The Letton

Track the Market Trends with Will's Market Insight

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 5 / 6 May, 2025

I. Hello and HAPPY MAY!

Spring is in full bloom here in the Peach State, and while national economic uncertainty—like the lingering effects of trade tensions and interest rate volatility—has created some caution in the broader markets, Atlanta continues to show resilience.

Some buyers and sellers are taking a wait-and-see approach, but many are viewing this moment as a strategic window of opportunity. With increased inventory in select neighborhoods, there's more to choose from—making it easier to find the right fit before competition tightens again. Just like with past market disruptions (think COVID), history shows these cycles pass, and activity rebounds quickly. Plus, with potential tax reforms on the horizon and the echoes of past stimulus programs still shaping economic behavior, there could be renewed momentum—especially if inflation remains in check and interest rates edge down even slightly.

Atlanta's private listings market—especially in luxury and new developments—is active but often under the radar. Many contracts are being signed off-market or before public data catches up. The reality? The market here may be healthier than the headlines suggest.

2. A (Very) RECENT History Lesson

April 2nd marked the onset of a Global Tariff Trade War, and the financial ripple effects are being felt here in Atlanta. Businesses that rely on imported goods or components—particularly in logistics, manufacturing, and tech—are navigating a new wave of uncertainty. The markets have reacted swiftly, and just like elsewhere, hesitation has crept into investment decisions, consumer confidence, and homebuying activity.

But Atlantans are no strangers to resilience. Many are recalling the early days of COVID, when uncertainty also paralyzed decision-making—only for the real estate market to rebound quickly and powerfully. Supply chain delays and cost pressures are likely again, but if long-term treasury yields suggest a looming recession, the Federal Reserve may step in with rate cuts, provided inflation stays in check. Upcoming tax incentives could also boost spending power.

In metro Atlanta, where population growth and job creation continue to surge, housing demand may not stay subdued for long. If rates drop and confidence rebounds, we could see home prices stabilize—or even rise again—in relatively short order.

Unlike COVID, this isn’t expected to disrupt internal migration patterns. In fact, Atlanta continues to benefit from inbound relocation, with commercial development and leasing activity on the rise—especially in areas like Midtown, Westside, and along the BeltLine. Inventory is up slightly right now, which gives buyers more options and potentially more negotiating power in the short term.

For those watching and waiting: remember how quickly conditions changed last time. Once the fog of uncertainty lifts, history suggests the market may move fast—again.