Your Guide to Buying a Home in Savannah, GA

Buying a Home in Savannah, Georgia

(Savannah is a city of both historical and natural beauty)

Savannah is located in Chatham County

General James Oglethorpe founded Savannah in 1733, among the last settlements of the original 13 colonies. The current site that City Hall occupies is thought to be the first area of settlement by Oglethorpe and other colonists. A small bluff overlooking the Savannah River, they gave this spot the appropriate name, Savannah. Oglethorpe and his new settlement were fortunate to avoid bloody battles with local Indians. A treaty was established between the colonists and a local Indian Chief, which allowed the settlers to colonize along the coast of the Savannah River. During this time many other settlements were facing struggles with local Indian tribes. However, Savannah, which had remained loyal to England, was later invaded by the British when they joined the patriotic aims of surrounding settlements to declare independence. Nearly one decade later, in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Savannah's current prosperity began after the Revolutionary War, when Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin, an important precursor to what would become the world's leading cotton producer. However, cotton prices declined after the War Between The States, and much of Savannah's architectural beauty was subject to demolition. However, the Historic Savannah Foundation, founded in 1954 and originally composed of seven women, fought to preserve every artifact of history they could. Because of their efforts Savannah's Historic District has become a Registered National Historic Landmark, and comprises one of the largest historic districts in the country.

Savannah is forever intertwined with its beginnings, but maintains an aggressive vision for its future. Savannah is Georgia's second fastest growing city (after Atlanta) and was recently named one of the top ten hot spots for entrepreneurs by Area Development Magazine. The diversity of Savannah's economy has allowed it to overcome the uncertainties of national economic cycles. A rich blend of manufacturing, distribution, tourism, military, ports operations, and retail sectors form a strong business and employment base. A high quality of life attracts both businesses and employees seeking to relocate their families here.

A direct example of Savannah's commitment to fostering extensive economic growth is the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center. This multi-purpose facility houses year-round conventions and meetings and is expected to draw more business-oriented visitors as the Center gains a reputation as a state-of-the-art facility located in one of the southeast's most pleasant and desirable cities.

Visitors will not be at a loss for interesting and fun attractions. Beautiful beaches offering unobstructed views of the Atlantic may be found at Tybee Island, also know as "Savannah's Beach". Historic Savannah Carriage Tours provided narrated tours covering major points of interest in Savannah's historic district, while Savannah's Historic Railroad Shops are the oldest and most complete Antebellum railroad manufacturing and repair facility still in existence in the United States. If you are not a history buff you might be interested in the Oglethorpe Speedway, home of several divisions of NASCAR racing, or the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.

Whatever your pleasure, come find it in Savannah. A strong economy, low crime, great schools and practical amenities, plus that little touch of southern hospitality will be difficult to resist.