Columbus, Georgia, may not always make the headlines, but according to real estate expert Carlos Alex Rozwadowski, CEO of Century 21 Premier Real Estate, it’s one of the Southeast’s most underrated housing markets. With its strategic location along the Chattahoochee River, strong military presence, and revitalized downtown, the city is attracting attention from both homebuyers and investors.
Known for his sharp eye for emerging opportunities, Carlos Alex Rozwadowski often highlights Columbus, Georgia’s blend of livability, affordability, and economic stability as reasons it could be a smart place to buy property.
In this guide, we explore his insights on neighborhoods, market trends, and what makes Columbus stand out.
Columbus Real Estate Overview
Carlos Alex Rozwadowski often points to Columbus’ strong job base anchored by Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), healthcare, and manufacturing as key drivers of its real estate appeal. The city also benefits from its proximity to Atlanta (about 90 minutes away), making it a feasible option for those looking to escape the metro hustle without being isolated.
Population growth here has been modest but steady. Alex suggests that’s part of the city’s charm, it’s not experiencing boom-and-bust cycles like flashier markets. Instead, Columbus offers consistent value and a lower cost of living, which appeals to military families, retirees, and remote workers alike.
Median home prices in Columbus, Georgia, hover around $165,000, well below the national average, making it accessible for first-time buyers and investors looking to enter the market without overextending themselves.
Where to Buy: Carlos Alex Rozwadowski on the Best Neighborhoods in Columbus
When asked where buyers should start their search and what to explore in Columbus, Carlos Alex Rozwadowski usually breaks it down into a few standout neighborhoods, each with its own personality and price point.
Midtown Columbus
Alex often recommends Midtown for buyers who want to be close to everything. With tree-lined streets, older brick homes, and a strong sense of community, it’s a great mix of charm and convenience. According to Alex, MidTown has held its value well over the years and is seeing renewed interest as buyers seek walkable neighborhoods with character.
Downtown Columbus
Once known primarily for its business core, Downtown Columbus has undergone major revitalization. There’s a growing arts scene, riverfront trails, and a wave of new apartments and condos. Rozwadowski notes this area is great for professionals and creatives looking for urban living without Atlanta prices.
North Columbus
Alex suggests North Columbus for buyers looking for newer construction, strong schools, and easy highway access. With its shopping centers, well-kept subdivisions, and growing infrastructure, it’s a popular choice for families and military personnel stationed at Fort Moore.
Historic Districts (Wynnton, Lakebottom)
Wynnton and Lakebottom Park neighborhoods are often top picks for buyers interested in historic homes. Carlos Alex Rozwadowski praises their classic Southern architecture and proximity to green spaces. Inventory can be tight, but the neighborhoods offer timeless appeal and are close to Midtown amenities.
South Columbus
Traditionally more affordable, South Columbus is gaining attention from investors and first-time buyers. Alex sees long-term potential here, especially with continued development tied to Fort Moore and local workforce housing initiatives.
Carlos Alex Rozwadowski’s Take on First-Time Homebuyers in Columbus
Alex encourages first-time homebuyers to come into the process prepared. With competition increasing in neighborhoods like North Columbus and MidTown, having financing ready and understanding your must-haves can give you an edge.
He also points out that Columbus offers several down payment assistance and housing incentive programs, particularly for veterans and first responders. Rozwadowski often helps clients explore these resources to reduce upfront costs and make homeownership more accessible.
For buyers willing to take on a fixer-upper, Alex sees opportunities in older neighborhoods south of downtown. He believes these properties could offer solid long-term value with the right renovations.
What the Future Could Hold for Columbus
Looking ahead, Carlos Alex Rozwadowski is optimistic about Columbus’s continued growth. He sees redevelopment efforts, especially near the riverfront and Fort Moore, as key trends to watch. The city is investing in greenways, public transit, and mixed-use development that could shift how and where people want to live.
Rozwadowski is also watching the impact of remote work. As more people seek affordable living with good infrastructure, he believes Columbus could benefit from this migration, especially if internet access and amenities continue to improve.
Build-to-rent communities are another trend he’s following. Alex says developers are starting to respond to demand from renters who want the feel of a single-family home without long-term commitment.
Investment Outlook for Columbus Real Estate
For investors, Carlos Alex Rozwadowski sees Columbus as a city with strong fundamentals. Affordable prices, stable rental demand, and a growing economy make it appealing for both short- and long-term strategies.
Single-family rentals close to Fort Moore or Columbus State University are in constant demand. Alex highlights these areas as offering steady cash flow and lower turnover, especially with the transient nature of military and student populations.
He also advises investors to keep an eye on public projects, such as school improvements, park expansions, and roadwork, which can all affect future property values. In his experience, staying ahead of these trends allows savvy buyers to get in before prices spike.
That said, he cautions flippers to budget carefully. Construction costs have risen, and older homes may come with unexpected repair needs. Energy efficiency upgrades, smart home features, and solid maintenance records can help these properties stand out.
Final Thoughts From Carlos Alex Rozwadowski
Columbus, Georgia, might not be the flashiest market in the Southeast, but that’s part of what makes it so interesting. With its mix of old and new, stability and growth, Carlos Alex Rozwadowski sees it as a place where buyers can build real roots or generate solid returns.
His advice? Do your homework. Get to know the local trends, understand what each neighborhood has to offer, and don’t rush the process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, Rozwadowski’s insights suggest that Columbus isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place with real opportunity, if you know where to look.
