Georgia’s land market continues to flourish, with median prices hitting $5,171 per acre in Q3 2022 – a 10.7% increase from last year. From agricultural plots and timberland to recreational spaces, Georgia offers diverse property options. Premium spots in Carroll and Hall counties currently fetch over $20,000 per acre, highlighting the market’s strength.
Key Takeaways
- Leading firms like Shivers Real Estate and Mossy Oak Properties bring deep local expertise and unique listings to Georgia’s land market
- Adding utilities, paved roads, and waterfront access can boost land value by 20-30%
- Agricultural zones let owners enjoy more freedom for personal projects, while properties within an hour of Atlanta command 40-60% higher prices than rural areas
- Market conditions favor buyers with a 7.2% rise in available properties and a three-month supply
- Smart investment choices include working farms, hunting preserves, and coastal properties in tourist hotspots
Georgia Land Market Overview and Current Pricing
Market Trends and Pricing Analysis
Georgia’s land values continue to surge, with the median price reaching $5,171 per acre in Q3 2022. I’ve tracked a significant 10.7% jump from 2021 to 2022, marking substantial growth in the market. Premium locations like Carroll and Hall counties command over $20,000 per acre, setting new benchmarks for rural property values.
Several factors drive these price increases:
- Atlanta’s metro expansion added 650,000+ residents since 2010
- Coastal regions saw 25% yearly price increases
- Urban sprawl pushing development into previously rural areas
- Limited inventory in prime locations
The rapid population influx, particularly in the Atlanta metropolitan area, creates constant demand for developable land. This growth pattern affects pricing across the state, with the strongest appreciation seen in areas within commuting distance to major employment centers.
Top Professional Land Brokers in Georgia
Leading Land Sales Specialists
I recommend starting your Georgia land search with established brokers that have solid track records. Shivers Real Estate stands out with over 40 years of experience since 1982, focusing on timberland and farm properties across the state. They’ve built their reputation through direct relationships with landowners and buyers.
For rural property transactions, Mossy Oak Properties offers specialized knowledge backed by connections to the Greater Augusta Board of Realtors and Multiple Listing Service. Their key strengths include:
- Deep understanding of local land values and market conditions
- Access to exclusive property listings not found on public sites
- Professional guidance through complex land transactions
- Direct connections with local landowners and sellers
- Extensive experience with timber and agricultural properties
These established brokers maintain high standards of honor and integrity while guiding buyers through land purchases in Georgia.
Types of Available Land Properties
Agricultural and Commercial Options
I’ve found Georgia’s land market offers diverse agricultural properties. Large irrigated farms support commercial farming operations, while hobby farms give buyers smaller, manageable plots for personal cultivation. Estate tracts combine residential potential with farming capabilities, often featuring custom home sites and existing agricultural infrastructure.
Recreational Properties
Georgia’s recreational land properties cater to outdoor enthusiasts through different options:
- Timberland plots ideal for hunting and timber investment
- Properties with natural water features including creeks and ponds
- Ranch tracts suitable for livestock and equestrian activities
- Mixed-use parcels combining hunting grounds with timber resources
- Waterfront lots with private lake or pond access
These properties often include established trails, wildlife food plots, and strategic hunting positions. Many feature a mix of hardwood and pine forests, creating perfect habitats for deer, turkey, and other game animals.
Location and Value Factors
Property Features That Impact Value
The right property features can dramatically increase land value in Georgia. Access to utilities and paved roads often adds 20-30% to a parcel’s worth. Waterfront locations, especially those with direct lake or river frontage, command premium prices. Mature timber stands can serve as both an aesthetic asset and potential revenue source.
Several key elements determine a property’s investment potential:
- Zoning classifications – Agricultural zones offer more flexibility for personal use while commercial zones near cities provide development opportunities
- Utility availability – Properties with existing power, water, and sewage connections reduce development costs
- Road access – Parcels with multiple entry points and paved road frontage simplify future building plans
- Natural resources – Water features and established trees boost both aesthetic and monetary value
Location relative to Atlanta remains a major price driver in Georgia’s land market. Properties within an hour of the metropolitan area typically sell for 40-60% more than similar rural parcels. However, rural locations offer larger acreage at lower per-acre costs.
I recommend carefully reviewing local zoning maps and utility plans before purchasing. Some areas restrict certain types of development or have strict building codes. The presence of wetlands or protected species can also limit what you’re able to do with the property.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
Current Market Statistics
Georgia’s real estate market shows strong signs of growth with specific indicators pointing to favorable conditions for land buyers. The state’s housing inventory has jumped 7.2% compared to last year, with 45,282 homes listed for sale. This increased availability gives buyers more options and potential negotiating power.
The current market supply sits at 3 months, indicating a steady but competitive environment. While this timeframe suggests sellers still hold an advantage, it’s better balanced than previous quarters. I’ve noticed that property prices remain relatively stable, with the median home price at $374,500.
Here are key factors shaping the market:
- Rising inventory levels create more opportunities for price negotiations
- Three-month supply indicates a moderately competitive market
- Current median price point shows market stability
- Year-over-year inventory growth suggests improving buyer conditions
These trends show a market that’s becoming more accessible to buyers while maintaining healthy appreciation rates. Land buyers should consider acting now, as increased inventory levels typically lead to more competitive pricing. The steady price points and growing supply create an ideal environment for both investment and residential land purchases.
Investment Opportunities
Agricultural Investments
Georgia’s farmland presents solid investment potential through diverse agricultural ventures. Farming operations, tree farms, and dairy facilities offer steady income streams for non-resident buyers. Agricultural land values remain stable, backed by consistent farming revenues across the state.
Recreational Properties
Hunting lands and outdoor recreational properties create dual-purpose investment options. I’ve found these properties particularly valuable as they combine personal enjoyment with potential rental income. The Golden Isles and coastal regions stand out for their premium land values and tourism appeal. Here are key investment types to consider:
- Timber tracts with long-term growth potential
- Hunting preserves with existing infrastructure
- Mixed-use agricultural properties suitable for livestock
- Coastal parcels near tourist destinations
- Small farm operations with established revenue streams
When searching for the best counties to buy land in Georgia, consider exploring online platforms like Lands of America, LandWatch, and LandFlip that specialize in rural property listings. For more comprehensive options, Zillow’s land section offers extensive Georgia property inventory with detailed search filters.