Should you buy an existing home in Athens or build new in 2025? With historic neighborhoods offering charm and convenience, and new construction in areas like Oconee and Winterville providing customization and efficiency, the decision isn’t always simple. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and costs of building versus buying in Greater Athens to help you choose the right path.

In Metro Atlanta, a $500,000 budget can mean very different things depending on where you choose to buy. In Midtown, it might get you a sleek two-bedroom condo with walkable access to the city’s nightlife, while in Alpharetta or Gwinnett County, the same price could mean a spacious four-bedroom home in a family-friendly community. In this guide, we break down exactly what $500K buys you in some of Atlanta’s most popular neighborhoods, so you can see where your money stretches the farthest.