R.E. Real Estate Magazine Summer 2012 by R.E. Real Estate Magazine

METRO ATLANTA EDITION > SUMMER 2012

Tony Williams Giving Large

also

Builderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Profile Brock Built Homes and

R.E. People

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

While it’s probably not time to break out the champagne and streamers yet, the news in metro Atlanta’s real estate industry has been rather good lately! It seems we’ve finally turned the proverbial corner in terms of home prices. Inventory is down, prices have actually begun to rise slightly in metro Atlanta, and many agents have reported multiple offers on some of their properties! While we all know it will still be a long, slow climb back up to where things were, it’s great to finally see that light at the end of the tunnel, and have the confidence that it’s not an oncoming freight train! As the designated cheerleaders for metro Atlanta’s real estate industry, our mission has always been to shine our spotlight on those agents who have thrived despite the prevailing conditions, or in some cases, because of it! One such agent is this month’s cover story, Tony Williams. While many of our past featured agents have had the advantage of working in areas such as Buckhead or Dunwoody, Williams has set up shop in East Point, quietly but steadily posting increasingly impressive sales of REOs and foreclosures, and this past year was named the #5 individual agent on the Atlanta Board of Realtors®. His combination of military work ethic and his philosophy of giving back both to his staff and to his community has helped boost this quiet, soft-spoken agent to the top. Read this month’s cover story to learn how this resilient Marine has continued to bounce back from adversity, and how it has helped shape the man that he is today. Although many of our success stories recently have been about agents who have specialized in the sale of REOs and foreclosures, the sale of new homes has also taken a dramatic upward turn recently, which is a necessary component to the recovery of the real estate industry. One local home builder who has ridden the wave and continues to be a bright spot in the industry is Brock Built Homes. This family business has continued to lead the way in Atlanta’s new home market by refusing to compromise on quality, and maintaining their dedication to exceptional customer service. Read this month’s Builder Profile to learn how this altruistic company has committed to building green, and how it has helped them stay firmly in the black! We’ve always been strong proponents of the philosophy that persistence and determination are among the most important qualities of success. No matter how far you might fall, the right attitude will always help you bounce back to the top. The trick is to stay on the trampoline! Here’s hoping all of your bounces continue to propel you onward and upwards, and that you take a moment to remember what a fascinating ride it is!

from the publisher

Editorial Consultant Karon Warren editor@remagazines.com

The Trampoline Phenomenon, or the Art of Bouncing Back

Live Passionately!

Lawrence A. Cohen Publisher

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

people

Dorsey Alston, Realtors announced the addition of mother-daughter team Alice McDonough and Wight Mixon. A member of the real estate community since 1975, McDonough has accrued an array of recognitions and awards for her work by the Atlanta Board of Realtors®, including Realtor of the Year in 2003 and the E.A. Isakson Award. In addition to serving Alice McDonough her industry (she was ABR president in 2003), McDonough also actively serves her community. She previously served on the Foundation Board of Directors at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Wight Mixon and was honored with the Miriam Conant Award for volunteer service while on the board of directors for the former Egleston Hospital. Following in her mother’s footsteps in 2000 when she earned her real estate license, Mixon has also served in many capacities for the ABR, including as chair for various committees, director from 2003 to 2005, vice president from 2006 to 2009, and president in 2011. Mixon’s advanced designations include Accredited Home Buyer Representative, Accredited Seller Representative and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist. Acadia Homes & Neighborhoods welcomed four new team members at its Atlanta office. Bringing almost 20 years of experience with her, Ginny Bishop takes on the role of director of marketing, whose responsibilities including social media, advertising and Ginny Bishop public relations. An active member of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, Bishop previously worked in marketing for such Atlanta builders as Sharp Residential and Winmark Homes. Making the move from Touchstone Homes, Randy Collins will serve as vice president of construction, overseeing all of Acadia Homes’ Randy Collins production projects. 4

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With experience as vice president of sales for John Wieland Homes, Sharp Residential and Crown Communities, Tim McReynolds now serves as neighborhood sales manager for Acadia Homes. Before embarking on a career in real estate, McReynolds served as a fighter pilot in the Marine Corps. With more than 15 years of experience as a real estate broker on his resume, Tim McReynolds Paul Worley has now taken on the position of neighborhood sales manager for Acadia Homes. He also has worked as a sales agent for McCar Homes and Peachtree Communities. Beacham & Company, Realtors expanded its team with the following personnel: A licensed real estate broker, Lynne Cerniglia previously served as the director of the new homes division for an Atlanta real estate company. With more than 20 years of experience in real estate sales, leasing, marketing, finance and management, she also earned the Member Institute of Lynne Cerniglia Residential Marketing designation. Moving over from Dorsey Alston, Realtors, Lynn Sloan works as a team with her daughter-in-law, Shelley Sloan. An active member of The Cherokee Town & Country Club and the Atlanta Junior League, she is married to Skip Sloan, a physician at Piedmont Hospital and lead Lynn Sloan singer in “The Psychics,” one of Atlanta’s oldest continuous rock-n-roll bands. Lauren Zgutowicz comes to the company from Bernstein Brokers, where she began her real estate career in 2010. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from The University of Georgia. A native of Beaufort, Lauren NC, Anna Danner Zgutowicz started her real estate career with a team in Wilmington, NC, before moving to Atlanta and teaming with Beacham Top 20 producer Lauren Head. Danner earned a bachelor of arts Anna Danner in history and art history from North Carolina State University. Licensed since 1994, Tricia Feagin joins Beacham & Company from Keller Williams Cityside. She is a

contents

S U M M e r 2 0 1 2 V O L U M E 1 0 N U M B ER 2

Cover Story

Tony Williams

This former Marine has taken the lessons of discipline and teamwork to create a synergy that has helped propel him into the top ranks of real estate success

R.E. People

R.E. News

Calendar of Events

Inspection Section

Realtor Resource Directory

With their trademark “Life + Style” incorporated into all of their neighborhoods, this award-winning builder continues to bring their unique touch to metro Atlanta homebuilding

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

Builder Profile

Brock Built Homes

Cover photo by David Martinez

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Phone: 770.493.9000

Toll Free: 800.289.1214

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

founding member of the Whitefield Garden, where she volunteers her time with her family. Following a successful career as a real estate investor, Denise Miller will build on that foundation as a member of Beacham Tricia Feagin & Company. She also is active in many charitable organizations and serves as an advisory board member for the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University and Camp Sunshine. Denise Miller Bringing five years of marketing experience with her, Ashley Feibish joined Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty as a senior marketing coordinator. She is a 2007 cum laude graduate of Elon University in North Carolina. Campbell & Brannon, L.L.C. brought on three new attorneys as it expands with two new locations in East Cobb and Marietta. Peter Babcock and Steve Jenkins join Ansley Vinson at the East Cobb and Marietta

locations, while James W. Moore serves the East Cobb and Sandy Springs locations. A member of numerous legal associations including the American Bar Association and Georgia Bar Association-Real Estate Section, Babcock is an active member of the Atlanta Board of Realtors®, the Cobb Association of Realtors®, Mortgage Peter Babcock Bankers Association of Georgia and the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. He graduated from Boston College in 1982 and earned his J.D. from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law in 1986. Jenkins is a member of the American Bar Association – Real Property and Probate Section, the State Bar of Georgia – Real Estate Section, the Atlanta Bar Association – Real Estate Section, and the North Fulton Bar Association where he is a charter member. He is also an active member of the United States Marine Steve Jenkins Corps League and the Georgia Vietnam Veterans Alliance. Jenkins earned a bachelor of arts degree from Georgia State University in 1976, followed

Congratulations Tony Williams

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by his J.D. from Atlanta Law School in 1979. Moore currently serves on the board of directors of the Georgia Real Estate Closing Attorneys Association, where he served as president from 2008 to 2010. An active member of the Real Property Section of the State Bar of Georgia and the Mortgage Bankers Association James W. Moore of Georgia, he is a 1986 University of Georgia graduate and received his J.D. from the University of Florida in 1989.

Jan Baker, vice president of corporate affairs and managing broker for Prudential Georgia Realty, was recently inducted into the National Association of Realtors® Hall of Fame. During her 31-plus-year career, Baker received many awards and accolades, including the 2011 President’s Award by Northeast Atlanta Metro Association of Realtors®, the 2010 NAMAR Manager of the Year Award, the 2006 NAMAR Captain of Industry Award, the 2006 NAMAR President’s Award and the 2003® Realtor of the Year award from the Georgia Association of Realtors®. In 2005, Baker served as president of the Georgia Association of Realtors® and served as a Political Action Trustee for NAR in 2008 and as a NAR director in 2011.

The Rawls Group announced John Fountain joined the Keller Williams Realty First Atlanta leadership team and will serve as the managing broker of the Keller Williams Realty office in Sandy Springs. A licensed real estate agent in Georgia since 1999, he has been a successful multimilliondollar producer with the Atlanta Board of Realtors® from 1999 to 2008. Outside John Fountain the office, Fountain is a competitive soccer player and member of the prestigious Tommy Newberry 1% Club.

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Phone: 770.493.9000

Toll Free: 800.289.1214

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

The Property Shop of GA announces that Lynn Weaver New has joined the company. New brings 12 years of real estate experience with a focus on classic older homes, as well as 8 years experience hosting ETC3’s home & garden show Open House. She has earned the Accredited Staging Professional and the Certified Distressed Property Expert designations, as well as the Luxury Market Certification. She is also a member of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals. Chapman Hall, Realtors welcomed several new members to the company. Previously with Coldwell Banker, Betty A. Ballard brings more than 20 years of experience with her. A life member of the Atlanta Board of Realtors® Million Dollar Club, she is a recipient of the prestigious Phoenix Award. Ballard also is a certified relocation specialist, holds the Executive Home Specialist Designation and has held the Coldwell Banker Previews International designation. Making the move from Beacham and Company, Kellum Smith brings 17 years of real estate experience to the company, and is known for the restoration and sale of historic homes, including an historic English

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& ed

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Ov e Ex r 20 pe Ye rie ar nc s e

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REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Tudor that was included on the Druid Hills Home and Garden Tour and featured on Good Day Atlanta, two of Smith’s kitchens were selected for the Junior League tour of Kitchens and featured in Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles. Furthermore, another home Kellum Smith she consulted on in Ansley Park won the first Ansley Park Historic Preservation Award for excellence in design and respect of architectural history. After earning her real estate license in May, Laura Taylor joined Chapman Hall, Realtors. A graduate of The University of Georgia with a masters in finance, she is a mother Laura Taylor of two boys and was chief financial officer at Woodstock High School for four years. In addition to both residential and commercial real estate, Victor Kicherman brings a background in Victor Kicherman mortgages to the company. Plus, he is fluent in Russian, Romanian, Ukrainian and English.

Congratulations Tony! Thank you for helping get me started in my business. It’s been a pleasure working with you and your team all of these years!

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Tony Williams A

t New Beginning Realty Group in East Point, the 1,001 details involved with the managing of REOs makes for some long working hours! It has also created an incredibly close-knit working environment for the 9 staff members, who have come to rely on one another to each do their part of this pipeline process. At this team’s helm is Tony Williams. A true “new beginning” success story, Williams attributes most of his achievements to his team, and believes in rewarding them with things like regular group

outings to places such as the Ringling Brothers Circus, Falcons football or a Braves baseball game. One of their special treats is their annual “night on the town” at the Atlanta Board of Realtors® Multi-Million Dollar Club Banquet, complete with limousine and the best champagne to toast the occasion. “You don’t see many bosses who care about their employees as much as Tony does,” remarks Shauntell Dawson, Williams’ assistant. Her praise was typical of what other team members

Photo by David Martinez

cover story

This former Marine has taken the lessons of discipline and teamwork to create a synergy that has helped propel him into the top ranks of real estate success. By T.C. McClenning

“I couldn’t have accomplished what I have without our amazing team of people,” say Tony of his support staff (from L to R): Shaun Wedderburn, William Howard, Apollo King –El Jr., Loraine Steward-Thomas, Shauntell Dawson, Tony, Philan Pettigrew, and Michael D. Battle.

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Photo by David Martinez

feel about their employer. Chief Financial Officer William Howard has been with the company since it started, maintaining the company finances and insuring that invoices are submitted timely to clients as required. He describes the office as a “close, family-oriented work environment.” When asked to describe Tony’s business philosophy, Howard remarks, “A lot of agents in the industry are just about the commission. Tony’s motto is to provide exceptional service to the customer first and the commission will come so quickly you won’t have time to count it. The focus is exceeding the client’s expectations!” Contracts Intake/Closing Manager Michael Battle echoes this by explaining what sets them apart from other agents is that someone is always there to answer the phone “Miss Ruby” Snyder has been with the team since the beginning and, along with William Howard, and to reply to emails. “Our response is a fellow usher at their church. “Miss Ruby is like a mother to me,” says Tony of his long-time time makes the difference. It’s one friend and administrator. “Her organization talents hold our office together!” of the reasons agents say they like to Suwanee. “I’ll never forget his generosity, him doing co-op with us.” Has his workplace philosophy been successful? The that for me,” says Williams. Having been an underdog #5 individual agent on the Atlanta Board of Realtors® in himself on more than one occasion, Tony Williams has 2011, Williams had more than $18 million in gross sales clearly not forgotten his humble beginnings. in 2011. He typically carries about 150 listings at a time A Marine with the unique combination of military and closes an impressive 30-40 properties a month. And discipline and visionary thinking, Williams has even all this is accomplished with less than 10 staff members. more ambitious plans for his company, and says he is still developing a list of additional services his company t’s clear that Tony Williams is on a real roll, with will be offering. While he acknowledge he wouldn’t be steady increases in both listings and sales each where he is today without the structure and teamwork year. While this hard-working leader acknowledges of the Marine Corp, Tony also says he owes much to his that life is pretty good these days, it wasn’t always like strong faith. An usher at Antioch Baptist Church North this for him. Moving from Washington D.C. to Atlanta for the last 11 years, he credits a CD audio sermon by transitioning from working as an elevator mechanic, Minister Bernice King for motivating him to start his he found himself unexpectedly without a place to own real estate company. Tony enjoys serving in church stay. Tony ended up bunking at the Salvation Army and networking with the ministry. in Five Points for $7 a night. He lived there for few In both good years and bad, Tony has always been months until he could save up enough money to get an a big believer in giving back. He regularly puts apartment on Peachtree Street. together care packages to send to military personnel A couple years later, while working at a computer serving overseas. Each year, New Beginning Realty company called DTI, Tony’s car was totaled when hosts a Back to School drive that includes school a woman ran a red light and hit him. The company supplies and backpacks given to kids in economically owner personally gave Tony $2,500 to get another car challenged neighborhoods. The drive initially helped for his long daily commute from downtown Atlanta to foster children in East Point, but soon expanded to

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include inner city children as well. At Christmas, the office also adopts families from the Families First organization and is instrumental in making their holidays a little brighter. One of Williams’ goals is to be an informational resource for his community. Every year, New Beginning

ith Williams’ military background, it is not surprising that he is not afraid of hard work. He puts in long hours at the office right alongside his staff. A typical day for him starts around 9 or 9:30 a.m., and he will often work until 8 or 9 p.m. “I just like to work,” he says enthusiastically. “I love

“A lot of agents out there are just about the commission. Tony’s motto is to provide exceptional service to the customer first and the commission will come so quickly you won’t have time to count it. The focus is exceeding the client’s expectation!” real estate, period. I’ll answer the phones, put in a listing, call a utility company – whatever it takes!” Tony is also big on teaching both his own personal team and the eight agents who work independently at New Beginning the smart way to do business. He regularly has CPAs, attorneys and similar professionals come in and speak to them. Tony also brings in mortgage companies to keep everyone updated on the latest loan products and programs.

Photo by David Martinez

Realty Group hosts a homeowner’s kick-off event to help educate people in community about the steps necessary in becoming homeowners. The kick-off includes vendors from various clients and lenders to provide details on things like down payment assistance programs. A lighthearted event, there are games for the children, horse carriage rides, raffles, giveaways, and plenty of food. Tony himself serves as the executive chef for the day.

Working with more than 40 banks, corporate clients, and Government-Sponsored Enterprises can be a challenging endeavor, but Williams has always thrived on taking on difficult tasks. “That comes from my mother,” says Tony about Ruth Battle who, at 73, still works every day. “She always taught us to not be afraid of hard work!”

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Photo by David Martinez

He firmly believes in the philosophy of investing in both his staff and himself to be more effective. Several years ago, Williams attended Floyd Wickman’s real estate training (the trademarked Sweathogs program). He also realized early on that, to be the most effective, he couldn’t possibly handle all aspects of selling REO properties by himself, and needed to invest in putting together a team. “REOs are a lot more work than traditional real estate,” he explains. “So I broke down what I do into several areas – listings, valuations, accounting, facilities, utilities, HOA and formed a department responsible for each of these areas.” The plan has obviously been successful. In addition to his most recent awards, Williams first cracked the Atlanta Board’s “top 10” list in 2009, placing seventh in individual sales. His steady sales production since becoming licensed in 2001 will most certainly earn Williams the board’s prestigious Phoenix Award in 2012, given to members who have achieved 10 years of multi-million dollar sales production. Not bad for someone who started his real estate career on a shoestring. Tony with his “children,” Bella and Byngi, who he adopted from the Humane Society. “I Licensed in June 2001, Tony quit always look forward to seeing them after a hard day of work,” he says. his “regular” job two months later to sell real estate full-time. Already developing his in 2005, where he became one of their top producers. A business philosophy, he invested in an “agent mentor” serious knee injury and subsequent long recovery process in his office, paying the coworker 25 percent of his from surgery forced him to work from home. commission to guide him for his first six months in real “I bought a computer notebook, a three-in-one estate. The strategy worked. The next month, he had printer, a table and a flat screen television. Then I three closings, a rarity for a brand new agent. worked from home the next three years,” he describes. In his first months in real estate, Williams also By late 2007, Williams’ business was really starting began introducing himself to banks. One bank gave to grow. He completely finished his basement, created him a client to work with and this ended up being his an exterior entry and, in January 2008, New Beginning second closing. Since then, Tony has worked diligently Realty Group was born. “I really had no clue what to do to maintain and expand these connections and now in terms of managing or growing the business or even has relationships of nearly 11 years with many of his how I was going to pay people,” Tony admits now. clients – banks, outsourcers, as well as representatives His can-do attitude saw him through and the company at government-sponsored enterprises. quickly grew to 10 people. However, he says it wasn’t Starting his real estate career at Century 21 Intown, until their call volume reached 200 a day that it dawned Tony moved to Keller Williams Realty on Peachtree Road on him he was really running a business. The rapid r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Photo by Dave Martinez Tony with William Howard, who he calls his “right hand man” at one of their listings, which number at any one time in the hundreds. “William handles all of the finances of our operation, and knowing he is part of the team allows me to focus on everything else,” says Tony.

growth of the organization convinced Tony to locate commercial rental space. In September 2011, he moved again, this time into his much larger current space in East Point business district. Complete with reception area, full kitchen and a parking lot with ample space for employees and clients (as well as the company’s five vehicles), New Beginning Realty Group has come a long way in just five years. With all this success, however, it would be rare to meet a more laid-back and modest person than Tony Williams. Soft-spoken and generous, his staff clearly thinks highly of him. Michael Battle says, “Tony is always willing to share his real estate knowledge. He is also extremely committed to growing New Beginning and maintaining a good image for the company.” With his exceptional work ethic, generosity of spirit, dedicated team, and his strong momentum, the potential for growth doesn’t seem to be in question. As far as the company image in concerned, they seem to have that covered in their company motto, which is, “We believe in making a difference.” Tony Williams

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and New Beginning Realty Group seem to be doing that each and every day. TC McClenning is a business writer and freelance marketing/PR/ social media consultant who has helped hundreds of real estate agents, companies, Realtor ® associations and home builders. She is also the author of the award-winning book, All In A Day’s Work for Real Estate Agents: Humorous & Heartwarming Stories (www.WorkLikeaDogBooks.com). She can be reached at 770-60-WRITE, tc@topcatcreative.com, or follow @RealtorPR.

888-854- NBRG (6274) www.nbrg.com

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continued from page 8

Prudential Georgia Realty announced Linda Kostura joined the company’s North Fulton Office. With almost a decade of experience, she is a life member of the NAMAR Million Dollar Club. In addition to earning a bachelor of science from Cedarville University Linda Kostura in Cedarville, Ohio, in elementary education, Kostura is also the published author of “Aldo’s Misfortunate Search of the Secret Tower.” The Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends named the Mark Spain Team, of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta, one of America’s top real estate teams. Moving up 12 spots from last year’s list, the team landed in the No. 20 spot nationally for most transaction sides Mark Spain with 512 closings. Mark Spain’s team had $88 million in gross sales, and their transactions were up more than 50 percent over the team’s 340 homes closed in 2010. This achievement also garnered the team top honors from the Atlanta Board of Realtors® at its annual awards banquet as the No. 1 large team in metro Atlanta, a recognition it has received for eight consecutive years. Cindy Lawson-Crane and her Atlanta Metro REO Team of Prudential Georgia Realty took the #30 position nationally. Lawson-Crane was the No.1 individually agent last year for Prudential Georgia Realty, and her team was tops in closed units for all Cindy Prudential Realty Worldwide Affiliates Lawson-Crane for the second year in a row. RE/MAX Town & Country welcomed Ron Lee to their team. A native Georgian with a lifetime interest in real estate, Lee is a licensed engineer and contractor. Founder and part-owner of Peachtree Protective Covers, an architectural products manufacturer, he recently decided to pursue a real estate career.

Betsy Akers

of the second most expensive recorded sale of 2012 in the Atlanta residential real estate market. The Mount Paran home was listed for $5,900,000.

Saecilia Jackson

Licensed since 2006, Saecilia Jackson recently joined BHGRE Metro Brokers’ Cascade office. Formerly with Bob Wood Real Estate, Jackcon specializes in short sales and foreclosures. She is also a member of the White House Project, a community service-based organization.

Designations David Johnson, of ERA Sunrise Realty has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance, with emphasis on short sales. David Johnson

Ron Lee

Betsy Akers, of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty and the No. 1 top producing individual agent for 2011 on the ABR, was the listing agent

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Karen Williams, an associate broker with Keller Williams Realty First Atlanta, has added yet another designation to her list of achievements – Working Actress! Williams, an accomplished thespian, was recently involved in two television pilots, Legends and Shrink Rap, as well as a web production of X-Men. In addition, she has been cast in an upcoming short film, MMA-Mad Monsters Anonymous, where she plays a shrink who conducts group therapy sessions for vampires, werewolves and zombies – at night of course! We wish her luck on her climb to fame and fortune in movies and television.

Several agents have recently earned the Real Estate Property Manager Specialist (REPM) certification, taught by Cathy McDaniel. The new designees are: JuanitaNicks-Adams, Jayne Pearson, Annamaria Stalker, Eunice Carter, Yolanda Graham, Jannette Mcdonald, Mary Lamb, Howard Brummel, Brenda Hall, and Monifa Taylor. Have a piece of people-related news? Send information to Editor, R.E. Magazine, 3036 Leafwood Drive S.E., Marietta, GA 30067, or e-mail to editor@remagazines.com.

Steve Palm of Smart Numbers shares some good news at the June 2012 Atlanta Housing Summit. (Photo by Lawrence Cohen)

news

Atlanta Housing Summit Shows Upward Trends in Sales, Prices

There was some good news at the June Atlanta Housing Summit, presented by ViaSearch and Smart Numbers at the Cobb Galleria Centre on June 13, 2012. According to John Hunt and Steve Palm, the first 5 months of 2012 had the most resale closings in metro Atlanta since 2006. In addition, the 2nd quarter of 2012 showed resale prices trending upward for the first time in several years, as many agents have reported multiple offers on homes. Also, new home construction and closings have shown 4 months of year to year increases. According to Palm, those trends have continued through the last couple of months, indicating that the local real estate market might be finally making the long, slow climb back upwards.

NewPoint Media Group Completes Purchase From Network Communications Inc. NewPoint Media Group LLC completed the purchase of business assets from Network Communications Inc., including all print and digital assets, as well as trademarks of long-standing real estate brands The Real Estate Book, Mature Living Choices, Senior Living Choices, New Home Finder, New Homes & Ideas, and New Homes Journal Scott Dixon along with NCI’s publication printing division and facilities. Scott Dixon and Stuart Christian, both longtime management executives of NCI, partnered with Lion Equity Partners to form NewPoint Media Group to complete the purchase. NCI retains the assets associated with Apartment Finder, Unique Homes and ByDesign Publishing, along with home design titles and Digital Sherpa division. NCI will provide distribution services to NewPoint while NewPoint provides printing services to NCI. NewPoint Media Group added David Brazeal to serve as chief financial officer and retained top management associated with the brands and facility purchased. Susan Quinn Deese will serve as senior vice president and general counsel.

Take Out of

the Risk Referrals!

We understand understand that that when when you you refer refer a a We contractor, you you put put your your own own reputation reputation on on contractor, the line. line. We We have have worked worked with with dozens dozens of of top top the real estate estate professionals professionals in in Atlanta Atlanta to to help help real their clients clients repair repair and/or and/or renovate renovate their their homes. homes. their

• Expert Roofing Repair & Replacement • Exterior Renovations • Windows • Siding • Sunrooms • Quality Gutters & Gutter Guards

Jason Sikora Roofing & Renovations 770-294-4474 r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Agents, staff and friends gathered at the Harry Norman, Realtors Buckhead North office to celebrate the $2,500 they raised for the Foundation for Mitochondrial Medicine. The Buckhead North office’s Outreach Program designated the foundation as its beneficiary after learning about the challenges faced by the daughter of agent Kyle Hinson and granddaughter of office manager Angie Hinson when 3-year old Fannie Bradley Hinson was diagnosed with this disease.

Atlantic Realty Joins ERA ERA Real Estate announced the franchise affiliation of Atlantic Realty in Alpharetta, which will now operate as ERA Atlantic Realty. Atlantic Realty has been one of Metro Atlanta’s leading REO listings brokers for the last 10 years, and in 2009, owner Greg Kurzner expanded the company by adding a residential sales division with the goal of becoming a fullservice brokerage. In 2011, the firm accounted for nearly $60 million in sales volume. Kurzner’s roots in the market date to 1988, and he has worked in and owned commercial, REO and residential real estate operations during his nearly 25-year career. A Life Member of the ABR Million Dollar Club, Kurzner has been recognized as one of the organization’s top 10 producers for the past five years. Have a piece of real estate-related news? Send information to Editor, R.E. Magazine, 3036 Leafwood Drive S.E., Marietta, GA 30067, or e-mail to editor@remagazines.com. 18

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Photo by Ross Henderson

Harry Norman, Realtors’ Buckhead North Office Support Medical Research

(From L to R): Office manager and grandmother Angie Hinson, Fannie Bradley Hinson, who is recovering from mitochondrial disease, her father John Hinson, her mother and agent Kyle Hinson, Keith Hyland, Ph.D., director of the department of neurochemistry at Medical Neurogenetics, Jennifer Grizzle of the foundation, Ashley Jennings, marketing coordinator, and Rob Owen, senior vice president, celebrated the success of the office’s Outreach Program.

BHGRE Metro Brokers Introduces New QR Code Technology BHGRE Metro Brokers announced a new QR code marketing system specially designed to assist home buyers in their home search and help homeowners sell their homes faster. According to ScanLife, QR (Quick Response) code scans have increased by 440% in the past year, and BHGRE Metro Brokers is ensuring that their home buyers, sellers and sales associates get the most from this powerful new technology. When a customer scans a QR code sign, it grabs their GPS location from their smartphone and brings up the property that they are standing at. Once the program locks in on the location, it displays the home’s listing details page on metrobrokers. com with property photos and information details. “Our QR code marketing system is one of the best in the business,” says Kevin Levent, president and CEO of BHGRE Metro Brokers. “We’ve already placed more than 2,000 of

the QR code signs at listings across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Our agents and their clients love the ease of use and interface of this impressive new technology.” The proprietary technology used by the company allows a single sign to be used at multiple locations with the exact same QR code. Additionally, the QR codes are large enough to scan from the car and the property, and can be bookmarked on their smartphone for reference later. Levent points out that most smartphone users prefer to scan QR code signs instead of use the brochure box as a resource for property information.

PhotosByHeatherFritz.com

builder profile

Photo by Ansley Brooks

Brock Built Homes Growing Greener

r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Brock Built Homes With their trademark “Life + Style” incorporated into all of their neighborhoods, this award-winning builder continues to bring their unique touch to metro Atlanta homebuilding By Andrew Lawrence

most visionary building companies in Georgia. “We may have a lot of Brocks,” points out Steve, “but we treat everyone here like family. We’re not your typical corporate environment!” It is indeed that difference that has kept the company going all these years. While the last 5 years have been rather hard on metro Atlanta’s housing industry, Brock Built Homes has not only survived the financial hurricane, but has managed to thrive! This year, they will build close to 100 homes, in 12 different communities, a remarkable achievement in any economy! How have they done it? “By the grace of God!” proclaims President Steve Brock, who founded his company in 1984, and has continued to keep his original mission at the heart of his company – to build a superior product at a reasonable price, while improving the community as a whole. It is that commitment to revitalize existing communities while preserving their character and charm that has helped make Brock Built’s homes some of the most sought-after on the market today. “One reason we survived is that we stood by our Photo by Andrew Lawrence

teve Brock has wanted to build homes for as long as he can remember. “As a kid, I always wanted to build,” he recalls. “I built tree houses, forts, and other things like that.” Homes were always a part of the Brock family culture. His mother, Barbara Brock, was a real estate agent in Atlanta, so dinner table conversations about houses were not unusual. It was quite natural then, while still a student at the University of Georgia, that Steve took a part time job selling real estate with his mom at Myriad Properties. While working with several developers on land and commercial sales, development and redevelopment, Brock absorbed everything he could about the business and it wasn’t long before he decided he wanted to do it on his own. Steve’s first major project was building 26 homes in the Pine Hill subdivision near Lenox Square. He was hooked! Still going strong 27 years later, home building is very much a family business for Brock. Working side by side with his wife Evanne, his father Merv, as well as 5 of his 6 children (his 2nd oldest is currently interning for a commercial builder), Brock has created one of the

Some of the Brock Built Homes team gather in their Custom Design Center at their new home office in East Cobb.

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > SUMMER 2012

PhotosByHeatherFritz.com

commitments,” says Brock, who saw many of his competitors “cut and run” when the going got tough. “We worked with our banks, lenders and partners, and persevered through a lot of hard issues,” he explains. The results of those commitments are evident. In 2008, Brock Built was awarded the Homebuilder of the Year Award by the Greater Atlanta Homebuilders Association. Today, Brock Built remains one of metro Atlanta’s most respected and successful home builders. Part of that success can be attributed to the homes themselves, both in their construction quality and aesthetic value. Brock Built homes are With 42-inch maple cabinets, granite countertops, tile backsplash and GE Profile appliances, this built to some of the highest standards kitchen is a great examples of the high-end interior features of many of the Brock Built Homes. themselves are far from boring, cookie-cutter creations. in the industry, using some of the best materials available, such as Boral Bricks, Lennox HVAC “Our houses are not like anyone else’s,” explains Brock. systems, and LP TechShield Radiant Barrier Sheathing. “The plans are created differently for each lot. We don’t Using only expert contractors and craftsmen, while do repetitive reproductions!” Steve’s wife Evanne Brock is a main contributor in incorporating a strict program to oversee every phase of the construction process, ensures that the quality of each the home designs, and both the interior and exterior

“Our houses are not like anyone else’s. The plans are created differently for each lot. We don’t do repetitive reproductions!” home is what their customers have come to expect. All Brock Built homes come with a one-year limited builder warranty, as well as a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.

rock Built homes are also known for their distinctive look and feel, starting with the locations themselves. Building in some of the most desirable areas in metro Atlanta, such as Midtown, Marietta, Roswell, Smyrna and Kennesaw, their neighborhoods offer residents a suburban lifestyle with the convenience of city living. This philosophy is reflected in the layouts of the communities, incorporating popular features such as tree-lined streets, nature trails, playgrounds and pavilions, in addition to amenities such as swimming pools with modern clubhouses and fitness centers. Brock also makes sure that the designs are consistent with the existing look and feel of the community, revitalizing it while preserving its original character. While maintaining that consistency, the homes

finishes. She describes the intricate process they go through in creating their homes, starting with the design of the floor plans. A true team effort, each new plan is critiqued by Steve, Evanne, Construction and Purchasing Manager Kevin Guerrero, and Sales and Marketing Manager Barbara Glore before it is built. After the skeleton is erected, they all “walk the frame,” making final adjustments before the house is finished. “After 30 years in this industry, I’ve never worked with a builder who does this,” says Glore. Brock Built creates homes in a variety of architectural styles from craftsman cottages to contemporary. However their fingerprints are evident on all of their designs. Their attention-grabbing rooflines, combined with their signature mix of exterior finishes (including Fox Mountain Stone – large natural stone from their own North Georgia property – used on many of their high-end homes), create some of the most interesting curb appeals found in any neighborhood. r.e. r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012 REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

21 21

PhotosByHeatherFritz.com Brock Built neighborhoods have outstanding curb appeal, with tree lined streets, stylish landscaping, and Craftman-style architecture. “Our homes are timeless,” observes Barbara Glore. “Thirty years from now, they will still look good!”

“All of the materials we use on the exteriors are either masonry or cementitious products,” explains Evanne about their signature look, “so the maintenance on them is always minimal.” Evanne is responsible for the final designs, colors and finishes, which makes each home a custom creation. “That’s the fun part for me! I love working with our homeowners to help them create their dream home.” Applauded by both customers and other builders for her exceptional attention to detail, she has developed a reputation for the perfect combination of functionality and form. Brock Built has always been dedicated to building some of the most energy-efficient homes available, receiving the 2009 Earthcraft House Builder of the Year Award. They’ve taken that passion even further, creating their own GreenSmart® program. The program consists of ultra-high standards for each and every aspect of construction. Some of the noteworthy “green” features are radiant barrier roofing, protective house wraps, low emissivity glass in all windows, optional cellulose insulation, 14-Seer A/C units Energy Star Appliances, and high efficiency light bulbs. All plumbing fixtures are designed to maximize water conservation, and each house is thoroughly tested for efficiency. Their goal, explains Brock, is to create the most energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly homes available to their buyers. “We try to build homes that we would want to live in ourselves,” he says. 22 22

rr..ee.. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE >> SUMMER 2012 REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE summer 2012

The final ingredient in the Brock Built equation is their total commitment to customer service, and that falls into the capable hands of 30-year new home veteran Barbara Glore, who says she and her team love showing off their distinctive homes. “We’re a little unique in that we build in such a wide variety of price ranges, from very affordable to million dollar homes,” explains Glore. “We work very hard to choose our builder-agent teams and match them to the right neighborhoods. We also make sure our homes are priced competitively for each market. We spend a lot of time looking at the competition, and make sure ours is the best value for the money.” Glore is quick to add that while their prices are competitive, their products always exceed people’s expectations. “Even in this market, we’ve never cut back on the quality of our homes. Steve may have cut his profit margin, but never the quality!” As the real estate market continues to improve, Brock Built Homes looks forward to continue building the beautiful and timeless neighborhoods that metro Atlantans love to come home to! Andrew Lawrence is an Atlanta-based freelance writer/ photographer who has written for a variety of publications.

404-472-5707 www.brockbuilt.com

Calendar of Events September & October 2012 September 5-8 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

September 29 5:00 p.m.- 10:00 p.m.

September 6 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

October 9 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Georgia Association of Realtors® Annual Convention and Trade Expo Guest Speaker: Ricky Kalmon, Vacation of the Mind and Unlock the Power Within Location: Hilton New Orleans Riverside, 2 Poydras Street New Orleans, LA 70130 Cost: $189 for members, $229 for non-members Register online at www.garealtor.net Info: Rebecca DeShazo 678-597-4134 rdeshazo@garealtor.com Real Estate Connections ATL Networking Event Team up with R.E. professionals to network and share ideas, strategies and real estate news. Location: AJA Restaurant & Bar, 3500 Lenox Rd Suite 100 Atlanta Cost: $20 Register online at realestateconnectionsatl.eventbrite.com Info: Peter & Brian 1-800-645-7249 Peter@foundationsllc.com

September 13 8:30 a.m.

Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Hi-Tech Panel on the latest in Social Media, Digital Signatures, Videos, etc. Location: The 1818 Club at the Gwinnett Chamber, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway Duluth, GA 30097 Cost: $15 WCR members / $25 non-members Info and Reservations: Carol Guse 678-644-6777 cguse@ prudentialgeorgia.com

September 20 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Atlanta Women’s Council of Realtors® Monthly Meeting Speakers: Mayor of Sandy Springs Eva Galambos Location: Five Seasons Brewery, The Prado, 5600 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs Cost: $25 WCR members / $35 non-members and affiliates Info: Bedel Thome 404-213-8035 bedelthome@msn.com

September 20 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Cherokee Women’s Council of Realtors® Monthly Meeting Speaker: Dave Ryback (co-author of Putting Emotional Intelligence to Work) Location: Cherokee Association of Realtors Board Office, 1600 River Park Blvd, Ste 104 Cost: $10 for member; $15 for non-members Info: Camille Gard 770-547-6659 ccamillegard@aol.com

September 20 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Cobb Women’s Council of Realtors® Speakers: Dan Easton & Hugh Gilliam Capturing Global International Business in Your Area Location: The Pinetree Country Club 3400 McCollum Pkwy NW Kennesaw Cost: $15 WCR members / $20 non-members Info: Deborah Gilmore 404-406-7622 tatumdj@bellsouth.net

Cherokee Association of Realtors® Cherokee’s Got Talent To benefit Cherokee Cultural Arts Village and Habitat for Humanity Doors open at 5:00 for refreshments and silent auction Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, 8534 Main Street Woodstock Cost: $10 adults $5 children and military Info: www.Cherokeerealtors.org Northeast Atlanta Metro Association of Realtors® Taste Around Gwinnett Location: Downtown Duluth All proceeds benefit Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity Info: www.namar.org

October 10 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Cobb Women’s Council of Realtors® Speaker: John Hunt, ViaSearch 911 to 411… How Is The Housing Market? Location: The Pinetree Country Club 3400 McCollum Pkwy NW Kennesaw Cost: $15 WCR members / $20 non-members Info: Deborah Gilmore 404-406-7622 tatumdj@bellsouth. net

October 11 8:30 a.m.

Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® Business Resource Meeting Location: The 1818 Club at the Gwinnett Chamber, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway Duluth, GA 30097 Cost: $15 WCR members / $25 non-members Info and Reservations: Carol Guse 678-644-6777 cguse@ prudentialgeorgia.com

October 18 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Atlanta Women’s Council of Realtors® Monthly Meeting Speaker: Bonnie Ross Parker, author of The Joy of Networking Location: Sub-Zero/Wolf showroom, 3280 Peachtree Rd., #200, Atlanta Info: Bedel Thome 404-213-8035 bedelthome@msn.com

October 18 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Cherokee Women’s Council of Realtors® Monthly Meeting Location: Cherokee Association of Realtors Board Office, 1600 River Park Blvd Suite 104 Cost: $10 for member; $15 for non-members Info: Camille Gard 770-547-6659 ccamillegard@aol.com

October 20 8:00 a.m.

Gwinnett Women’s Council of Realtors® 3rd Annual Hoofin’ For Habitat 5k Fundraiser Location: 4225 Rivergreen Parkway, Duluth 30096 Cost: pre-register $20, $25 at the site Info and Reservations: Carol Guse 678-644-6777 cguse@ prudentialgeorgia.com

r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

r.e. inspection section

r.e. inspection section Skyline Home Inspections, Inc. “The New Horizon of Service”

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415-609-5527

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

s an Atlanta area inspector, I often see signs on houses that an agent has posted indicating that the electrical system has been worked on. But worked on by whom? Just like builders, not all electricians are created equally. You should always remember that a great deal electrical work is not done by a master electrician, but rather by their apprentices, a handyman, or the homeowner themselves. Moreover, the building code in Georgia stipulates that any type of electrical repair or expansion in a home requires both a permit and a final inspection. Rarely is this done. In many case, shortcuts are the order of the day. Homes built before 1970 were generally ungrounded electrical systems that had two pronged receptacles installed. I constantly run into situations where there are three pronged, grounded receptacles installed in “updated” houses and the receptacles indicated ungrounded when tested. Typically a homeowner, handyman or electrician installed the three pronged plugs and didn’t replace the original wiring that only has two conductors and doesn’t have a ground. When open ground receptacles are found on a property, there are two acceptable methods of repairing the situation. First you can replace the wiring with grounded wiring (or run an individual ground wire to each receptacle) or you could replace the ungrounded three prong receptacles with two prong, ungrounded receptacles. Either solution is acceptable. What is not acceptable is having a receptacle that has the appearance of being grounded when no ground is actually installed. This is a potential safety risk to the owner that can result in damaged electronics or,

by Charles Turner

i n s p e c t o r ’s r e p o r t

“The electrical system in this house has been updated” ...and the results could be shocking!

even worse, an electrical fire could ensue from improperly grounded receptacles. The second most common electrical issue I run into is a double tapped circuit in a panel box. In many cases the panel box is already full and every breaker is being used and a new electrical line is run to the box. Rather than installing a sub-panel, the handyman, homeowner or electrician installs a second wire connection to a breaker or fuse. Only one wire is allowed at each fuse or breaker, due to the risk of loose connections and arcing electricity that could result in a fire in the panel box. When double tapped circuits are found, the condition must be eliminated. Remember, when asking for any repair to be made to a property you should ask for licensed contractors to perform the work and ask that receipts for the work performed by made available to the buyer so that they may hold someone accountable for the work performed. It is recommended that if you are going to have a property reinspected, that you insist all work be performed at least three days prior to close for re-inspection purposes so that if something is still not repaired properly, there is time to get the items repaired before closing. Charles Turner is the Atlanta Area Manager

for

Buyer’s

Protection

Group Home Inspection Services. He is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors and is ICC Code Certified. He has been a home inspector since 2005 and has performed more than 1,500 inspections in the Atlanta Area. He can be reached cturner@ bpgwi.com

r.e. REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

resource directory

Realtor® resource directory advertising

McMichael & Gray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-373-0521

home inspection services

R.E. Real Estate Magazine……….. . . . . 770-956-7100

Murphy & Shank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-517-9300 Check out our FREE Short Sale Services! www.murphyshank.com

Alpha Home Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-751-0737

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

Building Knowledge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-661-4531

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

associations Atlanta Board of Realtors® . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-250-0051 Cherokee Association of Realtors® . . . . . . . 770-591-0004 Cobb Association of Realtors®. . . . . . . . . . 770-422-3900

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

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

IHI Home Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-788-2581

Campbell and Brannon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-521-1180 Dickenson Gilroy, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-518-5515 experience. service. excellence. www.dickensongilroy.com (see display ad page 28)

Home and Stucco Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . 770-246-9448

Pillar to Post. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-372-8100 (see banner ad page 24)

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

basements and waterproofing

ProTech Home & Property Inspections . . 770-277-5655 Providing Peace of Mind…One Home at a Time! www.protech-inspect.com

Aquaguard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-419-9111

RIA Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-476-4963

attorneys Carol Clark Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-250-3300

Champia Real Estate InspectionS. . . . . . . . 770-953-0767 (see banner ad page 24) DRC Inspections and Consulting. . . . . . . . 770-794-1494

Metro South Assoc. of Realtors® . . . . . . . . . 770-477-7579 Northeast Atlanta Metro Assoc. of Realtors® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-495-7300

Buyers Protection Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-285-3001 (see banner ad page 24)

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

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

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

foreclosure cleaning & maintenance Foreclosure Cleaner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-201-5412 (see display ad page 6)

Skyline Home Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-432-5464 (see banner ad page 24)

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

graphic design/branding

Law Offices of Sam Maguire Jr., PC . . . . 404-257-8885 Where Real Estate Meets Real People www.sammaguire.com

Unit B Creative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-351-3125 www.unitbcreative.com

Lefkoff, Rubin, Cleason & Russo, PC . . . . . 404-869-6900

gutter cleaning

McCurdy & Candler, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-373-1612 Your REO and Foreclosure Specialists www.mccurdycandler.com

A Better Gutter Cleaning, Inc.. . . . . . . . . 404-943-9432 Professional Service – Easy Scheduling www.abetterguttercleaning.com

Kurt Lattanze Allstate Insurance. . . . . . . . . 770-393-8206

IT consulting Carceron Systems Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-424-3393 Outsource your IT department to us! www.carceron.net (see display ad page 15)

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

r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

resource directory

Realtor® resource directory management companies

multiple listing services

renovation and new construction

PEMCO Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-995-7111

Georgia MLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-493-9000 “More Prices, More Places, More Possibilities” www.gamls.com (see display ads pages 5 & 7)

At Home Handyman Services. . . . . . . . . . . . 678-520-0822

mortgage companies Allpoints Financial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-473-9898 (see display ad page 6) Brand Mortgage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 855-754-4339

PNC Mortgage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-531-5900 Call Steve and get the facts before deciding www.reverseandrelax.com/stevegiacchino (see display ad page 9) Prime Lending. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-713-9344 Reverse Mortgage Network. . . . . . . . . . . 770-354-1040 7 locations in metro Atlanta www.pncmortgage.com/agentalliance

painting & drywall

Atlanta Peach Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-270-5586

Superior Eco Friendly Preservation Systems. . 678-749-4653 (see display ad page 8)

roof repairs

Brushmasters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-315-2857 M & M Painting and Drywall. . . . . . . . . . . . 770-527-7335

pest control

Jason Sikora Roofing & Renovations. . . . . . 770-294-4474 (see display ad page 17) Peachtree Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-579-7663

security systems

All Exterminating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-887-2571 Prevention Pest Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-978-5839 (see display ad page 8)

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

Skyline Pest Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 678-432-5464

virtual tours

Trademark Pest Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-614-6534

Glide Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-560-9658

Southeastern Mortgage Solutions. . . . . . . . 404-452-1424

moving and storage

Lefko Renovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404-846-6372

photography

HomeScenes Virtual Tours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-594-1193

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

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

plumbing Plumbing Express. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-452-8636 Your Solution to Polybutylene Plumbing www.plumbing911.com Right Choice Plumbing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 770-480-3835

real estate companies Better Homes & Gardens Metro Brokers. . . 404-843-2500 Accelerate your Career with X-Celerator www.metrobrokers.com (see display ad pages 2)

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

r.e.

REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE > summer 2012

Specializing in Residential and Commercial Real Estate and Litigation

experience. service. excellence.

Dickenson Gilroy LLC 3780 Mansell Road, Suite 140 Alpharetta, GA 30022 Phone: 770.518.5515 Fax: 770.518.5516 www.dickensongilroy.com