaces and playgrounds perfect for family outings.

Shopping and Entertainment

Shopping is convenient with nearby options like the Decatur Mall and North DeKalb Mall, providing a variety of retail stores and services. For entertainment, the Avondale Estates is a short drive away, known for its historic Tudor-style buildings and community theater.

Connectivity and Transportation

Highlands of Decatur’s prime location offers easy access to major highways like I-285 and US-78, making commutes to Atlanta and other nearby cities straightforward. The Decatur MARTA station provides convenient public transportation options, connecting residents to the greater Atlanta metropolitan area.

Property Taxes and Additional Costs

Property Tax Rates

The property tax rate in Decatur is approximately 1.1% of the home’s assessed value. For a typical home in Highlands of Decatur valued at $450,000, this translates to annual property taxes of around $4,950. This rate is competitive compared to other neighborhoods in the Atlanta metro area, offering residents a good balance of services and costs.

Homeowner Association Fees

Some parts of Highlands of Decatur may have homeowner association (HOA) fees, especially in communities with shared amenities like swimming pools, parks, or maintenance services. These fees can range from $300 to $600 annually, depending on the specific community and the amenities provided.

Utilities and Maintenance

Monthly utility costs, including water, electricity, and gas, typically range from $150 to $300, depending on the size of the home and the season. Additionally, residents should budget for routine home maintenance, which can average around 1% of the home’s value per year, or approximately $4,500 for a $450,000 home.

Insurance Costs

Homeowners insurance in Highlands of Decatur usually costs between $1,200 and $2,000 per year, depending on the coverage level and the property’s features. It’s essential to have adequate insurance to protect against potential risks, including natural disasters common to the area, like storms and floods.

Summary of Highlands of Decatur Homes for Sale

Highlands of Decatur offers a diverse range of homes, from charming historical properties to modern, updated residences. The neighborhood features various architectural styles, including Craftsman, Colonial, and contemporary designs, with homes typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet. Lot sizes are generous, usually between 0.25 to 0.5 acres, providing ample outdoor space.

Many homes have undergone significant upgrades, including modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, and energy-efficient features. Residents enjoy access to excellent local schools, including Glennwood Elementary and Decatur High School, and nearby educational institutions like Agnes Scott College and Emory University.

The community is conveniently located near vibrant areas like Oakhurst and downtown Decatur, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and recreational options. Property taxes in Decatur are about 1.1% of the home’s assessed value, and additional costs like HOA fees, utilities, and insurance are manageable, making Highlands of Decatur a desirable place to live.

Whether you're looking for a cozy bungalow or a spacious family home, Highlands of Decatur has something to offer everyone. With its mix of historical charm, modern amenities, and strong community feel, it's no wonder that homes in this neighborhood are in high demand.