Category Archives: News

The Fed Announces Imminent Interest Rate Hike: What it Means for Buyers

101711088-182695069.530x298You may have recently heard that the Federal Reserve has plans to raise interest rates; however, at this point in time, there’s no definite time frame for the shift.  The decision, which is expected to be announced later this year—experts are suggesting the possibility of mid-September—is the result of a healthier economy that no longer needs the buffer that interest rates close to zero have provided over the last 9 years.

In essence, returning rates to historically “normal” levels will not only help keep future inflation from rising too quickly, but will also ensure the vitality of the lending market.

While this type of rate increase often leads to a bit of temporary instability in the market, which can lead to negative issues such as slowed economic recovery and stagnant employee wages, it can also signal higher returns for consumers who consistently save their money.

Still, if you are someone who is looking to borrow the necessary funds for a new home, you’re bound to find yourself in a tight spot if you fail to lock in today’s low rates.  At this point in time, an average 30-year mortgage carries a 3.8% interest rate, which is down from 4.3% about a year ago, so experts suggest that if you’re thinking of buying a home, now is the time to push for loan approval.

If you’re on the hunt for a new home or are simply looking for a competent mortgage professional, I’d be happy to provide referrals and offer guidance along the way.  Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.

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

Featured Neighborhood: Manor North in Alpharetta, GA

manor-north-estate-homes-cherokee-county-alpharetta-ga-561Starting in the low $500’s, Manor North is located in Northern Alpharetta and is part of the Cherokee County School System.  This gated community treats residents to an upscale country club lifestyle with a variety of luxurious, open floor plans that feature several “master on main” ranch designs.

Located within close proximity to a wide variety of parks, as well as a host of shopping and dining opportunities—to include The Collection at Forsyth and Avalon—this stunning neighborhood also features convenient access to GA-400 and the Manor Golf & Country Club.

With six floorplans to choose from—ranging from 4-5 bedrooms—the homes themselves feature elegance around every corner, with 10-foot ceilings, crown molding, and hardwood flooring, as well as granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a variety of unique architectural details.

 

manor-north-estate-homes-cherokee-county-alpharetta-ga-54HOUSING FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Open Floor Plans w/ Exceptional Natural Lighting

Wood or Iron Stair Balusters, Stained Oak Railing

Chair Rail & Wainscot in Dining Room and Foyer

Moen Oil Rubbed Bronze or Stain Nickel Lighting Fixtures

42” Direct Vent Gas Fireplace w/ Custom Mantle & Surround

Recessed Kitchen Lighting

manor-north-estate-homes-cherokee-county-alpharetta-ga-43Spacious Walk-In Closets

Double Vanities in Master Bath

 Outside Deck w/ Stairs to Concrete Patio

Professional Landscape Package w/ Zoned Irrigation

 

SCHOOLS

Free Home Elementary

Creekland Middle School

Creek View High School

King’s Ridge Christian School

manor-north-estate-homes-cherokee-county-alpharetta-ga-40St. Francis School

Chandler Academy

 

HOSPITALS

North Fulton Regional Hospital

Emory Johns Creek Hospital

Northside Hospital (Atlanta)

Northside Hospital (Forsyth)

Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital

Featured Neighborhood: Somerdale in Cumming, GA

07440453_GAMLSSet to open in the summer of 2016, this beautifully crafted community—built by Edward Andrews Homes—is located in Cumming, GA.  With easy access to Atlanta’s main corridors, including GA 400 and GA 20, residents will be treated to a host of community amenities, as well as exemplary schools, world-class hospitals, and a host of recreational activities.

In addition, located just minutes away, you’ll also find an abundance of shopping and dining options, to include The Avalon, The Collection at Forsyth, and North Georgia Premium Outlets.

Starting in the mid $380’s, residents will be pleased to find two lighted tennis courts, a pool house with lounging space around the pool deck, versatile green space for the whole family, and a large swimming pool with kid splash zone.  Inside, Somerdale homes feature open floor plans with hardwoods throughout the main level, as well as a gourmet kitchens and granite countertops, and spacious secondary bedrooms with walk-in closets.

07440453_GAMLS-9For families with children, all schools are located in Forsyth County, with the neighborhood being closest to Sawnee Elementary, Liberty Middle, and West Forsyth High School.

If you’re interested in learning more about this gorgeous, up-and-coming community, please feel free to contact me.  Current community hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-6pm and Sunday-Monday from 1pm-6pm, with a model home available for touring.

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

Mortgage Rates are Rising, So It’s Time to Buy!

mortgage ratesWhile most of us are happy to see the end of the foreclosure crisis and an improved national economy, the truth of the matter is that, while buyers were able to land some amazing deals during the recession, their current situation isn’t looking as promising.  Plain and simple, in the majority of markets, the number of people searching for homes far exceeds the available inventory, which means many buyers are having a difficult time finding a home that truly meets their needs.

In the last few years, buyers were able to score big with low mortgage rates; however, the real estate industry—as well as the federal government—made no secret of the fact that rates were expected to go up in 2015.

As it stands right now, mortgages are up 30 to 40 points from last year’s low.  While the actual math behind these numbers may prove confusing, suffice it to say that a higher mortgage rate will increase your monthly payment, which may potentially limit the type of home you can purchase.  Present numbers would suggest that most buyers can expect an additional $40 on their monthly statement, which may prove to be a lot for many middle- and lower-income households.

Therefore, if your goal is to secure a suitable home at the lowest price possible, it’s worth entering the real estate market sooner rather than later since rates are expected to keep going up.  To get things moving, it’s important to utilize the services of an experienced real estate agent, as well as a reputable mortgage lender who can help you look for discounts, government programs, and other savings during the application process.

With increasing mortgage rates, you’ll need all the savings you can get, so surrounding yourself with a solid team is extremely important.

To learn more about finding your dream home before the mortgage rates get even higher, please feel free to contact me.  I’d love to offer my advice or provide you with referrals for several qualified mortgage professionals.

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

Featured Neighborhood: Fieldstone Preserve by Lennar Homes

Magnolia-C-elevLocated in Cumming, just minutes from GA 400 and GA 20, Fieldstone Preserve is positioned within a scenic wooded setting that is perfect for families who desire a fun-filled lifestyle.  With expansive homes starting in the low $400s, this upscale community offers both resort-style amenities—to include a clubhouse and fitness center, as well as five swimming pools, 12 tennis courts, a beach volleyball court, basketball court, walking trails, and a private lake—as well as gracious executive homes ranging from 2,886 to 4,353 square feet.

Built by Lennar, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, this beautiful community boasts homes that are bedecked with classic exterior features such as traditional brick and three-car garages, as well as poured, reinforced concrete foundations, rear patios or decks, and professionally landscaped yards.

Inside, all homes come standard with crown molding, gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, recessed lighting, spacious walk-in closets, and energy efficient construction.  In addition, buyers will be pleased to discover elegant two-story foyers, hardwood flooring, brushed nickel fixtures, and cultured marble vanities in all full secondary baths.

For families with school-aged children, Fieldstone Preserve is located within Forsyth County, which features some of the best schools in Georgia.  The closest schools include the award-winning West Forsyth High School, as well as Vickery Middle School, and Kelly Mill Elementary.

While perfect for buyers looking to live away from the bustle of Atlanta and everyday life, Fieldstone Preserve is still conveniently located within a few miles of a host of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities, to include The Collection at Forsyth, Northpoint Mall, Vickery Village, and gorgeous Lake Sydney Lanier.

If you’d like to know more or are interested in scheduling a viewing, please do not hesitate to contact me.  I’d love to show you the neighborhood and hopefully help you discover the home of your dreams!

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