R.E. Real Estate Magazine October 2011 by R.E. Real Estate Magazine

METRO ATLANTA EDITION > SUMMER 2011

Jamie Hunt Mock Something About Jamie

Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Profile Brand Mortgage and Community Spotlight The River House

Publisher Lawrence A. Cohen publisher@remagazines.com

Photographer David Martinez www.davemphotography.com Database Administrator Lynn Paul circulation@remagazines.com Graphic Design/ Production Felicia Kahn feliciakm@gmail.com Contributing Writers Jessica Arledge Mimi Matthews Misty Milioto Scott Burlyoung Board of Advisors Jim Cochran Carol Flammer Dan Forsman Kevin Levent Sandra McCrary Jenny Pruitt Walter Sanford Tom Spurlin R.E. Magazine® is published quarterly by REM Publishing, LLC., 3036 Leafwood Drive SE., Marietta, GA 30067. Phone: 770-956-7100 FAX: 770-956-7105 www.remagazines.com R.E. Real Estate Magazine is printed by Executive Press, Richardson, TX, using earth-friendly printing techniques, including FSC-certiﬁed paper, and soy-based inks and biodegradable coatings. Subscriptions are free for Realtor® Board or Association members in Metro Atlanta. Allow 6-8 weeks for new subscriptions. www.remagazines.com/atlantasubscribe POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: R.E. Magazine, 3036 Leafwood Drive SE., Marietta, GA 30067

from the publisher

Editorial Consultant Karon Warren editor@remagazines.com

While the new home industry has certainly taken a beating in the last few years, there have been some recent signs that the Phoenix may indeed rise once again from the ashes. While overall, new home sales are still very slow compared to 4 years ago, certain areas of the marketplace are again showing signs of life. “New construction condos are coming back strong due to bargain opportunities through reset pricing,” says real estate market consultant Steve Palm of Smart Numbers. “Builders and developers are buying distressed lots from lenders and are able to sell them at a lower and more competitive price, and they are moving!” One company that is helping the industry take advantage of these opportunities by providing sales management, staffing, and marketing services to banks, investors, builders and developers is About Sales, Inc. And one of their shining stars is our cover story for this issue, Jamie Hunt Mock. Recently promoted to VP of Sales, this energetic agent has proven that there is still, indeed some gold in those hills! Read this issue’s cover profile to see just what it takes to not only survive, but to truly thrive, in today’s new home marketplace. Of course, it certainly helps if you have a community with an exceptional location, outstanding amenities, and an excellent price. Just ask the folks selling The River House at One River Place. Community Spotlights have always been among our favorite features, especially when we get to write about the incredible “lifestyle package” that is life on the river. If you’ve got a client who is looking for a fun, active (and dog-friendly!) lifestyle at an “are you sure this isn’t a mistake?” price, you can’t afford not to read our Community Spotlight this issue! As always, R.E. Magazine’s mission is to shine our spotlight on people and companies who do things right. Back in our very first issue (March of 2003 – yeah, we’re THAT old!), we had the pleasure of introducing Greg Shumate and Alex Koutouzis. Today, as CEO and president of Brand Mortgage, they continue to take customer service to new levels, becoming the new “go to” mortgage company for the real estate industry. Read this month’s Partners’ Profile to see why this company is becoming the “brand” that more and more agents recommend to their clients. Finally, many of you have probably heard that this summer has seen several incidents of crime on real estate agents. September was Realtor® Safety Month, and the National Association of Realtors® has a plethora of articles and videos online to help keep you safe (www.nar.org/safety). We urge all of our readers to take advantage of these free resources, and take the extra steps to make sure you’re not an easy prey. As Sergeant Phil Esterhaus would implore his officers at the beginning of each Hill Street Blues, “Hey! Let’s be careful out there!” Live Passionately!

Lawrence A. Cohen Publisher r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

around

1. The Cherokee Town Club in Buckhead was the venue for a most elegant afternoon as the Atlanta Women’s Council of Realtors® (WCR) paid tribute to its past presidents. Many of the organization’s past leaders attended the luncheon, where they were treated to an inspirational talk by Deborah Gilmore, the 2010 president of the national chapter of WCR. 2.

town

2. Referral-based Marketing expert Wendy Kinney leads a discussion on Networking Aerobics, which she calls “cardiovascular activity for your wallet” at a combined meeting of NAMAR and the Gwinnett Chapter of WCR on September 15 at the 1818 Club in Duluth.

3. Author and CNN Financial Expert Clyde Anderson was the keynote speaker at the Atlanta WCR luncheon held September 15 at Davio’s in Phipps Plaza. A former mortgage banker, Anderson spoke about achieving financial success in a challenging economy. 4.

4. VP and Managing Broker of Atlanta Fine Homes Alpharetta Office Bill Rawlings (R.E. Magazine cover story March 2005) hangs out with Monica 5. Gilroy and Peter Babcock of Dickenson Gilroy at Showcase 2011, the Atlanta Board of Realtors® annual trade show, held August 25 at the Galleria Centre. 5. Steve Palm, president and CEO of Smart Numbers, presents his bi-annual Housing Market Summit June 8 at the Galleria Centre to a full audience of real estate, developer, and banking professionals. 6.

6. Atlanta home inspector Chris Curles shows off a live Infrared display (of the photographer!) to an agent at Showcase 2011, while explaining how the technology can be used to spot moisture leaks or other defects in homes. Photos by Lawrence Cohen

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contents OCTOBER 2011

VOLUME 9

Cover Story

NUMBER 3

Partners’ Proﬁle

Jamie Hunt Mock

Brand Mortgage

Though working hard comes naturally to this superstar sales agent, it’s working smart that has propelled her to the top sales spot!

Flexible loan options, fast loan approvals, and exemplary customer service is making this mortgage banker one of the top choices for real estate agents in the Southeast.

Community Spotlight

R.E. People R.E. News Inspection Section Realtor Resource Directory

The River House at One River Place

Perfect location, a lifestyle package fit for the privileged, and an astonishing value price make this community one truly amazing package!

6 15 21 26

Cover photo by David Martinez

Visit our Facebook fan site at: www.facebook.com/remagazine.

Congratulations Jamie Hunt Mock & About Sales, Inc! You make working SMART look easy! From your friends at ProTech: Phil, Lisa, Meaghan, Ryan, Nicole, and Erwin

¾ ¾ ¾ ¾

FREE ReCall Chek Reports Radon Screening Septic Inspections Licensed Termite Inspector 203K Certified Consultant

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ASHI Certified 200% Guarantee Mold Clearance Reports FREE 90 Day Warranty Pool / Spa Inspections

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

people

Harry Norman, Realtors® named Lane Jones vice president and managing broker of the Cobb Marietta office. Formerly with Prudential Georgia Realty where she served Lane Jones as managing broker for both the Sandy Springs and East Cobb Regional offices, Jones began her real estate career in 1998, receiving her company’s “Rookie of the Year” award. Jones has held numerous leadership positions, most notably a 20022003 director of the Cobb Association of Realtors®, 2007 co-chair for the Habitat for Humanity Committee for the Atlanta Board of Realtors® (ABR), and currently serves on the ABR’s Board of Directors, where she is also on the Professional Standards Committee. She is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative, Certified Skilled Negotiator and a Graduate, Realtor® Institute.

C ong ra rrattu l at io iion on s Ja mie! mie Thank you for trusting your clients’ mortgages to us! from

Todd Blake and your friends at

678-758-2270 w w w. a c a d e m o dd bl a ke myy m o r t g a g e . c o m /t /to ddb

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

Making the switch from RE/MAX Greater Atlanta, Russ Robinson joined Atlanta Communities. During his career, Robinson received numerous recognitions, including the Chairman’s Club and Diamond Club memberships, the highest distinctions RE/MAX offers. For his 2010 sales volume, he was named the No. 1 individual RE/MAX agent in Georgia. Robinson also has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert designation to better serve distressed homeowners. Russ Robinson Prudential Georgia Realty announced that Lorelei DeRuiter has joined the New Homes Division as a sales director with a focus on properties from The Providence Group. Bringing more than 16 years of sales experience in real estate Lorelei DeRuiter and technology to the job, she joins a team that includes Director New Homes Sales & Marketing Lori Lane. Before joining Prudential, DeRuiter was director of sales and business development at Evolv. A summa cum laude graduate of Georgia State University with a BS in education, she holds Georgia Real Estate Qualifying Broker License and is actively involved in the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association. Weichert Realtors Preferred welcomed several new agents to the company. With an extensive background in real estate and finance, Lisa M. Cunningham joins the company with an aim to serve buyers in Henry, Rockdale, DeKalb and Fulton counties. She spent several years in the Lisa M. mortgage business and, after obtaining her Cunningham real estate license, served as a real estate broker for her own firm. Licensed since 1993, Pamela Armistead comes to Weichert Realtors Preferred with her broker’s license and experience in managing a small real estate office. A former major league pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers and a licensed real estate agent for the past seven years, Matt Williams is embarking on a full-time real estate career with Weichert Jeff Walker after teaching and Matt Williams

coaching at Whitefield Academy, a private school in Atlanta. Licensed for more than seven years, Jeff Walker brings his hard work ethic and knowledge of the Greater Atlanta Area to the company.

HUD properties, short sales, foreclosures and first-time homebuyers. During her career, she has received numerous awards, including the J.L. Christian Leadership Award, 100% Customer Satisfaction Award, and was the top individual sales associate for her office. Drake also was featured as one of Real Estate Magazine’s “Top 50 Realtors on the Rise.”

About Sales, Inc. welcomed Andy DiMarzio as a new vice president of sales for the real estate sales and marketing company, where he will manage sales for Edward Andrews Homes. With eight years of experience in sales, he started Andy DiMarzio his career at the Pulte Group, where he earned such honors as Pulte’s Rookie of the Year and Top General Sales Manager of the Georgia division in 2009 and 2010. He is a graduate of Indiana University’s Larry Cude Kelley School of Business. Brianne Drake of the BHGRE Metro Brokers’ Stockbridge office was named by the Metro South Association of Realtors® as its Realtor® of the Year. A licensed real estate agent for 13 years, 11 of those with Metro Brokers, Drake works with both Lisa Bennett sellers and buyers and specializes in

STAGES Realty Services in Alpharetta expanded its team with the additions of Larry Cude, Mandy Becker and Lisa Bennett. An Mandy Becker 8-year real estate veteran, Cude was most recently with John Thomas Realty and brings extensive new home sales experience with him. Previously with Keller William Realty, both Becker and Bennett specialize in the northern suburban areas surrounding Alpharetta, Milton, Johns

Brianne Drake

continued on page 8

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

continued from page 7

Agent Publishes Book of TIPs In what started out as a thank-you note for the “angels” that helped her daughter get through her stage 4 breast cancer treatments, real estate agent TR Johnson of Apollo Associates Realty has written an inspirational book of tips. The book, Thoughts Influence Power Snippets™ (TIPS) was inspired by what she describes as the selfless acts of love from the many friends that played a major role in her daughter’s recovery. The book is described as a “testimony of love, hope and possibilities,” that contains elements of business, self-help, and psychology. Janice Andrews, wife of George Andrews of Capitol City Bank Trust Company says TR has a gift for writing and praises the book for its “profound and timely message.” TR, who is currently the office ice manager for Apollo, has been en a real estate agent for over 18 years, ten of those as the broker/ r/ owner of a real estate company y in Virginia.

Creek, Suwannee and Cumming. Becker is a Graduate, Realtors® Institute. Southern Classic Realtors® announced that Teresa Hayes, formerly with Keller Williams Realty-Atlanta Partners, has joined the firm. A former recruiting professional and professional matchmaker, Hayes received her real Teresa Hayes estate license in 2006, and earned both the Rising Star Award her first year, and subsequently the Shooting Star award. She is a certified REO Specialist, as well as a Certified Distressed Property Expert. The Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends recently named several local real estate agents as part of its “Thousand Top Real Estate Professionals,” a prestigious national ranking sponsored annually by the two publications. Citing the top 250 agents and teams both for numbers of transactions and volume, the list honored several local agents. Susan Powell of Keller Williams Realty was named #77 on the individual transaction list, as was Courtney Newton of Keller Williams Realty Citiside at #247 nationally. Mark Spain’s Team, of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta made the list both for transactions (#32) and volume (#78), while Karen Armstrong’s team at Coldwell Banker Atlanta/NRT came in at #210 for transactions. Skyline Pest Solutions welcomed Stewart Cloud as the director of its new Stewart Cloud

I t’s been a real pleasure working with you for the last five years. As an agent, you’ve continued to be one of the most proactive and responsible real estate professionals we know! Keep up the great work! from your friends at

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

Wildlife Services Division. A wildlife biologist with a Bachelor of Science degree in wildlife management from the University of Georgia, Cloud brings more than seven years of experience in solving human/wildliferelated conflicts.

Designations

Sandra Watkins

Amanda Charlesworth

Sandra Watkins of RE/MAX Town & Country earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert designation.

Amanda Charlesworth of Charlesworth Realty Group earned the Certified Foreclosure Specialist designation.

Have a piece of people-related news? Send information to Editor, R.E. Magazine, 3036 Leafwood Drive S.E., Marietta, GA 30067, or e-mail to editor@remagazines.com.

Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage Opens West Cobb Office Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage announced the grand opening of its new West Cobb office in Marietta, which will service all of West Cobb County, Paulding County and the surrounding areas. The new office is located at 3405 Dallas Highway, in the Village at Old Trace. This is the fourth office for the two-year-old company, which recently expanded from its single East Cobb location to offices in Midtown Atlanta, led by former Century 21 Gold Medal Realty broker/owner Chris Ballard, and its new Sandy Springs/Dunwoody office, managed by 41-year real estate veteran Dale Johnson. The company currently has over 300 real estate professionals.

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> Browser Independent > Search by Map Functions > PC & Mac Compatible > CMA Functionality > Contact Management System www.gamls.com

Phone: 770.493.9000

Toll Free: 800.289.1214

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

hortly thereafter, Mock began her new sales position. About Sales, Inc. is a firm specializing in new construction sales and marketing, as well as in listing foreclosures for banks. They also offer full service real estate services for homebuyers and sellers. Mock hit the ground running by convincing Comstock to allow her to continue marketing their inventory through her new employer. Over the last three years she has made such an impact on the growth of the business that she recently earned a promotion to Vice President of Sales for About Sales, Inc. “She is so self sufficient and trustworthy. Every builder client of ours wanted

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Though work sales agent, the top sales

Photo by David Martinez

cover story

amie Hunt Mock has never been afraid of a challenge. From starting a business right out of college to finding a much needed niche in a struggling housing market, her unwavering work ethic and constant thirst for knowledge have given Mock an uncanny ability to market and grow any business in which she is involved. As the new Vice President of Sales for About Sales, Inc., Mock not only knows what it takes to be successful in real estate, she actually makes it look easy! To get to this point in her life however, Mock had to work like a dog… well, two dogs actually! Mock worked her way through college at North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega with the support of her parents, and by tending bar. “My parents have always been great role models and through them I learned how to work hard and reach my goals,” she says. Shortly after graduating with her BA in Business Administration and Marketing in 2001, Mock assumed joint ownership of Two Dogs Tavern in Forsyth, Georgia with her partner (and eventual husband) Chris Mock. “It was my life for four and a half years. We did everything ourselves, from marketing to daily operations,” Mock recalls. Mock and her husband grew the business substantially before deciding it was time for a change and selling for a tidy profit in 2006. “After we sold the bar, I needed something to do. I’m very customer service oriented and I love helping people,” Mock says. “I had always had an interest in real estate so I took the class and started putting out resumes and was hired by a new home builder, Comstock Homes, before I had even finished getting my license!” In just her second year of real estate, Mock was recognized as the top selling agent in the Atlanta Home Builders’ Association and was awarded the Million Dollar Circle Award for sales in 2007. By the next year, the real estate market had begun to rapidly decline and soon Mock was the only agent remaining on the Comstock Homes sales force. “They had laid-off their other agents and I was selling their entire remaining inventory from one location. One day Shirley Gary, the owner of About Sales, came into the office. She was looking at the neighborhood for a bank who owned part of the neighborhood and she kind of shopped me,” Mock laughs. “She said that if I decided to make a move she would like for me to come on board with her. I met with her about a week later and she was very impressive. I had never met anyone who knew so much about the market or had so many contacts. She was definitely someone that I wanted to be aligned with.”

Jamie shows off one of her new home listings at says. “While the market still presents some chall

ing hard comes naturally to this superstar it’s working smart that has propelled her to spot! By Jessica Arledge

Hillside Trace, one of the 17 new home communities she manages and sells in metro Atlanta. “It’s very exciting to see new homes selling again,” Jamie lenges, we’ve got one of the best, most experienced sales teams to represent builders!”

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her exclusively for themselves because they were so impressed with her abilities,” Gary explains. “She was a natural fit. She is such a good listener that the other agents would always call her when they had questions. She was doing the job before she actually got the promotion.”

“W

ith the change in the market, it is no longer possible for a lot of builders to have an in-house sales team, so they approach us. We tell them the price that they need to be at and the product that they need to offer through data we collect by completing market research on

“She has made the transition from how we sold homes in 2006 to how we sell homes in 2011 and been successful at it.” the area and compiling the data into a full market study report. In these reports we provide them with knowledge of the area and the market and eliminate the guess work,” Mock explains. “We handle everything for them, from pricing and product suggestions and marketing materials used in the community, to artwork on the signage and even staffing the communities.”

Photo by David Martinez

Today, Mock manages the accounts of many of the company’s largest bank and builder clients and oversees more than 30 sales agents. Working with About Sales, Mock has found a niche for helping builders to sell their inventory without having to hire their own in-house sales team. The company currently manages over 35 neighborhoods and listings for over 200 bank or investorowned properties.

Jamie has recently joined Jason Janssen and Andy DiMarzio as a V.P. of Sales in the challenging and rewarding role of managing multiple builder, investor and bank clients.

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ock is also REO-certified. As the listing agent for several banks, she has a thorough understanding of the foreclosure and shortsale markets. This provides a unique advantage to clients who are interested in purchasing distressed properties, because she understands what the banks are looking for in an offer and how to help her clients get the most for their money. “I was showing a buyer a foreclosure this morning and he liked the property but he was under the impression that he had to buy it as is. He didn’t think that he could request repairs, have an inspection or ask for a home warranty. I have worked with the banks on their side so I knew that he could,” Mock clarifies. “He became

Photo by David Martinez

Mock also works with banks to market their foreclosures, as well as working with home sellers and buyers looking to buy resale properties. While it may seem like a lot to handle, according to her clients and colleagues, Mock is never too busy to listen to their needs. One of her many satisfied clients, Cowart Building Group owner Dean Cowart, states, “Jamie has the qualities that I like to see in a sales agent. She is very proactive and self-motivated. She is diligent about getting the deal closed and is patient with even the most difficult of buyers. In this market it says a lot to have a great deal of patience.” The agents who Mock works with are also quick to praise her patience and business savvy. “Jamie is patient and kind and works quickly to help you,” explains About Sales agent Kristy Corrigan. “She is always upbeat and positive!” It is this stellar attitude, coupled with her never ending determination to study and know the market, which enables Mock to continually grow her business, even in a down market. This year, About Sales, Inc. was named the eighth fastest growing woman-owned firm in Atlanta by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. As owner and founder of About Sales, Gary is quick to point out the strong role that Mock continues to play in the firm’s success. “The great thing about Jamie is that when I give her a builder account that has one community, they continually add communities because of her performance,” brags Gary of her star manager. “Then, instead of having one subdivision with them I may have three or four instead!”

With 30 sales and almost $8 Million in personal sales volume over the past year, Jamie is certainly one of the top new home sales agents in metro Atlanta. How does she feel about the switch to management? “I’m very excited for the opportunity to help other agents achieve success. Of course, I’ll still be out there selling myself…I don’t ever want to give that up!”

more comfortable with the process and is now open to looking at foreclosures. He is looking for a set product in a set area and ruling out foreclosures ruled out half of the homes that fit his needs. Now that he is open to seeing foreclosures, he has a lot more options.” Local closing attorney Randy McMichael, of McMichael & Gray has been so impressed with Mock’s work ethic and professional demeanor while guiding clients through closings at his office that he regularly recommends her to his personal friends and colleagues. “She has made the transition from how we sold homes in 2006 to how we sell homes in 2011 and been successful at it,” observes McMichael. “She is a great communicator and anticipates her clients needs before they arise, which lets you know that you are working with a professional Realtor®, and not just someone who wants to sell a home here and there. When I have r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

Photo by David Martinez

Jamie and Chris love spending time outdoors with their “kids,” Noah and Reggie. “When you work in real estate, you have to make sure to really appreciate the time you spend with family,” says Jamie. “It’s what keeps you centered in your life.”

builders, clients or friends who need an agent, she is always in my top three.” While co-workers and colleagues can’t find enough good things to say about Mock, she is not comfortable boasting about her success, and is quick to turn the attention to those who have supported her career growth. “I love helping others and I feel that is what has made me successful but when it comes to explaining that, I really do not know how to put it in words. Through About Sales, Inc and Shirley, I have learned so much and grown as a person and as a professional. I am extremely lucky to have the opportunity to work with such an innovative company and to have found such a great mentor.” On those rare occasions when Mock is not working, she spends her down time with her husband Chris, their two Pekinese, Noah and Reggie, and their extended families. “I love spending time with my husband,” Mock states. “We have been together for over 10 years and have been married for 2. Every day is an adventure, always filled with laughter and fun. Our families also play a large role in our lives and we cherish every moment we have to spend with them.” 14

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From dealing with large banks and builder accounts that move hundreds of properties a year, to helping a young couple navigate their first home purchase, Jamie Hunt Mock knows how to get the job done. With a positive attitude, business savvy and a firm grasp of the market, this real estate dynamo has proven that real estate is not only moving in 2011, business is booming. Jessica Arledge is a freelance writer and real estate agent based in Savannah, GA. Her work has been published in newspapers, magazines and literary journals. She can be reached at (912) 2476449 or jesstomarledge@earthlink.net.

678-373-0739 www.AboutSalesInc.com

Three Atlanta Companies Named to Inc. Magazines’ 500 Fastest Growing

Keller Williams Realty – The Rawls Group Expands to Town Brookhaven Location In August, Keller Williams Realty Peachtree Road, The Rawls Group opened its new 14,000-squarefoot luxury office at 804 Town Blvd, in Atlanta for 220 agents. With one of the largest training facilities in any residential firm, Peachtree Road will provide cuttingedge education and technology to real estate professionals. Since 2005, the office has been led by former top-producing agent Brad Feiman.

RE/MAX Office Celebrates 25 Years with Expansion Efforts RE/MAX Greater Atlanta-Cobb is celebrating its 25th anniversary and, as part of that celebration, has set its sights on expanding its sales team. The company, co-owned by Ben Christopher and Denny Jones, has had its share of challenges in the last couple years, including some guilt by association after the dissolution of RE/MAX Greater Atlanta, which, points out Christopher, was a completely separate franchise from RE/MAX Greater AtlantaCobb. However, “with mortgage interest rates remaining below 5 percent, extremely competitive pricing and more first-time home buyers entering the market,” the company hopes to work with agents who see this as potential for recovery in the metro Atlanta real estate market, says Jones.

r.e. news

Three Atlanta-based real estate-related companies, Valuation Management Group, Palmer House Properties, and Maximum One Realty Greater Atlanta were named as part of the 500 fastest growing private companies in the United States in the Inc. Magazine’s September 2011 issue. The annual list, published since 1981, ranks the three-year percentage of growth of over 5,000 companies across the United States. Valuation Management Group, a national appraisal management company, led the local list at #22 nationally with an almost 8,000% increase in revenues over the last three years. PalmerHouse Properties placed at #172 with an 1,726% increase, while Maximum One Realty ranked #408, with a growth rate of 834%. To qualify of the list, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 2007, and be a privately held for-profit U.S. independent company. They must have generated at least $2 Million in revenue in 2010.

RE/MAX Recognized as Provider of Highest Overall Consumer Satisfaction In its fourth annual study of home buyer and seller satisfaction with the largest national real estate companies, the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Home Buyer/Seller Study recognized RE/MAX for providing the highest overall consumer satisfaction for both home buyers and home sellers. For the home buying experience, three factors were considered: agent/ salesperson, office and a variety of additional services. Four factors were examined for the home-selling experience: agent/salesperson, marketing, office and a variety of additional services.

Fidelity Bank Opens Mortgage Services Office in Gwinnett In May, Fidelity Bank, a subsidiary of Fidelity Southern Corporation, announced the opening of its mortgage services office located at 2763 Meadow Church Road, Suite 205, in Duluth. Twelve mortgage bankers are based in the branch and offer in-house processing, underwriting and closing services.

Have a piece of real estate-related news? Send information to Editor, R.E. Magazine, 3036 Leafwood Drive S.E., Marietta, GA 30067, or e-mail to editor@remagazines.com.

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

community spotlight

The River House at One River Place

Easy Livinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Photos by David Martinez

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The River House at One River Place Perfect location, a lifestyle package fit for the privileged, and an astonishing value price make this community one truly amazing package! By Mimi Matthews

teaches craft classes for all ages: terrariums, printmaking, sugar Easter eggs, and fall wreaths are just some of the offerings. Children have summer swimming lessons, tree climbing lessons, and remote control boat racing in the pond. “Team trivia, bingo, a book club, jewelry trunk shows – if you can think of it, we pretty much have it,” Buchman says. “I like to take it outside the box and offer experiences they never thought of.” Seasonal activities include an annual oyster roast in the fall, “created especially for transplanted Northerners,” she explains with a smile. The activities help residents meet each other and feel more like a neighborhood, she said. “The residents are very invested out here. They all love it and want to keep it going.” The River House is situated center stage across from the 24-hour attended entry gate, accentuated by a dramatic water fountain in the rotary. From there, residents enter the garage to park on the level of their

Photo by David Martinez

ecisions, decisions! City life or suburbs? Inside the Perimeter, or adjoining a river and forest? At The River House at One River Place, you can have it all! This luxury gated community sits nestled near some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment Atlanta has to offer, with easy access to all major highways GA400, 75, 285, and 85. Yet the community was designed with its own entrance to the Chattahoochee National Forest and boat access to the Chattahoochee River. No need to buy a kayak or canoe – they are provided for your pleasure! “What we offer is unlike anything else in the city,” says Maura Buchman. As activities coordinator at One River Place, she organizes a seemingly endless stream of events at the clubhouse, patio, pool and pond. While many of those activities involve the water, such as river tubing trips or fly fishing instruction, the diverse list of activities is more attuned to a country club than a condominium. Having studied art therapy, Buchman

Sales Agent Nicole Zeliff shows off the designer kitchen in one of The River House homes, complete with stainless steel appliances, cherry cabinets, and granite countertops. “Everyone is always impressed with the attention to detail throughout the entire community,” she notes.

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Photo by David Martinez

own condo. Guests are greeted in the lobby, by a full-time concierge in a comfortable living-room-like waiting area, perfect for residents to meet with guests or to conduct business without giving up their privacy. At a smaller side entrance are two tables, each with four overstuffed chairs, and two more chairs nestled in a nook. Wi-Fi makes this another perfect place to do business. Living units range from 850 to 2,000 square feet. All have granite-topped counters, stainless steel appliances and hardwood flooring. A three-bedroom unit has a large kitchen island. Its cabinets match the dark cherry hardwood flooring in the wide-open space Activities coordinator Maura Buchman is always just a phone call away for that includes kitchen, dining room and residents wishing to schedule an activity or service such as a massage, craft class, or great room. The sunny expanse looks out kayaking on the Chattahoochee River. on one of the meticulous lawns. Closets are everywhere, including a pantry and a large laundry room. “ST Residential is essentially a very deep-pocketed The patios and balconies are all wonderfully spacious, capital group,” Miller explains. “They have instilled “really like another room,” points out sales agent a whole new excitement and confidence into the Pauline Miller. “We appeal mostly to people who enjoy community. There is an extraordinary level of service active and social lifestyles.” and attention that the residents enjoy at every level.” “This property is designed to cater to people with Porters are onsite seven days a week, keeping common discriminating taste,” she explains. “It was geared toward areas white-glove clean.

“I have sold thousands of condos over the last four to ﬁve years, and I have never seen an amenity package like this, ever!” the very upper end. These homes were supposed to sell for nearly twice what they are being offered for now. So they still have that experience, only at a crazy price.” How crazy? One-bedroom condos start at $114,900. Two-bedrooms start at $148,900. “The values in the River House are extraordinary” according to sales manager Mike Riley. “One River Place, also includes townhomes priced from the low $300’s to the mid $500’s and the Sanctuary Condominium priced from the high $300’s to the high $600’s. This has always been one of the most prestigious neighborhoods on the Northside!”

he River House at One River Place is part of a national portfolio of luxurious, design-driven homes by ST Residential, who bought the property in 2010.

“Often we’re stopped in the hallway by residents who want to brag about The River House to folks we’re showing around,” Miller says. Recently, when Miller greeted resident Jim Bassett outside one of the swimming pools, he expressed his pleasure with his experience. When a River House condo he had his eye on became available, an agent notified him, and he was able to snap it up! “The best ones are going fast,” he said. For Bassett and his two dogs, the best units are the ground-floor condos: The patios have gates that open directly onto the gardens. There is even a fenced dog park, complete with doggie drinking fountains. Dogs have had a puppy prom, a Halloween costume contest and a Dog Daze event with a Poochsicle truck! r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

Photo by David Martinez

Both two and four-legged residents alike enjoy the acres of green space and park-like atmosphere that is the hallmark of The River House. The Meeting House is the most popular gathering place and is the heart of this vibrant community

Even beyond the puppy love, Bassett raves about The River House. “On a scale from one to 10, it’s an 11!” He says he fell in love with the location, his fellow residents, and the amenities, which are “second to none.”

pond with waterfalls adjoins a sloping lawn where Friday night movies are shown. “Scream on the Green” is an annual Halloween event that brings out all of the neighborhood ghouls and goblins! Atop that slight hill is an arbor shading a table and chairs, leading to a large open patio with a deluxe summer kitchen with stainless steel gas grill, a fire pit and Big Green Egg, and a large covered patio, filled with couches and chairs for easy socializing. Around the corner is the larger of two swimming pools, attracting families. A smaller pool just beyond and above this one provides a quieter place for adult lounging. Overlooking both pools is the stately Meeting House, a luxurious two-level clubhouse that serves as the hub of the community. Downstairs is a kitchen for swimmers to stash their snacks, and a large gathering room for group activities or private parties. Upstairs are yet more gathering places: a coffee bar with ample seating, like a hotel lobby; and a small meeting room that can be closed for private meetings.

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Walk down the hall to the well equipped 24-hour fitness room, which offers Pilates, kickboxing and other classes. Next is a massage room; the concierge will ring up a masseuse for you, or you can invite your favorite. And last, the Relaxation Room: two massaging chairs where residents can book a manicure, pedicure or reflexology. Or acupuncture…waxing…even hot shaves for men. “We’re full service,” says activities coordinator Maura Buchman. “It’s like living at a resort.” “I have sold thousands of condos over the last four to five years, and I have never seen an amenity package like this, ever!” Miller says. The closest restaurant is only steps away – the famous Ray’s on the River sits right in the shadow of the River House. Not surprisingly, they will even deliver! Mimi Matthews edits self-published books, newsletters and marketing communications. She can be reached at direct@witty.com.

678-269-7784 www.OneRiverPlaceAtlanta.com

Mind if I Vent? by Scott Berlyoung, guest columnist

ummer 2011 has gone into the books as one of the warmest in weather history. My family enjoys being outdoors even in hot weather and I enjoy helping cook dinner on the back deck. We have a gas grill that includes a side burner where we often will have meat grilling beside the boiling vegetables. This helps reduce the heat gain in the home and my air conditioning/ electricity bill! Plus I also love BBQ! When we decide to enjoy eating inside, I often have to remind my teenagers to turn on the stove exhaust fan. After all, who needs a hot kitchen? My cook top vent blows directly outdoors and helps

i n s p e c t o r ’s r e p o r t

nest or bees to find a way into the home. If the hood or microwave is vent-less, I review with my clients how to keep the screen clean for fire safety and the options to add a vent to remove the heat to the outside. I often find, even in 7 figure homes, a vent-less kitchen with a cook top on an outside wall! All modern microwaves with built-in exhausts are made to be vented either inside or outside. When the cook top is on an outside wall, it is a remove the heat as well as the odor if we happen very simple job to put in the $150 vent. to have shrimp or fish. This brings me to one of my Unfortunately, Georgia code is a bit gray personal “pet peeves” that I find weekly as a home concerning this particular item. Installing inspector, both with new construction and re-sale alike a down draft or through-wall vent – the kitchen vent fan does not vent to the outside of accomplishes many things. First, it limits the home! Many stove top fans/microwaves only pull the odors of cooking. Second, it removes the moisture the air from below and exhaust above back into the and heat from cooking which causes higher humidity room. and higher air conditioner bills. A vent often will pay During an ASHI inspection, I note the type of cook for itself in electric savings in less than a year. top, if it is a down draft or wall unit, and turn on the My hope is to someday see IRC Georgia code consider exhaust. The vent is often a manufactured metal hood the questions of fresh air venting and include kitchen or cabinet mounted microwave. Some homes have a venting and air exchanges in the Model Energy code. cook top with a down plumbed vent that has a rising Until then I encourage builders to provide this feature hood or center intake at the burners. The vent should and home buyers to know a quality kitchen when they be a properly sized smooth metal pipe with a screen tour a home. to protect the fan. The screen can be removed for cleaning and fire safety. Some vent screens have carbon Scott Berlyoung has been inspecting real estate in Georgia since charcoal to absorb odors, a sure sign that the unit may be vent-less! Outside, the vent should end with a self 1999. Scott is CABO/ICC code certified for new construction, closing hood to limit pests and seal to close the wall he is a nationally-certified member of ASHI and past board penetration. If a home has an un-finished basement or member serving as Treasurer in 2008. He is also a member of GAHI Georgia Association of Home Inspectors, NEHA drop ceiling, an outside vent can easily be installed. With the vent fan running, I can locate it easier while National Environmental Health Association as a certified inspecting the outside of the home with my clients. measurement provider for radon testing and a Level 1 A quick check reveals if the flap is clean and closing Thermograhper for FLIR infrared. Scott is the owner of properly. Low air flow may indicate a blocked vent. A Alpha Home Services and can be reached 7 days a week at dirty vent flap is a fire concern and can allow birds to 770.751.0737 Scott@alphahomeservices.com r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

r.e. inspection section

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

BRAND MORTGAGE

partners’ profile

Flexible loan options, fast loan approvals, and exemplary customer service is making this mortgage banker one of the top choices for real estate agents in the Southeast. By Misty Milioto

Photo by Lawrence Cohen

ith a 200-percent growth rate since January sheet. “We offer our own product base, 2009, Brand Mortgage obviously is doing including some portfolio products that we something right. The Duluth-based company do in conjunction with the bank,” Koutouzis has set its sights on becoming the best mortgage provider says. “We close and fund all of our loans in in the Southeast by offering a wide product base, our name. We are lending portfolio money to top-notch customer service and efficient processes all groups but with special attention to lowfor fast loan approvals. With this “Super Trifecta” of to moderate-income levels and census tracts. benefits, it’s no surprise why this company has already Non-bank lenders have left the market due to become a leader in the industry. lack of funding sources.” “I believe the growth is greatly attributed to our In addition to having plenty of capital to associates and management team,” says Alex Koutouzis, fund loan products, Brand Mortgage also prides president of Brand Mortgage, and himself a mortgage itself on high-quality customer service. On a industry veteran of over 20 years. “We’ve been fortunate daily basis, the company aims to offer the most to attract the best talent our industry has to offer, and widely available product base, coupled with have created a culture that strives to be the best. When educated and experienced loan officers and you’re surrounded by great people, great things happen.” mortgage bankers who can best consult and Brand Mortgage, assist consumers. “We try which opened in 2006 to embody that service as a wholly owned substandard by making a sidiary of The Brand concentrated effort to be Banking Company, has one thing, which is the 12 offices in Georgia, best mortgage company South Carolina, Virginia, that we can be,” Koutouzis Alabama and Tennessee, says. and is also licensed in As far as loan products Florida, North Carolina, go, Brand Mortgage Kentucky, Mississippi offers a variety of options, and Maryland. “By ranging from first-time focusing on our core homebuyer loans (such markets, rather than as FHA and conventional trying to be the largest loans with low down mortgage lender in the CEO Greg Shumate and President Alex Koutouzis both believe that creating the payments), jumbo country, we are able to right company culture leads to long term success. mortgages, VA loans and build upon the culture combination loans, as well we have developed in Atlanta and expand that culture as refinancing options and home equity loans. While throughout the company without it getting diluted,” Brand Mortgage offers loans that are on par with what’s Koutouzis explains. available in the marketplace today, the company also The company can in some measure also attribute its offers some unique products. “We’ve reintroduced some growth to having the backing of The Brand Banking traditional self-employed loans, and our ability to do Company – a 105-year-old community bank with a second mortgages is fairly unique to us,” Koutouzis adds. strong and reliable funding stream. Recently, Brand “We are also looking to expand into some constructionGroup Holdings (the parent holding company) raised to-perm lending. So, we have a pretty wide base of $200 million in capital to strengthen the bank’s balance products that extends beyond our normal competition.” r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

accessibility to agents. They are very attuned to responding quickly.” Thompson’s daughter and team member, Leigh Koffler, points specifically to the inhouse underwriting as the best tool in their tool box. “When I can get turnaround in five or six hours on a loan approval, it makes my life as an agent so much easier,” she says. Of course, the market continues to present challenges. However, Brand Mortgage doesn’t Brand Mortgage bankers Joanne Rotella and Jeffrey Heckman feel that real estate agents like Keller Williams’ Susan let those stand in its way Thompson and Leigh Kofﬂer appreciate the professionalism and expertise that is consistent throughout Brand, as to becoming the best. well as the convenience of the company’s 5 metro Atlanta ofﬁces. Instead, the company Another way that Brand Mortgage aims to offer the takes the simple approach of always trying to do what’s best service possible is through fast loan approvals. right, both for consumers as well as for employees, referral The company uses a paperless system to accept imaged sources, vendors and anyone else involved in the process. documentation and Web site loan applications. While the According to Greg Shumate, CEO and managing partner paperless system helps with efficiency, the company also at Brand Mortgage, because tighter regulations have is happy to meet face-to-face with consumers. made it a lot more complicated to obtain a mortgage, the Once Brand Mortgage receives a loan application, the most important thing is to take time with the consumer company uses an upfront underwriting system to render to explain the transaction. “We do our best to simplify a decision within 24 to 48 hours of receiving the file. the process for the consumer, and we hire experts in our If the underwriter determines that the application is industry. We aren’t so big that we can’t adapt to market good, Brand Mortgage can give a quick response to the changes.” consumer and then get the necessary documentation to Misty Milioto graduated from the University of Georgia in 2000 complete the process. with a B.A. in English and is a licensed real estate agent in “Where most companies have extended their timelines, Georgia. She has worked as an editor for real estate magazines we continue to look for ways to shorten them by using including Shopping Center World, Heartland Real Estate technology, processes and systems to become faster Business and COMMUNITIES Magazine. She can be reached and more efficient,” Koutouzis explains. “We have a at mjmilioto@gmail.com. much faster work flow that has us closing loans within 15 days if necessary, and we are constantly trying to refine that process.” Photo by David Martinez

ccording to Susan Thompson, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty Peachtree Battle, her office first started working with Brand Mortgage as its in-house lender a little more than two years ago. “Since then, nearly 60 percent of our buyers have used Brand Mortgage,” she reports. “Even if they weren’t our in-house lenders, I would still use them because of their

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

855-754-4339 www.BrandMortgage.com

Calendar of Events October 2011 October 12 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Cobb Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Guest Speaker: Kit Cummings – “Break-Through!” Location: Pinetree Country Club, 3400 McCollum Parkway, Kennesaw 30144 Cost: $15 Members, $20 Non-members Reservations and Info: Mary Helyn Hagin 770-792-2988

October 13 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Metro South Women’s Council of Realtors® Breakfast/Program Guest Speaker: Christina Parker, author/speaker The Leadership Movement Location: 1671 Adamson Pkwy, Ste 100 Morrow, GA 30260 Cost: $10 Members, $15 Non-members and guest Registration and info: Charlene Faucett 678-758-6732

October 13 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. DeKalb Association of Realtors® and WCR Joint Membership Meeting Panel of Lenders & Appraisers – Navigate from Contract to Closing Location: Druid Hills Country Club, 740 Clifton Rd. NE Atlanta 30307 Cost: $20 Members before Oct 10 ($25 after), Non-members $ 25 Register Online at www.dekalbrealtors.com or call 770-493-6100

October 13 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Nick Masino, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce “Do You REALLY KNOW Your Neighborhood?” Location: 1818 Club, 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy Duluth Cost: $15 Members, $25 Non-members Reservations Required: Florence Greeson 770-670-6410

October 20 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Atlanta Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Guest Speaker: Dick Williams, author/publisher Location: Ansley Golf Club, 196 Montgomery Ferry Drive NE, Atlanta30309 Cost: $25 Members, $35 Non-members and guests Registration and Info: Serena Henry 404-838-0519

October 20 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Cherokee Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting What Language Do You Speak? – Diversity Panel Location: The Lodge at Bridgemill, 10451 Bells Ferry Rd. Canton 30144 Cost: $10 Members, $12 Non-members and guests Info: Rachel Mooney - 678-283-0629

October 22 6:30 a.m. registration – race begins at 8:00 a.m. Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® Hoofin’ for Habitat 5K Race to benefit Habitat for Humanity Location: 4255 Rivergreen Parkway, Duluth Cost: $20 per walker/runner Register by October 20 at www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1983385

October 22 7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. DeKalb Association of Realtors Cultural Masquerade – A Celebration of Cultural Diversity A costume party celebrating cultural diversity Buffet, Cash Bar, Prizes for costumes best representing a culture Location: DeKalb Association of Realtors®, 1414 Montreal Rd. East, Tucker 30084 Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at door (Adults Only) Register online at www.dekalbrealtors.com

October 28 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Real Estate Bar Camp Atlanta 2011 Informal technology “un-conference” where the attendees set the agenda. Location: Mansour Center, 995 Roswell St., Marietta, GA 30060 Cost: $17.50 for the entire day Registration and info: www.rebcatlanta.com.

November 3 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Decorating for the Holidays with Michael Chapman of Pike’s Nurseries Location: 1818 Club, 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy Duluth Cost: $15 Members, $25 Non-members Reservations Required: Florence Greeson 770-670-6410

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

resource directory

Realtor® resource directory advertising

McMichael & Gray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-373-0521 (see display ad page 8)

franchise opportunities

Murphy & Shank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-517-9300

RE/MAX Regional Services . . . . . . . . . . 678-802-5728 Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results. www.remax.com (see display ad page 2)

The Real Estate Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-910-0347

Morris|Hardwick|Schneider . . . . . . . . . . 678-298-2100 Exceeding Expectations. One Closing at a Time www.closingsource.net

alarm systems Ackerman Security……….770-552-1111 residential, small business, commercial www.ackermansecurity.com

O’Kelley & Sorohan, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-497-1880 18 ofﬁces across Georgia for your convenience www.okelleyandsorohan.com

graphic design Felicia Kahn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-326-7173

Shafritz & Dean, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-255-8183 Now 7 ofﬁces for your clients’ convenience www.shafritz-dean.com

hardwood ﬂooring

associations ®

Atlanta Board of Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-250-0051 Cherokee Association of Realtors® . . . . . . 770-591-0004

Thomas & Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-591-5200 East Cobb Ofﬁce 678-337-3223 www.proclosers.com

Flesher’s Hardwood Flooring . . . . . . . . . 678-469-2964 Quality Wood Floor Installation & Reﬁnishing www.flesherflooring.com

Weissman, Nowack, Curry and Wilco, PC . 404-926-4500

Cobb Association of Realtors®. . . . . . . . . . 770-422-3900

home inspection services

DeKalb Association of Realtors® . . . . . . . . 770-493-6100 Empire Board of Realtists® . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-755-5575

basements and waterprooﬁng Aquaguard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-419-9111

Alpha Home Services, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-751-0737 (see banner ad page 22)

Metro South Assoc. of Realtors® . . . . . . . . 770-477-7579

Atlanta Property Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . 770-932-8634

Northeast Atlanta Metro Assoc. of Realtors® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-495-7300

DRC Inspections and Consulting. . . . . . . . 770-794-1494

chimney services • Cleaning • Inspections • Masonary Work

attorneys Carol Clark Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-250-3300 Dickenson Gilroy, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-518-5515 experience. service. excellence. www.dickensongilroy.com (see display ad page 28)

• Repairs • Animal Removal

• Chimney Caps • Dampers • Waterproofing • Smoke Guards • Relining

ProTech Home & Property Inspections . . . . 770-277-5655 (see display ad page 5) RIA Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-476-4963 Skyline Home Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-432-5464 (see banner ad page 22)

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

insurance

Law Ofﬁces of Sam Maguire Jr., PC . . . 404-257-8885 Where Real Estate Meets Real People www.sammaguire.com McCurdy & Candler LLC……………404-373-1612

IHI Home Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-788-2581 (see banner ad page 22)

www.chimneysolutions.com

Don Johnson State Farm Insurance . . . 770-973-8545 E Cobb Good Neighbor Insurance & Financial Svc www.donjohnsoninsurance.com

For advertising information, call Lawrence Cohen at 770-956-7100.

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011

resource directory

Realtor® resource directory investment properties

painting & drywall

Blueﬁelds Capital, LCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-502-5000

roof repairs Peachtree Rooﬁng . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-579-7663

M & M Painting and Drywall . . . . . . . . . . . 770-527-7335

management companies PEMCO Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-995-7111

pest control All Exterminating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-887-2571

mortgage companies

Skyline Pest Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-432-5464 Trademark Pest Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-614-6534

Academy Mortgage – Todd Blake . . . . . 678-758-2270 (see display ad page 6)

photography Brand Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 855-754-4339 5 metro Atlanta Ofﬁces www.BrandMortgage.com (see Partners’ Proﬁle page 23)

moving and storage

David M Photography……………404-432-1517 Portraits, headshots, family & yearbook www.davemphotography.com

security systems

John Clemmer Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-428-1658

Ackerman Security……….770-552-1111 residential, small business, commercial www.ackermansecurity.com

Atlanta Peach Movers……….. . . . . . . . . 770-270-5586 Buckhead Movers………………….. . 404-603-0234

plumbing utility protection Plumbing Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-452-8636 Your Solution to Polybutylene Plumbing www.plumbing911.com

Georgia 811 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 811 Know before you dig – Call 811 www.georgia811.com (see display ad page 16)

Right Choice Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-480-3835 Full service plumbing, installations, repairs, winterization “The Right Choice” for your Plumbing Needs

video Productions Reel Productions TV…….. . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-571-5728

radon testing and mitigation virtual tours Cooks Construction Group. . . . . . . . . . . 770-652-1101 (see banner ad page 22)

Glide Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-560-9658 HomeScenes Virtual Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-594-1193

multiple listing services Georgia MLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-493-9000 “More Prices, More Places, More Possibilities” www.gamls.com (see display ads pages 7 & 9)

renovation and new construction Glazer Design & Construction………….404-683-9848

window services Sunshine Window Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-422-8105

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > OCTOBER 2011