Saunders Real Estate announced on May 5 that Georgia’s land market is showing a clear divide, with asset type, location, and end use now playing a larger role in transactions than overall momentum. The findings come from the company’s Lay of the Land Market Report, which analyzes verified land transactions across Georgia closed in 2025.
The report indicates that some properties are trading quickly while others remain unsold, highlighting increased selectivity among buyers. “The days of broad-based appreciation are behind us,” said Tyler Davis, President of Saunders Real Estate. “What we’re seeing now – and what we’re already seeing play out this year – is that buyers are far more selective. Deals are getting done when there’s a clear plan for the land and long-term value behind it.”
According to the report, farmland in Georgia cooled in 2025 after years of growth. There were 101 verified farmland transactions totaling $229.1 million at an average price of $5,486 per acre. Lower commodity prices and higher input costs have led buyers to focus more on productivity and operational strength.
In contrast, timberland values increased by 10.8% year over year to an average price of $3,142 per acre despite challenges such as mill closures and storm damage. Recreational land also remained active with nearly 147,000 acres sold across 653 transactions totaling over $536 million.
Ranchland demand held steady with verified sales covering over 8,200 acres at an average price of $5,730 per acre. Transitional land showed wide pricing differences depending on proximity to infrastructure; metro-adjacent markets averaged $43,836 per acre compared to rural corridors at $21,216 per acre.
Davis said that buyers now take a targeted approach focused on properties with strong fundamentals: “Rather than relying on overall market appreciation, buyers are taking a more targeted approach.” He added that broader factors like interest rates and population growth continue to influence these trends.
Saunders Real Estate operates under founder Dean Saunders and specialized advisors offering services across multiple Southeastern states including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina according to the official website. The company promotes stewardship and conservation efforts for families and investors while providing expert guidance for clients seeking diverse property types or investment opportunities through its two divisions: Saunders Land and Saunders Commercial according to the official website.
