Georgia 400 Toll Booths To Come Down

How long of have you lived in Atlanta? Some of you may remember a time when GA 400 stopped at I-285. That particular portion of the

Tolls will no longer be collected at the GA 400 toll booth as of November 21, 2013. Photo from Creative Loafing 2010.

road, which would seem impossible to live without in our current day-to-day lives wasn’t around when the road opened in the early 70′s. With that portion also came the toll booths. It has been over 20 years since everyone traveling from Buckhead to North Fulton started paying a toll. Most would say the toll  road has been a huge asset to our communities, even if they have been in rush hour traffic on GA 400.

History is going to be made on November 21 of this year when you will no longer pay a toll to travel on GA 400. It has been decided that the changes will take place prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, in order to ease some of the traffic woes during the winter holiday season.

All of this will result in some new traffic plans according to the Peach Pass newsletter, “preliminary plans call for all GA 400 traffic to shift into three general purpose lanes where motorists currently use the electronic tolling lanes.”

Construction will begin in October for the traffic shift, but the full demolition of the booths will run January 2014 through May 2014. Once the structure is down, traffic will shift back over.

This is great news and who knows maybe rush hour will move a little quicker!

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What Should A Home Seller Do To Sell Their Home In Alpharetta or Greater Atlanta

From time-to-time, I find out that a friend or friend of a friend wants to sell their home, but is overwhelmed with the idea of what needs

What to do to sell your home in Alpharetta and Greater Altanta photo by© yuliaglam – Fotolia.com

to happen before listing their house for sale.  The preparation process is an important one and can feel like a bigger than life job.  Between preparing your home for potential buyers to see, finding an agent, signing and organizing paperwork, and the mental preparation of transitioning to a new living space – each step should be taken with care.

Below is a list of things to do that I give to my home sellers prior to us getting the For Sale sign in the ground.  It is a good checklist to have when you are thinking about what documents you need to find or what work really needs to be done. Do these items early will make life easier for you in the long run!

• Handle all “before market” repairs.  If you think it is too much to repair, the buyer probably does too.  Buyers often think repairs cost more than they actually do.

• Sign FMLS Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement and the Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure Statement

• Complete & Sign Seller’s Disclosure Form

• Sign Lead Based Paint Form, if built before 1978

• Copy of Legal Description (from Warranty Deed or Security Deed)

• Two Front Door Keys (one for lockbox, one for agent’s copy)

• Security Code (if applicable)

• Complete “Utility Costs” form

• Property Tax Bill (most recent year)

• Termite Bond/ Warranty (if under bond)

• FMLS Homeowner’s Association Fee Exhibit

• Homeowner’s Association Covenants & Restrictions

• Copy of Survey (if available)

• Copy of Appraisal

• Get Independent Appraisal, if necessary

• Floor Plan (if available)

• Confirmation of School District

• Neighborhood Newsletter (if available)

• List of Upgrades

• Keep Your Home In Showing Condition

Let me know if you are considering listing your home soon or in the future….we can walk through these steps together.

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What Does “Low Inventory” Mean In The Atlanta Market?

Lots of people are asking that right now..it seems to be the buzz term within in our media and among the real estate community. It

What does low inventory mean to you if you live in Atlanta?

means different things to different groups.

Agents

Low inventory simply means less real estate for sale. In metro Atlanta, we see that in all price ranges and areas as much as 40% less inventory is available as compared to this time last year.  Buyer’s agents all over the metro area are on the hunt to find property for buyers that have been searching and can’t find that perfect house. Whether it is the in-town condo buyer, first time home buyer, move up buyer and even in the luxury market, we all have buyers that haven’t found a home yet. As realtors that means we are networking to find listings not on the market yet.

Buyers

What it means for buyers is that you may need to be patient in finding that one home that you love. You and your agent will have to work closely on new listings and unlisted property. A listing we showed this week in Chastain, to one of our clients, was not even on the market yet. This particular home had four showings the morning prior to being listed on FMLS and officially on the market. We knew about it from networking with other agents and were able to show our buyer. As a buyer, it will help if you are pre-approved with a reputable lender so when you find the one that you do love, you are ready to make a strong offer.

Sellers

For sellers, make the changes and do the upgrades. Now more than ever buyers want the place move in ready. So go ahead and paint and touch up, freshen up carpet, change out hardware and do the things that were on your list “to do” or “not to do” in order to sell. If you do those items combined with staging, professionally photography and choosing a great agent  who will market your home  and take you through the transaction to closing you will sell, and sell relatively quickly. Not without any hurdles of course….:-)  But you will sell!

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General Motors to Create 1000 Jobs in Roswell

On last Thursday some very exciting news came out of Governor Nathan Deal’s office. It was enough to make everyone in North Fulton end their

General Motors brings jobs to Roswell. Photo © General Motors.

week with a smile on their face. General Motors will open an IT Innovation Center in Roswell, creating 1,00o jobs over then next 3-5 years. The Roswell location will be one of four such centers across the U.S., two of which are already open in Austin, Texas and Warren, Michigan. The fourth will be announced later this year.

According to GM’s Chief Information Officer, Randy Mott,

These Innovation Centers will design and deliver IT that drives down the cost of ongoing operations while continuously increasing the level and speed at which innovative products and services are available to our GM customers.

The company plans to begin recruitment immediately for database experts, developers, project managers, and other IT professionals. This is great news for college graduates and industry veterans looking for a new challenge.

It is also great news for homeowners looking to sell their existing home. Such a large volume of jobs, will undoubtedly bring more buyers into North Fulton communities. If you have been putting off getting your home ready to list, don’t wait any longer.  Finish those last jobs you have planned or give The Cueny Team a call if you are having trouble figuring out where to begin. Our team is experienced in helping sellers assess their homes and determine what can be done to grab a buyers attention. It will probably be easier than you think and it always helps to have a fresh pair of eyes! We are ready for you!

To read more about the new plant opening visit The North Fulton Chamber of Commerce website.

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Closing Out 2012 and Kicking Off 2013

We are very excited with the final numbers we are seeing for 2012! It was a GREAT year to work in the Atlanta real estate market. Check out these stats!

Atlanta Fine Homes ends the year on a high note!

Atlanta Fine Homes had an increase in homes sold (closed) during 2012 by 59%.  The total volume was up 42% and our market share grew by 40%.

In most areas across metro Atlanta,   total inventory is down by 30% over the prior year, and the number of homes sold is up as high as 8%.

Specifically in The North Atlanta office, the office The Cueny Team works out of, the closed volume is up a whopping 77% . Our office’s market share grew by 60% from January 2012 to December 2012. The Cueny Team grew our business by as  40% from 2011.

We are over the moon and are looking forward to continued growth in 2013!

Are you ready to start your home search?  Give us a call today to get started!

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North Fulton (Atlanta) Most Expensive Homes Sold in 2012

The five most expensive homes sold in 2012 year to date in the North Fulton area had list prices spanning from $1.9 million to $2.9 million. Most of these homes are located in luxury communities known for their exquisite amenities, including golf and country clubs. The majority of these homes also feature private amenities including magnificent swimming pools, theater rooms, incredible closets, and more.

Below are the pictures of the top five most expensive homes sold in North Atlanta in 2012 year to date.

1. 3115 Manor Bridge Drive (Alpharetta) – List price: $2,998,000
2. 9260 Old Southwick Pass (Alpharetta) – List price: $2,495,000
3. 16006 Manor Club Drive (Alpharetta) – List price: $2,095,000
4. 1275 Stuart Ridge (Alpharetta) – List price: $2,195,000
5. 1050 Carnoustie Lane (Alpharetta) – List price: $1,999,000

3115 Manor Bridge Drive is the most expensive home sold in North Atlanta. Located in The Manor Golf and Country Club in Alpharetta, this 5 acre estate features 6 bedrooms, 6 full and 6 half baths.

The second most expensive home sold in North Atlanta is 9260 Old Southwick Pass, located in Country Club of the South, it features 7 bedrooms, 8 full and 1 half baths.

16006 Manor Club Drive, the third most expensive home sold in North Atlanta, is located in The Manor Golf and Country Club in Alpharetta and features 6 bedrooms, 7 full and 1 half baths.

The fourth most expensive home sold in North Atlanta is 1275 Stuart Ridge, located in Country Club of the South in Alpharetta, and features 6 bedrooms, 7 full and 2 half baths. Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty represented the buyer.

The fifth most expensive home sold in North Atlanta is 1050 Carnoustie Lane in The Peninsula, Windward’s exclusive double gated community. This home features 6 bedrooms, 7 full and 3 half baths. Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty represented the seller.

Source: FMLS (First Multiple Listing Service)

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Fulton County Offers Free Irrigation System Workshop

Source: Alpharetta Patch

Photo credit: Fulton County

Are you having difficulties with your property’s irrigation system? Or do you just want to learn about such systems? Fulton County’s Department of Water Resources will host a Smart Irrigation workshop at its Johns Creek Environmental Campus on July 24.

Participants will learn how to correctly use and maintain their irrigation system. A certified irrigation specialist will be on site to answer questions, according to the county’s news release.

The workshop will be offered on two dates:

• Tuesday, July 17, 2012, 6 p.m.–7 p.m., Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road, Atlanta, GA 30331
• Tuesday, July 24, 2012, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. -Johns Creek Environmental Campus, 8100 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Roswell, GA 30022

During the session, residents will learn about essential maintenance tips to ensure that their irrigation system is always operating at its best. Some specific topics will include:

• Programming irrigation controllers;
• Inspecting the irrigation system for leaks;
• Understanding how to adjust sprinkler head height, spray patterns and positions;
• Rain sensor installation.

Bring questions about your specific irrigation system. To get accurate answers, make sure you know what specific type of system you have (Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, etc.) and ensure that you can describe any specific challenges you are experiencing.

For more information, email Jennifer McLaurin or call her at 404-612-8745.

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Ne-Yo purchases Milton home overlooking golf course

Source: IMDb

He’s won Grammys, been honored by the Songwriters Hall of Fame and penned chart-toppers for some of the biggest names in the music industry. Could R&B standout Ne-Yo be tackling the real estate world next?

The singer-songwriter-producer has purchased a 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home overlooking a golf course in Milton. The 5,900-square-foot brick home includes a massive deck for entertaining, spacious kitchen with double ovens and tray ceilings throughout the space.

Ne-Yo apparently is a big fan of Atlanta’s northern suburbs; according to Access Atlanta, he bought a 13,000-square-foot stone exterior home in nearby Alpharetta, for $1.5 million in 2011. That home boasts 7 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, a wine cellar and elevator.

It wasn’t immediately known whether the star was downsizing or if he plans to keep both properties. TMZ suggests he bought it as a gift for his mother.

Sources: TMZ and Zillow blog

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Designer’s Touch: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

From pavers to plantings, these professional tips can help your home make an instant impact on the street

Life is all about first impressions, and this is as true of homes as it is of people. Your home’s positive physical appearance from the street is called curb appeal. What does your house say to those passing by? Try these professional designer tips to heighten character and charm while you increase resale value.

1. Sugar coat. Apply decorative siding and detailed moldings that accentuate your home’s period for immediate eye candy that will keep heads turning. But remember, less is always more.

2. Architectural eyeliner.Forgo over-the-top flower beds, pots and plants, and stick with classic and timeless shrubbery. This look will outline your architectural elements rather than camouflage them. Neat and orderly never looked so good.

3. Fashion your driveway. Get the hottest look straight out of a magazine with this fashionable driveway of grass and concrete pavers. Your haute driveway will have people talking.

4. Flower power. Flowers are one of the least expensive ways to make the front of your house blossom with curb appeal. For those with a green thumb, sprucing up your home will never be so fun.

5. Focal door. Place the emphasis on the entrance of your home by painting your front door a contrasting color from your house — it’s the easiest and most inexpensive way to improve the exterior of your home. Bam! Instant character.

For more ideas visit houzz.com.

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Brick and Stone Chateau with Private Cul-de-Sac

Situated on its own private cul-de-sac, this majestic brick and stone chateau has over three acres of acres of exclusive wooded land in “The Legends of Settendown Creek” community in Cumming.

8380 Hurakan Creek Crossing. Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

The tour of this home begins with the rich detailing of this stunning study, complete with cozy fireplace and ornately decretive custom built in bookcases.

Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

The vaulted ceiling of the living room gives this light drenched room an airy feeling. The stone fireplace, exposed beams and hardwood floors all add to the features that make this room ideal for entertaining.  On a nice warm evening the space is easily expanded by opening the french doors to reveal the deck that overlooks a totally private backyard.

Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

If your party calls for formal dining then the formal dining room will be just the place to set out your finest dinnerware to make memories of the special occasion.

The delightful master suite is on the main but will seem like a world away as you enjoy the sunlight and cool breeze from your private deck.  The luxury oasis continues into the heavenly master bath with is laden with upgrades such as a deep soaking tub, double vanity and plantation shutters that line the large window that bathes the room in light.

Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

The secondary rooms and baths are plentiful with details such as trey ceilings, custom closet systems and upgraded tile showers and fixtures.

You can never have too much storage space in the kitchen right?  This gourmet kitchen is a dream: expansive granite countertops, exposed beams above, center island with cooktop all surrounded by exceptionally high end maple cabinetry.  Stainless appliances include a built in microwave and double ovens.

Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

The private backyard offers plenty of green space and trees to make it exclusive while perfectly situated for building the pool of your dreams.

Peaceful luxury: this is what will define your next home.  Find it now by making an appointment before it is too late.

8380 Hurakan Creek Crossing. Click on the image for more photos and information from Andrea Cueny of Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty.

8380 Hurakan Creek Crossing
Cumming Ga 30028

Offered at $625,000

Three Bedrooms, Three Full and One Half Baths

Andrea Cueny, North Atlanta Office, REALTOR®

Andrea Cueny
(404)695-7040
(770)442-7300
andreac@atlantafinehomes.com

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