Category Archives: Neighborhoods

Fetching Top Dollar for Your Home

Perhaps you have bought and sold a home before, regardless with this crazy market you want to do the things that will help you get top dollar.  This list adds some elements that you may not have considered.

  • Make Your Mailbox look Amazing – First Impressions are key, and your mailbox is definitely part of that first impression. Curb appeal always needs to be a consideration.  In addition to the mailbox, is the driveway cracked?  Does it need pressure washed? Is the yard well kept?
  • Make the right use of your rooms. Maybe you use your dining room as your kid’s playroom or an office.  You might want to stage it before having potential buyers visit.  Buyers want to see the room the traditional way.
  • Update your bathrooms. Reglaze especially if you have an outdated color like green or pink.  Reglazing a bathroom to white can make is look 20 to 30 years younger.  Bathrooms and kitchens sell houses so the smallest of improvements can make a world of difference.
  • What is your neighborhood like? Include in the listing description.  What is nearby? i.e. coffee shops, shopping, walking trails, etc.  What’s the culture like?  More than just what school district the house is located.
  • What extras are included? e., motion-sensitive outdoor lighting, smart home technology, security system, camera doorbell, etc. These little things make seem trivial to you but may sway a buyer.
  • In addition to great photos, do a video tour pointing out all the unique selling points.
  • Get a home pre-inspection – Your buyer will have an idea of the property’s condition before making an offer.

We are here to help you every step of the way whether buying or selling.

In appreciation,

Marie Dinsmore

Experience, Passion, and Commitment to Excellence!

Fall Maintenance Check List

With the changing of the seasons comes the checklist of maintenance chores around the house to keep everything in tip-top shape and prevent costly repairs in the future.  Below is a list of suggested maintenance projects to get and keep your home in working order.

  1. Check Smoke Detectors and carbon monoxide alarms – Make sure safety inside of the home is covered. Check the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms and change the batteries. Check that a ready-to-use fire extinguisher is in a safe, known location within the home along with a first aid kit in the case of emergency.
  2. Inspect Heating System and change the filters and contact a professional to inspect the systems for carbon monoxide leaks and other issues that could cause house fires.
  3. Have the Roof Inspected – At least once or twice a year it’s important to inspect your roof. Inspect to ensure there are no loose shingles that may cause leaks.
  4. Clean Out the Gutters – Remove fallen leaves and debris from the gutters and flush them out with water to prevent ice from accumulating and causing damage. Check for any tilting in the gutters as well and make adjustments as needed.
  5. Clean the Chimney and Fireplace – Check the chimney and have it swept to remove the soot build-up that is present if over 1/8’ thick. It’s important to have the soot removed because the burning build-up is a health hazard, emitting toxic chemicals into the air and lungs.
  6. Check Windows and Doors – Check the windows and doors for any damage or noticeable drafts. Sealing up any openings can save up to 20% on heating costs by keeping the cold air out of the home and the heat in.
  7. Seal Cracks in the Sidewalk and Drivewalk – Untreated cracks will continue to grow and cause greater damage to the property. Sealing up driveway and sidewalk cracks in the winter also helps prevent water from pooling up and freezing.
  8. Prep the Lawn – It’s important to rake the leaves regularly as leaves can kill your grass if left on the ground for long periods of time. Keep your soil healthy by mulching with the mower every four days. Cut down any dead branches to prevent them from crashing down when frozen.
  9. Protect Outside Faucets and Irrigation Systems from Freezing – Disconnect the garden hose from outdoor faucets and store them coiled in a flat dry area. To freezeproof an in-ground irrigation system, follow the manufacturer’s procedure for draining it and protecting it from winter damage.
  10. Touch Up Exterior Paint – A touch-up can help prolong the life of your siding and trim.

If you are a first-time homeowner and not sure what to do when it’s a good idea to have a reputable home inspector come out and give you some tips and what to look for and what to do when.

If you’re not a DIY person, give me a call, I have a preferred list of vendors I trust and depend on.  You can also check my preferred list of vendors at https://www.dinsmoreteam.com/welcome-services/

Happy Fall,

Marie Dinsmore

The Dinsmore Team

Experience, Passion, and Commitment to Excellence

The Actual Wage Needed To Rent In Forsyth County

The National Low Income Housing Coalition published its annual “Out of Reach” report, finding that rental housing needs are worsening.

There is no state in which the typical minimum-wage worker charting a 40-hour week can afford to rent a modest two-bedroom apartment. Furthermore, that same worker couldn’t afford a one-bedroom rental in 99 percent of counties in the United States. That is according to an annual report published recently by researchers at the National Low Income Housing Coalition, which looked at rental costs in counties and metro areas nationwide.

The hourly wage necessary to afford a two-bedroom rental at fair market rent is $21.27, more than the $18.42 needed to rent in the state overall and less than the national wage of $22.96 in the Forsyth County area.

There is no better time to buy a new home than now. Call Marie at the Dinsmore Team @ 770-712-7789.

Featured Neighborhood: Creekstone Point (Cumming, GA)

Creekstone Point

“Relaxation, serenity and seclusion: They’re all at home in Creekstone Point.” – SR Homes

Active adult communities are becoming increasingly popular, especially in suburban Atlanta. Suburban lifestyle with proximity to a major city and airport make this an attractive option for those heading into retirement but looking to travel, be near family and enjoy amenities.

I have more than a decade experience selling homes in the northern suburbs of Atlanta and I’m happy to report on new and exciting opportunities. Allow me to introduce you to Creekstone Point, a new 55-plus community in South Forsyth Co.

Pre-sale opportunities began at Creekstone July 8.

The neighborhood features ranch-style, master-on-main homes, a clubhouse and gym. The community is gated and, according to Creekstone Point, “built for luxury.” Conveniently located off 141 near GA-400, this community is less than an hour from downtown. New shopping and entertainment venues have also popped up in the area, adding to the convenience.

Nearby Points of Interest

Schools

Address: 1860 Old Alpharetta Rd, 30041
Website: http://www.srhomes.com/creekstone-point


Marie Dinsmore
The Dinsmore Team
www.DinsmoreTeam.com
770-712-7789

 

Featured Neighborhood: St. Michaels Bay on Lake Lanier in Cumming, GA

Brevard Front 1If you’re in the market for a beautiful home with access to Lake Lanier, this perfectly planned neighborhood is sure to please.  Designed and built by Peachtree Residential Properties, St. Michaels is perfect for active families who are looking for resort-style amenities and the privacy that comes with living in a gated community.

Complete with a private covered marina and courtesy dock, as well as lighted tennis courts, hiking/nature trails, a junior Olympic swimming pool, and luxury clubhouse with fitness center and billiard room, everything you’ll need for a fun weekend just outside your front door.

With homes ranging from $395,900 to $495-900, nothing has been spared.  From three-car garages, gourmet kitchens, and luxurious master retreats to stainless steel appliances, hardwoods, and granite countertops, each house is like walking into a dream.  While some sites have already been built, buyers have the option of customizing their home through our Design Center, which offers professional design services on everything from carpet and tile to countertops and appliances.  Their services are geared towards the client, so you’ll received focused, individual assistance until your home is complete.

Located in North Forsyth County, this stunning development is a short drive from exit 17 on GA-400, with convenient access to an abundance of restaurants and shops.

SCHOOLS

Chestatee Elementary

Little Mill Middle

North Forsyth High School

SHOPPING

The Collection at Forsyth

GA 400 Outlets in Dawsonville

Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville

Hospitals

Northside Forsyth Hospital

Northeast Georgia Health System & Medical Center

If you’d like to schedule a showing or would like to learn more about this beautiful community, please contact me at 770-712-7789.

For free tips on everything from staging and remodeling to the buying and selling process, please stop by the blog on my website.  It’s updated on a weekly basis!

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.MarieDinsmore.com | 770-712-7789