Real Estate Report, September 2016

Appen Media Group

Real Estate Report September Special Section

2 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

2 | NorthFulton.com | September 2016

Sponsored Section

Benefits of using a Realtor when selling your home Brought to you by: BILL RAWLINGS Vice President/Managing Broker, North Atlanta Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty When considering whether to sell your home on your own versus with an agent, make sure to keep this information in mind when weighing your decision. Buying and selling a home is a big task that is very emotional and comes with great expenses. By using a REALTOR®, you are protected by your agent who has infinite real estate resources, years of first-hand experience, knowledge of the different markets and knows the appropriate marketing tactics to utilize to get your home sold.

In 2015, the National Association of REALTORS® found that 85% of total sales were made with REALTORS®, 7% with non-member licenses and 8% with for sale by owner.

The National Association of REALTORS® has shown that in order for a homeowner to sell their home and receive qualified buyers, they must pay a buyer’s agent up to 3%. That being said, the perceived 6% that rawlings an agent makes off a sale is now only a 3% savings from the start. The following are benefits of the extra 3% that will get paid to your REALTOR® during a sale.

An amount that truly cannot be matched when using a REALTOR® is the cost of marketing. Professionally designed marketing materials, quality photos and signage can cost up to $3,500 and beyond. These items are typically covered by the agent through a team of marketing professionals provided by their company to assist

with all of their marketing needs. When partnered with a REALTOR®, your listing is entered into First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS) and Georgia Multiple Listing Service (GeorgiaMLS), this alone allows your listing to be seen by thousands of real estate professionals and filter to hundreds of brokers and real estate websites.

Safety is of the utmost importance when introducing prospective buyers into your home. When allowing strangers into your home, it is critical that a lockbox be installed, which typically costs around ninety-five dollars and would be handled by the agent otherwise. Your legal safety is also something to consider.

There are immense liabilities involved in the legitimacy of real estate transactions. By using an agent, you have access to a broker, as well as real estate attorney 24/7, in the case that an issue is to arise. This wealth of

knowledge comes from years of education, continued education classes and a lifetime of experience.

Finally, people who are looking for homes that are for sale by owner are looking for a bargain. When using a professional agent, your agent will negotiate for you, with your best interest in mind. Agents largely rely on referrals for their business, so satisfied clients are their main goal.

Your agent will work hard to get you the most money for your home. So, please keep all of these factors in mind if you are thinking of selling your home yourself, the costs and risks associated with the transaction rest solely on you, the homeowner.

Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty agents deliver results.

Allow one of our dedicated professionals to assist you by visiting atlantafinehomes.com or calling our office at 770.442.7300.

Alpharetta. $279,000 2435 Highland Pass 4BR/2.5BA FMLS: 5732138 Reed Guthrie 404.808.9953

Alpharetta. $680,000-725,000 Windsong Townhomes - Marjean Way 4BR/3.5BA FMLS: 5659096 Charlcie Forehand 678.613.4422 Karen Salter 770.309.7309

Clarksville. $2,500,000 1305 New Liberty Road 4BR/4Full 2half BA FMLS: 5687886 Anita Wheeler 404.219.1938

Cumming. $389,000 5986 Bond Street 3BR/3.5BA FMLS: 5715022 Jessica Huffman 404.784.7774

Cumming. $399,900 5515 Chestnut Drive 5BR/4BA FMLS: 5706783 Theresa Strait 404.483.1894

Cumming. $429,000 6195 Heritage Manor Drive 5BR/4BA FMLS: 5684380 Mandy Thompson 404.372.2651

Cumming. $509,000 6025 Alder Way 6BR/5.5BA FMLS: 5733939 Chandra Baker 678.234.3937

Lake Lanier. $999,500 5973 Blackberry Lane 5BR/4Full 2half BA FMLS: 5730046 Paul Wegener 404.713.7895

Hailey, Idaho $19,500,000 Property ID: N2VCRX Sun Valley Sotheby’s International Realty

Santa Fe, New Mexico $1,800,000 Property ID: TC7BDW Sotheby’s International Realty Santa Fe - Main Downtown Brokerage

ATLANTAFINEHOMES.COM | 770.442.7300 © MMXVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Artwork Fred Wagner, used with permission. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 3

4 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

Budget friendly ways to increase the value of your home By: Kathy Weeks Managing Broker, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Alpharetta Adding value to your home doesn't necessarily mean subtracting from your bank account. The trick is to be creative! There are several things you can do yourself, even on the smallest of budgets, which will improve the overall look of your home, while adding value at the same time. Here are a few favorite tips to help get you started: Hire a professional designer or Realtor to look at your home.

Having a professional-and fresh set of eyes-come look at your home is a great way to not only get new ideas, but establish a long term design goal so you can start plugging away.

Have your home inspected.

Home inspectors are usually called out when a home is going on the market, but why not reap the benefits when you are still living in the home? By having problems pointed out to you now, you can fix them before they become bigger issues down the road.

Give your home a fresh look.

Painting is an inexpensive and easy way to give your home an entirely dif-

ferent look and feel.

Earth tones are best; choose zero VOC paint which is good for your home and the environment.

Give your home some good energy.

Go online to your local utility's website weeks and get an energy audit for your home to evaluate your home's energy efficiency.

Not only will you get tips for improving your home's energy, but you'll also find extra savings in your wallet down the road.

Think green.

When choosing plants for your yard, choose drought-tolerant plants that are native to your region. They won't require as much maintenance or water, saving you money over time.

Make a good impression.

Keeping lawns and hedges trimmed, bushes neatly manicured and gutters cleaned will help your home make a good impression. This is something you can easily do yourself or outsource to a professional.

Create open spaces.

Even a small home can appear larger by maximizing the square footage. To do this, use furniture that is proportional to your home's space, and remove furniture pieces to create the illusion of more open space. Strategically hang mirrors in your rooms to open up the room.

Update your bathroom.

Even small bathroom updates can make a world of difference. Updating your fixtures and mirrors, painting and installing new glass shower doors are easy and affordable ways to make big design improvements.

Update your fixtures.

One of the simplest and easiest ways to transform the look of your space is by updating the light fixtures and ceiling fans, if you have them, around your home. Even on a small budget, you can find chic fixtures that will dramatically improve your home's style.

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Alpharetta office has affiliated sales associates who are experts in Atlanta’s communities and can help you quickly turn your dream into reality.

If you’ve been thinking of putting your house on the market, now is a great

time. We have buyers searching for properties right now– we’d love to sell them your home! Contact our office today by calling 770-642-0399.

Fabulous Forsyth & Fulton County Locations!

Live in One of These Prestigious Counties with Fantastic School Systems, Recreation and Much More Fulton County ManorView (Milton) 770-663-0027 Homes from the low $600s to the low $800s Forsyth County Arbors at LakeView (Cumming) 470-297-8190 Homes from the low $300s Arbors II at LakeView (Cumming) 470-297-8190 Homes from the mid $300s Champions Run I (Suwanee) Now Selling 470-385-6616 Homes from the low $400s

Champions Run II (Suwanee) Model Now Open 470-385-6616 Homes from the mid $400s Herrington Trace (Cumming) Model Now Open 770-557-2289 Homes from the low $400s Marketplace Commons (Cumming) 770-889-8619 Homes from the mid $300s Reserve at LakeView (Cumming) Model Now Open 770-887-8233 Homes from the mid $400s

Seneca (Cumming) 470-297-8006 Homes from the low $400s Seneca lll (Cumming) 470-297-8006 Homes from the upper $300s Shiloh Pointe (Cumming) 770-781-1112 Homes from the mid $300s Woodbury Preserve (Cumming) Model Now Open 678-672-0862 Homes from the upper $300s

For a Limited Time Purchase a To-Be-Built Home and Receive:

15,000

$

Use How You Choose Credits*

– PLUS –

6,500

UP $ TO Toward Closing Costs*

*Available only when you close on a to-be-built home in the Atlanta Division pursuant to a contract you sign on or between 9/1/16-9/30/16. Seller provided “Use How You Choose” credits may be applied to upgrades or options. Upgrades and options available solely through Seller’s Design Center. Availability of items may vary by community. Offer does not have any cash value. Receipt of closing cost credit is subject to limits and is contingent upon buyer closing a loan with our affiliated lender, CalAtlantic Mortgage or, where permitted by seller, another seller preferred lender, and obtaining title insurance and closing services from our affiliated title agent, CalAtlantic Title of Atlanta, LLC. The offer to pay closing costs does not include payment of prepaid taxes, property or mortgage insurance, or mortgage installments. Pre-payments of HOA assessments are typically subject to lender limits. The combined value of seller incentives, credits and other seller contributions may exceed lender limits established for the loan program for which buyer qualifies. Buyer should ask his or her lender about the impact of such limits. Seller does not represent/guarantee that the project will be serviced by any particular public school/school district or, once serviced by a particular school/ school district, that the same school/school district will service the project for any particular period of time. Eligibility requirements (including geographical) may change over time. You should independently confirm which schools/districts serve the project and learn more information about the school district’s boundary change process prior to executing a purchase contract. Prices, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. CalAtlantic Mortgage, Inc., NMLS# 203897, Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee License #24225, 8660 E Hartford Drive, Suite 200A, Scottsdale, AZ; 1000 Mansell Exchange West, Suite 210, Alpharetta, GA License #68278. CAATL012

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 5

ColdwellBankerHomes.com 85,000 Agents | 3,000 Offices on 6 Continents | 110-Year Legacy

Alpharetta / 5/4.5 / $459,900 Sandra Wilson / 678-520-9102 4950 Oakmont Bend FMLS# 5725239

Alpharetta / 5/5 / $599,900 Sue Forsythe / 770-630-4901 780 Brookline Trace FMLS# 5713124

Cumming / 6/4 / $365,000 Dodie Hamrick / 770-841-6931 5765 White Creek Run FMLS# 5730594

Milton / 6/4.1 / $584,900 Melinda McConnell / 404-729-4226 14360 Creek Club Drive FMLS# 5714332

Woodstock / 3/3 / $310,000 Susan Craig / 678-656-4909 246 Orchards Circle FMLS# 5734785

Clarkesville / 3/2 / $309,900 Tina Davis / 770-365-8800 118 Imperial Court FMLS#5692614

Alpharetta / 4BR/3.5BA / $409,900 Judy Linderman / 678-592-5607 12667 Archmont Trace FMLS#5729970

Alpharetta / 5BR/4BA / $529,900 Judy Linderman / 678-592-5607 4140 Breckenridge Court FMLS#5733751

Alpharetta / 5/3.2 / $625,000 Jill Bernard / 404-867-2760 4305 Courageous Wake FMLS# 5711000

Alpharetta / 5/4 / $595,000 Tarran Craver / 770-597-9118 915 Reece Road FMLS# 5707193

Suwanee / 5/4 / $372,900 Leslie Hawkins / 770-855-1489 5235 Winflow Way FMLS# 5736489

Alpharetta 6/5 / $695,000 Beverly Younkins / 770-330-2530 505 Kearny Street FMLS# 5651579

Alpharetta/North Point 3800 Mansell Rd., Suite 100 | Alpharetta, GA 30022 | 770.642.0399

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 12132ATL_4/16

Administered by American Home Shield

6 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

Two new neighborhoods coming soon The Salter Forehand Team is pleased to introduce two new neighborhoods coming soon to Downtown Alpharetta, Windsong Townhomes and XII on Canton.

Windsong Townhomes are located at the corner of Marietta Street and Marjean Way. The complex will consist of twenty-four multi-level upscale townhomes that will be approximately 3,500 square feet with four bedrooms, three and one-half bathrooms, some including elevator options. Ground levels include a media room, full guest suite with a full bathroom, covered porches and fenced backyards. The main level will feature hardwood floors throughout, gourmet kitchens with Wolf appliances and Sub-Zero refrigerators, a family room with a fireplace flanked by

built-in bookcases, a large dining room, half bathroom, sunroom and lanai. The large master suite is upstairs with two additional secondary bedrooms and two full bathrooms, plus a laundry room.

Five of these beautiful brick-and-stone townhomes are presently under construction and will be ready for occupancy in late November. Developed by Talon Neighborhoods, with construction

by Sheehan Built Homes, architectural designs by Main Street Designs and interiors by Cynthia Porche Interiors, these townhomes are in a desirable location, only moments from Wills Park or Downtown Alpharetta’s restaurants and community activities, and only one mile from Avalon. Prices starting from the high $600s.

“XII on Canton” will be comprised

of 12 custom-built homes, in a gated community located in the ‘Garden District` of Downtown Alpharetta. This will be a one-of-a-kind boutique project of 12 single-family luxury homes with professional landscaping and an appealing streetscape. All of the homes will be constructed by select builders, Kevin Porche of Homes Elegant Properties and Austin Lineberry of New River Building Co. with interiors designed by, Cynthia Porche Interiors. Reservations are currently being accepted for XII on Canton.

Two home sites have already been reserved, leaving only ten reamining.

Making a lot reservation is easy and includes scheduling a meeting with the builder/developer, selecting a lot and making a deposit. Once a lot is

reserved, the buyer is expected to start working immediately with one of the builders, either with an approved available floor plan or the buyer’s own custom plan that must fit both physically and aesthetically on the lot and within the historic district guidelines. If the buyer chooses to bring their own floor plan, the style of the home is subject to approval from the City of Alpharetta Architectural Standards Committee.

During the reservation period, the buyer will be working closely with the builder on the specific design, elevation and pricing. Lot deposits are fully refundable in the event an agreement is not consummated between the purchaser and builder within a specific timeframe. Prices starting from the low $1 million.

Turn your empty attic into new living space with 3 smart moves Brought to you by Karen Pate When your family outgrows your home's available space, moving to bigger digs isn't always the best option.

Maybe you really love your current home. Perhaps you can't find a bigger home in your price range in the area of your choice. Whatever your reason for staying in place, expanding the home you already have can be a cost-effective option when your family needs more room.

Converting an unused attic into usable living area is a reliable, costeffective way to gain more space in a home. It's also a good investment; when you add an attic bedroom, you can expect to recoup about 77 percent of the construction cost when you resell the house, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report.

Three time-tested techniques can help you turn an empty attic into the extra space you dream of: 1. Rely on natural light for beauty, visibility and cost savings.

Attics don't usually have many windows, and adding them can be difficult if the ceiling is sloped. Adding dormers - a typical solution - can be costly and time-consuming, and eat up wall space that is often at a premium in attics.

Skylights or roof windows can be a better, more cost-effective way to bring natural light and fresh air into an attic.

Installation is faster and cheaper than adding dormers, and they work well on slanted ceilings. Energy Star-qualified, solar-powered, fresh-air skylights like those from Velux America make it easy and affordable to bring natural light

and fresh air into an attic space.

Add solar-powered blinds in designer colors and patterns, and the skylight becomes an even more valuable piece of the room's overall decor. Solarpowered skylights pate close automatically in case of rain. They, and the blinds, are operated by programmable remote control, making it easy to adjust the amount of sunlight that enters the space. Both products, plus the installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit to the homeowner. Learn more at www.whyskylights.com.

2. Pay close attention to insulation.

In any home, the attic is often the hottest spot in the summer and the coldest in the winter. The amount and quality of insulation in the attic directly affects the comfort level in the space and the overall energy efficiency of your home.

Have an insulation pro evaluate the insulation in your home's attic before you begin planning your conversion.

You may need to add insulation or even replace older, inefficient types - a move well worth the investment since insulation is so important to your home's overall comfort and energy efficiency.

Many insulation pros will recommend spray insulation for attics because it goes easily between existing joists. Plus, it can create a tight air barrier without losing the inches of space required for thick fiberglass batt insulation.

3. Get smart about plumbing.

If your attic conversion will incorporate a bathroom, good for you! Bathroom additions return more than 56 percent of your initial investment when you resell, according to the Cost vs.

Value Report.

If pipes are already present in your attic, adding a bathroom can be simple.

If no plumbing exists, consider costeffective alternatives that will have less impact on the space, like up-flush plumbing. Because it fits into the kind of tight spaces that often occur in attics, up-flush plumbing can be an easy, cheaper way to plumb a sink, toilet or

shower stall in an attic space.

Converting an unused attic into living area can be a great way to expand your space without moving. Plus, when you finally are ready to move one day, that attic renovation may end up paying for itself by boosting the sale price of your home.

If you need additional guidance reach out to your Realtor. If we at Harry Norman, REALTORS® can assist you feel free to call us at Harry Norman, Realtors. Karen Pate, Senior Vice-President and Managing Broker for our Forsyth/Lake Lanier office. #770497-2000

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 7

24 TOWNHOMES in the heart of downtown alpharetta AT THE CORNER OF MARIE T TA STREE T AND MARJEAN WAY

starting in the $600s • 3,500+/- square feet • three-car garage DEVELOPER: TALON NEIGHBORHOODS, LLC | BUILDER: SHEEHAN BUILT HOMES ARCHITEC T: MAIN STREE T DESIGNS | DESIGNER: CYNTHIA PORCHE INTERIORS

12 CUSTOM HOMES

in the garden district of dow ntow n alpharetta on Canton Street gated neighborhood | three -car garage | pricing upon request

C H A R L C I E F O R E H A N D , K A R E N S A LT E R , R O B I N H E N D E R S O N + M O R G A N F O R E H A N D cf. 678.613.4422

|

ks. 770.309.7309

|

rh. 770.331.7438

|

mf. 404.441.7113

|

o.770.442.7300

charlcieforehand@atlantafinehomes.com | karensalter@atlantafinehomes.com | robinhenderson@atlantafinehomes.com | morganforehand@atlantafinehomes.com ©MMXVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

8 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

Curb appeal matters!

Brought to you by Donna Augello, Harry Norman Realtors Yes, the exterior of your home is just as important as the interior when selling. This is an example of a list that we provide to our clients when preparing a home for the market. It may seem like common sense but sometimes we overlook the most obvious things that can make a world of difference.

The House Exterior Your front door gives a vital first impression. A little linseed oil will freshen up stained wood. If painted, wash with soap and water. If paint or varnish is chipped or peeling, a fresh coat of paint may be in good order.

Clean gutters if needed.

Repair any torn screens or replace existing ones.

Hose off or pressure wash exterior wood and trim.

If gutters or exterior wood are in need of paint because of obvious cracking, peeling or chipping, it is best to repair those condensation areas.

If you have window air conditioning units, wipe them clean and remove any rust that may have accumulated around condensation areas.

If you have an outside patio or deck, make sure any lawn furniture, gas grills or exposed wood are in good repair.

The Yards and Grounds Keep the yard cut and trimmed.

Trim and shape the shrubs if necessary.

Keep the area around the garbage cans neat and free of trash.

Stack woodpiles neatly.

Keep drives and walks swept free from pine straw, limbs, oil stains, etc.

Put a fresh layer of pine straw on pine islands.

Keep surface water drainage areas and natural streams free from debris that may cause water to stand or stagnate.

Pick up toys, tools, bicycles, etc.

And Remember ….

Leave property showings to your agent. The agent’s business is to sell; the agent can overcome objections and highlight your home’s features better without your help.

It is best for you to leave when your home is being shown if at all possible.

Never try to sell furniture to a customer before the house is sold.

Do not discuss anything concerning your sale with a customer.

Refer customers back to the agent.

If you or someone you know is

thinking of selling we would be happy to provide a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis.

Give us a call today 770-241-1335.

Alpharetta & Milton Luxury Marketing Specialists Top 1% Company Wide Why Hire a Single Agent When You Can Hire an Entire Team!

ABR Multi-Million Dollar Life Member

Brandi Holly Donna

Cell: 770-241-1335 Office: 678-461-8700 www.TeamAugello.com www.harrynorman.com 7855 North Point Parkway Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30022

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

Crye-Leike continues to grow in the Atlanta market It’s been eleven years since Harold Crye, CEO of Crye-Leike Real Estate, expanded the company's footprint into the Atlanta metro area. The fourth largest privately owned real estate company in the nation recently opened its tenth office in the Atlanta Metro area at 1240 Highway 138 SW in Riverdale.

Crye-Leike is pleased to welcome Karen Baxter as the new Managing Broker. Crye-Leike's Riverdale office is currently open for business and ready to assist clients with all of their real estate buying and selling needs.

The office is also in the process of recruiting and interviewing agents to grow its team. It will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony this summer.

“The Atlanta real estate market is strong and greatly improving like many of the markets Crye-Leike serves," said Cofounder and CEO Harold Crye. "We see a lot of potential for the local market and are very happy to be expanding in and around the Atlanta area with additional offices opening soon in Lawrenceville, Gainesville, Dahlonega and Marietta.”

"Being a full-service real estate brokerage firm, our goal is to make it convenient for our customers and sales

associates to utilize all of our services before, during and after a home purchase by offering reliable, efficient and convenient services for today's busy lifestyles," said Steve Brown, president of Crye-Leike Residential Sales.

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services had a great year in 2015 achieving $5.7 billion in sales volume. Over a nine-state region, 3000 highly skilled Crye-Leike agents sold 31,400 properties.

Crye-Leike’s sales outperformed the national average in the real estate market. Crye-Leike Atlanta has sales offices in Alpharetta/Roswell, Norcross, Cartersville, Cumming, McDonough, Smyrna/Vinings, Johns Creek and Woodstock in addition to a Residential Property Management, Commercial and Relocation division.

As a full service real estate company, Crye-Leike offers real estate and related services, including: relocation services; commercial business and investment real estate services; property leasing and management services; insurance services; title & closing services; mortgage services; home warranty services; home services; auction services; business brokerage services; REO services for bank-owned & foreclosed properties and real estate schools.

Connected Passionate Knowledgable

ROOKIE OF THE

YEAR NORTH FULTON

If you or someone you know is considering a move please give me a call. My sales and marketing experience, knowledge of the community, and solid reputation of Harry Norman, Realtors® as market leaders will surely benefit you!

Sara Ead, ABR, GRI, ARS 678-462-9507 (cell) Sara.Ead@HarryNorman.com Sara.Ead.HarryNorman.com

northfulton.com 9

10 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

Easy curb appeal One of the easiest but often overlooked enhancement to a house to improve the curb appeal is to add or update your exterior shutters. Historically exterior shutters served a purpose by offering light control, ventilation and protection from the elements. Today exterior shutters are mostly decorative.

“Exterior shutters add the finishing touch to a house”, says Hennie DuPreez, CEO of Dupbel Millworks Inc. “But it is important that they are appropriately sized and look like they are supposed to be there.”

Whether you’re adding or replacing shutters to add curb appeal or as part of a remodel, consider these tips from Dupbel Millworks Inc., one of the leading shutter manufacturers in North Georgia.

Style: Make sure the style adds visual interest to the house, whether you choose traditional Raised panels, a Board and Batten style, Louvers or one of the more modern styles. Depending on the style you can make your house look more traditional, contemporary or modern. A reputable shutter provider will be able to help you choose the look you are trying to achieve.

Size: One of the biggest mistakes people make with shutters is the size.

It is important that the shutters are sized correctly for your windows, while taking into account the features of the house, obstacles that could be present, and the look you are trying to achieve.

Your shutters are going to be mostly decorative, but make sure they are sized as if they would be functional and as if they belong there.

Hardware: Traditionally shutters were attached to the window frames with hinges. Today hardware plays an important role in the appearance of your shutters. Various options are available depending on the style of the shutters and the type of windows. Adding hardware adds to the curb appeal and the authentic look. It also put the shutter at a slight angle, adding visual interest and creating better shadow lines that brings out the design features of the shutter style.

Material: Exterior shutters are available in various material and you need to find the right balance between price, how long they will last and the look you are trying to achieve. Vinyl shutters are typically the cheapest option for obvious reasons, wood looks great but do not necessary withstand the elements, and then you have various composite materials that could provide you with the authentic look and long lasting criteria.

Installation: Make sure you are

confident working on a ladder, or make sure you use a professional crew with the necessary insurance. The installation cost is typically in addition to the price of the shutters and hardware.

Ensure there is a suitable mounting surface and that the window frames are in good shape before installation.

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. This is especially important in Georgia’s hot, humid conditions. Although we carry a series of shutters styles, we are fully equipped to help you design the specific look you desire, and every shutters is custom made based on your house, windows and design.

We use your house as our showroom, knowing very well how difficult it can be to see what a specific style of shutter will do the look of your home.

We come to your house with samples and will help you to choose the perfect style of shutter for your house.

Our business is located in Alpharetta, GA and we are proud to serve the residential and commercial market of North Georgia. We are small enough to provide you with personal attention, yet strong enough to handle complex designs and the volume from our commercial customers.

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

r ur cial! u o r o pe k c e te fo er s h C si m b m we t su en r r cu

northfulton.com 11

Need Replacement Shutters?

Picture This...

Call Today For Your FREE Consult

678.662.4815

Why Weather Works*® Exterior Shutters • Composite wood • Rot, moisture and insect resistant • Custom designs, sizes and colors Environmentally friendly materials • Locally manufactured • Fully insured • Prompt and courteous service

Dupbel Millworks Inc.

® Exterior Shutters The leading manufacturer of Composite wood, rot resistant, exterior shutters for residential and commercial Composit WeatherWorksShutters.com

12 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016

Why some homes don’t sell in a seller’s market Homeowners ask us about the recovery of remodeling dollars just about every day, comments John Hogan, President of Remodeling Expo Center in Roswell, and we explain the return on investment (ROI) to them. We basically, reiterate the numbers that support the popular clichés “Kitchens and Bathrooms sell houses”.

But what these numbers don’t reveal is the alternative to remodeling; doing nothing. Failing to remodel will cause your home to sell at a discount and languish on the market. For example, according to the Remodeling 2015 Cost vs. Value Report, remodeling your kitchen for $30,000 will allow you to recover approximately $20,000 when you sell your home. However, if you don’t remodel, your home will likely sell for $35,000 less. So a quick analysis might result in a $30,000 - $20,000 = $10,000 cost, when the true reality is a $35,000 cost in the long run.

We are in one of the strongest real estate markets in decades and I hear all too often from homeowners “the house down the block sold for $500,000 in 24 hours and I have not received a single offer in four months”, says Remodeling Expo’s Peter Schnieper. When I hear this, I’m usually standing on linoleum

floors in a dark kitchen with olive appliances, Formica counters and knotted pine cabinets with mis-aligned doors. I hate this situation because the homeowner needs to remodel in order to sell and they will not get to enjoy it.

A seller’s market can act as a magnifying glass; making remodeled homes sell faster for more money and making non-remodeled homes sell slower, if at all. This is why despite very favorable market conditions, some homes just will not sell at all.

A home needs to be refreshed about every 5-7 years with painting or flooring, and updated every 10 to 15 years with a major remodel, such as a kitchen, bathroom or basement. North Atlanta was built from 1980 to 2000’s, and almost every home owner is suffering from the “builder grade blues”.

That’s the term all of the designers at Remodeling Expo Center use to describe the situation of North Atlanta homeowners. Their homes were built when North Atlanta homes were “affordable” and builders outfitted their homes with inexpensive kitchens and bathrooms. Now, North Atlanta home values have tripled but unfortunately, while home values automatically change, kitchens and bathrooms don’t.

Job Cost

Resale Value

Cost Recouped

Bathroom Remodel (Minor)

$ 16,784

$ 10,722

63.90%

Bathroom Remodel (Major)

$ 54,154

$ 32,697

60.40%

Kitchen Remodel (Minor)

$ 19,413

$ 15,167

78.10%

Kitchen Remodel (Major)

$ 56,845

$ 38,290

67.40%

Basement Remodel

$ 65,231

$ 45,944

70.40%

Family Room Addition

$ 84,663

$ 52,878

62.50%

Sunroom Addition

$ 75,544

$ 39,228

51.90%

$ 111,616

$ 77,233

69.20%

Master Suite Addition

Remodeling 2015 Cost vs. Value Report www.costvsvalue.com

Many Alpharetta and Johns Creek homeowners wake up each day to “affordable” builder grade kitchens and bathrooms. This is what we call the “builder grade blues”.

We relocated Remodeling Expo Center to Roswell because its central to most of North Atlanta. Although we use the term “builder grade blues” in jest, our business is anything but that. We have built a sophisticated operation to systematically update and improve the north Atlanta housing stock. Remodeling has traditionally been a “mom and pop” business but our operation is changing all of that. Homeowners walk into our 4,000 square foot Expo Center and can see technology at work… 3D

modeling, precision job scheduling and computer aided configuration managed by our showroom designers.

Homes do not sell in a “seller’s market” because they haven’t been adequately updated. Remodeling every 10 to 15 years is like tuning up your car; you’ve got to do it. With the Expo Center we make remodeling fun and easy. We have everything needed in one place… design, material selections, ordering, installation and project management.

John Hogan and Peter Schnieper are co-owners of Remodeling Expo Center located at the corner of King & Atlanta Street; 48 King Street, Roswell GA 30075, 678-820-6882.

KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELING SHOWROOM GRAND OPENING

HISTORIC ROSWELL Corner – Atlanta St. and King St. 48 King St. • Roswell, GA 30075 SHOWROOM HOURS M-W-F 9-5 T-TH 9-6 SAT 10-4

Call us today for an estimate

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS

RemodelingExpo.com

Frameless Shower Glass Kitchen Tile BackSplash

678.820.6882

$1000 OFF

FREE

Discount applies to full remodel only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. One per customer.

Subject to limitations. Limited time offer. EXPIRES 8/31/16

Discount applies to full remodel only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. One per customer.

Subject to limitations. Limited time offer. EXPIRES 8/31/16

September 2016

Real estate report • Sponsored Section

northfulton.com 13

Home selling tips for the fall market Brought to you by: Kelly Rosen, REALTOR® Solid Source Realty The spring/summer selling season is winding down but I have still found myself in several multiple offer situations over the past couple of weeks.

In general, there are fewer buyers and fewer new listings coming onto the market right now. Why are some homes selling in days with multiple offers while others are sitting on the market for months?

Even though the market is softening right now, there are still buyers looking for homes. Sellers need to understand the competition and be able to compete in terms of features and upgrades. In Milton, we have a lot of new construction competing in many price ranges.

These homes are equipped with all the latest design features and energy efficient systems. Here are a few tips to help your home stand out: 1. Start Preparing Your Home Months Before Listing: It is going to take some money to get your house ready to sell, so preparing months in advance will help spread out the cost.

Talk to a REALTOR® who can help

make suggestions on updates and upgrades that will be the most cost effective.

Some of these items may include granite countertops, new appliances, new carpet, new paint, and new fixtures (brass is out!). rosen Buyers are very picky; if your house looks new on the inside, it will sell quickly.

Don’t stress--many of these updates can be done without breaking the bank!

Your REALTOR® is a valuable resource for affordable contractors.

2. Price Appropriately: If you do not have the funds available (or the desire to make updates), it’s not the end of the world…you need to be realistic about your list price and be prepared for a longer sales cycle.

Most buyers want move-in ready homes. Homes that need updating will take longer to sell, even at a reduced list price. A REALTOR® can help you determine the best list price; be careful of overpricing, which can be highly detrimental!

3. First Impressions Are Important: When you are ready to list, make sure you take your REALTOR®’s advice about decluttering, cleaning and staging your home for potential buyers.

Make sure professional photos are giving your home the best representation online (drone photos if your home sits on top of a hill) and plant some fresh flowers to give buyers a welcoming feeling when they pull up the driveway.

If you are serious about selling

your home, you must have a plan in place (preferably months before listing). Spend time getting your home in the best condition you can (meet with a REALTOR® for suggestions) and price it right; this will give your home the best chance of selling quickly and for top dollar.

Best wishes for a quick and easy sale! Kelly Rosen, REALTOR®, Solid Source Realty 770-568-9241 kellyrosen@bellsouth.net

ct a r t on C r de n U

381 Lynne Circle

Offered for $339,900 3 Bedroom / 2.1 Bath

Gorgeous Renovation downtown Alpharetta with everything replaced – a MUST SEE!

780 Champions Close

130 Sable Pointe Drive Offered for $384,900 5 Bedroom / 3.1 Bath

Adorable home with amazing outdoor living space and finished terrace level.

2016 Solid Source Realty Circle of Excellence Top 1% of Agents ABR Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club, 2015

Kelly Rosen www.KellyRosen.com

Cell: 770-568-9241 • Office: 770-475-1130 Ext 2358

Offered for $849,000 7 Bedroom / 6.2 Bath

Gorgeous custom home with pool and spa, 2 laundry rooms and finished terrace level.

Now Offering Free Drone Photos for All Listings!

10900 Crabapple Rd. Roswell, GA 30075

The above information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawls without notice.

14 northfulton.com

Sponsored Section • real estate report September 2016