October Special Section
2 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Georgia Properties announces sales results for Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek markets Ranked No. 1 in homes sold, listings sold and growth percentage ALPHARETTA,Ga. — Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties is proud to announce that the firm was ranked #1 in overall homes sold, listings sold and growth percentage from the prior year for the Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton and Johns Creek markets. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties grew 7 percent in overall homes sold and 19.8 percent in listing sold. Every other major competitor showed negative growth results versus the prior year. The firm was also ranked #1 across the Metro Atlanta and North Georgia market. The data was provided by Trendgraphix. “We are honored to help clients move to the next chapters in their lives,” said Mary Wargula, Senior Vice President & Managing Broker of the Alpharetta/ North Fulton Office of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. “Our associates are experts in these
NUMBER 1 IN HOMES SOLD - 2018 Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell
COMPANY
HOMES SOLD
LISTINGS SOLD
GROWTH IN HOMES SOLD
GROWTH IN LISTINGS SOLD
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties
489
260
7%
19.8%
Harry Norman, Realtors
409
221
-17%
-19.6%
Sotheby’s Atlanta Fine Homes
405
251
-5.4%
-2%
Coldwell Banker
296
148
-2%
-2.1%
Keller Williams First Atlanta
208
111
-25.7%
-9.8%
Source: Trendgraphix, Jan. 1 - August 31, 2018 vs. Same Period in 2017, FMLS Areas 13 & 14, All Price Points.
local markets and have valuable skills that make a difference for their clients. Check out our Zillow Reviews for the amazing stories.”
In October, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties will be opening the newest smart real estate office in Alpharetta. The office will be
located in the new Liberty Hall building in the heart of the revitalized city of Alpharetta. Liberty Hall, owned by the American History Guild, is a unique concept of patriotism and community with restaurant and retail space, premium office space and the exclusive Founder’s Club located on the rooftop terrace. An owner of the building, John Adams is a descendent of the Founding Father John Adams. Mr. Adams formed the American History Guild to tell America’s story. About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties has over 1,700 associates and 26 locations across the Greater Metro Atlanta and North Georgia area. Led by President and CEO, Dan Forsman, the organization offers a full suite of real estate services including residential real estate, luxury real estate, new homes services, condo/high-rise services, commercial real estate, corporate relocation, property management, mortgage lending, title and settlement services, home warranties and insurance. Equal Housing Opportunity. Visit http://www.BHHSGA.com.
START LISTENING TO OUR PODCASTS TODAY Alpharetta. $649,000 12330 Charlotte Drive 6BR/5BA FMLS: 6035167 Kimberly Counter 678.938.5885
Milton. $2,595,000 130 Ryan Lake Trail 7BR/7BA/3HBA FMLS: 6064983 Tom Abrams 917.279.0755
Milton. $724,000 16066 Inverness Trail 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 6041085 Diana Montague 404.630.3002 Phil Montague 770.670.1032
Roswell. $475,000 2030 Riverside Road 3BR/3.5BA FMLS: 6046533 Kathy Rice 678.697.4984
Southampton, New York $8,495,000 455 Wickapogue Road Sotheby’s International Realty Bridgehampton Brokerage
Highlands, North Carolina $1,850,000 26 Norton Court Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty
ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | 770.442.7300 ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Artwork by John Newcomb, used with permission.
Appen Media Group is proud to unveil our new lineup of podcasts; Inside the Box, Lunch Break and Overtime with Joe Parker.
VISIT NORTHFULTON.COM/PODCASTS AND LISTEN TODAY
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 3
#LOOKUP
Life in balance at Skyland Skyland Brookhaven is a new townhome community priced from the $500s and designed with your lifestyle in mind. We are proud of the “Life in Balance” that we have created in this enclave of homes in sought-after Brookhaven, only minutes from the town’s entertainmentfilled center. Skyland’s thoughtful floorplans spared no details in interior upgrades with the latest in style. Beautiful aesthetics and space that works harder was the goal achieved in these three-bedroom townhomes that include flex space to be used with your imagination. Using quality craftsmanship from custom builders, these homes are also technologically enabled for state-of-the-art living spaces. We have recently started construction on our luxurious amenities that include a sophisticated clubhouse with 24-hour fitness facility and a great hall with fireplace. Included in our amenity area is a gorgeous salt water pool and landscaped
pocket parks throughout, just steps from your front door. This dog-friendly community includes street-lighted sidewalks with wide streets and ample visitor parking for all homeowners. Skyland Brookhaven offers easy access to downtown Brookhaven’s bustling city center with great restaurants and entertainment for the whole family, as well as all of Atlanta. We are convenient to upscale shopping at Lenox Square with its brand name stores, Perimeter Mall and Northlake Mall. With easy access to I-85, Skyland Brookhaven is positioned to allow for shorter commutes to work and play in and around all the excitement that Atlanta has to offer its residents. Come see Brookhaven’s quickest selling new townhome community before it is sold out. Visit us at SkylandBrookhaven.com or call 770-254-5363 to set up a private showing today.
Intown | Saltwater Pool | Pocket Parks
Minutes from Brookhaven Shops & Restaurants
COME IN THIS MONTH FOR GREAT UPGRADES
Up To $15,000 Any Way You Want It* TOWNHOMES FROM THE $500’s
SkylandBrookhaven.com | 770.254.5363 1860 Skyfall Circle | Brookhaven, GA 30319 Mon-Sat 11-6 | Sun 1-6 *On contracts written by 10/31/18. See agent for details. Information is believed accurate but not warranted and subject to change without notice.
4 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Opening Soon Our new office at
LIBERTY HALL
1 01 5 0 C E DA R R I D G E D R
5096 STEPHENS RD
A L P H A R E T TA | $ 1 , 6 9 9 , 0 0 0
G A I N E SV I L L E | $ 2 ,1 9 5 ,0 0 0
C H I P R U S S E L L | 67 8 . 61 3 . 3 0 9 8
JUDI RENFROE | 404.550.5644
1060 CASCADE RUN CT
870 F OX H O L LOW R U N
S U WA N E E | $ 8 9 9 , 0 0 0
M I LTO N | $ 1 , 3 4 5 ,0 0 0
N E N A G AV I G A N | 4 0 4 . 9 9 3 .1 9 8 4
D O N N A K E R C H E R - B U R N S | 7 70 . 4 9 0 . 4 1 7 8
NEW CONSTRUCTION
NEW CONSTRUCTION
33 South Main Street Alpharetta, GA 30009
MARY WARGULA SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT MANAGING BROKER
770-475-0505
H I L L A N DA L E
WEST MAIN
R O SW E L L | F R O M $ 8 0 0 s
A L P H A R E T TA | F R O M $ 8 0 0 s
P M CO M M U N I T I E S .CO M | 7 70. 8 3 2 . 6 376
P M C O M M U N I T I E S .C O M | 7 70 . 8 3 2 . 6 376
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES GEORGIA PROPERTIES © An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not endorse any of the products or vendors, referenced on this material. Any mention of vendors, products, or services is for informational purposes only. If your property is currently listed with a Realtor, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other Brokers. Prices/information subject to change without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 5
LUXURY IS IN THE DETAILS
R E A L
E S T A T E
R E D E F I N E D
1103 APPLE PIE RIDGE
15923 MANOR CLUB DR
335 CREEK POINT
A LTO | $ 6 ,0 0 0 ,0 0 0
M I LTO N | $ 1 ,1 9 9 , 9 0 0
M I LTO N | $ 9 3 4 , 9 0 0
J U D I R E N F R O E | 4 0 4 . 5 5 0. 5 6 4 4
L I S A SWAY N E | 7 70. 241 . 9 1 6 5
S I S SY W I L L I A M S | 4 0 4 . 8 2 2 . 8 2 74
NEW CONSTRUCTION
NEW CONSTRUCTION
1 3 5 R OX B U RY R OW
102 MILLERS POINTE
M I LT O N R U N
A L P H A R E T TA | $ 8 8 5 ,0 0 0
WO O D S TO C K | $75 0, 0 0 0
M I LTO N | F R O M $ 70 0 s
J OY TO D D | 4 0 4 . 9 9 6 . 7 0 0 4
S H AW N M I L L E R | 67 8 . 4 6 2 . 8 2 3 8
P M C O M M U N I T I E S .C O M | 7 70 . 8 3 2 . 6 376
1985 LONG HOLLOW LANE
99 ROCKER DR
829 MIDDLE FORK TRAIL
DA H LO N E G A | $ 1 , 4 9 5 ,0 0 0
S U WA N E E | $ 1 , 4 4 9 , 0 0 0
M I LTO N | $ 1 ,0 9 9 ,0 0 0
A M Y H E R I N G TO N | 4 0 4 . 5 4 5 . 0 1 4 9
C AT H Y A DA M S | 67 8 . 4 8 8 . 75 6 8
A N N E C I N T R O N | 4 0 4 . 4 8 3 .76 2 3
LUXURYREDEFINED.COM | 404.671.4195
MAX AWARD WINNER
6 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Kitchen design trends in 2019 Decades ago, the kitchen was hidden in the back of the house. It was a place where meals were prepared and dirty dishes were washed. Fast forward to 2018 and the kitchen has a much different role. Today, the kitchen is the focal point of the home, the place that brings everyone together at the start of the day or after a long day way. Now instead, the kitchen is paraded in all its beauty and warmth at the very center of the house. John Hogan, Co-owner of Remodeling Expo Center, a 16 year veteran of kitchen remodeling, is at ground zero with the remodeling revolution in North Atlanta. “We install a few hundred kitchens a year and we see and hear about what homeowners want” say Mr. Hogan. “People come into our Design Center in Roswell and they usually know exactly what they want in their kitchen. It’s exciting to use our advanced CAD software to render their ideas in full photo realistic color!” This is what we’re hearing from North Atlanta homeowners. 1. Smart Kitchens Technology has entered the kitchen in full force and not just in the form of fancy gadgets and appliances. Today, you can have a kitchen with technology integrated into every function and appliance–from the faucets to the fridge to the lighting. This is what we call a smart kitchen. Easy add-ons are motion sense-equipped kitchen faucets that can sense the presence of hands underneath and will come on automatically or try a one-touch feature. Refrigerators that can alert you when your groceries items are running low or a coffee maker programmed to have your coffee ready when you wake up. Do not forget to update your lighting system–allowing you to control all the lights from your smartphone or tablet.
2. Cabinet Colors: White Stays, Gray Gets Elegant and Dark Paint Colors are the New Thing White is still a big favorite for kitchen cabinets. Homeowners love it for its clean look, which is especially beneficial in a space that tends to get cluttered. White cabinets are simply beautiful and timeless and can be used in almost any kind of kitchen style. We expect white to remain a popular cabinet color in 2019 and probably for years to come. To break up the all-white kitchen expect to see islands in a variety of different paint colors or wood stain colors. The mixing of finishes create a needed accent piece and additional pops-of-color for the brave of heart. 3. Streamlined Designs, Materials and Textures While styles like farmhouse and mid-century modern are still popular, homeowners are getting more streamlined in their overall aesthetic, designs and alternative materials for kitchens. Stress-free environments are what you would like to come home too, and drown out the day to day stresses of life. Which usually means, simplicity. When we say streamlined, we don’t want to equate that with boring. So, consider materials with texture. If you are using open shelving, rough cut wood to bring in natural elements or metal tubing for a more industrial attitude. 4. Quartz is Still King For high-end kitchen countertops, quartz still reigns supreme. The material is extremely hardy, can last virtually forever, is a breeze to maintain and is anti-microbial. Granite, the main competitor in the high-end bracket, requires slightly more maintenance. When quartz
See TRENDS, Page 8
Crye-Leike Realtors offers new competitive commission splits Actively seeking new agents and brokers to join their team Crye-Leike is a full service real estate company founded in Memphis, TN in 1977 offering one-stop shopping services in real estate including: Residential, relocation, commercial, business brokerage, property management, REO management, mortgage lending, insurance, title & closing, home vendor referrals, auctions, rentals, franchise sales, and home builder services. As one of the nation’s largest, full service real estate companies, Crye-Leike has a network of more than 3,100 sales associates and over 125 offices located throughout a nine-state region. For forty years, Crye-Leike has delivered a passionate commitment to unsurpassed service in its communities. Crye-Leike’s commitment inspires our agents to exceed expectations by constantly improving their relationships with clients and responding quickly to their customer needs while conducting business with integrity and trust. Today Crye-Leike is the 3rd largest real estate company in the nation and boasts a record year in 2016 with sales exceeding $6.3 billion. Crye-Leike Realtors continues to grow in the Atlanta market and is actively seeking new agents and brokers to join their team! Crye-Leike’s 11 branch offices include: Cumming, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Norcross, Hall County/Lake Lanier, Woodstock, Cartersville, Smyrna, Dawsonville, Douglasville, and McDonough. Crye-Leike has accelerated expansion plans that aim to further its footprint in the greater Atlanta market with offices in Braselton, Snellville, Lawrenceville, Newnan and Peachtree City. Crye-Leike offers new competitive commission splits, cutting edge technology and marketing tools, in house and online training, referral opportunities and the tools you need to take your business to the next level. We sell more homes in the South than any other company. Please call one of our local offices today for an interview.
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 7
8 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Local entrepreneur opens Kitchen Tune-Up in Alpharetta 1-5 day kitchen updates now available in the Greater Alpharetta and Johns Creek area ALPHARETTA – Kitchen Tune-Up, a national kitchen and bath remodeling company known for its signature oneday wood restoration service, has arrived in the Atlanta metro; specifically in the Alpharetta and Johns Creek areas. Meeting the growing demand from homeowners seeking to update and upgrade the look of their kitchens, Atlanta’s Kitchen Tune-Up is serving communities throughout the greater Atlanta area with its customized services and eye-popping results. Local resident Jody Rosen has launched Kitchen Tune-Up’s operations along with the support of the company’s home office located in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The award-winning company has established itself as the industry leader with more than 30 years of success behind it. “My goal is to make kitchen updates hassle-free for homeowners in Alpharetta and the surrounding communities,” says Jody. “I want to show my neighbors that making a change in their kitchen can be fun and easy. They’ll enjoy the
experience every step of the way and will start dreaming of their next home improvement project the minute we finish.” Jody is a long-time resident of the area and is heavily involved in his community. Rosen His passion for helping people serves as the foundation to launch and grow Kitchen Tune-Up locally. “Jody is a fantastic addition to the Kitchen Tune-Up family. We have all the confidence in him to carry on the Kitchen Tune-Up tradition,” said Heidi Morrissey, president of the Kitchen Tune-Up Franchise System. “He is exactly the type of trusted partner homeowners in Alpharetta and surrounding areas need to support their remodeling project.” “I am proud to be part of such a respected company – one that has built its reputation on trust, top service and amazing results,” added Jody.
In addition to residential clients, Atlanta’s Kitchen Tune-Up offers kitchen remodeling for commercial customers. Services for both client bases include the company’s famous Tune-Up, a proprietary wood reconditioning process, as well as cabinet redooring, cabinet refacing, custom cabinets, Granite Tune-Ups and accessories. Additionally, the entire Kitchen Tune-Up program is geared to easily walk homeowners through the entire process. “There isn’t another endeavor I’d rather be committed to professionally. I am motivated to help people in my community have the kitchen they always dreamed of enjoying through the professional work we do at Kitchen Tune-Up.” While most kitchen remodeling services can take weeks, leaving kitchens inaccessible, Atlanta’s Kitchen Tune-Up can finish its work in as little time as one day. Kitchen Tune-Up’s impeccable customer service standards, known as its Trustpoints, ensure a hassle-free experience from start to finish. About Kitchen Tune-Up Founded in 1988, Kitchen TuneUp specializes in affordable kitchen updates. It is known for its signature one-day wood restoration Tune-Up, cabi-
Trends: Continued from Page 6
Duluth. $499,000 1889 Point River Drive 6BR/4BA FMLS: 6062081 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895 Ken Gary 404.693.1066
Sandy Springs. $1,150,000 5545 Cross Gate Court 6BR/4BA FMLS: 6062722 Maryanne Winchester 678.520.9922 Robin Ives 770.870.4009
Suwanee. $444,444 4101 Riverview Run Court 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 6024677 Scarlett McAllister 404.713.3538
Suwanee. $975,000 2870 Southers Circle 3BR/3.5BA FMLS: 6065626 Maryanne Winchester 678.520.9922 Chandra Baker 678.234.3937
Orchard Lake, Michigan $4,499,000 3151 W. Shore Signature Sotheby’s International Realty
Orange Beach, Alabama $1,627,000 31005 Peninsula Drive Kaiser Sotheby’s International Realty
ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | 770.442.7300 ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Artwork by John Newcomb, used with permission.
countertops first came into the market, the main worry was lack of variety in terms of colors and finishes. But with time, thanks to technology, manufacturers have provided a wide range of colors to choose from as well as realistic stone patterns. You can even get quartz finished with elaborate swirls and large veining to imitate other materials like natural stone. These unique styles have become immensely popular. 5. Effective Storage Solution Cabinetry One of the foundations to a functional kitchen is kitchen storage. If it is inadequate or ineffective, you will be faced with endless frustrations and challenges. To counter these storage challenges, homeowners are starting to look for better storage solutions within the cabinetry. These can include: appliances garages for small appliance, drawer dividers for cutlery & utensils, pull-outs for spices, tray dividers, roll-out trays and caddies for pots & pans; as well as wastebasket cabinets for garbage and recyclables and/or deep drawers. These will make it easier to store foods, drinks and small appliances. 2019 will also see a range of new kitchen storage options
While most kitchen remodeling services can take weeks, leaving kitchens inaccessible, Atlanta’s Kitchen Tune-Up can finish its work in as little time as one day. net painting, cabinet refacing, cabinet redooring, new cabinets, granite sealing and storage solutions. Celebrating 30 years of business in 2018, Kitchen Tune-Up offers personalized service and incredible results that are structured around customer service Trustpoints to ensure a hassle-free experience from start to finish. For more information about Kitchen Tune-Up, please visit www.kitchentuneup-atlanta-alpharetta.com throughout the whole kitchen–focused on making daily lives more effortless and making cooking fun. 6. Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands Kitchen islands are no longer an afterthought or something small to squeeze into the space. They have become focal points and the hub of the kitchen. One of the changes emerging is the single level larger sizing, serving multiple uses; especially since we are seeing less wall cabinet space in kitchen design. The kitchen island is meant to create an impact, and its design must make a statement. The 2019 larger kitchen islands will become the jack-of-all-trades. They will have storage solution cabinets and be fitted with various under-counter appliances while also providing seating–serving as a casual dining and/or drinking bar. To accommodate the increased size, we are seeing a tendency for the kitchen island to extend into living room spaces in homes with open plan designs. Remodeling Expo Center is a professional remodeling company with onsite design, showroom and installation services. The company covers all of North Atlanta and is open to the public at 48 King Street, Roswell GA 30342. Remodeling Expo.com, 404-910-3969
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 9
update your kitchen in 1-5 days reneW with our exclusive 1 Day Tune-Up
cleans, restores, and repairs the original finish. add new knobs for a simple but stylish update.
redoor for a modern look in 1-2 days
if you like the color of your current cabinets, update the look with a new door style in the same or complimentary color.
reface can be completed in 3-5 days
choose a new style and color for your cabinets. With redooring and refacing, the original cabinet boxes stay in place – saving the time, cost, and mess of a complete remodel.
Jody Rosen Local Owner
470.378.8337 jrosen@kitchentuneup.com kitchentuneup-atlanta-alpharetta.com Each franchise is independently owned and operated
try our free design tool kitchentuneup.com/Design-Tool Proudly serving Alpharetta and the Atlanta area.
kitchentuneup.com kitchen tune-up atlanta alpharetta
10 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Luxury living at Wescott Located in the highly sought-after Lambert High School District, Wescott is the latest luxury home community offered by award-winning builder, Patrick Malloy Luxury Communities. This luxurious enclave includes 61 homesites and top-notch amenities. Once finished, this exclusive lifestyle will include a gated entry, tennis courts, playground, swimming pool with water feature, gazebo, spa and many more activities throughout the green spaces inside the community. The community clubhouse will serve as a gathering place for friends and neighbors to enjoy summer evenings while listening to children playing outdoors. Located in affluent South Forsyth, Wescott’s location is idyllic for any family looking to live in award-winning Lambert High School. Rated one of the top high schools in the United States, it is located within walking distance and affords students a top-notch education along with Sharon Elementary and Riverwatch Middle Schools.
Nearby is a bevy of high-end shopping and dining options. Centrally located to Avalon, The Collection at Forsyth and North Point Mall, Wescott homeowners can enjoy the finer things in life inside and outside their community. While being away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Atlanta, it is still conveniently located to commuter routes and major businesses across North Atlanta. For the avid golfer, some of Atlanta’s best courses are within a 20 mile radius. If golfing is not your weekend activity of choice, there are parks weaving in and around the neighborhood next to the Chattahoochee River that are great for some fresh air activities. Wescott offers 4 floorplans starting at 4,100 square feet on homesites from one third to one half acres with slab and basement options. These homes can be built with up to 6 bedrooms for large families. The model home is located at 690 Nichols Road, Suwanee and is a must-see.
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 11
5 Tips for selling a home in Atlanta Brought to you by –BILL RAWLINGS Senior Vice President & Managing Broker, North Atlanta Office Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty For the past several years, Atlanta has been at or near the top of many “best-of” lists, including fastest growing cities. This year, Atlanta was ranked as the third fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country, mushrooming Rawlings in population by 90,000 people between 2016 and 2017. The reasons are many: excellent job markets, mild climate, a burgeoning film industry, a convenient travel hub and affordable home prices compared to other metros our size. Of course, all of this also adds up to a highly competitive housing market. While there is no shortage of interested buyers, sellers must be diligent in presenting their homes in the best possible light to ensure the buyer makes an offer on their home rather than the (slightly) nicer-looking one down the street. If you’re thinking to cash in on the vibrant housing market, here are five important tips you need to follow for selling your home in Atlanta.
where. If you price it too low, buyers may wonder what’s wrong with your house — and when you do sell, you’ll be selling yourself short. A knowledgeable agent can help you do research on comparable homes in your area to make sure you set a price that the market will support while also being fair to you as the seller. You’ll also sell more quickly without the need for price reductions. Take great photos. First impressions take place online, not at the curb. By the time you have a showing, those prospective buyers have already pored over hundreds if not thousands of photos online. Posting poorlytaken, unfavorably-lit photos can cause your home to be overlooked by many great buyers. Unless you take pictures yourself at a professional level, it’s worth investing in a professional photographer to showcase your home in the best light. Stage your home. These days, staging your home properly can shave months off your listing time and boost your sales price by double-digit percentage points. Failing to stage or staging improperly can have the opposite effect. If you’re still living in your home, make sure you declutter, remove excessive personal touches and store a few furniture pieces, if necessary, to make sure buyers have a clear, welcoming pathway through your home. If your home is already vacant or if you don’t have a budget to hire a staging professional, consider some form of virtual home staging so buyers can visualize your home online with the décor of their choice.
While there is no shortage of interested buyers, sellers must be diligent in presenting their homes in the best possible light to ensure the buyer makes an offer on their home rather than the (slightly) nicer-looking one down the street.
Spruce it up. Before listing your home, consider investing in improvements and updates. If your home is more than a few years old, focus on updates to the kitchen, bathrooms and outdoor spaces as buyers tend to be most attracted to these features (plus, they tend to boost selling prices). Also, make sure your flooring looks its best and consider replacing these if necessary. Even a fresh coat of paint and updated landscaping will help. In the Atlanta market, first impressions matter. Price it right. One of the biggest hindrances to a quick sale in Atlanta is pricing a home incorrectly. Atlanta home buyers are market-savvy. If you price it too aggressively in relation to comparable homes in your neighborhood, buyers will either give you low-ball offers or look else-
Work with an experienced Atlanta agent. All the above tips aside, every home, every neighborhood and every selling experience is different and unique. To maximize your efforts, consider working with an experienced Atlanta real estate agent who can help you create an individualized marketing plan designed to get your home sold quickly and at the best possible price. For more information on selling a home in Atlanta, contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty today at 770.442.7300.
Alpharetta. $1,699,000 1045 Bedford Gardens Drive 6BR/6BA/2HBA FMLS: 6031829 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895
Alpharetta. $1,899,000 3014 Kettering Court 5BR/6.5BA FMLS: 6068340 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895 Ken Gary 404.693.1066
Alpharetta. $2,499,990 1008 Cherbury Lane 5BR/6.5BA FMLS: 6068306 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895 Ken Gary 404.693.1066
Alpharetta. $539,000 445 Oak Laurel Court 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 6060834 Michelle Pittman 404.402.7124
Alpharetta. $709,900 230 Society Street 5BR/4.5BA FMLS: 6065774 Matthew Schwartzhoff 678.591.6902
Cumming. $379,000 2815 Saddlebrook Glen Drive 4BR/3BA FMLS: 6063266 Kristin Sheehan 404.247.0232
Dawsonville. $608,000 500 Gold Creek Drive 5BR/5BA/2HBA FMLS: 6058301 Anita Wheeler 404.219.1938
Johns Creek. $435,000 5485 Cameron Forest Parkway 4BR/2.5BA FMLS: 6068260 Denise Sperier 404.245.1887
Johns Creek. $489,900 200 Devon Downs Place 5BR/3.5BA FMLS: 6063763 Karen Reynolds 404.569.9521
Milton. $1,100,000 110 Foxhollow Trail 6BR/6BA/2HBA FMLS: 6045427 Brandon Anderson 404.313.1378
Milton. $359,900 3459 Archgate Court 4BR/2.5BA FMLS: 6068475 Angela Miller 404.964.1823
Roswell. $1,050,000 8696 River Bluff Lane 6BR/5BA/2HBA FMLS: 6025725 Maryanne Winchester 678.520.9922
Roswell. $619,000 3105 Bywater Trail 4BR/4.5BA FMLS: 6038912 Michelle Pittman 404.402.7124
Woodstock. $474,900 168 N. Foxtail Road 3BR/3BA FMLS: 6024440 Theresa Strait 404.483.1894 Geri Beckmann 404.290.2330
Nantucket, Massachusetts $3,550,000 57 Quidnet Road Maury People Sotheby’s International Realty
ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | 770.442.7300 ©MMXVIII Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Artwork by John Newcomb, used with permission.
12 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Hillandale’s Southern charm Located in historic Roswell, Hillandale is an intimate enclave of 36 homes built by Patrick Malloy Homes’ Luxury Collection. Inspired by the streetscapes of Charleston, South Carolina, these homes bring their own charm to an already attractive lifestyle near downtown Roswell. The community was spared no expense when pebble stone driveways were chosen to complement the pebble stone walkways for each home, as well as the community sidewalks. It is easy to imagine a warm summer’s evening spent on the gracious front porches that include gas lighting on select plans. Once inside the homes, their grandeur alone is breathtaking. Accompanied by huge living spaces, these homes include such features as double-sided fireplaces and master retreats with freestanding soaking tubs. To ensure maximum entertainment capacity, Patrick Malloy Homes is proud to introduce the latest in indoor/outdoor living concepts. An entire wall of windows slips into a pocket to create a
complete indoor/outdoor living space between the family room and the covered patio. The patio also includes a fireplace in case there is a chill in the evening. Once the wall of windows is open to the back yard, each home’s private garden is a clear reflection of the homeowner’s style. With a choice of several garden ideas, each homeowner can meet with a landscape architect to design a unique garden experience of his/her choosing. With so many choices, each garden is sure to be unique and inspiring for the avid gardener. For homeowners with pets, we have ideas to pamper them as well. Hillandale offers custom pet packages to allow extra storage and space for your furry, four-legged friends. These packages include a consultation with a professional pet space designer. Hillandale is in close proximity to many private schools and is now building your home ready for move-in late summer 2018.
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 13
The spring home selling market starts now By: Eve Jones Harry Norman Realtors The temperatures have barely dipped below 85 degrees and the fall leaves, football and sweaters will be a welcomed change. And, it’s also about the time to start preparing for your spring-time home sale! I know that’s not what you want to hear, but it really does take 4-6 months to properly prepare for a springtime home listing. So, get those remodeling projects going soon. Here’s some insight on projects that won’t break the bank and give you a nice return on your investment. Firstly, “kitchen and baths” sell homes, and even a minor update can have a big impact. For a minor bath remodel, we’re talking about maybe a $8K-$10K investment which would include new quartz or granite counters, freshly painted cabinets and walls, tiled shower and tiled floors. Also, a new seamless glass shower surround adds the illusion of more space. In terms of a minor kitchen remodel, you could spend $15K upgrading the counters to granite or quartz (honed and leathered texture for the granite is a current favorite), plus new midgrade stainless appliances, freshly painted or resurfaced cabinets,
subway back splash and lighting. All of those upgrades would make buyers very, very happy. The landscaping is kind of a nobrainer. It is your investment in the buyers’ first impression of your home. Spend $2-4K updating old foundation plants (and overgrown shrubbery) or fill in missing/died sod. Adding some seasonal color and fresh mulch is critical to boost the all-important curb appeal. Exterior improvements are the obvious fresh paint but repairing any wood rot and using a more current tone on tone color palate is highly recommended, as the stark 1990s white trim dates a home. If you have defective LP siding, replacing it will help ease buyers worries about that looming expense. Next on the list is a deck/porch/patio addition at 83%. I suspect it could be higher down here in the south given our moderate weather. The costs can range greatly from $12K for a new medium sized deck to $100K for a covered porch with builtin fireplace. Using high-end materials like Ipe wood/Tigerwood decking or the latest durable composite materials seems to pay off as well. Another highly rated project, according to HGTV, goes to window replacement offering an 89%
return. My experience would estimate that number to be a little lower. I have never seen buyers jump up and down about new windows, but they do have a strong aversion to old single paned windows. So, it’s debatable. One thing I do know, consulting with an experienced
real estate agent well ahead of starting home renovation projects is a good idea and it’s true what they say, “you have to spend money to make money”. Let me know if I can help get you ahead of your spring home sale. Eve Jones – 770.365.1406.
14 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
Exterior Shutters
Call Today For Your FREE Consult
678.662.4815
Exterior shutter trends for 2018 Raised Panel
Louvered
Shaker Raised
Board & Batten
Custom Exterior Shutters From Dupbel Millworks Inc. Composite wood • Rot, moisture and insect resistant Custom designs, sizes and colors • Environmentally friendly materials Locally manufactured • Fully insured • Prompt and courteous service
Your Local Manufacturer of Custom Exterior Shutters
678-662-4815
Composite wood, rot resistant, exterior shutters for residential and commercial
See us on the web at www.Dupbel.com
Exterior Shutters plays an important part in the overall look and feel of your home. Let’s explore some of the popular trends we see for 2018. Simplicity: Try using simple shutters for a pure, uncluttered effect to allow other beautiful features on the outside of your home to shine. It is in line with minimalism, where you incorporate clean, refreshing looks, while adding a nice touch to your decor. To follow this trend, use shutters with sharp lines, minimal details and neutral colors. Here we will propose something like a flat panel shutter, and/ or a shutter with one large single panel, or even a board and batten style with no battens (horizontal pieces). Lighten up: Color plays a big role in the overall appearance of your home, and while exterior shutters are typically dark colored, we’ve seen an uptick in lighter colored shutters. This works especially well when trying to modernize the look of an older building. Light colored walls, combined with shutters in a slightly darker hue seems to be the norm. Whites and greys works very well and is a trend that will be with us for a while. Stick with the basics: Exterior shutters should never overpower the look of your house and not all homes lend itself to the exotic. There’s nothing wrong with some traditional Raised Panel style shutters or even Louvered shutters to give a traditional, formal house a neat and tidy look. Board and Batten shutters works well on a
house with a mix of exterior surfaces (brick and stone, or siding and shingles). For Raised Panel style shutters, make sure the panels mimic the windows, for Louvers you can try a wider slat, and with Board and Batten shutters we see a trend to use more, but narrower Boards (vertical pieces). Add flair and personality: Another subtle way of giving you home a one-of-a-kind appearance is to add custom cutouts to your shutters. Let your home’s personality shine with just about any shape you can imagine, from stars and crescent moons to palm trees and hearts. Go bold and traditional with a full cutout, or subtle and interesting with only a small relief cut on the outside corner. This obviously only works on paneled or Board and Batten style shutters. The exterior of your home is the first impression for people coming up to your house. Shutters play a crucial role in making or breaking that first impression. It makes sense to ensure you incorporate the shutters to form a pleasant and unified appearance. Dupbel Millworks Inc. manufactures exteriors shutters using only weather resistant materials. Our core business is shutters made from a composite wood material that is rot, insect and weather resistant. We manufacture a series of shutters styles and are fully equipped to help you design the specific look you desire, and every shutter is custom made based on your house, windows and design.
Milton Run Located in the new city of Milton, Milton Run is the latest in exclusive homes offered by Patrick Malloy’s Luxury Collection. With only 29 wooded homesites in the heart of Milton priced from the $700s, these homes will sell out fast. Located in the highly ranked Cambridge High School district, these homes offer square footages from 2,806 to 4,251. Milton Run offers 5 farmhouse-styled floorplans from which to choose and options include basement and slab homesites. With 1+ acre homesites, there is sure to be a home that fits your family’s needs. Choose from homes as cozy as 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths or as large as 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Modern living with farmhouse charm resonates throughout the property with beautiful exteriors and charming interiors that combine modern upgrades with the local flavor of horse country. These homes offer the latest in home design for the most discriminating homeowner. The front elevations include brick, real stone, shake, and/or boardn-batten. 10’ smooth ceilings throughout the first floor give these homes a palatial feeling. The gourmet kitchens are large
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
with state-of-the-art appliances plus the latest in countertop technology. The open floorplans are designed for ease in entertaining. Milton Run is located in the Birmingham Falls Elementary, Hopewell Middle and Cambridge High School district with
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 15
easy access to shopping and dining. A newly Decorated Model is now open and offers the best in classic farmhouse elegance. The Wellington, a ranch plan, and the Darlington, a 2-story home with a private guest retreat are ready to tour. Known for its pastoral landscapes
and tranquil spaces, Milton offers its residents both easy access to the conveniences of Atlanta and the beauty of rural living. Located north of Atlanta, Milton Run is a unique combination of posh, pastoral and picturesque living as only found in Milton, Georgia.
Keeping it Real. Keeping it Rural.
$10K ANY WAY & $5,000 in Closing Costs*
New Homes from the $700s
1+ Acre Homesites
16320 Freemanville Road | Milton, GA 30004 678.578.6821 | PMCommunities.com
Cambridge H.S. District Sought-after Milton
Traveling on GA 400 North take exit 11 (Windward Parkway) and turn left. Road will change names to Cogburn and then Hopewell Road. Turn left on Birmingham Road then right on Henderson Road. Turn left on Freemanville Road and Milton Run is immediately on your left.
*see agent for details.
16 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
The Memory Center Atlanta The Memory Center Atlanta is the Southeast Region’s most unique, allinclusive, residential memory care community for people living with Alzheimer’s and any other form of dementia. A diagnosis of dementia does not mean that you cannot keep many aspects of your current lifestyle. It simply means you may need assistance maintaining that lifestyle. At The Memory Center Atlanta, we strive to ensure you truly live with us. Daily activities include Music, Dancing, Local Entertainment, Outings, Art Therapy, Pet Therapy, Religious Services and more. Enjoy a drink in the Chattahoochee Tavern, grab a movie in the Fox Theater or enjoy an ice cream cone at the Bull Dog Café. All residents experience socialization and activities and
those who need 24/7 medical care will benefit from the care provided at The Memory Center Atlanta. We are proud to have Dr. Gary Figiel, M.D., a locally and nationally renowned expert in the field of geriatric healthcare, as the Medical Director. Dr. Figiel works with our team of Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants to provide 24/7 care within the comfort of your loved one’s new home. Don’t let a crisis determine where your loved one can receive care. Deciding on memory care early enough, will allow your loved one the opportunity to have the best quality of life and that decision is priceless. Schedule a tour of The Memory Center Atlanta and learn more about how our entire team works together to provide a seamless transition
for your loved one into their new home. Located at 12050 Findley Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097, less than ½ mile in
from Medlock Bridge Rd. and directly behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Call Today – (770) 476-3678.
NORTH ATLANTA’S HOT TOPICS ON PODCAST
Go to NorthFulton.com, click on Podcasts and select Inside The Box
Real Estate report • Sponsored Section
NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | October 2018 | 17
for women by women
Pick up Northside Woman at any of the following locations:
Alpharetta 2B Whole Bakery Alpha Soda ARIA Salon BELSO Home Studio Brazilian Wax by Andreia Cactus Car Wash Capstone Chiropractic Cuzi Fresh Café Expedia Cruiseship Centers Exquisite Living Fresco Art Galerie & Café Honey & Hazel Boutique Iroff & Son Jewelry Mammoth Car Wash & Detail Salon Marmi Shoes – Avalon Metropolitan Club Never Enough Thyme Queen of Hearts Southern Porch Youthtopia Med Spa
Cumming ARIA Salon Atlanta Diamond Design Celebration Village Senior Living Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Don’s Farmers Market Paul Martin Interiors Johns Creek Atlanta Diamond Design Brooklyn Bagel Deli Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce Shoe Gallery Taylor Brooks Hair Salon The Red Hound Gifts Village Animal Hospital Milton Piedmont Urgent Care Loving Hands Animal Clinic
770-442-3278 www.northsidewoman.com
Roswell Aesthetic Specialty Centre Facelogic Spa Georgian Lakeside Assisted Living JH Design Studio Roswell CVB Roswell Dental Care Raiford Gallery Roswell Inc. Shoe Gallery Tuscany Fine Furnishings Wedding Angels
18 | October 2018 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Real estate report • Sponsored Section
PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK PIZZA BURGER SANDWICH LUNCH BREAK TOFU SALAD HOTDOG LUNCH BREAK Aspiring foodies AJ McNaughton and Kathleen Sturgeon attempt to learn all there is to know about the culinary industry. They are joined weekly by experts in the culinary industry, as well as their friends, to discuss food myths, play games and tell stories from the kitchen. Lunch Break is part of the Appen Media Group family of podcasts based in Alpharetta, Georgia. Download and subscribe today wherever you listen to podcasts.
NORTHFULTON.COM/PODCASTS