AUGUST 20 1 4GUIDE E D I TI O N HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE
R E A L E S T AT E G U I D E FORSYTH/LAKE LANIER
975 Old Lathemtown Road Listed by: Marie Sir (404-520-5263)
www.harr ynormanforsyth.com Give us a call TODAY to have YOUR home featured in our next edition!
Office: (770) 497-2000 | www.HNRForsyth.com F O R S Y TForsyth H Office /L Kinformation E Lis believed A NtoIbeEaccurate R but not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. The A above 770-497-2000 Robert Aiken, Broker. If your home is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. www.harrynorman.com
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
HARRY NORMAN’S DEDICATED TEAM OF BUSINESS PARTNERS SECOND OPINION It pays to compare! Already pre-approved? Receive a $50 reward card when you present a pre-approval to HomeServices Lending (pictured in the ad below) from another lender and we’ll provide you with our own pre-approval decision to ensure you are getting the home financing options that help meet your needs. This will not affect your credit score!
FAMILY OF SERVICES MORTGAGE & LENDING
HOME INSPECTIONS
Chase Hinson HOMESERVICES LENDING (404) 558-0283 chasehinson@hsl-ga.com
Shane Gauthier BUYERS PROTEC. GROUP (404) 734-9902 sgauthier@bpgwi.com
TITLE & CLOSING
APPRAISALS
Bristow Anderson CAMPBELL & BRANNON (404) 405-4378 bristow@bristowanderson.com
Scott Murphy D.S. MURPHY (678) 584-5900 atlanta@dsmurphy.com
INSURANCE
MOVERS
Shelby Edmunds HN INSURANCE (678) 553-5281 sedmunds@rinservices.com
BULLDOG MOVERS (404) 602-0442 www.bulldogmovers.net
,
CHASE HINSON
Home Mortgage Consultant NMLSR ID 673316 Phone: (404) 558-0283 www.hsl-ga.com/chase-hinson
(678) 553-5281
HOME WARRANTY
PROP. MANAGEMENT
LaDonna Hocker AMERICAN HOMESHIELD (678) 662-4423 lhocker@ahslink.com
David Theurer ALL COUNTY PROP. MANG. (770) 663-4260 dtheurer @allcountynorthmetro.com
EXTERMINATORS
GENERAL CONTRACT.
Nick Sanders ARROW EXTERMINATORS (770) 887-0728 nsanders @arrowexterminators.com
Robert Estes ATLANTA CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION (678) 524-4495 www.atlantaconstruction.net
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
HOMEBUYING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE: PLAN AHEAD!
period of time to grow your investments. Open a savings account or a stock brokerage investment account and make regular deposits.
Article by: Marcie Geffner, Realtor.com
4. Research where you’d like to live. Many young people assume they’ll continue living in their own home town when they get older, but people are more mobile than ever and chances are good you’ll one day live in another city or even another state. Again, the library, bookstore and Web can be excellent resources for information about housing costs and homeownership opportunities around the country.3. Read some books. Your local library and bookstore probably have at least a few shelves of books about financial management and buying a home. Take notes. Make a financial plan for yourself. You can learn a lot about real estate, budgeting and credit on REALTOR.com® too.
Granted, few young people spend much time day-dreaming about buying their first home. They’re naturally preoccupied with academics, athletics, parties, dating and future career possibilities. Nonetheless, there are a number of good reasons to start learning early in life about the costs of buying a home and the responsibilities of homeownership. For example, a college student’s misuse or abuse of credit cards can preclude his or her buying a home later on. Here are five recommendations for young people who want to position themselves for homeownership: 1. Establish good credit habits and a favorable credit history. Get a credit card and use it
responsibly. Apply for an automobile loan and make your payments on time every month. If you’re renting an apartment, put your own name on the lease and the utility bills and make sure the rent and the bills are paid every month. If you’re already struggling with credit card debt or have large student loans, take a free workshop from the non-profit Consumer Credit Counseling Service. Call (800) 388-2227 for information. 2. Start saving for a down payment and closing costs. It’s possible to purchase a first home in many parts of the country without much in the way of savings. But in high-cost housing areas, starting to save early can be enormously beneficial because you’ll get the advantage of compounding interest and have a longer
5. Tap your real estate agent relatives for advice. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or older cousins in the real estate business can give you good information about the cost of housing in the area where you want to live and what it takes to buy a home. Questions to ask: Is housing affordable in this area? How much money would I need to save in order to buy a home? What advice would you give me about planning my financial future? Would you recommend some books that I might like to read about buying a home? Don’t be shy. If you have a question, ask someone in a position to know the answer.
CUMMING MARKET TRENDS FOR JULY 2014 The chart below represents analyzing data that affects the Cumming, GA area. The information offers a look at sales activity for the previous month along with current and past year to date statistics. They are based upon new listings in the area as recorded in FMLS, the average listing price, the average selling price, how many homes actually sold, and how long those homes averaged on the market. The chart below is part of our monthly Market Tracker Report and calculations based on Residential Detached data from FMLS. You can sign up for this report to receive monthly market trends via e-mail FREE (without ever having to speak to an agent) by going to: www.harrynorman.com/markettracker.aspx
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
975 OLD LATHEMTOWN RD. Canton, GA 5 Bedroom / 6 Full Bath / 2 Half Bath Offered at: $1,295,000 Obie Award Winning 12+/- Acre Country Estate located in East Cherokee. Enjoy this luxury home in a private serene setting. This home features a freshly painted exterior and four board fencing, gourmet kitchen w/ Thermador and Subzero appliances, master retreat w/ sitting room, finished terrace level that includes a wet bar and wine cellar, sunroom overlooking Pebbletec pool and spa, wrap around porch w/ tongue-and-groove ceiling, incredible molding and details throughout. Plus, this home is equipped w/ high-tec capabilities and participates in Conservation Use Program.
Listed By: Marie Sir | Phone: (404) 520-5263
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
LILBURN, GA 5260 Lilburn Stone Mountain Road 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $295,000 Custom built, 4-sided brick home on 1+/acre, fenced, level lot.
CUMMING, GA 6090 Riley Road 4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,259,000 Country estate with 18+/- acres of mostly pasture with creeks and two ponds.
ALPHARETTA, GA 481 Grayson Way 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $209,000 Spacious end unit townhome with master on main including a huge master bath.
Jody "Jay" Green: (770) 861-7771
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317
CUMMING, GA 3830 Wake Robin Way 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $179,900 2 story foyer and great room with fireplace. Large, open eat-in kitchen. Great community.
GAINESVILLE, GA 6423 Grand Marina Circle 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $949,000 Executive home with views of Lake Lanier in prestigious gated, resort-style Marina Bay.
CUMMING, GA 5850 Branch Valley Way 5 Bedroom / 4 Bath | Offered at: $359,900 Exceptional finishes throughout with prodecorator touches at every turn!
Michelle Flynn: (770) 883-7792
Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317
Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559
CLAYTON, GA 152 Bywater Trail 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $790,000 No detail overlooked, escape the city life to your very own 9+/- acre mountain retreat.
FLOWERY BRANCH, GA 5915 Clipper Bay 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $199,900 Home in picturesque neighborhood with granite, hardwoods, and extra garage!
CUMMING, GA 1750 Tuliptree Court 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $239,900 Best value in the community! Cul-de-sac lot w/private backyard on over a half acre!
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
JASPER, GA 2129 Grandview Road 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $899,900 47+/- acre horse farm with 4 stall barn and fully equipped one bedroom apartment.
CUMMING, GA 6105 Overlook Park Drive 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $469,000 Stunning estate home with private rear yard in Lake Forest Waterside section.
GAINESVILLE, GA 5040 Elrod Road 3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $625,000 Adorable Cape Cod style home with horse farm on 8.5+/- acres.
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559
The Wesley Team: (404) 451-3692
CUMMING, GA 2340 Briarwood Trail 5 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $289,900 Largest floor plan in Habersham! Fantastic renovated home with new paint in and out!
DAWSONVILLE, GA 38 Chestatee View 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $164,900 Great lake neighborhood. No HOA rules or fees. Lots of privacy and nice trees!
DAWSONVILLE, GA 138 Riley Road 3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $149,900 Largest floor plan available. End unit with level yard and private!
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040
CUMMING, GA 4510 Sundance Circle 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $324,900 Home with amazing floorplan in Swim/Tennis/Lake Community! Full basement!
CUMMING, GA 3525 Magnolia Walk Trail 2 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $139,900 Large bedrooms with their own full baths. End unit with impressive space throughout.
SUWANEE, GA 815 Cedar Creek Drive 3 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $350,000 A RANCH, on full finished basement, over ½ acre lot in Lambert School District.
Dave Wolfe: (716) 474-7666
Cynthia Love: (801) 918-9560
Jill Buysman: (678) 488-6655
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
EXISTING-HOME SALES HEAT UP IN JULY, INVENTORY LEVELS IMPROVE Existing-home sales increased in July to their highest annual pace of the year, and the ongoing decline in distressed sales reached an important milestone, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales rose 2.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.15 million in July from a slight downwardly-revised 5.03 million in June. Sales are at the highest pace of 2014 and have risen four consecutive months, but remain 4.3 percent below the 5.38 millionunit level from last July, which was the peak of 2013. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says sales momentum is slowly building behind stronger job growth and improving inventory conditions. “The number of houses for sale is higher than a year ago and tamer price increases are giving prospective buyers less hesitation about entering the market,” he said. “More people are buying homes compared to earlier in the year and this trend should continue with interest rates remaining low and apartment rents on the rise.” Yun does warn that affordability is likely to decline in upcoming years. “Although interest rates have fallen in recent months, median family incomes are still lagging behind price gains, and mortgage rates will inevitably rise with the upcoming changes in monetary policy,” he said. The median existing-home price for all housing types in July was $222,900, which is 4.9 percent above July 2013. This marks the 29th consecutive month of year-over-year
price gains. Total housing inventory at the end of July rose 3.5 percent to 2.37 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 5.5-month supply at the current sales pace. Unsold inventory is 5.8 percent higher than a year ago, when there were 2.24 million existing homes available for sale. Distressed homes4 – foreclosures and short sales – accounted for 9 percent of July sales, down from 15 percent a year ago and the first time they were in the single-digits since NAR started tracking the category in October 2008. Six percent of July sales were foreclosures and 3 percent were short sales. Foreclosures sold for an average discount of 20 percent below market value in July, while short sales were discounted 14 percent. Yun says the deepest housing wounds suffered during the Great Recession are beginning to fully heal. “To put it in perspective, distressed sales represented an average of 36 percent of sales during all of 2009,” he said. “Fast-forward to today and rising home values are helping owners recover equity and strong job creation are assisting those who may have fallen behind on their mortgage due to unemployment or underemployment.”
All-cash sales in July were 29 percent of transactions, down from 32 percent in June and representing the lowest overall share since January 2013 (28 percent). Individual investors, who account for many cash sales, purchased 16 percent of homes in July, unchanged from last month and July 2013. Sixty-nine percent of investors paid cash in July. According to Freddie Mac, the average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell for the third consecutive month to 4.13 percent in July from 4.16 percent in June, and remains the lowest rate since June 2013 (4.07 percent). The percent share of first-time buyers in July rose slightly for the second straight month to 29 percent (28 percent in June), but remain historically low. NAR President Steve Brown, co-owner of Irongate, Inc., Realtors® in Dayton, Ohio, says the new credit scoring calculation recently announced by Fair Isaac Corp., or FICO, will improve access to homeownership. “NAR supports efforts to broaden access to credit for qualified homebuyers, especially those who have been shut out of the housing market or forced to pay higher interest rates because of flawed credit scores,” he said. “A solid credit score is necessary to keep borrowing costs down.” The median time on market for all homes was 48 days in July, up from 44 days in June; it was 42 days on market in July 2013. Short sales were on the market for a median of 93 days in July, while foreclosures sold in 58 days and non-distressed homes typically took 45 days. Forty percent of homes sold in July were on the market for less than a month. Single-family home sales increased 2.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.55 million in July from 4.43 million in June, but remain 4.2 percent below the 4.75 million pace a year ago. The median existing singlefamily home price was $223,900 in July, up 5.1 percent from July 2013. Existing-home sales in the South rose 3.4 percent to an annual rate of 2.12 million in July, and are now up slightly (0.5 percent) from July 2013. The median price in the South was $192,000, up 5.0 percent from a year ago.
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
BLUEBERRY MINT JULEP ICE POPS
CHOCOLATE BROWNIE PUDDING
INGREDIENTS:
INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 3 tablespoons frozen limeade concentrate 1/4 cup bourbon 1/2 cup blueberries
2 sticks unsalted butter 4 large eggs, at room temperature 2 cups white sugar 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 tablespoon Kahlua vanilla ice cream, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Combine mint, water, sugar and limeade concentrate in a blender. 2. Cover and blend until evenly combined. Make sure mint is blended into small pieces. 3. Place blended mixture in a saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar completely. 4. Remove from heat. 5. Stir in bourbon and whole blueberries until well combined. 6. Pour mixture into ice-pop molds. 7. Freeze overnight or until completely frozen.
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F, and lightly butter a 9x9 baking dish. 2. Melt butter in a small saucepan and set aside to cool. 3. Sift cocoa powder and flour together in a medium bowl and set aside. 4. In a large stand mixer, beat eggs and sugar on medium-high for 5-10 minutes, until very thick and light yellow. 5. After 10 minutes, reduce speed to low and add vanilla, Kahlua and cocoa powder/flour mixture. Mix very slowly until everything is just combined. Slowly pour in cooled butter and mix again until just combined. 6. Pour mixture into baking dish and place on a large baking sheet. Add warm water to baking sheet so water comes up the side of the baking dish. 7. Carefully place into oven, making sure not to slosh water around and bake for 1 hour. 8. When it's time to remove — don't worry — it's going to look like it's under-baked (that's normal). Remove from the water and place in the refrigerator to cool. Serve with ice cream, if desired.
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
CUMMING, GA 5910 Bentley Way 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $206,850 Home with fenced backyard and numerous upgrades! Freshly painted exterior!
NORCROSS, GA 3427 Kiveton Drive #0 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $320,000 Beautiful townhome with largest floor plan and large basement in this gated community.
GAINESVILLE, GA 6669 Marina Court 7 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $630,000 Amazing cul-de-sac home in gated Marina Bay. Impeccable details throughout!
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Mike Burnett: (678) 372-2741
Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317
CUMMING, GA 5845 Broadway Lane #39 3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $184,900 Gorgeous like-new luxury townhome with upgrades galore! Two car garage!
DOUGLASVILLE, GA 5448 Punkintown Road 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $289,000 Upgraded ranch in private tranquil setting w/ finished basement on 5+/- wooded acres.
ALPHARETTA, GA 13666 Aventide Lane 2 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $165,000 Home in popular Avensong Swim/Tennis Community with private fenced yard!
Dave Wolfe: (716) 474-7666
Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317
Jody "Jay" Green: (770) 861-7771
CUMMING, GA 5570 Burruss Road 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $800,000 Beautiful home with open floorplan, as well as additional 2 bed / 3 bath guest house.
DAHLONEGA, GA 0 Sam Davis Road 150+/- Acres | Offered at: $575,000 Great opportunity to own affordable large farm or ranch tract with over 1 mile of river.
DAWSONVILLE, GA 69 Shadow Hills Lane 3 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $179,900 Delightful newer ranch on finished walk-out basement with full bath.
Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908
Pam Sunderland: (770) 540-9557
Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
CUMMING, GA 6745 Low County Road 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $519,900 Vickery home located across the street from woods, so lots of privacy and parking!
HARTWELL, GA 893 Bio Church Road 1 Bedroom / 1 Bath | Offered at: $70,000 Perfect weekend getaway! Great for fisherman! Only 7 miles to Lake Hartwell.
SAUTEE, GA 980 Woodbrier 6 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $675,000 Beautiful home with long-range mountain views from almost every room!
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Jill Buysman: (678) 488-6655
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
DAWSONVILLE, GA 2144 Frank Bruce Road 3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $949,000 Great country living. Nature lover's dream. 10+/- acres offers complete privacy!
CANTON, GA 975 Old Lathemtown Road 5 Bedroom / 6.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,295,000 Obie Award winning country estate located in desirable equestrian community.
DAWSONVILLE, GA 557 Highway Nine North 1.5+/- Acres | Offered at: $179,000 Great Location! Potential commercial. House could be renovated for small business!
Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908
Marie Sir: (404) 520-5263
Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040
CUMMING, GA 6095 Wellington Drive 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $385,500 Beautiful and well maintained Polo G&CC ranch style home with room for pool!
CUMMING, GA 5860 Shady Grove Lane 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $424,500 Fantastic home on large, level lot, with fenced yard! Home also features 10 foot plus ceilings!
GAINESVILLE, GA 2786 Vaughn Drive 3.5+/- Acres | Offered at: $850,000 Beautiful lot on desirable Lake Lanier. Level lot with few trees to obstruct views of water.
Carroll Cunningham: (706) 429-6437
Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508
The Wesley Team: (404) 451-3692
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
BATHROOM UPGRADES YOU CAN DO IN A WEEKEND Replacing the tile or refinishing the tub can be major bathroom projects, even for accomplished do-it-yourselfers. But when it comes to adding style and pizzazz, it can take just a few good ideas and a weekend or less to turn your frumpy bathroom into a beauty. From news and lifestyle journal Epoch Times, here are eight good ideas to help get the redo started:
or another unique fixture to make a stylish statement.
Jazz up the color – Choose a bold color or a soothing pastel – even a geometric pattern. A new coat of paint and some matching towels can make an eye-popping difference to the bath.
Add some shelving – New shelving over the toilet or elsewhere will add a finished look as well as a handy place to store extra towels and supplies.
Add a glass shower door – A sleek glass shower door, or a slider in the tub, will give your bathroom a designer feel and create the illusion of more space.
Fence in the tub – Refresh the look of an inset tub by fencing it in by adding a decorative wood panel to the front of it.
Hang some artwork – Adding a few pieces of attractive wall art is an easy way to make your bathroom look as complete and decorated as the rest of your home.
Frame the mirror – Framing is an old reliable interior decorating trick, and one that works beautifully here. Use a framing kit or repurpose a few feet of crown molding to update and glamorize your bathroom mirror. Replace the vanity – Choose a traditional model from the home store or think about using an antique or other stylish dresser as a vanity. Selecting new drawer pulls and changing the sink hardware can also make a huge difference. Add chic lighting – Have an overhead light fixture? Replace it with a sparkly chandelier
MAKE YOUR BACKYARD PARTY AN EVENT TO REMEMBER Having a party in your own backyard is a great way to get together with family and friends and enjoy the warm weather. Here are a few simple things you can do to help ensure your party will go smoothly and be remembered. Consider choosing a party theme! TROPICAL LUAU Give your place an island feel. Decorate the deck and tables with bright flowers, tropical fruits and tiki torches. Ask your guests to wear Hawaiian shirts or flowing skirts and sandals and hand out leis when they arrive. Play island music. To keep the party lively, you can play limbo or pass out hula-hoops to shake things up. SOUTH OF THE BORDER BASH It’s hard to beat a south of the border fiesta. Set the mood with brightly colored tableware and decorate with red, orange and yellow peppers, maracas, sombreros and piñatas. Put out a big bowl of guacamole with chips and salsa to get started. Serve Tex-Mex food or tacos and Mexican-style roasted corn on the cob with butter, chili pepper, grated cheese and lime. Play mariachi music. SET UP BUFFET TABLES For summer parties, it’s a good idea to keep things casual and put the food and fixings out buffet style. You can set a nice summer table by adding colorful plants, fresh flowers, simple tea lights, decorative paper plates and napkins to make for an easy clean up. SET THE MOOD WITH LIGHTING Try stringing up lanterns and sparking white lights on the deck, on fences and in the trees and shrubs to create some ambience. DON’T LET THE BUGS BITE Before your party, empty any container with standing water. Surround the yard with citronella candles. Remember, no matter what kind of party you have, the most important thing to do is have a good time!
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
DAWSONVILLE, GA 26 Deans Drive 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $337,500 Custom built home in quiet subdivision on 2+/- acre lot with rocking chair front porch.
GAINESVILLE, GA 214 Lake Pointe Drive 4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $899,000 Grand, elegant, European lake front estate. Incredible setting and views!
CUMMING, GA 1585 Hidden Creek Point 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $308,000 Thorngate subdivision! Gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors and open info family room!
Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040
Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508
Kerry Neel: (404) 353-9121
CUMMING, GA 5495 Williams Shores Drive 3 Bedroom / 4 Bath | Offered at: $564,900 Great South Lake location with outstanding open water views from every room!
GAINESVILLE, GA 6447 Grand Marina Bay 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $695,000 Lake Lanier home in Marina Bay with incredible views and upgrades galore!
BALL GROUND, GA 303 Taylor Leigh Court 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $242,900 Adorable craftsman home that is loaded with upgrades and close to 575!
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317
The Wesley Team: (404) 451-3692
CUMMING, GA 4810 Saddle Horn Way 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $434,900 Master on the main, fenced yard, rocking chair front porch and $47,000 in upgrades!
CUMMING, GA 4265 Evans Farm Drive 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $269,900 Move in ready w/ master on main in great area and in swim/tennis neighborhood!
CUMMING, GA 3850 Rivendell Lane 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $234,900 High quality finishes. Spectacular south lake views with grand architecture design.
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Johnson & Flynn Team: (770) 883-7792
Barbara Cash: (770) 815-8249
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
6 AFFORDABLE LUXURIES BUYERS LOVE When it comes to buying a home, it’s going to be the biggest investment most consumers make in their lifetime, and even a home that’s budget-friendly is going to feel like they’re dropping big bucks. Here are a few of little, affordable luxuries that more buyer love:
home with character and imbue it with your character. These little projects can also be bizarrely high in the aesthetic impact and feeling of polish they add to a home vis-avis the relatively low investment of time and money they require.
1. AUTOMATION For a home to automatically anticipate your preferences and living habits, and conduct itself accordingly, is a serious luxury that no longer requires a serious investment. Easily programmable thermostats and smart home systems are now available at very low prices. Check out the Nest Learning Thermostat for one of the most simple-to-use, inexpensive alternatives around. Created by the man who designed the iPod, it learns the temperatures you prefer without any complicated programming process, it can detect when no ones home and change the temperature accordingly, and it is even remote controllable via Wi-Fi and mobile app.
Consider projects like: Adding crown moldings or baseboards; Adding interior or exterior shutters; Painting moldings, baseboards, mantles and door trims a contrasting color to the surrounding areas; Replacing doors and lighting fixtures; Replacing dated faucets, sinks, toilets and hardware— even recessed lighting soffits and door handles; Painting exterior eaves, doors, trims and fences.
In some areas, home cable companies are now bundling temperature automation and smart home features like remote-controlled lighting, temperatures and security systems and even smoke and carbon monoxide monitors right into the same online dashboard you use to pay your bill or order a movie on-demand. These next-gen automations are able to be had in the $200 or less range, up front, though the size of the home and number of devices required can send costs upward. 2. NATURE NICETIES The range of cost for landscaping and creating what many now call outdoor rooms is vast. But there are also dozens of inexpensive projects that can level-up a home’s nature factor, like: installing raised vegetable beds in the backyard; hanging a vertical garden on the kitchen wall; putting in window boxes or outdoor seating; installing a bird bath or planting a new tree. Lush, green anything is a luxury that can cost very little to enjoy for years on end. 3. DELICIOUS DETAILS Customizing, sprucing and even adding little details can make a tract home feel custom, a condo feel personalized and can even take a
4. SOLAR A survey by Sunrun revealed that over 40 percent of Americans believe a solar system cost more than $20,000. And get this: eight out of 10 homeowners said they would install a solar system at home if cost wasn’t a factor. Solar is not for everyone, and not even for every home, but in states with sunny, hot summers and energy bills to boot, installing a solar system can create the double luxury of allowing owners to run the home on renewable energy and reduce energy costs in one fell swoop. In some states, cost isn’t a factor. There’s a new generation of companies who will pay for a solar system, install it on the home for little or nothing, and pay for its maintenance. In turn, the homeowner pays them for the power used. These arrangements are not available
everywhere, but it’s certainly worth investigating whether you can find a solar service provider in your neck of the woods who can boost the perceived value of the listing. 5.BUILT-INS (OR FAUX ONES) Built-ins like desks, book shelves, closet systems and even kitchen recycling centers feel particularly luxurious because they offer a polished approach to efficient use of the space in a home, and often eliminate the need for bulky pieces of furniture. You might be surprised to realize how affordable it can be to build a desk or closet organizer into your existing space. Or, get up to speed on all the off-the-shelf built-in alternatives that are on the market, like a kitchen nook dining set in lieu of a built-in banquette. Think creatively: placing a day bed under a window with a bookcase on each end is a fantastic alternative to building a window seat between built-in shelves. Look for builtin alternatives on Craigslist or Freecycle, then have it painted or reupholstered, to get a luxe, custom look at a very low price. 6. DEDICATED SPACES Like custom built-ins, dedicating a space to a particular favorite activity is a special luxury, even if the home is not otherwise especially luxurious. The idea here is to simply dedicate a space to an activity, painting it, installing the appropriate furniture and carving out a place for all the supplies that are involved in that activity. At my house, I just painted the office in bright colors that researchers have found to boost creativity, installing new project tables and bookshelves to facilitate the organization and stand-up work style I prefer. My friend A.G. has turned one bedroom into a room for her menagerie of pets—dogs and birds alike!
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
CUMMING, GA 65 Pine Lake Drive 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $450,000 Enjoy your own mountain retreat in the city limits of Cumming! Complete privacy.
DUNWOODY, GA 2191 Brooke Farm Court 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $719,900 3 sided brick home with two decks and private fenced backyard. Renovated kitchen.
BUFORD, GA 2475 White Road 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $399,900 Meticulously maintained home with master on main, full basement on 5+/- private acres.
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Marie Sir: (404) 520-5263
CUMMING, GA 227 Oak Forest Drive 5 Bedroom / 5 Bath | Offered at: $399,900 One of the largest plans in the subdivision. Both guest and master suite on main level!
GAINESVILLE, GA 2264 Lake Ranch Court 4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $880,000 Great location convenient to Gainesville, Dawson and Forsyth Counties.
CUMMING, GA 3115 Chimney Cove Lane 5 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $349,000 Charming Lake Lanier dollhouse. New kitchen and bathrooms. Beautiful rear deck.
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Denise Wesley: (404) 451-3692
Trudy Taylor: (770) 883-8640
GAINESVILLE, GA 3865 Cochran Road 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $775,000 Unparalleled privacy on Lake Lanier. Contemporary home with 2.57+/- acres.
DAWSONVILLE, GA 204 Windy Hill Drive 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $430,000 This home/farm on 7+/- acres is great for entertaining and close to everything!
CUMMING, GA 0 Settingdown Road 3.5+/- acres | Offered at: $79,000 Build your custom dream home on 3.5 acres with babbling brooks and lots of privacy.
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908
Kerry Neel: (404) 353-9121
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
CUMMING, GA 6080 Bridge Fair Road 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $274,900 Open floor plan, kitchen newly remodeled, freshly painted interior, and basement!
LYERLY, GA 100 Rivermont Road 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $799,000 36+/- acre income producing Equestrian Estate with 12-stall barn and custom home!
CUMMING, GA 6860 North Glen Drive 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $200,000 Well maintained home with partial finished basement with full bath and bedroom.
Kerry Neel: (404) 353-9121
Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167
Mike Burnett: (678) 372-2741
DAWSONVILLE, GA 1732 Perimeter Road 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $149,900 Residential or Commerical... it's your choice! Open floor plan and large level lot!
GAINESVILLE, GA 3080 Wallace Road 7 Bedroom / 4 Bath | Offered at: $625,000 Subdivide and develop or use as a horse farm. Rambling ranch on 7.98+/- acres!
CUMMING, GA 6530 Roundhill Court 8 Bedroom / 7 Bath | Offered at: $600,000 Drastically reduced! Exceptional home located near golf, stables, and more!
Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508
Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559
Mike Garcia: (77) 231-9908
CUMMING, GA 1510 Moorings Way 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,200,000 Level lot home with easy walk to dock with sun bathing deck in quiet deep water cove.
Cumming, GA 5315 Bentley Creek Way 6 Bedroom / 5.5 Bath | Offered at: $789,900 Fantastic home on quiet cul-de-sac with gorgeous pool, spa and fenced in backyard.
YOUNG HARRIS, GA 4431 Furman Gribble Road 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $699,000 Custom home with the highest level of craftsmanship and beautiful mountain views!
Kristy Scott: (404) 645-6902
Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570
Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508
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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE
WHY WAIT TO BUY YOUR
DREAM HOME?
List your home TODAY with Harry Norman, REALTORS® Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office and let us find your DREAM home! Home listed on 500+ Websites FREE Home Warranty* Professional Photography Marketing Plan for YOUR Home Professional Flyers Personal Marketing Coordinator for YOUR Listing Open House/Caravan Opportunities Social Media Marketing Neighborhood Property Advertisement FREE Classified Ad in 4 Local Newspapers FREE Listing in The Real Estate Guide
Don’t miss the market! List your home today! www.harrynormanlakelanier.com Harry Norman, REALTORS® Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office | 1664 Market Place Blvd., Cumming, GA | (770) 497-2000 | www.hnrforsyth.com
w w w. h a r r y n o r m a n l a k e l a n i e r. c o m The above information is believed to be accurate but not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. If your home is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. www.harrynorman.com