For the first time in over five years, the 3rd quarter of 2024 has brought a significant shift in the local housing market. After years of steady declines, the number of single-family homes sold has seen a slight increase compared to the same period last year. According to the market data, six more single-family homes were sold in Q3 2024 than in Q3 2023, breaking the trend of decreasing sales numbers that had persisted since 2020.

Single-family home prices continue to climb year-over-year, which is also great news for sellers. The townhome and condominium market, on the other hand, tells a slightly different story, and brings welcome news for buyers in Sandy Springs.

Single-Family Homes Sales for 3rd Quarter 2020 – Present

Year Number of Homes Sold Average Sales Price
Q3 2020 271 $920,158
Q3 2021 261 $973,635
Q3 2022 172 $1,076,946
Q3 2023 132 $1,169,824
Q3 2024 138 $1,232,728

After years of steady price increases in multi-family homes since 2020, Q3 2024 saw a marginal decline in prices for the first time in recent memory. Buyers, who have been patiently waiting, may find opportunities in the more affordable market.

We are cautious but optimistic when looking at the factors that may be playing a role in the price dip. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to purchase, now may be your chance to act before prices potentially climb again.

Multi-Family Homes Sales for 3rd Quarter 2020 – Present

Year Number of Homes Sold Average Sales Price
Q3 2020 265 $280,839
Q3 2021 303 $307,918
Q3 2022 210 $343,218
Q3 2023 171 $384,649
Q3 2024 153 $357,580
Cheryl and Phil Yagoda

In 2006, Sandy Springs residents Cheryl and Phil Yagoda, founders of Ian’s Friends Foundation (IFF), embarked on a journey with a vision few can imagine: to eradicate pediatric brain tumors. Nearly two decades later, their determination remains unwavering, spurred by the personal experience of their son Ian, diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor as a toddler.

“Those three words – ‘We found something’ – changed our lives forever,” the Yagodas recall. Faced with limited treatment options, they decided to take action. They learned that pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Yet, less than 1% of federal cancer research funding is dedicated to pediatric brain tumors. This chilling statistic motivated the couple to launch IFF, raising awareness and funding critical research.

A Groundbreaking Approach to Finding a Cure

IFF has created one of the most innovative initiatives in finding a cure for any disease.  The biennial WhatIFF Symposium in Atlanta gathers over 50 leading doctors, clinicians, and researchers from top hospitals and universities around the world to collaborate and share research on pediatric brain tumors.  The format is akin to a medical “Shark Tank,” where researchers have five minutes to pitch their ideas, followed by a ten-minute defense. The top three projects, voted on solely by the body of participants, are awarded up to $100,000 each, helping them advance to the point where they can secure substantial grants from agencies like the FDA and NIH.

“Our goal was to create a platform that not only funds research but fosters collaboration,” Phil explains. “We’ve seen promising projects receive multi-millions in additional grants, all because they got their start at WhatIFF.”

2024 WhatIFF winners: From left to right – Joey Meller (IFF LA), Phil Yagoda, Scott Floyd MD, Phd Duke (winner), Dolores Hambardzumyan, PhD, MBA Ichan School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (winner), Rachael Sirianni, PhD University of Massachusetts (winner), Cheryl Yagoda

How You Can Help

The Yagodas emphasize that IFF’s success is due in large part to community involvement. There are countless ways to contribute; including volunteering at fundraisers and organizing local events like 5Ks or youth pickleball tournaments. “Every dollar raised goes directly to research,” Cheryl notes, highlighting that IFF does not cover indirect institutional costs. “Our mission is too important to let any funding go elsewhere.”

Youth in Sandy Springs are also encouraged to participate. “We love seeing kids get involved,” Cheryl says. “It could be something as small as a lemonade stand or as big as a school fundraiser.”

An Evening of Inspiration

IFF’s single largest fundraising event is their annual Evening of Inspiration, which takes place this year on the evening of Saturday, November 23rd.  It is a truly moving and fun evening.  Highlights include an auction, entertainment, delicious dinner, and a rocking after party with a DJ.  This year’s entertainment features NYC’s #1 mentalist, Alex Voz.  It is an event not to be missed, and the public is invited to purchase tickets right here.

A Legacy of Hope

When asked about the most rewarding aspect of their journey, the Yagodas don’t hesitate: “Hearing from parents we’ve helped. Knowing we’ve made a difference in the lives of other families facing this terrifying diagnosis means the world to us.”

The Ian’s Friends Foundation has built more than just an organization—it’s created a community of hope, where families affected by pediatric brain tumors can find support, share invaluable information, and contribute to the fight for a cure.

For more information or to get involved with IFF, visit www.iansfriendsfoundation.com.