The growth of Johns Creek
From pastureland to ‘Most Desirable Place to Live’
Brought to you by – Heather Lee, Realtor, Founding Member, 404-455-9506
Just a few decades ago, much of Johns Creek was rolling pastureland dotted with horse farms, two-lane roads, and tight-knit rural communities. Today, it consistently ranks among the most desirable places to live in metro Atlanta, a transformation that tells a story of careful planning, community investment, and a shared vision for quality of life.
Until the late 1970’s, Johns Creek remained largely agricultural, with open land and modest neighborhoods. The area began to change in the 1980s and 1990s as subdivisions and country club communities like St. Ives and Country Club of the South brought new residents seeking suburban living with a touch of luxury. The area’s history stretches back further
than its farming years. It was originally inhabited by the Cherokee people, who lived along the Chattahoochee River until their forced removal in the 1830s. Afterward, the land was divided into farms and homesteads, and by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Johns Creek was characterized by dairy operations, cotton farming, and familyowned general stores that served as gathering places. One of these historical general stores, the “Green Country Store” that once sat at the intersection of Buice and Old Alabama from the 1920s to 1958, can still be visited today at the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Centers.
In 2006, Johns Creek officially became
a city, giving residents more control over zoning, development, and public services. This move was pivotal in shaping the city’s distinct identity. Leaders emphasized schools, safety, and green space as cornerstones of growth.
The city’s reputation for academic excellence is the main driving force behind its growth. Schools like Northview, Chattahoochee and Johns Creek High consistently rank among Georgia’s top performers, drawing families from across the country.
As Johns Creek grows, so did efforts to preserve its natural beauty. Parks along the Chattahoochee River, extensive trail systems, and new developments like Cauley Creek Park ensure that green space remains a priority. Recent projects, including the planned Town Center, signal the city’s push to offer cultural and commercial amenities while
maintaining its suburban charm.
Today, Johns Creek is known for its diversity, strong economy, and blend of suburban calm with urban convenience. It regularly appears on “best places to live” lists, praised for safety, schools, and quality of life. While traffic and limited housing supply remain challenges, the city has largely managed to balance growth with livability.
From farmland to thriving suburb, Johns Creek’s story is one of transformation, but also of intention. Its future will depend on how leaders and residents manage development while keeping the qualities that made it desirable in the first place. As Mayor John Bradberry recently remarked, “Johns Creek is more than a place to live. It’s a place where people want to put down roots, raise families, and build a community.”
LEE
Wills Park living
Luxury homes for the equestrian heart
Brought to you by – Jacqui Carlyle, Realtor, Founding Member, 970-379-8830
At HOME Luxury Real Estate, I’ve built my business around helping clients find homes that match their lifestyle. For me, lifestyle is deeply personal, because outside of real estate, I’m also a rider and competitor.
Horses have been part of my life for years, and that perspective shapes the way I see Alpharetta’s most unique amenity: Wills Park. Wills Park is a 120-acre treasure in the heart of Alpharetta, but the equestrian center is where my heart always goes. Spanning 50 acres, the center offers nearly 300 stalls, multiple show rings, and a covered arena that hosts everything from hunter-jumper competitions to rodeos. I’ve
competed here, spent countless weekends walking the barns, and know first-hand the sense of community this facility creates.
With the City of Alpharetta and the Wills Park Foundation’s investment in a multi-milliondollar master plan, the equestrian center is only getting better. New barns, improved footing, and enhanced spectator spaces ensure Wills Park remains a top-tier destination for riders. As both a competitor and a resident, I’m proud to see this commitment to equestrian sport. Living near Wills Park is about more than location, it’s about access to a lifestyle.
For equestrians, the ability to keep horses close by or ride in a facility of this caliber just minutes from home is priceless. For others, the prestige of being near such a distinctive amenity adds to the appeal and long-term value of their investment. Luxury buyers in Alpharetta often seek more than just square footage or finishes. They want homes that reflect who they are and how they live. For horse owners, that might mean an estate with acreage, paddocks, and barns. For others, it’s a sophisticated home within minutes of the equestrian center, close enough to enjoy the atmosphere, even if they don’t ride. What I love about Wills Park is that it’s truly for everyone.
While I’m there most often with my horse, the park is also alive with families at ballgames, children at the playground, and neighbors gathering for concerts and festivals. That energy builds a sense of commu-
nity that enhances every property nearby. Because I ride and compete, I understand what equestrian buyers are looking for, acreage, barns, fencing, zoning, and, most importantly, proximity to facilities like Wills Park. I can walk clients through the unique considerations of owning horse property, from maintenance to lifestyle value. For sellers, I know how to position a home, so it speaks directly to buyers who appreciate the prestige of living near Alpharetta’s equestrian hub.
Wills Park is more than a landmark, it’s where my two passions, real estate and riding, come together. For those seeking a luxury lifestyle that blends suburban convenience with equestrian tradition, the neighborhoods around Wills Park offer something truly special. As someone who knows this community from both the saddle and the sales side, I’d love to help you find your place here.
CARLYLE
Fall vs Spring: Timing your move for maximum impact
When people think of real estate, spring often gets all the attention. Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and school schedules traditionally make it the most popular season to list a home or start shopping. But in today’s market, fall can be a sweet spot for both buyers and sellers. If you’re wondering whether to make a move now or wait until spring, here’s what to consider. While spring may bring more listings, fall often delivers serious buyers. Families hoping to settle before the holidays or the new year are typically motivated to make quick decisions. Fewer homes on the market also means less competition, which can help your property stand out and even command stronger offers. Homes show beautifully in the fall, too. Crisp air, cozy décor, and colorful landscaping create a welcoming atmosphere that photographs well and makes showings feel inviting. Buyers often respond emotionally to that “home for the holidays” vibe, which can translate into faster sales.
Buyers gain their own set of advantages. With fewer
competing buyers than during the busy spring rush, you’ll face less pressure on pricing and can often include longer contingencies in your offer. Sellers who list in the fall are often eager to close before year-end, giving buyers potential leverage in negotiations on price, closing costs, or repairs.
Mortgage rates fluctuate frequently. They are currently at the lowest levels we’ve seen over the past year.
While future movements remain uncertain, the Federal Reserve still has several meetings scheduled before year-end that could influence where rates head in 2026. Fall may also bring modest seasonal dips as lenders work to meet annual benchmarks, creating a timely opportunity for buyers to secure financing before market shifts take hold.
Spring still offers undeniable perks. Inventory typically rises, giving buyers more homes to choose from and sellers access to a larger pool of shoppers. Warmer weather can make moving and home inspections easier. If you’re making major updates or simply need more
time to prepare, waiting until spring could provide breathing room. However, more inventory also means more competition. Sellers may face multiple competing listings in their neighborhood, while buyers can find themselves in bidding wars during peak season.
Ultimately, the right time to buy or sell depends on your personal situation. If you value less competition, motivated counterparts, and a chance to close before the holidays, fall offers a compelling window. If you need the widest selection or aren’t ready to move quickly, spring might be your match. For many in today’s market, the biggest takeaway is that there’s no “one perfect season” anymore. With steady demand and year-round activity, the best time to make a move is when you’re ready—and when a trusted real estate professional can help you navigate the unique opportunities each season brings.
Whether you embrace the cozy charm of fall or wait for spring’s fresh bloom, planning ahead will help you make the most of whichever season becomes your sweet spot. Reach out to Caroline Nalisnick with HOME Real Estate to help strategize your next move! Caroline Nalisnick | 404-513-9226 | caroline@homegeorgia.com
Brought to you by – By Caroline Nalisnick, Realtor, Founding Member, 404-513-9226
NALISNICK
Travis Reed, Rachel Provow, and Allison Kloster
Lake Lanier
Move-in ready homes offer fall buyers unmatched opportunities in North Atlanta
Brought to you by –
Berkhshire Hathaway
As the crisp fall air arrives in North Atlanta, so does a unique opportunity for homebuyers: an impressive selection of move-in ready homes, thoughtfully priced and waiting for their next owners. For those eager to make a move before the new year and reap the benefits of new home ownership, award-winning builders like Patrick Malloy Communities and David Patterson Homes are making it possible right now.
Charleston Charm in Roswell
In Roswell, Hillandale offers its final chance to own in this Charleston-inspired enclave. Designed with elegance and convenience in mind, the homes include four bedrooms and four baths, with a sought-after main-level suite. Wide entertaining spaces—both indoors and out—set the tone for gatherings with family and friends, while the HOA maintains both front and rear lawns. Just minutes from Historic Roswell, Hillandale pairs timeless architecture with a low-maintenance lifestyle from the $900s.
Resort-Style Living in Canton
Active adults looking for a vibrant 55+ community will find a standout option in Soleil Belmont Park. Located between Milton and Canton, this gated development has
quickly become one of Georgia’s premier addresses for the active adult seeking connection and a resort lifestyle. Five homes are currently available for quick move-in, priced from $747,380 to $769,875. With a newly opened pool, pickleball and tennis courts, bocce ball, walking trails, and a community garden, Soleil Belmont Park delivers true resort-style living alongside beautifully designed homes. Resort community clubhouse is opening in November.
Custom Living Across Forsyth and Beyond
David Patterson Homes is also ready to welcome buyers today, offering diverse options ranging from townhomes to lakefront estates. At Brooks Pond in Forsyth County, spacious two-acre homesites provide a rare blend of privacy and luxury, with homes crafted to showcase modern finishes and expansive layouts. One stunning home, offered for $919,000, is currently available showcasing the Estate Collection hallmark of refined architectural details, expansive layouts and modern finishes.
Nearby in Gainesville, Scarlet Grace Lane offers boutique living with just four homesites on 2–3-acre lots. A move-in ready European farmhouse-inspired home is currently available, priced at $924,000, complete with a threecar garage, covered outdoor living, and five bedrooms. For those drawn to the water, Long Hollow Landing on Lake
Lanier delivers one of the last new-home opportunities with direct lake access. A move-in ready estate, offered at $1,365,000, includes five bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a coveted deeded boat slip—an unmatched combination of luxury and leisure.
Townhome Convenience in Dawsonville
For buyers seeking value without compromise, Downtown Fausett Townhomes in Dawsonville provide an attractive option. Starting in the mid-$300s, this limited collection of 24 homes blends European transitional style with modern comfort. Three townhomes are move-in ready now, each with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a location that offers both small-town charm and easy access to Lake Lanier.
With so many diverse communities offering immediate occupancy, North Atlanta buyers have more choices than ever to step into their dream home this fall. Whether it’s lakeside luxury, active adult living, or a low-maintenance townhome, these move-in ready homes prove that the best time to buy is now.
Patrick Malloy Communities and David Patterson Homes are represented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. For details, visit BHHSGANewHomes.com. EHO.
Step inside the world of Amish woodworking
Brought
to you by
– DutchCrafters Amish Furniture
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture in Alpharetta will host a special Amish Woodworker Meet & Greet on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 1–3 p.m. at the showroom, located at 160 N Main Street. The event offers a rare opportunity to meet three of DutchCrafters’ top Amish woodworkers and gain insight into the artistry behind heirloom-quality furniture.
For generations, Amish artisans have relied on time-honored techniques such as mortise-and-tenon and dovetail joinery to create furniture built to last for decades. At the meet and greet, guests will hear firsthand stories about the woodworking tradition, learn how design inspiration is blended with old-world craftsmanship, and experience the meticulous attention to detail that sets Amish furniture apart. Attendees will also enjoy exclusive storewide savings, complimentary light bites and drinks, and the chance to win a $500 gift certificate.
The Alpharetta Showroom provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of craft and community. Spanning 12,000 square feet, the space displays solid wood furniture, lighting, and décor for
every room in the home. Each piece is handcrafted by Amish woodworkers in Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, with customization options available to suit individual tastes. From contemporary styles to traditional designs, the furniture is as durable as it is beautiful.
Since opening in 2022, DutchCrafters
Alpharetta has become a destination for those seeking heirloom-quality, American-made furniture. Knowledgeable furniture specialists in the showroom’s design center help guide customers through furniture styles, finishes, and customization options to create pieces tailored to their vision. The location has
quickly earned recognition, being named Best Furniture/Home Décor Store from 2023–2025 in the Best of North Atlanta Awards.
DutchCrafters invites the community to join them on October 8 for an afternoon of craftsmanship, conversation, and connection.
Why a turnkey, one-stop shop
When it comes to remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, the process can quickly become overwhelming. From creating ideas and solutions, and selecting materials to finding contractors for plumbing, electrical work, and installation, managing multiple vendors and services can be stressful.
Remodeling projects start with a vision but bringing that vision to life requires expertise. An in-house design team needs to work closely with you to create a customized plan that reflects your personal style, and preferences, and stays within your budget—offering services like 3D renderings, so you can visualize your space before any work begins. With expert guidance every step of the way, you can be confident your project is set up for success.
Coordinating multiple contractors—plumbers, electricians, tile installers, and more—can be timeconsuming and frustrating. With a turnkey remodeler, you get full-service project management, to handle every aspect of the renovation. Having a team to ensure that the design, material selection, scheduling, and
installation are all aligned to create a smooth, stress-free experience is key. You don’t have to worry about chasing contractors or keeping up with timelines—it will be done all for you.
PROVIDED
One of the biggest advantages of working with a one-stop shop is the convenience of having everything you need in one place. A great showroom should be filled with an extensive
selection of cabinetry in a variety of styles and finishes, plumbing fixtures from top brands, countertops including granite, quartz, marble, and more, tile for floors and backsplashes, and hardware to complete your design. Rather than running around town searching for materials, you can explore all your options under one roof, with our team guiding you through each choice.
Choosing a turnkey, one-stop-shop remodeler like Bath & Kitchen Galleria means more than just convenience—it means a smoother, more enjoyable remodeling experience with expert guidance, seamless coordination, and a wide selection of top-quality products to choose from while staying in your budget.
Whether you're transforming your bathroom or remodeling your kitchen, Bath & Kitchen Galleria is here to handle every detail, so you can sit back and enjoy the results! For more information visit Bath & Kitchen Galleria’s showroom at 10591 Old Alabama Rd Connector in Alpharetta (no appointment needed) M-F, 9-5 and Saturday, 10-4, or call them at 678459-2292 or visit BathandKitchenGalleria.com to schedule an appointment online.
• Curated, Transitional, Urban Farmhouse Homes
• Lakeside Community with Lake Lanier Access
• Community Courtesy Docks with Swim Platforms
• Gathering Area Pavilion with Fireplace
• 5 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 3 Car Garages
Community Dock with Boatslips
Lake Views from Covered Porch
Tune-Up Projects
Kitchen Tune-Up
Paint Cabinets
New Countertops, Sink & Faucet
New Backsplash
Cut Down 2-level
Island
Bathroom Tune-Up
New Countertops, Sink & Faucet
Enlarge Shower
Shower Glass
Shower Safety
Full Remodel Projects
Kitchen Remodel
Total Cabinet Replacement
Large Island
Optimize Cabinet / Appliance Locations
Open Concept –Move Walls
9-5 Mon-Fri • 10-4 Sat
Showroom – Design Center 10591 Old Alabama Rd. Connector
Bathroom Remodel
New Larger Shower
Vanity Replacement –Cabs, Counter, Sink
Free Standing Tub
Floor Tile, Wall Tile
Plumbing Fixtures
From antique to modern
The art of exceptional rugs and service
Brought to you by – Concept Home Rugs
With over 42 years of experience in the rug industry, I have mastered every aspect, from manufacturing and retail to wholesale distribution. My journey has allowed me to collaborate with artisans from around the globe, offering a diverse collection that includes everything from timeless antiques to modern designs.
At our Alpharetta store, we pride ourselves on a 100% satisfaction guarantee and offer a white-glove service with delivery. We also provide professional cleaning and repair for antique rugs, ensuring that every piece remains in pristine condition. We invite you to visit us and experience the artistry and quality that only decades of expertise can offer. Discover the perfect rug for your space!
GRAND OPENING SALE
With over 40 years of expertise in the oriental carpet industry, we’re excited to open our new showroom, offering a wide selection of authentic, high-quality handmade and power-loom rugs, new, semi antique and antique oriental rugs from around the world, including Persia, India, China, Turkey, and Egypt. We offer all sizes, up to palace sizes, at the best prices around. Conveniently located on the corner of State Bridge and Kimball Bridge, come visit our new showroom to experience top notch quality, prices, and white glove services!
Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 1pm-6pm
Thinking about DIY-ing your estate plan? Read this first
Brought to you by – Estates Law Center USA
Estate planning is more than filling out forms, it’s about protecting your legacy, your loved ones, and your peace of mind. Here are 7 powerful reasons to hire an experienced estate planning attorney instead of going it alone:
1:️ State-specific expertise
2:️ Customized solutions (no templates!)
3:️ Avoiding costly mistakes
4:️ Tax strategies to preserve your assets
5:️ Ongoing updates and legal support
6:️ Preventing family conflict
7:️ True peace of mind—for you and your heirs
Estate planning is personal. A professional makes sure your wishes are protected now and for years to come. The biggest growing segment of the population in probate court is now the do it yourself wills and trust online, which makes probate even more expensive than the typical 5-15 percent of your gross assets as probate costs according to AARP study.
Want to learn how to get started the right way?
Join one of our free estate planning workshops.
HOLLY GEERDES Estate Law Center USA Top 5% Super Lawyer in Georgia
Local news is vital for staying informed and connected, and through this collaboration, we’re making it easier than ever. Now, you can access timely updates and our stories about the things happening in your area, all while engaging in meaningful conversations with real neighbors.
Don’t miss out on the stories that matter most to you –join us on your favorite social media platform to stay connected with everything that’s happening. Together, let’s build stronger, more informed communities!
We are looking for one person or couple interested in delivering weekly newspapers in South Forsyth, Alpharetta and the Johns Creek areas.
Requirements: Must have a perfect driving record and background check, reliable transportation, honest, hard-working and positive attitude.
For more information or to apply, email heidi@appenmedia.com and include a paragraph or two about who you are and any relevant background/experience. In the subject line of the email please put “Delivery Route Application.”
