Real Estate Report - September 2023

September Special Section

Is your home smart?

Brought to you byTracey Craft, Realtor®, ASP®, The Craft Dolan Team at Ansley Realty

| Christie’s International

Smart homes are a growing trend across all residential price points, and with good reason. While not yet as important as a home’s décor, buyers want homes to have brains. Today’s homeowners are installing technologies that enhance convenience, security, energy efficiency and overall lifestyle. Even better, these devices and systems can be automated or connected, and they can be controlled either onsite or remotely via phones, tablets or voice commands. Convenience, security and energy efficiencies at your fingertips!

In the near future, we won’t see many homes without at least one smart home

feature. Some examples:

• Home-Assistant Systems: These are central platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. Home-assistant systems often use voice commands to control devices in the home, such as setting a timer while cooking, play a certain genre of music or answer a question.

• Home Security: Smart security systems include doorbells with cameras, motion sensors and surveillance cameras that can be monitored remotely. Smart security systems can send alerts to a homeowner’s phone or tablet to report suspicious activity.

• Energy Management: Smart homes optimize energy consumption by using smart thermostats to regulate temperature, smart lighting to adjust brightness based on occupancy, and even smart appliances that run during off-peak energy hours.

• Entertainment: Smart TVs, audio

systems and streaming devices are integrated into smart home systems. Users control media, adjust volume and even create entertainment zones throughout their homes.

• Automated Routines: Smart homes allow users to set up routines or scenarios. For example, a morning routine programmed into a smart system might turn on lights, adjust the thermostat and play your favorite news podcast when you wake every morning.

• Remote Monitoring and Control: All these features can be managed remotely from across town or across the globe. Think you left the thermostat on high or the oven on after you’ve left for a trip? Check the app and make the adjustment.

• Health and Wellness: Some smart homes can even incorporate health monitoring devices like fitness trackers, sleep trackers and even medical-alert systems to provide insights into and alerts related to residents’ well-being.

While smart homes offer many benefits, there are considerations regarding data privacy, cybersecurity and potential complexities in setup and maintenance. As technology continues to evolve, smart homes are becoming more sophisticated, leading to the integration of AI, machine learning and other advanced technologies for an even smarter living experience.

Do smart home technologies increase your home value? A fully automated home will absolutely impress. Such features are emphasized by listing agents as value-adds when selling a home. But as with any home-improvement investment, make the upgrade for yourself and enjoy the convenience, comfort, security and efficiency benefits. You might not get a dollar-to-dollar return upon a sale, but your smart home features will not be overlooked. Wondering what upgrades you should start with? Give us a call and let us connect you to some preferred providers.

CRAFT

PEXELS

Making outdoor improvements pay off when selling your home

Brought to you by

- Allison Kloster, Associate Broker, Home Real Estate

As the embrace of Autumn envelops us, it is a great time to think about which outdoor improvements to your yard should pay you back the most when you go to sell your home. According to NAR (National Association of Realtors) there are 5 projects that have proven to be the best return of investment dollars, also known as ROI. When your Realtor first comes to your property to discuss marketing your home, they should evaluate the neighborhood, the street, and yes, even your driveway. The essence of arrival is critical to helping any potential buyer

see and feel that this home is special. As a seller, you want to have the buyer set your home apart from others as soon as possible when viewing your home. Having a regularly maintained yard that is nicely landscaped and groomed is a strong start. Your landscaping is the first picture that online sites will use to show the world your property.

The following percentages are what Realtors are being given from NAR as tools to help guide you on where best to spend your money when getting your home ready to sell. As a seller, it is imperative that you present your home in the best possible light (even in a seller’s market).

Routine lawn care service is the highest ROI for a homeowner at 217% of value recovered when you sell your home. Surely, a green and weed-free lawn is a huge draw to the buyer’s

eye. It most definitely shows well in professional photography and videos. Landscape maintenance like adding mulch, pruning your shrubs and planting perennials or annuals comes in at 104% ROI of value recovered when you sell your home.

Outdoor kitchens are very much a growing trend. In our market, we see them frequently. They do vary in complexity and features. We see outdoor kitchens with various grills, refrigerators, and even Kegerators. According to NAR, if you have an inset grill, stainless steel drawers, ice chest sink and concrete countertops with veneered masonry stone, you can expect 100% ROI value recovered when you sell your home.

Overall landscape upgrades like Installing a front walkway of possibly natural flagstone; adding a few stone planters, planting flowering shrubs and

installing mature trees would also yield you 100% ROI value when you sell your home.

Installing an outdoor patio is a great investment as well. Not only will you enjoy some time outside around a firepit or just sitting and reading a book, but an outdoor patio has a 95% ROI value when you sell your home. As you can see, spending money outside is a wise investment and will make sure that your home garners the attention it deserves when it comes time to sell it and move on to your next adventure.

Investing in your home is one of the hardest and most important decisions you will make for your family. You don’t have to do it alone! Call or email Allison at 404-784-5287 or email allison@homegeorgia.com and get a response within 24 hours.

KLOSTER

PEXELS

Take in the mountain views at Horizon at Laurel Canyon

Brought to you by- Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Georgia Properties

Horizon at Laurel Canyon, located in Canton, offers striking views of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains foothills. This popular new home community is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a lifestyle. Designed by Patrick Malloy Communities with a keen focus on active adults, Horizon offers a range of amenities and stunning home designs that blend seamlessly with the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Horizon at Laurel Canyon boasts a wealth of amenities and while not age-restricted, the community was thoughtfully planned to meet the needs of buyers who appreciate the ease of single-level living. Each home

is designed to be spacious, airy, and filled with natural light. State-of-theart appliances and well-thought-out floor plans make daily living convenient and enjoyable. For those who desire a more elevated experience, some offer sky terraces, providing a unique vantage point to take in the stunning surroundings.

What truly sets Horizon at Laurel Canyon apart are the awe-inspiring views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Several mountain view homesites are available for those who dream of building their custom home. There are also several new homes available ready for immediate move-in priced from the $700s - $1 million.

Homeowners will enjoy a 2-story clubhouse with a wrap-around veranda,

a refreshing swimming pool, charming gazebos, tennis courts, and a children’s playground. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in their passion at the nearby Laurel Canyon Golf and Country Club, just a short golf cart ride away.

Life at Horizon offers the best of both worlds. You can spend your days leisurely exploring the charming shops of downtown Canton or take a scenic drive north to discover the beauty of Ellijay, Jasper, or Blue Ridge. With easy access to I-575N, you are also conveniently located just minutes from downtown Canton, a mere 30 miles north of Atlanta, and a short 35-minute drive from the mountains.

Patrick Malloy Communities, founded in 1994 by Patrick Malloy, has over the past 27 years developed over

11,000 homesites and built more than 7,000 homes in Metro Atlanta with a total of $4 billion in sales. Patrick Malloy Communities has been on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top 20 Homebuilder list multiple times and has won numerous professionalism awards including several Community of the Year awards.

For more details on Horizon at Laurel Canyon, visit PMCommunities.com, call 770/254-5357 or visit the model home and sales center at 101 Summit View Circle, Canton, GA 30114. Patrick Malloy Communities is represented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division. BHHSgaNewHomes.com. An Equal Housing Opportunity.

Three common types of beneficiary

Brought to you by-

Geerdes & Associates

Estate planning plays a pivotal role in protecting your legacy and one of the most important parts is deciding who your beneficiaries are. This may seem simple - after all, isn’t it natural to give everything to your family? However, what you may not know is that there are different types of beneficiaries and it’s best to assign a beneficiary for every possible scenario. So, let’s learn about three common types of beneficiaries.

• The first beneficiary type is one you see often in estate planning - the revocable beneficiary. The revocable beneficiary can be an individual, an organization, or a group of people. These are the same beneficiaries you usually see associated with the “Payable on Death” on bank accounts. The inheritance of revocable beneficiaries can be revoked at any time by you.

• The second type of beneficiary is the irrevocable beneficiary. These are generally beneficiaries of certain insurances. These beneficiaries cannot be altered without their consent, due to the amount of assets involved, and the administrative processes for setting up

the beneficiary are much longer.

• The third type of beneficiary is the contingent beneficiary. A contingent beneficiary inherits only if the first beneficiary passes away. For instance, you may want everything to go to your spouse after your death – but what happens if your spouse dies before you? The money doesn’t automatically go to your children. That’s why it’s always best to name your children or relatives as contingent beneficiaries to make sure your assets aren’t stuck in limbo.

Of course, minor children should not be listed as a beneficiary because otherwise the funds have to be turned over to Probate court until the children reach the age of 18. If you have minor children and want to make sure they inherit, it’s better to create a trust and put the trust as a beneficiary to ensure the Probate court won’t interfere and try to control the assets for the children. Similarly, if you have disabled children, you should establish and put the trust as the beneficiary so the child can qualify or maintain government disability benefits.

To know what type of beneficiary you want to name for your assets, it’s always best to speak with a local estate planning attorney. The rules regarding minor children and spouses may differ depending on the county, so always seek legal advice to get the most updated information before you make such an important decision.

GEERDES

Engel & Völkers Atlanta continues to grow

Brought to you by - Engel & Völkers

Atlanta

Engel & Völkers Atlanta announced the continuation of its growth story, absorbing two existing Engel & Volkers markets in Buckhead and North Fulton, and opening a new shop location in Sandy Springs. This news comes on the heels of its recent expansion to North Georgia with its Blue Ridge location.

“At Engel & Völkers Atlanta, we have mastered the leverage of our global platform and brand that is synonymous with providing white glove real estate to discerning clientele, with localized expertise and a global network,” said Christa Huffstickler, Founder and CEO of Engel & Völkers Atlanta. “With an incredible on-the-ground team, we have continued to grow our original shop in South Buckhead and take advantage

of new opportunities beyond our initial territory, to create a more consistent presence for such a prestigious and well-recognized brand in the Atlanta marketspace.”

The Sandy Springs shop will be led by top-producing advisors Matt LaMarsh, Christin Coffin and Kristen Skebe. Sandy Springs has become a hot residential real estate market in recent years due to its tranquil suburban setting, top schools and convenient access to Atlanta, making it an ideal location of service for the Engel & Völkers brand.

“Our client base is increasingly gravitating toward Sandy Springs, and it makes sense for us to be there,” Huffstickler said. “With Matt, Christin and Kristen joining Engel & Völkers Atlanta, we are well-positioned to be a market leader.”

With over two decades of experience

in Atlanta real estate, Sam Morgan, Director of Sales for Engel & Völkers Atlanta, will assume the leadership role of Managing Broker at the North Fulton office. Having managed the sales of some of the city’s largest and most prominent new developments, amounting to $1 billion to be exact, he possesses extensive expertise navigating the ins and outs of the cyclical Atlanta real estate market, making him a knowledgeable leader for the North Fulton shop.

Since joining Engel & Völkers in 2017, Huffstickler has created the top performing Engel & Völkers real estate shop in Atlanta. Notably, 74% of all of the company’s real estate advisors and brokers have increased their business production, with more than 27 record-breaking sales in the last year alone. Engel & Völkers Atlanta has also represented some of the most

premier new development projects in the area. This can be attributed to the brand’s longstanding global recognition, collaborative network and sophisticated offerings alongside the pioneer mentality of the brokerage’s astute leadership.

“It’s with great pride that Christa leads the growth of Engel & Völkers into the future throughout Atlanta,” said Anthony Hitt, president and CEO of Engel & Völkers Americas. “She’s focused on building up the incredible team she’s created and is a beacon of service, mentorship and marketing within the Greater Atlanta new development and residential real estate market.”

The North Fulton and Sandy Springs shops will officially open their doors before the start of September, and more information can be found at www.evatlanta.com.

You deserve to own your business’ real estate, withco makes it happen

Brought to you by - withco

As a small business owner, you know that owning your commercial real estate is a smart move. It means freedom from your landlord, freedom to run your business your way, and freedom to earn income from your real estate in the future. But buying property is easier said than done. Whether it’s finding the capital for a large down payment or navigating the complexities of the commercial real estate market, the system is designed to keep you renting. It’s hardly surprising that so many business owners opt to re-sign their lease.

But ever-increasing rents and the insecurity of leasing are not a recipe for long-term stability. withco is here to change that. Our mission is to help you own your commercial real estate and take control of your future.

Why lease-to-own your commercial real estate with withco.

Really own it, with 0% down: With a lease-to-own agreement from withco, you can own your business’ real estate in just 5 years, with no upfront payment.

Build your Down Payment Credit: Every month of your lease, the rent you pay builds up a Down Payment Credit that belongs to you. After 5 years, this equates to 10% of the purchase price.

Peace of mind, guaranteed: With a lease-to-own agreement you’ll know exactly what your property will cost when the time comes to buy.

A dedicated team in your corner every step of the way. withco’s team of commercial real estate experts help you navigate the entire process, with guidance on what your business can afford and if the property you’re looking at is a wise investment, while handling all those tricky negotiations throughout the process.

Take control and own your commercial real estate with withco. Visit with.co/ownership to learn more.

OWN YOUR BUSINESS’ REAL ESTATE

Five trends to transform your space with paint

Brought to you by – Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

Looking for a way to update the look and feel of a room without breaking the bank? Consider a fresh paint job—there are multiple reasons it ranks among the first recommendations of professional stagers:

Instead of undertaking expensive renovations or purchasing entirely new furniture, painting presents an excellent way to achieve a dramatic transformation with a relatively small investment. For those concerned about resale, opting for neutral, timeless color palettes walks the line between personalization and marketability. Compared to other renovation options, painting is a highimpact upgrade with universal appeal. It’s often a DIY assignment, making it accessible for those who can’t afford a professional. Unlike structural alterations, paint transformations are relatively reversible; you can experiment without fear because it doesn’t take much to pivot if preferences evolve or mistakes happen. And finally, for homeowners looking to sell, a well-executed paint makeover can significantly boost curb appeal and overall value.

While the list below represents a compilation of our favorite painting design trends, a quick Pinterest or Google search reveals plenty of ideas and information that can be adapted to any situation.

1. The Trendsetting Kitchen. Transform ordinary cabinets into standout art pieces by pairing complementary hues to achieve the perfect balance or refresh the walls for an overall update. Popular kitchen colors for this year include earthy tones and ever-perennial neutrals like white, cream and gray.

2. The Reimagined Fireplace. Turn your fireplace into a breathtaking centerpiece by painting the surround and the mantel (or both), or tastefully update the brick and stone using sealant or whitewashing.

3. The Drama of Texture. Move beyond flat walls with finishes that create captivating dimensions while concealing defects in areas that won’t allow for re-plastering or new drywall.

4. The Statement Wall.

Accent walls infuse drama into any room, and your options range from simple (choosing a shade or two deeper than the rest of the walls) or complex (a mural).

5. The Accent Piece. For versatility and portability, try reimagining a sideboard, end table or cupboard using a distressed painting technique.

As always, a quick consult with a professional ensures access to expert color and design advice and a practiced, precise finish. If you need assistance staging your home or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you! Compiled

Bill Rawlings and Sherri Conrad

#1 TEAM The Whitney Agee Team

#1 Kristina Blass

#6 Gloria Jean Squire

#2 Rob Opitz

#7

Carol Hancock

#3 Barbara Fischhoff

#8 Shelley Margulies Gordon

#4 Claudia Huff

#9 Susan Quick

#5 Jodi Halpert

#10 Michelle Moore

MEANS... Inspirational Coaching

to Help You Jump Bigger Fences!

We provide the best support in Real Estate to keep you focused on what really matters to you.

75 years in, the Chatham family is the history and future of Atlanta real estate

Brought to you by- The Chatham Company

In 1948, Howard and Grace Chatham started building their first home in north Atlanta. For seven months, they worked side-by-side in the evenings after finishing their day jobs. They dug the well by hand. They carved out the basement with a slip scoop and a mule. At night, they worked by the light of Ford headlamps.

Together, they built their home well.

When a passerby offered a high price for the house, Howard at first refused but later accepted on the condition that Grace and he could rent the basement while building another home on the adjacent lot. Before they moved into that second house, it was bought as well.

Howard sold his family’s first home,

twice. In return, he got a business that would carry the Chatham’s into the future.

Lighting the way for three generations

2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the business Howard Chatham started almost by accident. David Chatham, Howard’s son, now runs Chatham Holdings Corporation as President and CEO. The company includes David’s three sons, Gabe, Myles, and Lance, and has expanded to virtually every aspect of real estate. These divisions are known as the Chatham Legacy family of businesses.

The first is Chathambilt Homes, which has created over 5,500 custom houses throughout Atlanta. These homes remain a preferred choice of luxury buyers for their personal touch and the integration of the latest trends with timeless styles to create comfortable, elegant living spaces. Also founded in 1948, Chatham

Neighborhoods has developed over 175 residential communities. Known for unparalleled craftsmanship, these communities provide lavish amenities designed to create lasting family memories.

The family’s services also go beyond high-end homes and neighborhoods. The Chatham Company brokerage business has sold hundreds of thousands of homes through its network of real estate professionals.

Comprehensive home services for every type of client

Whether clients want to buy a home, sell property, or invest in real estate, the Chatham’s bring the same level of quality and integrity for everything from townhouses to luxury homes.

“Anything related to your home, we can help,” says Myles Chatham, Vice President of Chathambilt Homes. “We provide the best real estate experience by making our clients feel like family.”

Achievement beyond awards

Chathambilt Homes is one of Atlanta's most awarded developers and builders. In addition to winning the Southern Living Custom Builder of the Year, the Southern Living Cornerstone Award, three Atlanta Family Business awards and hundreds more. Howard and David both received Lewis B. Cenker Lifetime Achievement awards. David and Gabe have also each served as President of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association.

“To succeed in residential development, you need a strong foundation that can last through good times and bad,” says David Chatham. “We’ve built that through faith in God and an incredible group of staff associates, realtors, builders, and vendors.”

Now in its third generation, this family uses its experience and knowledge to continue helping people invest, sell, build, or buy a new house.

Or as the Chatham’s put it, lighting the way home.

CHATHAM

The Medicaid Estate Claim – How Medicaid can take YOUR house

Did you know that Medicaid can take your house? Section 2398 of the Georgia Medicaid Manual states that Medicaid can demand reimbursement for benefits received from any estate worth $25,000 or more and any estate that contains a home. The average amount of time someone needs skilled nursing level care – the highest level of care and the level that requires the most caregiver hours is three (3) years. The average cost for that care monthly is $11,000 to $15,000 per month. Medicaid pays a lower rate of $9,036 per month. If you have Medicaid benefits and spend your last three years in a nursing home, then Medicaid can demand

that your estate pay them $325,296 (36 months times 9,036 dollars per month) after you die. That could be all the equity you had in your home. That means your kids would get nothing from you if your primary or only asset was your home. Yikes! If you have a will, you still have to go through probate and would be subject to this estate recovery policy. If you have a life estate deed, your home may still be subject to estate recovery.

We can help you protect your home from Medicaid Estate Recovery. If you or your parents are at least 60 years old or even into their 70s and 80s, it’s time to ask about your options. Call us at 770-205-7861 to ask about setting up a strategy session to save your home today.

Welcome home to worry-free independent retirement living!

Brought to you by – Vickery Rose Retirement Community

Imagine coming home to a warm, friendly community that’s luxurious, safe and comfortable, in a great location for fun local outings. Maintenance and housekeeping included, and every meal is madefresh by the culinary team. With all the work done, you have time for family, friends and the important things in life. That can be your life at Vickery Rose Retirement Community!

Designed for comfort, apartments come in a variety of floor plans. Each apartment features window coverings, climate-controlled thermostat, and ample closet space. Apartment kitchens are equipped with a full-sized appliances.

The best feature is the live-in community manager team. They live on site to help take care of everything so residents and families can enjoy their best life.

Vickery Rose Retirement Community is full of amenities, allowing residents to delight in the conveniences without the hassle of upkeep. All utilities and the

following are included:

• No buy-in/month-to-month rent

• Weekly housekeeping

• Freedom Dining program

• Concierge services

• Studios, 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms

• Full designer apartment kitchens

• 150-seat theater

• Pets warmly welcomed

• 24/7 alert system

Residents can relax at the movies or live entertainment in the theater. At Vickery Rose Retirement Community, the Lifestyle Director

schedules activities designed to meet resident’s requests. And, ultimately, companionship with others is a powerful tool to help our residents appreciate retirement.

Call today, you’ll be glad you did! 470-242-7827

The Death Of The Jetted Tub. RIP

Brought to you by -

Remodeling Expo Center

What should we do about that old, jetted tub? We haven’t used it in 10 years. How about we just get rid of it and expand the shower? “These are questions we answer every day”, say John Hogan, president of Alpharetta’s Remodeling Expo Center, “there is undoubtedly a trend away from jetted tubs, especially large ones. John continues, “we remove 3-5 of them each week and the homeowners are always overjoyed with reclaiming the large space, as well as getting rid of something that is emblematic of the 80’s and 90’s.

Not only are the jetted tubs being removed but some tubs in the secondary bathrooms are also being removed. Parents know all too well that when their kids reach middle school ages, the nightly baths are long gone, and a walkin shower is their preference. As long as another tub, near the kid’s bedrooms remains, there is no impact to the home value.

Why is this happening? We take many more showers than baths and America has finally concluded that the space allocated for the big, jetted

garden tub just doesn’t make sense. Perhaps more importantly, we’re all afraid of the brown water and particulates that will flow out of the jets when it’s turned on after not being used for so long. This fear of the unknow, dark in color, growing in the unseen piping of the tub, really makes people want to get rid of them!

Instead, homeowners are choosing to expand their showers into a large, spa like experience, with gorgeous niches, benches, rain-head showers, but not always eliminating the tub. Many times, the tub is replaced with a gorgeous freestanding soaking tub. There is also a clear trend to change the shower-tub area to be safer, with anticipation of aging in-place in the home. “In these cases, we are emphasizing safety, with grab bars, eliminating the shower threshold, and installing “easy to enter” bathtubs”, John continues, “all of the north Atlanta homes are 20-30 years old and we are seeing a large increase in our bathroom projects”. Remodeling Expo Center is a turn-key remodeling company with a 10,000 SF showroom, at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector, in Alpharetta (678) 459-2292.