The quaint neighborhood in East Point known as Jefferson Park is an eclectic mix of post-World War II wood cottages and brick bungalows that have become a staple of intown living. Forgoing the 'burbs, urban dwellers are seeking out the homes originally built to house the boys and their families after the war to begin their own families.

"We searched all over metro Atlanta looking for an affordable place with a big yard, from Lithonia to Lilburn, even up to Acworth," says Amy Williams, a Jefferson Park resident for two years. "We came to look around here and made an offer on our house the next day. It was only later that we learned how desirable this neighborhood actually is."

Real estate broker Mike Baker explains that the neighborhood has weathered the years better than many of the others in East Point because it never became heavily rental, rather original owners hung on to their houses and only recently began selling.

"A few years ago when I told someone about a home in East Point, they made a face like they had just bit into a lemon," Baker says. "Now it's become a place people seek out to live. I've seen houses double in value over the last couple of years."

He's most impressed by the retention of the new residents. Baker says of the hundreds of homes that he's helped people purchase, fewer than 10 have been re-sold.

Williams and her husband Craig echo the same feeling. "Everyone seems to care about this neighborhood. There are many longtime residents, but there is also an infusion of new blood -- young couples and families with kids moving in," she says.

Neighborhood Association President Kirk Cameron feels that the native residents or those who have lived there for a long time have seen the ups and downs and are welcoming the change new residents are bringing. "Many people have been here since before Hartsfield [Airport] and when people moved out, the neighborhood began to suffer," he says. "They are glad to see their neighbors' homes being renovated."

Cameron also credits the strong gay population that has called Jefferson Park home as vital to its popularity. As in many other areas where the home prices were low and close to town, says Cameron, gay and lesbian residents have renovated, raised home prices and created a desirable neighborhood.

Jefferson Park recently applied for historical district status but residents are still awaiting the decision. Whatever the final outcome, the residents of Jefferson Park look like they'll be sticking around for a while.