What's On The Horizon For Woodstock?

What's On The Horizon For Woodstock?

The Woodstock City Council recently unanimously approved variances related to the development of Georgia's newest retail outlet mall, the Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta.  Located at the newest interchange to be constructed on Interstate 575 along Ridgewalk Parkway, the project is slated to be around 404,000 square feet of commercial space in Phase I with an option to add an additional 30,000 square feet.  The development will include eight out parcels and $75 million in investment.

Ridgewalk Parkway will be expanded from the new interchange to Ridge Trail and is expected to see an increase in traffic as it serves as a gateway to north Woodstock and east Cherokee.  It is expected that the improvements to this roadway will both improve traffic flow and increase economic development opportunities for the adjacent Bell Industrial Park and adjacent raw lands.  The corridor will also provide improved access to Rope Mill Park and the City's trail system with Blanket's Creek bicycle trails along the Little River.  Several hundred-thousand visitors annually bike along the trails.  The Outlet will support not only the 205,000 Cherokee County residents but is expected to generate $350 per square foot in sales and create over 7 million annual visits.  The proximity to J.J. Biello Park's tennis center and softball complex will provide additional shopping and dining options for out of town guests using these facilities for tournaments.

A mile up the interstate from this interchange will be the home of the Cherokee Aquatic Center, an additional recreation facility that will be utilized to spur tourism in the county.  The Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta, a project by Horizon Group Properties, will be the closest retail outlet center to Atlanta and will include 1,200 new jobs, 1,200 construction jobs and up to 1,600 seasonal jobs for Cherokee County.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and has called Woodstock home since building her own home here in 1998.  Sara works with home buyers and sellers in the Woodstock, Canton, Roswell, Alpharetta, Acworth, Kennesaw, Marietta and north Atlanta metro area.  Sara looks forward to answering your many real estate questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process.  Sara is easily reached anytime at 404-660-2481.  E-mail her at Sara@SaraHibbard.com or visit her websites located at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com, www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.ShopCantonHomes.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com.  Sara is active in social media at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind and www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1.

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate Is On Your Mind! 

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Time For Another Market Conditions Report

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Market Condition's Wednesday and time to shine the spot light on another great city in the Atlanta metro area.  This week we will focus our attention on the city of BLUE RIDGE.

The town of Blue Ridge was once considered an elite health resort because of its pure mineral waters. Tourists would ride the train to town, eat dinner at the Blue Ridge Hotel, and take a leisurely walk to the mineral springs after dinner. Today, tourists can still ride the train and take a leisurely walk along Main Street, enjoying the antique and specialty shops, galleries, restaurants and small town atmosphere of Blue Ridge.

I get a lot of calls these days from active adults who are looking to downsize and are considering the Georgia mountains as a place to call home when they retire.  They are often surprised when they realize that there isn't a lot to choose from in Blue Ridge.  Properties are scarce.  Regardless, Blue Ridge is almost always part of the discussion.  Interestingly, property values in Blue Ridge have not suffered as a result of the recession.

To give you a frame of reference today, as I write this, there is a total of 47,355 single family homes on the market in the entire Atlanta metro area including homes in Blue Ridge.

Likewise, there is a total of ONLY 32 single family homes on the market and ACTIVELY listed for sale in Blue Ridge.  These homes range in price from $149,900 (currently the lowest priced home in Blue Ridge) which is a perfect weekend cabin located in the middle of the Aska Adventure Area. This all wood cabin offers plenty of inside storage and a partial unfinished daylight basement that is perfect for mountain toys, or could easily become a 'Harley Garage'. There are paved roads right up to the driveway.  The beautiful and gleaming hardwood floors offer a split floor plan with private baths off both bedrooms. There's a skylight in the Living room. Front and rear Covered Decks. This cabin is beautiful and move-in ready to enjoy today and offers 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with a to-die for wrap around porch and views of the mountains!

At the other end of the price spectrum is the highest priced property currently available in Blue Ridge.  This 27+ acre country estate is priced at $2 million, with incredible long range mountain and Lake Blue Ridge views, it sits high on the hill overlooking fenced pastures and manicured gardens. You can see why this property is the setting for many country weddings! The 6 bedrooms all have their own private baths and there is a cedar sauna on the lower level. A heated, salt water pool off the back terrace has its own cabana perfect for outdoor entertaining. The 3 car garage with tiled floors and a single garage in the lower level gives you all the room you need for any type of vehicle. This property would be perfect and offer great potential for a B&B, restaurant, or equestrian ranch. Perfect for corporate retreats and fund raising events too.

Today there are 5 single family properties in Blue Ridge showing up as PENDING SALE.  These homes are priced from $139,900 to $499,500.

During 2011 and to day, there was a total of 32 homes SOLD in Blue Ridge with prices ranging from $20,000 for a bank-owned property destroyed by fire to $435,000 for an estate with fabulous views.

As you can clearly see, homes might be scarce but they are selling in BLUE RIDGE. 

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia.  Call Sara with your many real estate questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process.  Sara is easily reachable at any time at 404-660-2481 or via e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Join Sara on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.  Follow Sara's Blogs at www.GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.Blogspot.com and www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com.  You can find Sara's website at www.GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.com. 

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!      

    

Homeowners’ Associations – Friend or Foe?

Homeowners’ Associations – Friend or Foe?

You’ve probably heard some horror stories—homeowners’ associations nitpicking about insignificant details, tying up property sales with costly lawsuits, or enforcing expensive and unexpected assessments.

But, homeowners’ associations (also called HOAs) can help protect property values, provide great amenities that you couldn’t afford on your own, get you involved with your community, and keep your neighbors from parking cars on their front lawns.

Research shows that in these economically difficult times, neighborhoods without home owners associations have seen more dramatic drops in  property values than neighborhoods with associations.  

Whether you love, hate, or don’t know much about homeowners’ associations, if you’re thinking about purchasing a home that is affiliated with one, it’s important to do your research. Before you sign on the dotted line, ask these important questions:

Does this home belong to a homeowners’ association?

This question isn’t as simple as you’d think—HOAs aren’t just for condominiums. Don’t assume that just because you’re looking at a town home, single-family home, or vacation property that you’re in the clear. In fact, according to the Community Association Institute (CAI), four out of five houses built since the late 1990s have an HOA.

Can I see some documentation?

Ask to see the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions, commonly known as CC&Rs. These documents are the association’s governing rules, and explain protocol and regulations that officers, homeowners, and tenants are expected to follow. In most cases, CC&Rs are legally enforceable.

In addition to reviewing the CC&Rs, ask to see recent meeting minutes and up-to-date financial statements. These documents will let you know if there are any upcoming assessments in the works and help you determine the overall financial health of the organization.

How are the HOA’s finances managed? How much can I expect to spend?

A well-organized HOA should make very clear the financial responsibilities of its members. Are dues billed monthly, quarterly, or yearly? How much are they? Are there late fees? If a homeowner violates a regulation, are there monetary penalties? Are there limits to the dollar amount and frequency of one-time assessments?

What do my dues cover?

Inclusions vary dramatically and it is safe to assume that the lower your dues, the fewer services, amenities, and utilities are included. In a traditional condominium association, dues may likely include water, cable, ground maintenance, trash, sewer, recreational amenities, parking, security, and more.

HOAs in neighborhoods with single-family homes may cover sidewalks, landscaping, and common areas. Ask to see a comprehensive list of what is included.

How do you like the HOA?

Hit the pavement and ask neighbors about the association. How is the leadership elected? Have you had any negative interactions? How common are expensive assessments?

Can I follow all of the rules?

Before you commit to living in an HOA-affiliated building or neighborhood, take an honest look at the rules and make sure that you are comfortable following every single one. Make sure that your lifestyle fits with the HOA’s parameters. For example, if you’re buying vacation property, make sure that the HOA doesn’t have rules limiting or forbidding owners from renting their property.

Homeowners’ associations can be a good influence on your condo or neighborhood, but only if everyone follows the rules. Understanding the rules and responsibilities before committing to a purchase is crucial to happiness in your new HOA-affiliated home.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and happens to serve as President of her neighborhood HOA. Sara works with home buyers and sellers and helps each conquer the moving process. Sara Hibbard is easily reached at 404-660-2481 or via e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com. Visit Sara's social media sites at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind, www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and Blogs at www.GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.Blogspot.com and www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com. Sara Hibbard's website's are located at www.SaraHibbard.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com. Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on your Mind!

Gutters & Downspouts: Home Owner Tips

I was at a house earlier today that had a significant amount of wood rot around windows and doors due to an absence of flashing as well as gutters and downspouts that need attention too.

When I went into the basement, I noticed that a far corner of cinder-block wall appeared wet.  I suspect the cause of all these things can be blamed on overflowing gutters and an absence of flashing.

As you know if you are a regular reader of this blog, my daily experiences when I am out and about  visiting properties often influence what a write about each day in this blog. 

Power Home Remodeling Group offers the following Home Owner Tips.

As you probably know, your home requires maintenance on many areas and your gutters and downspouts are no exception. 

Seamless Gutters -- How to Maintain
You should clean out your gutters 2 to 3 times per year and probably more often than that if you live under a group of pine trees.  Working to keep your gutters clear of debree will ensure that they stay free flowing and will keep the exterior surfaces from staining.

Every few years you should do a tune up on your gutters and downspouts, such as resecuring and repitching gutters, resealing corners, and reattaching loose downspouts and elbows.

Check to make sure your splash blocks are angled so the water flows away from the foundation of the house.  DO NOT angle them towards any walk or driveway since this could cause a slipping hazard.

How To Tell if Your Gutters are Clogged
Are your gutters overflowing?
Is there restricted flow of water from your downspouts?
Do you see ground erosion below the gutter line?
Do you see leaky corners?
Is there discoloration (not dirt, mold or mildew) on the gutters?

Clogged gutters will cause the corners to leak.  As a result, the gutters will pull away and eventually fall off.  Clogged gutters cause wet basements, mold and mildew, ruined landscaping, and the stagnant water will cause an insect infestation.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and works with several Georgia Inspectors who she says have helped her learn about the various problems affecting properties.  Sara actively points out active problems as well as potential problems to her clients while visiting properties.  I truly don't want any client of mine to make a bad decision.  Sara Hibbard is always happy to answer your many questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the buying / selling / relocation process.  Feel free to call Sara Hibbard anytime at 404-660-2481 or e-mail Sara at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com.  Sara is also on Facebookwww.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind and www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind! 
  

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Time For Another Market Conditions Report

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Market Conditions Wednesday and time for another market conditions report.  This week the spotlight is on the City of BIG CANOE. 

As they say in Big Canoe, time is our most precious gift. Big Canoe's location means you'll spend less time driving to your mountain retreat and more time sharing the pleasures of nature, golf and community with loved ones.  Located in the foothills of North Georgia Appalachians, Big Canoe is just one hour north of Atlanta. It's the perfect retreat for the weekend, the summer or forever–because it is so nearby.  With nearby highways and excellent communication services, Big Canoe has a growing population of residents who commute to work in Atlanta.

As we begin our focus on Big Canoe, it should be noted today that as I write this there is a total of 46,423 actively listed homes in the entire Atlanta metro area including the City of Big Canoe.  Likewise, right now, today in Big Canoe there is a total of 240 actively listed single family homes available and on the market for sale. 

Available single family homes in BIG CANOE range in price from $99,000 for a great mountain home built in 1972 on stilts with 4 bedrooms, 2 full and 1 half bathrooms, spiral staircase, and a brand new HVAC system.  This is a great little mountain retreat in good condition at a great price.  At the opposite end of the price spectrum, the highest priced home in Big Canoe is an incredible mountain home with 6 bedrooms, 6 full and 2 half bathrooms.  This home is loaded with elegant details and awe-inspiring views of the north Georgia mountains.  This rustic craftsman style home has every architectural detail you can imagine with stone, brick construction, 3+ car garage, gourmet kitchen, keeping room, wine cellar, beautiful wood coiffured ceilings, elevator and much more on more than 2 acres of land -- this home is listed at $2.995 million.

Currently 12 homes are Pending Sale today in Big Canoe.  Listing prices of these properties range from $159,900 to $990,000.

From January 1, 2011 through today -- January 18th, 2012, a total of 89 homes were SOLD in Big Canoe.  Sold prices ranged from $80,000 to $1.025 million.

Check out the Big Canoe website at http://www.bigcanoe.com/Location

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and works in Big Canoe, as well as the north Atlanta metro area including but not limited to: Canton, Acworth, Alpharetta, Cumming, Woodstock, Ball Ground, Kennesaw, Marietta, Powder Springs and Roswell. Sara is ready to answer your many questions regarding Big Canoe and the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process. Sara Hibbard looks forward to assisting all your real estate needs when the time is right for you. Sara can be reached anytime at 404-660-2481 or by e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.

Visit Sara's websites at www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com, www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.ShopCantonHomes.com, www.SaraHibbardHomes.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com. Find Sara on Facebook too at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind. 

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!       

Winter Home Maintenance Tips

Yes, even in the Atlanta metro area, where our "winters" are typically very mild, we still need to take care of our biggest investment -- our families and our wallets by following some relatively easy tips on home maintenance and safety.

Home Warranty of America suggests that we need to take care of our heating systems, conserve precious heat, be safe and conduct needed outdoor maintenance too.

Take Care Of Your Heating System
Even though our heating season is relatively short in Atlanta, (I'll probably be back to my air conditioning by the 1st of March); Home Warranty of America says that your heating system runs constantly throughout the cold months so it is important to keep it well-maintained to prevent needed repairs and also keep your system running smoothly.

• Remember to change out your HVAC filter each month.  Replacing HVAC filters is crucial to keeping your air clean.  Filters clean out pollutants such as molds, skin cells and allergens.
• Check the gas connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger to ensure safety and efficiency.  Improper connections are a fire hazard and a dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes poor burner operation.

Conserve Precious Heat
Proper insulation of your home is critical to ensure proper heating and conservation of heat to make the most of your heating costs this winter.

• Inspect the insulation in your attic and crawlspaces.  Warm air rises and leaves the house through the roof, so focus your insulation efforts on your ceilings and attics.  Areas around recessed lights, the attic hatch and plumbing vents should be sealed as they commonly are the main issue in allowing warm air to escape your home.
• Storm windows help heat stay in and cold stay out.  If you're on a tight budget and do not already have storm windows, pick up an inexpensive plastic film sheet kit from your local hardware store.  These only last one season, but help with insulation efforts.  Weather-strip all doors that lead to cold or outside areas.
• Close curtains or shades at night and keep them open during the day, especially in rooms that receive a lot of light and sun.  Re-arranging your furniture like couches, chairs, tables and beds away from any exterior walls makes your home seem warmer by putting some distance between you and the cold air.  This also leaves room for the air to move around better, making it warmer in your house.

Be Safe
The cold and snow of winter can create hazardous conditions.  Take a moment to plan ahead and prepare your home and family for the worst of what winter can bring.

•  Last year those of us living in the Atlanta metro area actually had a few days in January when we were snowed in.  Many of us needed salt, but had none.  It's a good idea to anticipate that this conceivably could happen again.  Stock up on sidewalk salt (for better traction) and apply generously to all walkways and driveways at the first sign of slick conditions. 
• Most southerners don't have snow shovels.  I left mine back in Boston, when I relocated here in February 1994.  However, its always good to have a shovel at the ready in case it's needed.  And, make sure, if we get some of the white stuff, that when you're shoveling, when you lift a shovel-full of snow, pick up small amounts and lift with your legs, not your back.  Do not toss snow over your shoulder or off to the side. 

Outdoor Maintenance
Outdoor home care does not end when winter comes.  Even in the cold weather months, your yard still needs maintenance to keep your home safe.

•   Make sure tree and shrub branches are well away from the house and windows.  Ice can cause branches to break and damage your home.
• Walk around the outside of the house often and do a scan.  Check the foundation for small cracks or openings where mice or other pests could take up residence.  Seal up any possible entrances to keep these critters out.  While outside, clear any snow accumulation off gas meters and away from basement windows and your dryer exhaust vents.

And, finally, thank your lucky stars that you live in the south.  As bad as it gets up north, we are lucky that if the weather does take a turn for the worst here, we can be thankful that any bad winter weather is very short lived in the Atlanta metro area and sunny south.  You Northerner's....c'mon down.  You're gonna love winter in the south!

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the Atlanta metro area and looks forward to answering your many questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process.   Sara is easily reached at 404-660-2481 or via e-mail at: Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites located at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com.  Sara is also active on Facebook and You Tube at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.com and www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1.

Keeping Your Carpets Clean & Looking New, Long After They're Not

Popular Atlanta home builder, David Weekly Homes says often the only difference between carpet that looks new and carpet that looks old is -- dirt.  If you study dry soil under a microscope you'll see that dirt is composed of particles with razor sharp edges.  These edges wreak havoc on carpet fibers.   So if you want to save a ton of money and triple your carpet's life, get rid of the dirt.  But, don't "sweep it under the rug."  Try these important and time-proven methods to keep your carpet looking new long after it isn't.

Vacuum well and Vacuum often
As a Realtor, I always suggest that when you are buying a new house -- buy a new vacuum cleaner too.  Why bring dust and dirt from your old house with you to a new house.  Start fresh.  When dirt is the enemy a vacuum is your best friend.  The best models use dual motors -- one for the suction, the other powers the beater bar.  Look for good filtration and a brush height adjustment that fits your carpet.  Experts recommend that you vacuum at least twice a week and sometimes more often in high traffic areas or if you have lots of kids and pets.

The two main culprits are right under your feet
Day in and day out, nothing brings more dirt into your home than shoes. One solution is to keep a mat outside the door for brushing off some of the dirt and grime from your soles. Another great idea is to remove your shoes at the door and wear some "indoor-only" slippers around the house.  Also, most people don't realize this but, walking around in bare feet is damaging the carpet too.  The soles of your feet have natural oils and when your feet are dirty from walking outside and then back in the house, they are grinding more dirt into your carpets which is even more difficult to remove.

Become a traffic cop of the carpet
Heavily used sections of carpeting will show the most wear over time. This is where area rugs and runners can help. Place them in front of and under heavily used furniture. And speaking of furniture, try redefining traffic patterns by rearranging it occasionally if possible. Because heavy furniture can leave permanent indentations in your carpet, you should always use furniture glides.

Avoid direct sunlight and clean stains immediately
Like your skin, carpet ages faster when it is exposed to UV rays.  The more you can protect it from direct sunlight by closing blinds and drapes, the longer it will last.  As for stains, they're easier to remove the sooner you attack them.  Start by applying liquid or dry carpet cleaner with a lint-free cloth and blot, never rub. Let the area dry and remove the residue with a plastic scraper. Then, you guessed it, it's time to vacuum. 

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia.  Occassionally, Sara works with buyers who are interested in purchasing a David Weekly Home or a home from another area builder.  Sara is always available to answer your many questions or to organize a tour of homes matching your search criteria.  Call Sara anytime at 404-660-2481 or e-mail her at sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites located at www.SaraHibbard.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com.  Visit Sara's You Tube and Facebook pages at www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind respectively.

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind! 

   

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Market Condition's Wednesday!

If it's Wednesday, It Must Be Market Condition's Wednesday!  Time for another market conditions report!  Today the focus is on the city of BALL GROUND, GA.

Ball Ground is a growing community of nearly 1,500 residents located just north of the City of Canton at exit 27 on I-575.  In spite of difficult economic times, the City of Ball Ground continues to see continued growth in the number of businesses and jobs within the City.  This can be attributed to the positive business climate in the City, where the philosophy continues to be one of rolling out the red carpet and not the red tape.  Ball Ground offers a wide variety of housing choices and lot sizes within the City for new residents, and the city is proud to announce a new 1,200 student capacity Elementary School is under construction and set to open in August of 2012 near the center of downtown Ball Ground.

As I write this, it might interest you to know that today, there is a total of 46,067 single family homes actively listed and on the market in the entire Atlanta metro area including the city of Ball Ground. 

Likewise, there is a total of 106 actively listed single family homes on the market today in the city of Ball Ground. Also, it is worth noting for Investor's, a total of only 17 single family homes are listed at or UNDER $100,000 in Ball Ground.  Actively listed homes in Ball Ground range in price from $35,000 for a ranch style home needing major repairs on 1.5 acres to $9.8 million for a sprawling home at Hawks Ridge.  This is a wonderful family home, but perfect for entertaining. The guest house has 2 bedrooms and the pool house has a stage and full catering kitchen along with a $2M professional recording studio. The property contains 2 pools, multiple outdoor living areas, a tennis court, media room, English pub, excercize room and spa facility. The master is on the opposite side of the house from the guest bedrooms and the helipad is conveniently situated next door.  This fabulous home measures 20,000 square feet and sits atop a hill overlooking the golf club on 10 gated acres. 

A total of 24 homes are showing up today as Pending Sale in Ball Ground.  They range in price from $29,000 for a mobile home to $569,000 for beautiful estate home in prestigous Hawks Ridge Golf Club.  This is a foreclosure home and features 6 bedrooms and 5 full and 1 half bathrooms.

Homes are selling in Ball Ground.  During 2011 to the present day from January 1st 2011 through January 11, 2012, a total of 138 homes were SOLD in Ball Ground.  Prices ranged from $15,000 to $739,000.  From September 1 through January 11th, 2012 -- today, 62 homes have been sold in Ball Ground.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and works in Cherokee County, Ball Ground, Canton, Woodstock and the north Atlanta metro area including but not limited to: Acworth, Alpharetta, Cumming, Kennesaw, Marietta, Powder Springs and Roswell.  Sara is ready to answer your many questions regarding Ball Ground and the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process. Sara Hibbard looks forward to assisting all your real estate needs when the time is right for you. Sara can be reached anytime at 404-660-2481 or by e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.

Visit Sara's websites at www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com, www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.ShopCantonHomes.com, www.SaraHibbardHomes.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com. Find Sara on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind. 

Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!

Spit Shining Your House Before You Move

You're relocating and you feel like your life is in total disarray.  You repeatedly ask yourself..."will things ever be normal again?"

Boxes are piled high to the ceiling.  The garage is choked with stuff and well...if walls could talk they might imitate a few choice words overheard during the past week.

Yes, you're overwhelmed. You're trying to cope with all the little details involved with moving.

When you're in the midst of a mess  -- packing boxes, keeping inventory of what's in each box, cancelling the Cable-TV service, forwarding your mail to the new address, collecting your medical records from the pediatrician, cardiologist, family practitioner and veterinarian, you've got one thing on your mind.

The impending move!  How will everything get done by moving day? 

The last thing you're thinking about is cleaning your house and leaving it looking as if no one had ever lived in it.

I understand.

I'm a Realtor.

I watch people go through the process every day, week and month throughout the year.  Regardless of whether I am representing the buyer or seller, I know what you're going through.  I do my best to offer constructive suggestions on how best to cope and get it all done in an organized fashion.  It's no secret the moving process is exhausting for the whole family -- kids, adults, grandma and pets too. 

Don't let yourself get so exhausted that you forget to leave your home looking clean, spit shinned and polished for the new home-owners who will be moving in to your "old" home.

When everything is finally moved out and the moving van is leaving your driveway, you've still got work to do.  You need to decide if you're going to do the cleaning yourself or hire a cleaning service to clean up after you leave, making the home ready for the next family.

Think about it.  Will the new buyers of your home feel Welcome?  Can they move in immediately or will they have to roll up their sleeves, put on haz-mat suits, grab the Pine-sol and start to chip away at your remaining DNA?  Can the new buyers feel safe in putting food immediately into the refrigerator or will they have to clean up old cracked eggs in the egg compartment of the door?  Is the micro-wave clean or will the new buyers find themselves cleaning up a caked-on mess from a week ago last Thursday?  What condition did you leave the stove top and oven in?  Is the oven screaming for mercy from a recently exploded souffle?  Does the stove top demand attention from a boiled over mess?     
What about the windows?  Are they gleaming and ready for birds from the Windex commercial or are they streaked with years of dirty film, smoke and dust prohibiting a view to the outside world.  How 'bout the bathrooms?   Are the vanities plastered with strands of hair from you comb?  Is your DNA plastered on the counter tops, shower, tube and toilet?  How 'bout the mirror?  Is there evidence of toothpaste stains and splatters from the last time your husband flossed his teeth?  Are huge cob-webs hanging from the chandelier in your dining room or two-story foyer?  I hope I'm painting the picture for you.  These are just a few of the scenes I've witnessed during the past week.

This may sound gross, but believe me, I am repeatedly shocked at the condition that some people leave their homes in as they walk out the door.  Evidently they're thinking...out of sight out of mind.

This column is inspired by situations that I run into every day.  This week, I have walked through two properties of people who want me to list and market their homes for sale.  Both home owners have moved on and relocated to other states.  Even after our discussions of what "clean" means, their homes are still not ready to be listed and marketed for sale.  And, they've already moved on!  In their absence and neglect of responsibility, I will  require these homeowners to hire a cleaning service to complete what should have been accomplished before these folks moved and before I put a sign in the yard.   

I'll say it again!  Home buyers can afford to be picky these days.  If your home is not in ship shape, there is no point in listing it for sale.  Buyers are looking for any reason to "low-ball" an offer.   The offer you receive on your property will be dependant (in a large part) on the condition you leave it in.  If you are incapable of cleaning and preparing your home for sale, you must get a cleaning service.  Likewise, if you have already sold and closed on your home, please be responsible and leave your home in a positive condition.  After all, it all reflects back on you -- the original owner.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia.  Sara works with home buyers and sellers and helps each conquer the moving process.  Sara Hibbard is easily reached at 404-660-2481 or via e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's social media sites at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind, www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and Blogs at www.GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.Blogspot.com and www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com.  Sara Hibbard's website's are located at www.SaraHibbard.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com.  Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on your Mind! 

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Time For Another Market Conditions Report

If It's Wednesday, It Must Be Market Conditions -- Wednesday!

Happy New Year!  As we start the year off on this the first Wednesday of 2012, the spotlight shines on the city of ATLANTA!  This includes homes mostly in FULTON County, with some addresses in Dekalb and Cobb Counties too.

Atlanta is the most populous city in the state of Georgia.

According to the 2010 census, Atlanta's population is 420,003.  Atlanta is the cultural and economic center of the Atlanta metro area, which is home to 5,268,860 people and is the ninth largest metropolitan area in the United States.  Atlanta is the county seat of Fulton County, and a small portion of the city extends eastward into Dekalb County too.  A small number of Cobb County addresses are counted as Atlanta addresses too.

Today, Atlanta is a major business city and the primary transportation hub of the Southeastern United States (via highway, railroad, and air), with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport earning the distinction of being the world's busiest airport since 1998.  With a gross domestic product (GDP) of US$270 billion, Atlanta's economy ranks 15th among world cities and sixth in the nation.

The city is a center for services, finance, information technology, government, and higher education. Atlanta contains the country's third largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies, and more than 75 percent of Fortune 1000 companies have business operations in the metropolitan area. Metro Atlanta is the world headquarters of corporations such as The Coca - Cola Company, Turner Broadcasting, The Home Depot, AT&T Mobility, UPS and Delta Air Lines.  Atlanta is also home to CNN.  As of 2010, Atlanta is the seventh most visited city in the United States, welcoming over 35 million domestic and overseas visitors per year.  Atlanta is renowned for its robust cultural institutions, which draw creative people and audiences to the city for theater, the visual arts, and music.

Geographically, the city is marked by its mild weather, rolling hills, and a dense tree coverage that is unique among major U.S. cities. Gentrification of Atlanta's neighborhoods, initially spurred by the 1996 Olympic Games, has intensified in the 21st century, altering the city's demographics, culture, and image.

As I write this, it might interest you to know that today, there is a total of 45,448 single family homes actively listed and on the market in the entire Atlanta metro area including the city of Atlanta.  That's down from a total of 52,587 on November 9, 2011.

Likewise, there is a total of 2,941 actively listed single family homes on the market today in the city of Atlanta.  Also, it is worth noting for Investor's, a total of 803 single family homes listed at or UNDER $100,000 in the city of Atlanta. 

Currently prices range from $4500 for a "fixer-upper" quaint 3 bedroom / 1 bath bungalow home to the highest priced property in the Buckhead area currently listed at $19,9 million.  This gated and secure palatial masterpiece, with a premier address on West Paces Ferry Road offers 9 bedrooms with 11 full and 4 half bathrooms, gilded elegance, marble floors, theater, pool, 4+ car garage, on more than 2 acres and amenities too numerous to mention.

Today, there are 902 single family homes Pending Sale in the city of Atlanta.  They range in price from $10,000 to $7.9 million.

Homes Are Selling In The City Of Atlanta!

Since November 1st, 2011 -- which was only 65 days ago -- 813 single family homes have SOLD and CLOSED in the city of Atlanta.  The prices ranged from $2,100 for a brick front home with 1 bedroom/1 full bathroom built in 1960 needing major repairs and renovations to $6.5 million for a Bill Baker designed and custom built Georgian perfection on parklike +/- 4acre lot. Brick, stone, and slate construction with impeccable finishings and incredible amenities.  Built in 2005, this home offers 13,702 square feet of living space and 7 bedrooms / 8 full and 4 half bathrooms.

As you can clearly see, homes are selling in the city of Atlanta!  What are you waiting for?  Do you have a New Years Resolution that includes hunting for your "ideal" home?  Call me for a tour of homes in Atlanta or the Atlanta metro area. 

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and works in the city of Atlanta and the north Atlanta metro area.  Sara is ready to answer your many questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process.  Sara Hibbard looks forward to assisting all your real estate needs when the time is right for you.  Sara can be reached anytime at 404-660-2481 or by e-mail at Sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites at www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com, www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.ShopCantonHomes.com, www.SaraHibbardHomes.com and www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com.    Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!
       

Is a HUD House For You?

Lately, I've been featuring HUD Homes on my You Tube Channel at www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1.  During the next few weeks and months, I will be adding more properties.

Check it out.

I'm an approved HUD Realtor and I'm often asked about HUD homes.  Some of the questions I receive include (but are not limited to):

What is HUD? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Please visit www.HUD.gov for additional information.

Do I need a real estate agent to place a bid for me? Yes, only licensed real estate agents can submit bids. In addition to being a HUD listing broker, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers can submit bids, on your behalf, on HUD homes. Simply contact your agent: Sara Hibbard at 404-660-2481, and we’ll begin assisting you immediately.

Do owner-occupants have a priority in bidding? Yes, there is an initial owner-occupant period of 30 days set aside at the beginning of the bid process which is referred to as the “Exclusive” bid period.

What are my financing options? You can use FHA or conventional financing to purchase a HUD home. You may also purchase a property with cash. If FHA financing is utilized, Owner Occupant borrowers have a minimum down payment requirement of only $100.
How can I obtain financing for my property? Metro Home Mortgage offers a full array of financing options including FHA. Contact one of our Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers, loan representatives for a free pre-qualification and review of available programs.  Ask Sara for a recommendation to a lender specializing in your area of need. 

Will HUD make any repairs to the properties? HUD properties are sold as-is with no warranty. After your bid has been accepted, you are strongly encouraged to have a professional inspection done on the property. If there are unexpected surprises relating to the condition of the property, you will have an opportunity to cancel the contract.

Will HUD give money/credit for needed repairs to the property? No. However, you may wish to utilize an FHA 203K loan to finance repairs on the property. Depending upon the 203K program being utilized, funds may be escrowed for up to $35,000 for repairs to be done after closing. Very few lenders have the expertise necessary to process one of these loans, but Metro Home Mortgage has extensive experience in these programs.  Again, Sara Hibbard will be happy to recommend a qualified Mortgage Loan Representative to you.   Just ask.  Call Sara at 404-660-2481.

Is an earnest money deposit required? Yes. HUD requires earnest money in the amount of $500 for purchase prices under $49,999 and $1,000 for purchase prices $50,000 and higher. Certified funds are required.

Will HUD pay closing costs? Yes. HUD will pay up to 3% of the purchase price in closing costs.

Keep in mind, only licensed Realtors can submit bids on HUD Homes. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers offers clients everything they need – real estate, mortgage, insurance and closing services.  Your Realtor, Sara Hibbard is happy to submit bids on your behalf.
If you're interested in considering a HUD property, Sara Hibbard is looking forward to assisting you throughout the process when the time is right for you.  Call Sara Hibbard anytime at 404-660-2481 or e-mail her at sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate Is On Your Mind!

Easy Outdoor Staging Tips to Make the Right First Impression

 If you have a New Years Resolution that includes the possible sale of your current home, it's worth discussing the virtues of the home staging concept.  Home staging isn't only for interiors.  Staging is also appropriate for the exterior of your home too.

One of the fastest growing real estate considerations in America today is "staging" your house, meaning furnishing, decorating, outdoor clean-ups and ultimately arranging homes in such a way to attract increased buyer interest.

A recent national survey indicated that staged homes sold on average in 13.8 days, while non-staged homes sold in 30.9 days. Because your home is competing with other nearby comparable listings, staging your home is important for getting the best price when you sell. Here are some outdoor staging tips to optimize your curb appeal, give you a competitive edge vs other homes for sale in your area, and sell your home quickly.

• Ensure your flowerbeds are turned, weed free, and properly edged. All hedges should be evenly trimmed and the lawn regularly maintained. It’s a clear indication that you are a conscientious homeowner and that you value your home’s appearance. If you’re not into gardening, paying for a quick landscaping job might be well worth the investment.
• Check to make sure all outdoor lighting is in good working order. Consider leaving them on slightly longer than normal to encourage potential ‘drive-by’ viewings from interested buyers during the evening hours.
• Ensure your front entryway is presentable. A great exterior accent piece is a freshly painted front door, which, when combined with a few seasonal potted plants, will create a more welcoming entranceway for prospective buyers.
• Polish the front doorknob or handle and replace a dented or tarnished mailbox. Make sure your home address numbers can be easily seen from the street to facilitate potential viewings.
• Check if your aluminum siding or brickwork needs washing or your gutters need cleaning. If dead leaves are spilling over from your eave’s troughs, buyers tend to get a negative impression.
• If you have a wood deck, make sure the stain or paint looks fresh. Good-looking patio furniture will contribute to the look of the backyard. If your furniture looks slightly run down, consider purchasing a new set – something you can take with you when you move.
• Clean up yard clutter and put away the kids’ outdoor toys to help enhance the size of your yard.
• Ask your Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers agent to review the outdoor space and make suggestions that will enhance your home’s appearance

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in Georgia.  Sara is easily reached anytime at 404-660-2481 or via e-mail at sara@SaraHibbard.com.  Visit Sara's websites at www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com, www.ShopCantonHomes.com, www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com and www.SaraHibbardHomes.com.  Sara's Blog is located at www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com and www.GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.Blogspot.com.  Visit her You Tube channel at www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and her Facebook page at www.FaceBook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind.  Sara looks forward to answering your many questions regarding the Atlanta metro real estate market in general or specifics regarding the relocation / buying / selling process.  Sara looks forward to assisting you throughout the process when the time is right for you.  HAPPY NEW YEAR!

What's Your New Years Resolution?

Tis the day to set your New Years Resolution into motion.

This year my New Years Resolution is committed to loosing 30 pounds by my birthday at the end of the April.  I'm still out of town as I write this, so I'll plan to start my high-powered work outs and diet as soon as I return to Atlanta -- tomorrow.

That's AFTER I make a stop along the way, at the home of a former client who purchased a home from me in Alpharetta in January 2007.  Jim (not his real name) was a first time home buyer back then.  Now he has a wife and two of the sweatest little girls you could ever see.

In September, Jim contacted me to let me know he had been laid off from his job in Atlanta.  He inquired about the possibility of renting his home out -- assuming he found a new job.  He also considered refinancing the property and other alternatives.  Jim called me the day after Christmas to say that he had been offered and accepted a new job.  His start date is January 12th!  He's relocating to Florida.  Although he's thankful for the new job, WOW! it all happened too fast.  There's a moving van at the house today.  They are leaving Georgia for Florida on Tuesday.  They've asked me to list the house for sale.  I plan to visit them on my way into town early tomorrow afternoon.

Likewise, while I was visiting my family in Cleveland, Ohio for the holidays, I was able to sell a home which will close in mid-January.  While I was visiting family in Dallas, Texas for Thanksgiving, I sold a home during my 861 mile drive to Dallas.

I feel the momentum!

I suspect, based on my INBOX and the questions I've been receiving during the Christmas and holiday break, that there are lots of folks whose New Years Resolutions revolve around purchasing a home during 2012.

There are so many homes on the market.  How can you be sure you are making the right choice?  From condos, downtown neighborhoods, suburbs, and country homes, there's a perfect fit for every buyer. 

To make the best decision you need to be sure to really give time to your decision making process.  Yes, your gut can take you in the right direction, but don't be one of the many buyers that falls prey to listening only to their hearts, ending up biting off more than they can chew.  

Some homes take more work than others.  This goes double for older homes.  The same can be said for many foreclosed houses.  The price tag might be appealing or you might love the styling of the home, but keep in mind that much of a homes value is actually in its condition, location and marketability. 

These are all good reasons to have an inspection done on any home you are considering buying. Additionally, you should have a clause in your contract that states if the inspection comes back unsatisfactorily that you, the buyer, have the right to end the purchase contract. 

Different  homes also come with different lifestyle factors.  Some buyers love the idea of  having everything within walking distance.  They like spending their extra time meeting friends for dinner, and drinks or perusing the latest art exhibit.  Could a condo be a good fit?  Possibly.  

Perhaps you prefer a more isolated setting.  Many people love the idea of country life.  Just keep in mind that the further you are from people, the further you will likely be from the grocery stores, hospitals, restaurants, the gym. 

Likewise, a suburban lifestyle is appealing to many -- especially families.  Cities expanded to welcome their growing populations that wanted, and could afford, newer homes with their own nearby shopping centers.  The negative aspect to the suburbs is sometimes a long commute to work, but many people are willing to swap the inconvenience of a long commute for the positive aspects of excellent school systems.

The real key is to decide what lifestyle is best for you and your family.  Once you've decided this fundamental consideration, you'll be able to zero in on the best location.  Next, be sure to consider more than just just the price tag of the home.  Consider upkeep costs, area taxes, needed repairs and even future saleability.  Do your due-diligence.  Make sure your Realtor is committed to you and your best interest too.  If you'll do these things, you're well on your way to making the right decision about the home that best suits your current needs and lifestyle.

Happy 2012 New Year!

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia and specializes in assisting home buyers relocating to Georgia, as well as first-timers and 55+ senior buyers.  You can visit Sara's websites at www.SaraHibbard.com, www.SaraHibbardRealEstate.com, www.AtlantaMLSHomes.com and www.SearchWoodstockHomes.com.  Sara can be reached via social media at www.Facebook.com/GeorgiaRealEstateOnMyMind, www.YouTube.com/GeorgiaRealEstate1 and www.AtlantaMLSHomesBlog.com.  Sara Hibbard is Glad Georgia Real Estate is on Your Mind!