Every day, Atlantans are making their own versions of Black history in ways both big and small. They are all a part of our Black History Month series on regular people doing extraordinary things throughout metro Atlanta communities, “Black History is NOW. 

Capitol View Manor, Atlanta’s ever-changing neighborhood, hums with the sounds of financial progress. According to Louisiana native and real estate enthusiast John Queen, he hears dreams being constructed in the community he now calls home.

Queen has watched his neighborhood’s real estate prices soar, but his commitment runs deeper than potential profits. Despite lucrative offers tempting others to sell, Queen decided his home was more than a financial investment – it was an investment in the fabric of the community.

He wants his neighbors and others who witness his efforts to restore his 1920s home to feel inspired. They too can invest in a neighborhood without sacrificing the soul of their community.

“When I purchased in this area in 2019, the highest-sold house in the area was $375,000,” Queen said. “Now the house across the street from me just sold for $617,000, and it’s all from investors coming in and looking to make huge profit margins.”

According to Zillow, Atlanta ranked ninth on its list of the hottest housing markets in 2023. The report also states that property prices in Atlanta may have reached their peak.

Queen’s business education from Morehouse College became the cornerstone of his community-focused investments. His real estate ventures range from affordable housing to Airbnb rentals, all held together by family and…