lamg: Look at Decatur. It's close to downtown, has a nice little downtown with some good restaurants. I think you should find something in your price range around there.

sgbslo - is your answer for me or lamg?

OneWandering - yes I've been on MLS & Realtor . . . both show properties in our price range, we just weren't sure about which towns to live in & the commute to midtown Atlanta where we work. Thanks tho! We will consider the townhouse/condo route . . . we haven't looked at any cuz we didn't want to feel like we're in an apartment but will check it out.