Housing affordability often gets reduced to a few familiar factors: home prices, mortgage rates, construction costs and household income. But Jay Knight believes the conversation needs to start much earlier, with the rules that determine what developers can build in the first place. Jay Knight, a housing advocate and developer, joined host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss his new book, “Zoned Out: How Cities and Counties Make Homes Unaffordable.” The book examines how zoning, land-use regulations, permitting requirements and development standards can increase costs an
Metro Atlanta is growing quickly, adding more jobs and new development, but delivering housing in step with that growth is increasingly complex. Builders and developers must balance limited land availability, infrastructure constraints, rising costs and evolving buyer expectations while creating communities that work for both residents and local governments. Myles Cardenas, senior land planning and development manager with Taylor Morrison, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to break down the forces shaping residential development across Metro Atlanta and what’s ahead fo
As lifestyles evolve, so does home design. Homeowners want flexible spaces, more privacy, stronger connections to the outdoors and finishes that reflect their personal style. The result is a shift toward homes that aren’t just attractive but also work for the way people actually live. Kelley Collins, design studio manager with Ashton Woods, recently joined Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how thoughtful design can balance function, personality and timeless style — and why the best homes don’t necessarily follow the latest trend. Home Design Starts With How People Live
The Atlanta housing market enters the second half of 2026 on relatively solid footing but buying and selling dynamics continue to shift. Inventory rises, buyers gain more options and sellers negotiate more often on price and concessions. John Ryan, chief marketing officer at Georgia MLS (GAMLS), joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss what recent housing data shows for Metro Atlanta and where the market is headed next. Atlanta Housing Market Finds Balance Ryan describes the market as “rebalancing, not retreating.” The market does not show a dramatic downturn. Inst
The traditional path to homeownership was once straightforward: rent an apartment, save for a down payment, buy a home and settle in. Today, that journey looks very different. Rising costs, shifting priorities and a growing demand for flexibility have created new opportunities for residents who want the space and lifestyle of a home without the immediate commitment of ownership. Brett Forney, managing broker of Prim Realty and managing partner of Prim Properties, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how Parkland Companies is creating solutions for those changin
For years, luxury homes were defined by square footage and ornate details. Today, buyers are looking for something different: personalized design, flexible floor plans and communities that reflect the way they live. This week on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Chris and Clif Poston, principals at Traton Homes, join Host Carol Morgan to discuss how the company is responding to those changing expectations by expanding its luxury offerings across metro Atlanta and Florida while remaining focused on the customer experience that has defined the family-owned builder for 55 years. Today’s Buyers Arr
Before a builder pours a foundation or frames a home, residential developers spend years navigating zoning, land development and permitting approvals. These early steps in the residential development process play a major role in determining housing costs and availability. Jay Knight, chairman and co-founder of the Georgia Residential Land Development Council (GRLDC) joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how Senate Bill 447 is changing Georgia’s permitting process and what policy reforms could make housing more attainable for future homebuyers. Housing Affordabil
Housing markets are constantly evolving, and success often comes down to adapting to changing conditions. While today’s environment looks different than it did just a few years ago, builders who understand local demand and make strategic decisions continue to find ways to grow. On this week’s episode of Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Host Carol Morgan welcomes Geoff Deckelbaum, principal of SRP Lending, to discuss why disciplined planning and private lending continue to help builders and investors succeed in today’s Atlanta housing market. Private Lending Creates Opportunities in a Changing
As the real estate industry becomes increasingly specialized, many brokerages focus on a single segment of the market. However, a growing number of firms are embracing a more comprehensive approach, creating strategic partnerships that allow them to serve clients throughout the real estate lifecycle. This week on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Michelle Hewell, owner and broker of Foundation Partners Realty, joins host Carol Morgan to discuss the firm’s brokerage model designed to bridge the gap between traditional real estate services and the evolving needs of builders, developers, investors
As housing preferences evolve, more buyers look beyond traditional subdivisions in search of greater privacy, flexibility and personalization. For many, that means building a custom home on land they already own or plan to purchase. This week on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Dean Cowart, principal of Cowart Residential, joins Host Carol Morgan to discuss the growing appeal of build-on-your-lot homes, the custom home building process and how today’s luxury buyers are redefining what they want from their living spaces. The Growing Demand for Build-on-Your-Lot Homes Build-on-your-lot construct
The housing market in 2026 is defined by contradictions. Demand remains strong, yet affordability challenges persist. Builders continue to innovate, even as uncertainty clouds the economic outlook. Meanwhile, demographic shifts and changing consumer preferences are reshaping what Georgians want from their homes. In part two of Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio‘s mid-year market update, Jim Jacobi of Parkland Communities, Tim Arnold of D.R. Horton and Cara Lavender of John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) join Host Carol Morgan to discuss the forces driving today’s market. From the evolution
While much of the housing conversation in 2026 has focused on slower sales, elevated mortgage rates and affordability challenges, industry leaders say a bigger issue is emerging behind the scenes: a future housing supply shortage. Tim Arnold of D.R. Horton, Cara Lavender of John Burns Research and Consulting and Jim Jacobi of Parkland Communities, join host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio for a mid-year market update on looming lot shortages, zoning challenges, affordability concerns and the factors shaping housing supply across metro Atlanta. The Biggest Housing Story Nobody I
Many property owners never expect to deal with squatters or deed fraud. However, when these situations occur, they can result in costly legal disputes, damaged property and significant financial losses. George McCleary, president of McCleary Realty & Development, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how squatters exploit vacant properties, why deed fraud is becoming a growing concern and what property owners can do to protect their investments. How a Viral Video Sparked a National Conversation McCleary first gained widespread attention through his viral social
Flooring trends may come and go, but durability, longevity and resale value continue to drive homeowner decisions across metro Atlanta. Alex Veit, owner of Oakerds Hardwood Floor Refinishing, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss best practices for refinishing and installing floors in your home. From historic bungalows with hidden hardwoods to modern homes filled with luxury vinyl plank (LVP), Veit has seen firsthand which materials hold up over time and which ones homeowners often regret installing. Why More Atlanta Homeowners Are Choosing LVP Over Laminate As
The Atlanta Beltline continues its steady progression toward full completion of its 22-mile corridor, with major milestones approaching for trail development, long-term housing and transit objectives. Dennis Richards, vice president of housing policy and development with the Atlanta Beltline, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss the Atlanta Beltline’s current status, housing strategy and future priorities. Atlanta Beltline Nears Major Completion Milestones Ahead of 2030 Target The Atlanta Beltline is on track to reach approximately 85% completion by June 2026,
Homeowners association (HOA) management is playing a larger role in new community development across metro Atlanta than many homebuyers realize. As builders navigate affordability challenges, rising operating costs and shifting buyer expectations, early HOA planning has become increasingly important for protecting long-term community value and financial stability. Lisa Simmons, chairperson of Beacon Management Services and Tasha Fulk, vice president of the Declarant Services Division, join Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss the evolving role of HOA management, curr
Luxury homebuyers in metro Atlanta are shifting their priorities. Square footage and prestige addresses are no longer the primary drivers. Instead, buyers are focusing on livability, location and long-term functionality. Drew Clough, chief operating officer of Waterford Homes, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss why that shift is reshaping the high-end custom home market and how Waterford Homes is differentiating through communication, consistency and disciplined project management in today’s competitive luxury homebuilding environment. Elevated Luxury Defined
What if your home is holding you back instead of moving you forward? For many homeowners, spaces are designed for who they were, not who they are becoming. Vera Blouin, founder of BLOU INK, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum to explain how intentional home design rooted in spatial psychology and identity-based design can reshape not only a space but also daily habits, mindset and personal growth. Blouin challenges traditional design norms and offers a more strategic, human-centered approach to creating environments that evolve alongside the people who live in them. What Is “S
Lori Lane, founder and president of LLANE & Co., is taking a hands-on, strategy-first approach to new home sales with the launch of her boutique brokerage focused exclusively on new construction. Lane joins host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss her new venture, decades of industry experience and why builders need more than fragmented marketing and sales support to succeed in today’s market. “I spent my career in new construction, so working closely with builders and developers to bring communities to market and, of course, drive their sales,” Lane said. “Over time, I’
What does 55+ living look like today? The profile of the 55+ homebuyer has shifted significantly in recent years. No longer defined by slowing down, today’s buyers are more active, connected and intentional in how they live. Jaime Godwin, director of marketing at Kolter Homes, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how Kolter’s Cresswind brand is reshaping 55+ communities with a focus on lifestyle, connection and accessible home design. Today’s 55+ Buyer Is Tech-Savvy and Lifestyle-Driven “Tech-savvy and health-conscious…those two things stand out the most,” Godw
The Toll Brothers Design Studio is transforming the homebuying journey with a personalized, guided approach to home design. Through curated selections, expert insight and innovative technology, clients can move through the process with clarity and confidence. In this episode of Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Design Studio Manager Angelique Foster joins Host Carol Morgan to discuss how Toll Brothers simplifies the design studio experience while helping buyers create timeless, high-quality homes. What Happens in a Home Design Studio After You Sign a Contract After signing a contract, homeowner
Quinn Residences is a leading build-to-rent homebuilder offering professionally managed single-family rental communities designed for flexibility, convenience and low-maintenance living. For renters, relocating professionals and buyers priced out of today’s housing market, Quinn Residences provides an alternative to homeownership with modern homes, private amenities and long-term lease options. In this episode of Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, CEO Richard Ross joins Host Carol Morgan on the podcast to discuss how Quinn’s resident-first approach is reshaping rental housing across the Southeas
Spring in Georgia brings warmer weather, longer days and a renewed desire to get outdoors. SeKoixa Gonzalez, public affairs coordinator, and Austin Suhr, marketing and communications manager for Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites, join Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to share how Georgia’s parks provide memorable experiences while supporting local communities and preserving natural resources. Discover Hidden Gems and Accessible Outdoor Experiences With 66 destinations across the state, Georgia’s park system offers outdoor recreation, educational programs an
Zoning debates across metro Atlanta are becoming more complex as communities wrestle with growth, housing affordability and neighborhood opposition. Developers navigating today’s approval process must balance strong housing demand with increased public scrutiny and evolving local policies. Michèle L. Battle, president of Battle Law, joins Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to discuss how zoning approvals and community expectations are reshaping development across Georgia. Georgia’s Zoning Landscape Is Becoming More Complex Over the past 20 years, zoning approvals
