Buford

Buford

Buford is a vibrant city located in northern Gwinnett and Hall counties, known for its historic charm, modern amenities, excellent shopping, and proximity to Lake Lanier. Blending suburban comfort with lakeside recreation, Buford appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike.

A Bit of History

Founded in the 1870s along the Southern Railway line, Buford quickly became a center for the leather industry, with the Bona Allen Company famously producing saddles used in Hollywood Westerns. The city has maintained its heritage through preserved architecture and its walkable downtown, while growing into one of the most desirable residential areas in North Georgia.

What Attracts People to Buford

• Top-Rated Schools: The Buford City School District is frequently ranked among Georgia’s best by various independent sources.
• Proximity to Lake Lanier: Just minutes from boating, fishing, and waterfront parks.
• Shopping & Dining: Home to Mall of Georgia, the state’s largest shopping center, and a bustling food scene.
• Historic Downtown: A charming district filled with boutiques, coffee shops, and local art galleries.
• Convenient Location: Easy access to I-985, I-85, and US-23 makes commuting to Atlanta or Gainesville manageable.

Places to Eat

• Aqua Terra Bistro: Upscale but approachable dining featuring seafood, steaks, and seasonal dishes in a cozy downtown setting.
• Tannery Row Ale House: A laid-back venue serving Southern comfort food with live music and historic ambiance inside a former tannery.
• Nuna’s Café: A Cuban-American restaurant offering traditional dishes like ropa vieja, Cuban sandwiches, and café con leche.
• Reveille Coffeehouse Café: A favorite for fresh breakfasts, avocado toast, and grain bowls.
• Clean Eatz Buford: A healthy fast-casual option with build-your-own bowls, protein-packed meals, and gluten-free choices.   

Things to Do

There are also many things to do in Buford, including:

• Mall of Georgia – Georgia’s largest mall with 200+ stores, dining, a luxury movie theater, and seasonal outdoor events.
• Lake Lanier Access – Enjoy boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and lakeside picnics at Buford Dam Park and Lanier Park Beach.
• Historic Downtown Buford – A walkable district full of boutique shops, art galleries, wine bars, and local restaurants.
• Tannery Row Artist Colony – A vibrant community of working artists in a historic building with open studios and rotating exhibits.
• Buford Community Center & Theatre – Hosts concerts, plays, and community events with indoor and outdoor stages.
• Bogan Park – Offers an indoor aquatic center, gym, walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities for all ages.
• Buford Corn Maze (Seasonal) – Fall fun with a large corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a petting zoo.
• Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center – Features nature trails, eco-education exhibits, and family-friendly learning experiences.
• Topgolf (Nearby in Suwanee or Coming Soon) – Popular for golf-themed entertainment, food, and group fun just a short drive away.
  
  

Buying a Home in Buford: What to Know

 Property Types & Neighborhood Styles

• Historic Homes: In and around Downtown Buford, you’ll find early 1900s homes with unique architecture and walkable proximity to restaurants, shops, and art spaces.
• New Construction: Master-planned communities with modern amenities—like pools, clubhouses, and sidewalks—are common near Hamilton Mill, I-985, and the Mall of Georgia.
• Lake Lanier Proximity: Homes closer to the lake may offer private docks, water access, or scenic views—be sure to verify shoreline permits and flood zone designations.



Utilities & Land Use

• Most homes in Buford have public water and sewer, but rural outskirts may use septic systems—confirm during inspections.
• If you're purchasing land or a custom home lot, confirm zoning regulations and future land use plans with the city or county to ensure compatibility with your goals.

Property Values & Demand

• Buford has seen steady appreciation due to strong demand, new development, and proximity to Lake Lanier and the Mall of Georgia.
• Homes in Buford City School District or near downtown/lakefront areas tend to sell at a premium.
• Inventory can move quickly—especially for newer homes and those under $500K—so working with an agent early can be a smart move.

Transportation & Commute

• Buford offers direct access to I-985, I-85, and US-23, making commutes to Atlanta, Gainesville, or Alpharetta manageable.
• While there is no MARTA rail line, local roadways are well-maintained, and car travel is the primary mode of transportation.
• Be mindful of game day traffic if you're near Coolray Field (home of the Gwinnett Stripers).

HOA Communities

• Many neighborhoods—especially new builds—have Homeowners Associations (HOAs) with rules and monthly fees.
• Review HOA documents carefully for regulations on pets, rentals, home design, and use of amenities.

Final Tips

• If lake living is a priority, talk to your agent about dock permits, water access, and boat storage rules.
• For buyers seeking investment opportunities, some Buford properties may be eligible for short-term rental use—check local ordinances and HOA rules first.
• Partnering with a real estate professional can help you navigate county differences, school zone boundaries, and fast-moving inventory in this competitive market.