A fascinating trend has emerged in real estate in recent years: the transformation of decommissioned military bases into thriving, multi-use developments. These expansive properties are no longer relics of the past, instead being reimagined by celebrities and visionary investors, turning them into cultural hubs, creative spaces, and sustainable communities.
One of the most recent headline-grabbing examples is Tyler Perry’s acquisition of Fort McPherson in Atlanta, Georgia. Perry purchased 330 acres of the former army base, transforming it into Tyler Perry Studios, a world-class production facility and one of the largest film studios in the country. The project not only revitalized a large swath of underused land but also brought jobs, tourism, and national attention to the area. In 2017, according to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Perry contributed to generating nearly $10 billion for Georgia’s economy. His studio also offered more than 400 job opportunities within the metropolitan area.
A few years later in 2022, actor Anthony Mackie purchased 20 acres of land to build a production studio in his hometown of New Orleans.
Actor and Comedian, Katt Williams, has also thrown his hat into the ring. Williams purchased Fort McClellan in Anniston, Alabama for $1.5 million, although it was originally priced at $5 million when it first went up in 2023, according to the original listing. The site includes more than 90 acres of flat, usable land; including two large gymnasiums, 3.5 miles of internal roadways, 30 concrete buildings, 3 million square feet of indoor space and 10 barracks with 20 rooms each.
Other notable transformations include:
- Brooks (San Antonio, TX): Formerly Brooks Air Force Base, now a flourishing mixed-use development with research centers, housing, and commercial space.
- Plattsburgh Air Force Base (NY): Transformed into an international airport and industrial complex, boosting regional infrastructure and economic growth.
- Seneca Army Depot (Romulus, NY): Known for its rare white deer, this site now serves as a conservation area and tourism destination.
- Fort Ritchie (Cascade, MD): Being revitalized by a local investor into a residential and commercial hub while preserving its historic charm.
When properties like this are purchased and redeveloped, buyers can face backlash from locals who prefer to see the history preserved. But in most cases, the creation of jobs and construction projects not only benefit the city, but the county, and whole region.
Hollywood has long been known as a movie production hub, but a number of states besides California offer tax incentives for film and television production.
In Alabama, there’s a refundable tax credit available for $20 million of qualifying production expenditures. In Georgia, two production credits are available: the base tax credit and the Georgia Entertainment Promotion Tax Credit. And in Louisiana, there’s an incentive program that is offering up to 40% tax credits on a base investment.
These success stories create a powerful point: rural real estate is not just relevant-it’s booming with opportunity. And for real estate professionals, these developments are more than inspiration. They are a call to action.
At United Country Real Estate, we specialize in the kinds of properties that are now taking center stage in this movement – rural land, historic sites, development opportunities, military properties and lifestyle properties. Our agents are uniquely equipped with the knowledge, tools, and national network to capitalize on these emerging markets and trends.
UC Agents Leading the Way
United Country agents have a long-standing history of working with significant properties, including historic homes and ranches, development-ready parcels, and even former military or government owned land. From facilitating the sale of repurposed training facilities to advising investors on land use and zoning for redevelopment, UC professionals bring unmatched local expertise along with national reach.
In areas where revitalization is taking root, our agents are often the first call. Their knowledge of the land, regulations, and market trends make them trusted partners for visionary buyers and communities looking to reinvent themselves. Whether it’s a turn of the century lodge, a sprawling ranch, or marketing a large tract with historic value, UC agents know precisely how to position these properties for the next chapter of their lives.
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Whether you’re just getting started as a new real estate agent or you’re a seasoned agent looking for your next big move, United Country offers a platform unlike any other. Join the team that understands the value of history, community, and innovation.
Explore opportunities at JoinUnitedCountry.com to discover how you can help shape the future of real estate-one unique and remarkable property at a time.
