Liniado Takes Homes from Nice to ‘Wow’
Emuna realtor gives practical advice while assessing the market.
After 37 years with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and now with the AJT, , Jaffe’s focus is lifestyle, art, dining, fashion, and community events with emphasis on Jewish movers and shakers.
Mira Liniado runs Emuna Group, a real estate and investment firm focusing on properties primarily in Sandy Springs. Depending on what will yield the best return, she either buys and renovates, adds onto existing homes, or develops and builds new homes.
With more than two decades of experience Liniado weighs in on what improvements are the most impactful, the value of hidden gems, tools for first-time buyers, and avoiding the “perfection” syndrome.
For clients looking to buy in highly popular areas, she recommends shifting mindset from finding your “perfect forever home” to thinking about a house in three-to-five-year segments. She said, “With inventory so tight, it’s challenging to find that ideal long-term fit. Instead, focus on meeting your current needs, building equity, and reevaluating as needs evolve. Nothing is forever, and this approach allows you to adapt while still making a smart investment.”
Liniado encourages sellers to make small changes that have a significant impact. She recalls working with a family selling a $1,850,000 home which had “great bones,” but needed updates. She invested $70,000 in strategic improvements—painting the cabinets, updating light fixtures, staging, and replacing the roof. This transformed the property for a competitive market listing for $2,000,000 and selling for $2,225,000 … $400,000 over original value.
Liniado added, “One thing I hear is ‘I wish I had made these improvements earlier and enjoyed them myself!’ Buyers notice thoughtful updates. Fresh paint in neutral tones, modern hardware, and clean, decluttered spaces can take a home from nice to wow. And it doesn’t have to break the bank.”
First-time buyers often feel pressure to find their “forever” home. Liniado observed that needs evolve. “Focus on what works for you now—budget, location, and priorities.”
She helped one young couple narrow their search to homes that fit their budget and lifestyle. They ended up with a cozy bungalow, and years later, they upgraded to their forever home. “Start with a clear budget, get pre-approved, and set aside a rainy-day fund for peace of mind,” she advised.
Liniado touts a strategy of finding hidden gems. She stated that one of her favorite parts of her role is finding off-market opportunities. She’s helped multiple buyers land their dream home by knocking on doors in a neighborhood they sought. The homeowners weren’t planning to sell, but after a conversation, they realized it could be a win-win for both.”
She joked, “I’ve even had homeowners say that I must be listening to their Alexa because I appear just after they’ve discussed moving but dreading the hassle of listing their home. Think outside the box. In a low-inventory market, those hidden opportunities can make all the difference.”
When Liniado designs or renovate homes, she think like a mom, a wife, and someone who values practicality. “How will this home work for a family? Is it functional for entertaining? Will it make daily life easier?”
In terms of timeline, proper planning is key. While some projects can take years, her most recent new construction was completed in 10 months because she had a clear vision, an experienced team, and strong communication.
Liniado describes Atlanta’s current market as “thriving, especially near the High Point Road area.”
She said, “Since COVID, there’s been a significant influx of families drawn to communities (around synagogues) for their lifestyle and access to Jewish resources. This increased demand has driven up prices, with buyers willing to pay premiums for the right location.”
She observes fluctuating interest rates, and said, “As the job market fuels demand, one can’t perfectly time the market. The sooner you buy, the sooner you start building wealth and equity, paving the way for your future forever home.”
Emuna (belief or faith) summarizes Liniado’s core values: trust, integrity, and the power of doing the right thing.
“It embodies the belief that everything will work out for the best,” she said.
Liniado serves as vice president of Congregation Beth Tefillah and as a board member of the High Point Civic Association. She strives to connect both Jews and non-Jews to make the neighborhood stronger.
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