Atlanta or bust?

Rumors have been swirling at work for a couple years now that eventually our office might move to Atlanta. I haven't been really alarmed about it because our current leases weren't up until summer 2013 and a lot can happen in those few years! Just look at the changes in my life the last few years!

However (cue the ominous music), the official announcement was made this week that our office would be relocating into a gorgeous and very impressive new building in Atlanta July 2013 to merge with our other North America location.

Now cue the stress.

There's a lot to consider. On one hand, Tim and I have often talked about moving south. Each winter seems worse than the previous one and I would love to live somewhere with much more mild winters. There are so many reasons to leave:
1. Milder winters
2. SO much more affordable home prices! I was seriously drooling over some of the homes in our price range. They are my dream homes and are cheaper than our current fixer-uper was! We're talking huge decks, wrap around porches, dozens of full-sized trees on enormous lots, hard wood throughout, upgrade after upgrade - drool, drool, drool. What a change to actually have outdoor living space and to be able to use it!
3. We don't have close family or other major commitments keeping us here.

But on the other hand, my goal was to move closer to my family and Atlanta is much further - 9 hours vs 5 hours. And my other goal is to work less - if I move, I'll be further committed to my job.

There's really a lot to think about. I've been offered a very generous relocation package and there's definitely some appeal in moving. I grew up used to the sight of a moving van in our driveway so I do get a little antsy if I stay in one place for too long. In our current house, I'm closing in on tying the record for the longest I've lived anywhere. Oh and the houses! Have I mentioned they're amazing?

Tim and I have a lot to discuss. He'd obviously have to find another job down there and we'd have to consider our long-term goals and if this would be a step in the direction of where we want our lives to go. Fortunately, we still have a year to think about it before we make a decision.

But in the meantime, here's a sneak preview of some of the houses that are making it very attractive to move on down south. One of these houses was such a beautiful home at such an amazing price that I'm tempted to buy it right now anyway. :)