U.S. Reps. Johnny Isakson and Denise Majette will kick-off Fannie Mae's Smart Commute Initiative for the Atlanta area today. This represents the first time the benefits of location-efficient mortgages have been available to Atlantans wishing to purchase houses within the pedestrian-shed of transit. This initiative is certain to stimulate more interest in transit-oriented real estate (1/2 mile of a MARTA station) Intown. Benefits of the Initiative include:

> An additional $200 per month for one wage earner, $250 per month for two wage-earners
> Down payment of only three percent of home value, or a down payment as little as $500, depending on borrower’s income eligibility
> Free MARTA transit pass for six months, a $315 value.
> The ability to reduce or eliminate the expense and upkeep of a personal vehicle.