Want to buy in Decatur but worried about taxes. Other walkable neighborhoods? Kirkwood? (Atlanta: condos)

[Breezy300]

Hi All,

I've been reading so many wonderful things about Decatur and it sounds like a perfect fit for us, except that I was also told that the taxes on a $400,000 home would be about $600/month. We're just not sure that we want to pay that much (though we haven't completely ruled out Decatur yet!). I'm wondering if anyone can recommend other neighborhoods for us to look at. We're flying in from NYC next month to explore our options. I've been reading about Kirkwood and it sounds like a possibility, but I can't figure out if there are in amenities in walking distance.

Here's our ideal neighborhood/home:

1. We really, really want to be in walking distance of amenities such as restaurants, cafes, a park, etc. We live in NYC so walking a mile--as long as there are sidewalks and the walk is pleasant--really isn't such a big deal, though we would prefer to be a little closer, if possible.

2. We like public transportation so, ideally, we'd be near the MARTA, but this isn't an absolute must.

3. We would like a house that has at least 3 bedrooms, since we are talking about adopting our first child.

4. To that point, we'd also like a neighborhood with a decent school district.

5. We can spend $430,000 but would like to stay in the $300s if we can find something nice for that price.

6. We like houses and neighborhoods with character. Prefer NOT to be in an HOA. We value diversity. We would like a yard so that we can garden and let the dog out (which rules out condos/townhouses). We also want to be inside the perimeter.

Please send any and all suggestions. Again, walkability is very important to us. We don't want to be in a neighborhood that is 100% car dependent.

Thanks so much for responding and sharing your thoughts with us!

[oakhurstlauren]

Short answer: for the same assessment in Decatur City or Kirkwood, the tax difference is negligible. Atlanta millage is slightly (very slightly) higher than Decatur City. You will get more house for your money in Kirkwood which may result in a bigger house OR a smaller tax burden. Decatur is superior in amenities and city services though. Kirkwood has a small village area that has restaurants and stores that would be walkable from most homes. Hope that helps.

[aries4118]

Originally Posted by oakhurstlauren

Short answer: for the same assessment in Decatur City or Kirkwood, the tax difference is negligible. Atlanta millage is slightly (very slightly) higher than Decatur City. You will get more house for your money in Kirkwood which may result in a bigger house OR a smaller tax burden. Decatur is superior in amenities and city services though. Kirkwood has a small village area that has restaurants and stores that would be walkable from most homes. Hope that helps.

Almost all of Kirkwood is also zoned for Toomer Elementary and Grady High. Both are well-regarded.