Real Estate Report, June 2017

Appen Media Group

Real Estate Report June Special Section

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June 2017

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Jan 20, 2017 ★★★★★ by Stan P. Mike is an outstanding REALTOR. He has helped my family buy and sell 4 homes in Milton over the years. Two of the homes needed complete makeovers and Mike managed that entire process for us with his contractors.

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Nov 2, 2016 ★★★★★ by Drew E. Michael helped me sell one home and buy a new one at the same time. He was referred to us and we had some reluctance with an unknown agent, but what a pleasure! He got us the right buyer at the right price, and helped us find the perfect fixer upper opportunity.

Sep 2, 2016 ★★★★★ by Chris W. Due to many corporate relocations, we have had the opportunity to work with lots of real estate agents over the years. No one compares to Mike Stevens. He sold our Crooked Creek home in 1 day and at a record price.

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Cresswind at Lake Lanier Cresswind at Lake Lanier, Georgia’s best-selling community for four years in a row, just released its final phase of homesites. Now is the time to come find your new home and explore the 40,000-square-foot clubhouse and spectacular Lake Lanier setting. Want to go first? Go now. It’s all here and waiting for you at Cresswind at Lake Lanier by Kolter Homes.

As the only active adult community on beautiful Lake Lanier, Cresswind offers the finest amenities and a resortinspired lifestyle. The social hub of the community is the remarkable, threestory, 40,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Here, you can fill your social calendar in endless ways: arts and crafts, billiards, aerobics, a ballroom, an impressive indoor pool with lap lanes, a rooftop bar overlooking the lake and marina, and even a demonstration kitchen with classes throughout the year. The Club is also complete with an expansive outdoor pool, bocce ball, a basketball court and tennis courts. But it’s more than just fun and games. It’s also fun and fulfillment. From personal improvement to outreach, Cresswind at Lake Lanier offers opportunities for volunteerism, enhanced nutrition, and an immense range of interest-specific clubs.

Cresswind is located on a wide stretch of Georgia’s renowned Lake Lanier. With over 692 miles of shoreline, the lake boasts spectacular scenery and limitless opportunities for recreation. Cresswind Landing, the onproperty marina, offers boat slip ownership and day dock opportunities. This incredible amenity for the residents of Cresswind at Lake Lanier extends a permanent invitation to maximize Cresswind’s exceptional waterfront

location.

Cresswind at Lake Lanier was specifically designed to take advantage of a unique location and moderate yearround temperatures that invite exploration of the community and its surrounding area. Located in the historic town of Gainesville, Georgia, residents are truly in the middle of it all. Bordered to the north by the foothills of the northeast Georgia mountains, scenic getaways are just minutes away, anytime of the year. And less than 50 miles south is the city of Atlanta, putting the region’s best shopping, dining, sports venues, and arts and culture within easy reach.

After years of research, Kolter Homes has perfected a groundbreaking approach to homebuilding that results in everything you’d expect in a luxury home, plus the industry’s most solid construction, featuring Kolter Homes’ unique Comfort Home Design. This exclusive design outfits your home with features and rooms that complement the way you want to live. Just beyond the waterfall at Cresswind’s private, gated entrance, you’ll find a variety of two- and three-bedroom, ranch-style floor plans to fit every want and need.

One visit and you’ll see why Cresswind at Lake Lanier is the most awardwinning active adult community in the Atlanta area.

With eleven, fully furnished model homes, you can find just the plan that works best for you. Single-family homes are priced from the mid $200s to $600s. Move-In Ready homes available now. To learn more, visit CresswindAtLakeLanier.com. Also, check out the Go Guide to Active Adult Living and Homebuying, available free at GoCresswind.com.

June 2017

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June 2017

Get ready for a life changing experience By: FERHAT ERKAN, General Manager, The Uniqhouse A major home renovation can be a wonderful, life changing experience. At the same time, we also know that done poorly, it can also be extremely stressful for the homeowner. Whether it’s articulating your erkan personal tastes, selecting finishes, establishing a budget or living through the sawdust, a home renovation can be a true test of endurance. And of course, the most important part renovation is the heart of your home - the kitchen!

The kitchen is no longer a place where recipes on paper are transformed into delicious realities. It is the new meeting place in the limited amount of time we spend at home due to the frantic pace of our daily life. The kitchen is a new living space that is being shaped by a new perspective. It should be something you like as much when you are using it as you did picking it out.

The UniqHouse has a solution for every

functional difficulty you face.

Our multi-skilled experienced team is always willing to deliver the highest quality of installation or refurbishment work. If you work with us, you can expect full on personal attention. You deal with one person for design, technical matters, installation, payments, appliance advice, decor, lighting and remedial works.

When we laid the foundation of The UniqHouse, we dedicated ourselves to the very important business of developing the best products for kitchens and baths in the USA. To provide highquality products at affordable prices with a fast and excellent service under a strong American brand!

The UniqHouse aims to go beyond being just a "choice" in the kitchen and bath sector; but dreams instead with the science of products to create the most beautiful artwork with its own unique language capturing the harmony of quality and beauty. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with long lasting happiness in your home, by creating a space that brings you joy and is an expression of your personality for your family to gather in for years to come.

For expert assistance remodeling

your kitchen or bath, contact one of the The UniqHouse representatives in

Roswell at 678 878 3940 or visit TheUniqHouse.com.

Fabulous Forsyth & Fulton County Locations Live in One of These Prestigious Counties with Fantastic School Systems, Recreation and Much More

Fulton County ManorView (Milton) 770-663-0027 Homes from the low $600s to the upper $700s Briarstone at Nesbit Lakes (Roswell) Coming Soon 770-887-8233 Forsyth County Arbors at LakeView (Cumming) 770-887-8233 Homes from the upper $300s Arbors II at LakeView (Cumming) 770-887-8233 Homes from the mid $300s Champions Run I (Suwanee) 770-888-2763 Homes from the low $400s

In the Atlanta division of CalAtlantic Homes, prices, plans, elevations and specifications are subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Photographs and/or renderings are for illustrative purposes only. Hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may be decorative suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. See Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and offer limitations. This is not an offer or the solicitation of an offer for the purchase of a new home. This information is not directed to residents of any state that requires registration or permit issuance prior to the publication of such information. CAATL236

Champions Run II (Suwanee) 770-888-2763 Homes from the mid $400s Herrington Glen (Cumming) 470-302-8205 Homes from the mid $400s Herrington Trace (Cumming) 770-557-2289 Homes from the low $400s Marketplace Commons (Cumming) 770-557-2289 Homes from the low $400s Reserve at LakeView (Cumming) 770-887-8233 Homes from the mid $400s Seneca (Cumming) 470-297-800 Homes from the low $400s

Seneca lll (Cumming) 470-297-8006 Homes from the upper $300s Seneca IV (Cumming) 470-297-8006 Homes from the upper $400s Woodbury Preserve (Cumming) 470-321-5702 Homes from the upper $300s Traditions (Cumming) Coming Soon 770-888-2763 Seneca Overlook (Cumming) Coming Soon 470-297-8006 Edgemont on Main Street (Milton) Coming Soon 678-613-6191

For more information, please visit CalAtlanticHomes.com.

June 2017

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June 2017

dedicated to

LU X U RY o ff er i n g o n ly t h e f i ne st i n luxu ry r e a l estat e s e rv i c e

Smart home benefits Brought to you by: Te’a Metro, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

SECOND TIME NOMINEE FOR THE ATLANTAN'S 2017 ISSUE: WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE & POWER

T E ' A ME T RO c. 770.993.3873 o. 770.442.7300 teametro@atlantafinehomes.com

©MMXVII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

When building the home of your dreams, product selection can greatly impact your operating cost for decades.

Buying a high efficiency home not only saves energy but also greatly impacts your metro health and improves your comfort levels.

This can benefit you by creating better air quality, reducing noise and so much more.

There is a lot of data involved in finding the right environmentally friendly dwelling. Below is the breakdown of the different certification systems for energy-efficient homes.

RESNET The Residential Energy Services Network is a not-for-profit corporation that develops industry-wide standards and rules for energy efficiency ratings and certification systems for buildings.

RESNET can give you so much insight into the type of home you live in, they can tell you everything from how efficient your home currently is to what you could improve on to create a more eco-efficient environment.

HERS Index The Home Energy Rating System is an index measuring a home’s energy efficiency, when measuring the energy efficiency, it is better to have a lower score. A typical resale home score is around 130 where as new home built to

the standard of HERS index is awarded a score of 100.

LEED The United States Green Building Council is the agency that bestows Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certifications on environmentally friendly buildings and projects.

The highest certification a building can earn is “LEED platinum”.

Energy Star The Energy Star program is overseen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Products such as refrigerators, light bulbs, and furnaces can earn Energy Star certifications. Separately, homes can be Energy Star certified through an independent inspection.

Indoor airPLUS This program is also administered by the EPA. Homes that go above and beyond the Energy Star requirements by incorporating additional features to combat moisture, mold, pests, and pollutants can earn this label.

National Green Building Certification Overseen by the National Association of Home Builders, this program helps residential building professionals develop and build sustainable projects.

Buildings can earn bronze, silver, gold, or emerald certifications. In order to earn the Emerald level which is the highest certification a project can earn it “must incorporate energy savings of 60 percent or more”.

If you are interested in buying or selling or have any questions about today’s market, please allow me to assist by you visiting teametro.atlantafinehomes.com or calling 770.993.3873 Article is adapted from: Realtor.com

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JANE PATNEAU TOP PERFORMER, COMPANY-WIDE

c. 770.337.3538 o. 770.442.7300

JANEPATNEAU@ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

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4205 Fairway Villas

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UNDER CONTRACT

410 Covington Cove

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Listed for $935,000

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1005 Milhaven Drive*

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Listed for $471,000

Listed for $852,500

Jake will be attending and playing hockey at the University of Kentucky!

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June 2017

Tips and tricks to master your move Brought to you by: BILL RAWLINGS Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Now that you have closed on your dream home and are ready for a fresh start, these are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind when going through what can be a complicated process moving into your new rawlings home.

Repairs: Before you move in, it is best to go through your new home and look for any repairs that might need to be done. While the house is empty, this is the best time for improvements. If the walls need to be painted, countertops redone, hardwood shined, this is all much easier to accomplish before heavy furniture is not a factor. If you do this once your furniture is moved in you also run the rescue of damaging your furniture.

Cleaning: While your new home is empty this is a great time to have your home professionally cleaned. Not only will it be more difficult to do once there is furniture but it is important to start

fresh after the previous owner has moved out. This can be an additional stress to moving that can be easily reduced by having professional outside help.

Locks: Changing the locks is something that can be easily forgotten, however very important. You never know who might have a copy of the key to your new home even if the previous owners were trustworthy. This is a way to give yourself piece of mind that you and your belongings are safe.

Moving: When moving it is best to be as organized as possible. When going through boxes to ensure that nothing is lost, numbering the boxes and double checking when you arrive in your new home before they are unpacked gives you piece of mind nothing was forgotten or lost. Not only numbering the boxes but making an inventory list can help in the event that anything is lost or happens to your home for insurance reasons.

Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results.

Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

Article is adapted from: http://www. realtor.com/advice/buy/home-buyingguide-move/

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June 2017

Crye-Leike's commitment inspires agents Crye-Leike is a full service real estate company founded in Memphis, TN in 1977 offering one-stop shopping services in real estate including: residential, relocation, commercial, business brokerage, property management, REO management, mortgage lending, insurance, title & closing, home vendor referrals, auctions, rentals, franchise sales, and home builder services.

As one of the nation’s largest, full service real estate companies, CryeLeike has a network of more than 3,100 sales associates and over 125 offices located throughout a nine-state region.

For forty years, Crye-Leike has delivered a passionate commitment to unsurpassed service in its communities. Crye-Leike's commitment inspires our agents to exceed expectations by constantly improving their relationships with clients and responding quickly to their customer needs while conducting business with integrity and trust.

Today Crye-Leike is the 6th largest real estate company in the nation and

boasts a record year in 2016 with sales exceeding $6.3 billion.

Crye-Leike Realtors continues to grow in the Atlanta market and is actively seeking new agents and brokers to join their team!

Crye-Leike's 11 branch offices include: Cumming, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Norcross, Gainesville, Woodstock, Cartersville, Vinings, Riverdale, Douglasville, and McDonough.

Crye-Leike has accelerated expansion plans that aim to further its footprint in the greater Atlanta market with offices in Marietta, Lawrenceville, Newnan and Kennesaw.

Crye-Leike offers competitive commission splits, cutting edge technology and marketing tools, in house and online training, referral opportunities and the tools you need to take your business to the next level.

We sell more homes in the South than any other company. Please call one of our local offices today for an interview.

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ColdwellBankerHomes.com

#1 Real Estate Brand Online* | Properties Marketed on up to 900 Websites | 110-Year Legacy

Alpharetta | 4/3.5 | $750,000 Jill Bernard 404.867.2760 6299 Windward Pkwy | Windward - The Fairways Search #5831762 on CBHomes.com

Alpharetta | 5/4 | $635,500 Jill Bernard 404.867.2760 12005 Castleton Ct | Castleton Manor Search #5786161 on CBHomes.com

Alpharetta | 6/5 | $620,000 Rita Lewis 770.789.5137 110 Wentworth Terrace Search #5826771 CBHomes.com

Woodstock | 4/4 | $390,000 Rita Lewis 770.789.5137 152 Laurel Way | Laurel Brooke Search #5850526 on CBHomes.com

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Alpharetta | 4/3.5 | $590,000 Leslie Hawkins 770.855.1489 12270 Ferncreek Dr | FernCreek Registry Search #5844459 on CBHomes.com

e n ic ctio r P u d Re

Woodstock | 4/4.5 | $369,999 Sue Forsythe 770.630.4901 213 Cornerstone Dr | Cornerstone Park Search #5817251 on CBHomes.com

Milton | 7/6/2 | $1,100,000 Vanessa Creech 404.862.1356 215 Manor Close | Hampton Manor Search #5851835 on CBHomes.com

Alpharetta | 6/6/2 | $1,450,000 Judy Linderman 678.592.5607 2170 Lake Shore Landing | Windward Search #5823317 on CBHomes.com

st d Ju ste i L

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Alpharetta | 5/5.5 | $625,000 Judy Linderman 678.592.5607 650 Americas Cup Cove | Windward Search #5826713 on CBHomes.com

Johns Creek | 3/2.5 | $398,900 Judy Linderman 678.592.5607 4791 Abberley Ln | Abberley Township Search #5839737 on CBHomes.com

Woodstock | 4/3 | $210,000 Jimmy Payne 404.432.0466 268 Cedar Mill Ln Search #5848169 on CBHomes.com

Kathy Weeks, Managing Broker 704-491-1113

Alpharetta/North Point 3800 Mansell Rd., Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 | 770.642.0399

*comScore, Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2016. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. ©2017 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All rights reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 105781ATL_5/17

Administered by American Home Shield

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June 2017

Declutter and give your home a spruce-up By: Kathy Weeks, Managing Broker, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Alpharetta The trees and grass are green again, colorful flowers are blooming and birds are chirping. Spring is a season for new beginnings, which makes it an ideal time to refresh your home inside and out. It’s no secret that weeks spring is the optimum time to sell a home.

But before you put your house on the market, you’ll need to make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

First impressions really do make a difference, so never underestimate the importance of curb appeal. The exterior of your home needs to entice potential buyers from the moment they step out of the car and walk up to your front door. Start by pulling weeds, trimming trees and shrubs, adding fresh mulch and planting flowers to add a burst of color. Consider giving your front door a fresh coat of paint and polish the door

knob and fixtures. Simple tasks such as power washing the house, sidewalk and driveway – even adding a colorful new welcome mat – can help create a great first impression.

Once the exterior wows potential buyers, you can continue to make a positive impression inside. One thing you can do right away is free, easy and will have a significant impact: declutter.

Potential buyers may not see past clutter, so go through every room, cabinet and closet and keep only the essentials.

Discard or give away anything you don’t need or want, or put them in storage.

Pack up family photos, heirlooms and knickknacks, allowing potential buyers to picture themselves as residents.

Rearrange or remove extra or oversized furniture to make rooms appear more spacious. Remember, potential buyers are interested in your house, not your belongings.

Now that you’ve cleared the clutter, it’s time to clean each room from top to bottom, including ceiling fans, shelves, furniture, lampshades, picture frames, light fixtures, blinds and curtains. If repainting is not in the budget, carefully clean walls, baseboards other painted surfaces to remove smudges and dirt.

Wipe down the inside and outside of your appliances, clean out the refrigerator, remove ash from the fireplace and thoroughly clean floors and carpets.

Add additional sparkle and shine to your home by washing all the windows and screens, making your home brighter and even more inviting. Recaulk tubs, showers and sinks, hang fresh towels in the bathrooms, place a beautiful centerpiece on your dining room table and swap out dark accent pillows or heavy throws for ones in vibrant spring colors and lighter fabrics like linen and cotton.

And while you’re sprucing up your home, it’s also a good time to tend to those minor repairs you’ve been putting off, such as a dripping faucet or a cabinet door that doesn’t close properly.

The goal is to present an appealing, problem-free home that exudes warmth and potential for the next owners.

For expert assistance buying or selling a home this spring, contact the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office in Alpharetta at 770.642.0399 or visit ColdwellBankerHomes. com.

Thinking about getting your real estate license?

By: Karen Pate, SVP, Broker, Harry Norman, REALTORS®, Forsyth/Lake Lanier Thinking about getting your real estate license? Being in the business now for 20 years I have seen a lot of change in the real estate industry. During the down turn back in 2007/2008 many pate agents were forced to look elsewhere due to the decline in income. Developers and builders went bankrupt and started looking for work in other similarly related fields. Spring forward to 2017 some agents have come back and our industry is thriving once again.

Being a real estate agent can be extremely rewarding but, also very challenging. Often we will hear from candidates that they like “working with people” or “how much they love looking at houses”. I am here to tell you there is a whole lot more to it! For one you are responsible for most people’s largest expenditure. You will be work-

ing with legal documents that must be executed without error to protect your client. Selling or buying a home can be stressful for your client and emotions can flare. You will work hard to be successful. Market conditions fluctuate from year to year and then season to season. In our current market we continue to experience a shortage of inventory. Finding the right property for our buyers may take longer or we might find ourselves in a multiple offer situation. As the agent, you will need to have a strategy and be a good negotiator.

Still want to consider it? Here's what it looks like. First, you must obtain your license. If you are interested you can go to the Georgia Real Estate Commission’s website, www.greab. state.ga.us, and download the handbook. This will give you all the information you need to go about obtaining your license. Keep in mind that there is the possibility that you might not qualify so pay close attention to these stipulations.

The real estate classes are offered throughout the Atlanta metro and are available during the day or night. You also have the option of tak-

ing the course online. You must take the classes and then pass two exams.

There is the school and then the state exam. They are difficult so you need to plan when is the best time to schedule your classes.

One thing that you will want to know is that you will be an Independent Contractor and will receive a 1099.

You are responsible for paying your own taxes. Once you have obtained your license you have many companies and business models to choose from.

Depending upon the type of firm you choose with a few exceptions most often agents only are paid when they close a transaction. You must be diligent when it comes to your finances.

Before you choose a company be certain they have a sound reputation and financial stability. Ask about their training and their fees. What your commission plan will be. What staff support you will have. What do their marketing materials look like? Check out their website. When you visit ask yourself if you think you will fit in.

This is a big decision and you do not want to make a mistake.

I hope this was helpful! If you have any questions I’d be happy to answer them.

If you are in need of real estate assistance for either buying or selling real estate please do not hesitate to give me a call.

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One Atlanta business is single handedly expanding the industry.

As a pioneer in the home remodeling market, Remodeling Expo Center has already used this technology in more than 100 projects. According to John Hogan, President of Remodeling Expo Center, “Virtual reality is the best visual tool for homeowners to preview their design. Just a decade ago, this work was largely left to the imagination. Now we can generate a photo-realistic rendering right before their eyes. This way, homeowners can see exactly what the finished product will look like weeks in advance.”

Advanced technology is just part of the re-engineered remodeling experience. Along with the use of virtual reality is a digital estimation system, certified kitchen and bathroom designers and finally, an integrated installation team. The combination of all these elements has resulted in a remodeling experience unlike anything else in the marketplace.

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June 2017

Luxury lake market update Brought to you by: Christina Abunassar, Harry Norman Realtors The Lake Lanier luxury home market has remained stable over the last few years despite the lake being well below full pool.

With the stabilization of the economy, affluent buyers are finding their way back to the abunassar market and second home purchases are on the rise, as is the amount that they are willing to spend on their luxury lake home. There are 231 homes currently listed over $500,000 either on the lake or in communities with lake access.

Over the last six months there have been 80 closed sales in this market segment with the 49% of sales falling within the $500-$749K range. In addition, there are 40 homes currently pending.

An impressive 14% of the homes sold in 2017 have closed for over $1 million. Comparatively, in 2016 there were 79 closed sales during the same 6-month period, with 70% of those sales being within the $500-$749K range and a mere 7% selling for over $1 million dollars.

So, what are these affluent buyers looking for? The lot of course remains

a top priority. Buyers want a lot on deep water, with a dock and preferably on a point. However, at the higher price point the expectation is that the home is move-in ready and requires little to no updating or renovations.

They are looking for top of the line appliances and fixtures with a clean crisp, neutral palette.

Lake Lanier remains a top destina-

tion in North Georgia for both local and international buyers. Working with an agent that knows the lake and its nuances is always recommended whether you are buying or selling. With the economy continuing to improve look for home prices on the lake to continue in their upward trend! 919-389-8317 Christina.Abunassar@HarryNorman. com

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Baby Boomers >>

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By: Ann Jensen Ann.Jensen@HarryNorman.com

Maximize your basement’s potential By: Scott McGillivray (NAPSI)—With house prices on the rise, finishing a basement is the latest trend toward building even more equity in the home.

A finished basement can offer a little extra room to give a growing family space mcgillivray to breathe, and with so many uses, a renovated basement may be the exact solution to what your home is missing. It can provide additional storage space, a soundproofed media room, craft room, guest room or income suite. The possibilities are practically endless. Here are some tips on how to give your basement a 180-degree makeover: Waterproof it. Check the interior foundation and floors to make sure there are no existing moisture issues, water damage or mold problems. Address any primary moisture issues before finishing the space. Examine grading to ensure water runs away from your foundation.

Soundproof it. Installing acoustic insulation can provide an excellent excuse for cranking up the subwoofer, hosting a get-together or letting the kids run wild. Soundproofing can be the ultimate solution to maximize your basement’s peace, quiet and privacy.

Industry experts suggest using Roxul

Safe ‘n’ Sound, which effectively absorbs sound and is easy to work with.

Add or replace flooring. Installing a new floor can improve the overall comfort level and look of your basement.

Vinyl, laminate, ceramic tile and engineered hardwood are great options. Say no to carpet, which can harbor mold and allergens, particularly in the basement, and don’t forget to lay a subfloor.

Add color. Transform the dull and boring space into an inviting oasis or a colorful playroom with a simple coat of paint. If your basement has low ceilings or limited natural light, choose lighter, warmer tones to brighten the space.

To add some drama, consider adding depth and visual interest to your space with a different-colored accent wall.

Accessorize it. Throw pillows, rugs, lighting and artwork are simple additions that can immediately enhance or change your basement’s look and feel.

Recessed lights can modernize, while artwork and throw pillows can add a splash of color. Accessories are really an opportunity to make it your own and let your personality shine through.

They also provide an inexpensive way to keep your space looking fresh from year to year. For more information, visit www.roxul.com.

Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host of the hit series ”Income Property” on HGTV Canada, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author and educator. Follow him on Twitter @ smcgillivray.

More and more Active Adult Communities are developing around Atlanta. Could this be the right “next step” for you? At Brookhaven at Johns Creek (BJC), the floor plans and square footage are perfect jensen for “right sizing.” All homes are beautifully finished with master suites on the main level, step-less entry from the garage, wider doorways, and vanities and commodes at adult height. The newest materials in windows, doors and insulation keep energy costs low.

Community is an important ingredient at this stage of life, too. Most residents are retired (or almost retired) professionals: doctors, lawyers, corporate business, entrepreneurs, professors, teachers, etc.

And, people are HOME during the day. It’s easy to find a companion for lunch, the movies, or a day trip. The

variety of planned activities appeal to many interests and talents. For example, at BJC we enjoy a monthly community dinner hosted at our gorgeous clubhouse, and neighbors get together for book clubs, poker, watercolor, Bible study, etc.

Were YOU hoping to spend your retirement travelling and having FUN? BJC is gated and completely fenced around the perimeter, the ultimate in “lock and go” living. The HOA maintains all yards (front and back).

Pruning, pine straw, mowing, and edging are no longer YOUR responsibility! Our amenities at BJC are unparalleled. We have a gorgeous pool, two lighted tennis courts that are also lined for pickle ball, a nature trail, and a community garden.

Close proximity to medical care (Emory/Johns Creek Hospital), shopping, movies, restaurants and the MANY nearby golf/country clubs round out the GOOD LIFE. Come check us out on SUNDAY, JUNE 11, from 1pm – 4 pm at our OPEN HOUSE. You’ll get a great overview of the community, amenities and floor plans.

55+ Active Adult Community | Villa Homes for Sale

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, June 11th • 1 - 4 pm RESORT-LIKE AMENITIES Clubhouse | Exercise Facility | Gorgeous Pool | Walking Trail Community Vegetable Garden | Gated/Secure

NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVITIES Monthly Dinners | Book Clubs | Classes | Card Group Game Groups | Seasonal Activities & More

LOCATION Excellent Medical Facilities Nearby | Ten Golf Courses within Five Miles f g Entertainment | Shopping | Resturants Directions: NORTH on Hwy 141/Medlock Bridge Rd; RIGHT on Johns Creek Parkway; RIGHT on Technology Circle; Right into Brookhaven at Johns Creek subdivison. See the gate instructions posted on the call box and follow the signs.

ANN JENSEN

C: 404-933-2876 O: 770-622-3081 Ann.Jensen@HarryNorman.com

The above information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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An intimate approach to “Active Adult” Brought to you by: O’Dwyer HomeS With so many “Active Adult” Communities being built in the Northern sector of the Metro Atlanta area, Villas at Bethelview in Cumming stands out for good reason. O’Dwyer Homes believes bigger isn’t always better when it comes to a neighborly feel and has set out on a path to create a more intimate sense of Community with The Villas at Bethelview and at their Woodstock “Active Adult” property, The Villas at Mountain View. With each neighborhood consisting of 55 or less home sites, O’Dwyer Homes believes that the personality of a smaller Community is just as important as the amenities it offers, finding a perfect balance between neighbors staying engaged and a desire for privacy.

The Clubhouse, with its card room, pool, bocce ball court and fitness facility fosters friendships, offering a perfect means to meet neighbors while an onsite dog park is a great way for those

with a similar interest to meet up on a regular basis. Homes crafted with front porches that promote neighborly conversations are all part of this progressive approach O’Dwyer Homes takes in building their Communities. Not forgotten is the need for private time, with all homes boasting private backyards and a variety of options for outdoor living space, like porches, sunrooms or Florida rooms.

Ideally located with future retail walking distance away, O’Dwyer Homes also knows the importance of picking the right location to build an “Active Adult” neighborhood. Access to quality healthcare can be one of the most important factors. Located under five miles from Northside Hospital Forsyth and its more than 2500 physicians, Villas at Bethelview has a prime location you can feel confident calling home.

Come by 4220 Broadford Road, Cumming 30040 or call 470-302-8227 for information. www.odwyerhomes.com

June 2017

real estate report • Sponsored Section

Easy curb appeal One of the easiest but often overlooked enhancement to a house to improve the curb appeal is to add or update your exterior shutters. Historically exterior shutters served a purpose by offering light control, ventilation and protection from the elements. Today exterior shutters are mostly decorative.

“Exterior shutters add the finishing touch to a house”, says Hennie DuPreez, CEO of Dupbel Millworks Inc. “But it is important that they are appropriately sized and look like they are supposed to be there.”

Whether you’re adding or replacing shutters to add curb appeal or as part of a remodel, consider these tips from Dupbel Millworks Inc., one of the leading shutter manufacturers in North Georgia.

Style: Make sure the style adds visual interest to the house, whether you choose traditional Raised panels, a Board and Batten style, Louvers or one of the more modern styles. Depending on the style you can make your house look more traditional, contemporary or modern. A reputable shutter provider will be able to help you choose the look you are trying to achieve.

Size: One of the biggest mistakes people make with shutters is the size.

It is important that the shutters are sized correctly for your windows, while taking into account the features of the house, obstacles that could be present, and the look you are trying to achieve.

Your shutters are going to be mostly decorative, but make sure they are sized as if they would be functional and as if they belong there.

Hardware: Traditionally shutters were attached to the window frames with hinges. Today hardware plays an important role in the appearance of your shutters. Various options are available depending on the style of the shutters and the type of windows. Adding hardware adds to the curb appeal and the authentic look. It also put the shutter at a slight angle, adding visual interest and creating better shadow lines that brings out the design features of the shutter style.

Material: Exterior shutters are available in various material and you

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Light up your life!

Brought to you by: Shanaz Kanga, Harry Norman Realtors

need to find the right balance between price, how long they will last and the look you are trying to achieve. Vinyl shutters are typically the cheapest option for obvious reasons, wood looks great but do not necessary withstand the elements, and then you have various composite materials that could provide you with the authentic look and long lasting criteria.

Installation: Make sure you are confident working on a ladder, or make sure you use a professional crew with the necessary insurance. The installation cost is typically in addition to the price of the shutters and hardware.

Ensure there is a suitable mounting surface and that the window frames are in good shape before installation.

Dupbel Millworks Inc. manufactures exteriors shutters using only weather resistant materials. Our core business is shutters made from a composite wood material that is rot, insect and weather resistant. This is especially important in Georgia’s hot, humid conditions. Although we carry a series of shutters styles, we are fully equipped to help you design the specific look you desire, and every shutters is custom made based on your house, windows and design.

We use your house as our showroom, knowing very well how difficult it can be to see what a specific style of shutter will do the look of your home.

We come to your house with samples and will help you to choose the perfect style of shutter for your house.

Our business is located in Alpharetta, GA and we are proud to serve the residential and commercial market of North Georgia. We are small enough to provide you with personal attention, yet strong enough to handle complex designs and the volume from our commercial customers.

We don't put much thought into the way light might be affecting our mood but its no coincidence that a cloudy gray sky could keep us indoors all day, while a sunny day makes us want to smile. Ever wondered why restaurants have dimly lit interiors? It’s because light affects our appetites; we relax and think less about what we are eating!

Light can be used to enhance our lives in so many ways yet lighting design is easily overlooked in a house. To understand how to use light to create ambiance, let’s examine the types of lighting: The different forms of lighting are Ambient, Task and Accent Light: 1. Ambient or General Light - Ambient light is used to create overall brightness in a space without glare.

E.g. Chandeliers, recessed lights and wall-mounted fixtures throw general light all over a room. A dimmer added to a fixture softens the general light and doubles up as an accent light. Too much general light can make a space look “washed out”.

2. Task Light - This form of lighting is used to complete a task such as pen-

dant lights over a dining area or a pair of scones mounted at eye level on the sides of a mirror to put on makeup. The key to this type of lighting is to provide clear light to complete a task without straining the eyes or creating shadows.

Task lighting is often "whiter" in color and combined with "yellow" ambient or accent lights in living spaces such as a bedroom.

3. Accent Light - Accent lights draw attention to important objects and architectural features of your home, towards which you want to draw attention. Examples include paintings, sculptures, or columns of a house.

Accent lights create drama at strategic points of interest.

Now review the space to be lit: What is the main activity? Is it going to be used for other purposes? How do you want the room to feel? Layer the lighting to create the right illumination starting with ambient light and adding some task and accent lights in specific areas. If you have any questions about selling your home including how to prepare, price and stage your home, contact me for a free consultation at 770-594-4950 or email Shanaz.Kanga@ harrynorman.com

Shanaz Kanga

It’s all in the Details.

“With a background in Architecture, Interior Design and Technology, Shanaz provides exceptional service with the highest level of integrity, when marketing your current property or choosing your new home.”

Call 770-594-4950

7855 North Point Parkway | Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 www.shanaz.kanga.harrynorman.com | www.facebook.com/shanazkangarealtor d: 770-594-4950 | o: 678-461-8700 | f: 678-461-0150

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