Tag Archives: Cumming Homes

Get Ready for Home Builder Year-End Sales

cyrus-exteriorWhen it comes to big-ticket purchases such as cars and electronics, many people expect year-end sales and incentives; however, what they may not realize is that developers and builders are also willing to propose incentives as well.

By offering a variety of extras such as freebies, upgrades, reduced prices, and other enticements, many builders hope to boost sales during the typically slow winter months, especially since most buyers are too busy with holiday events to focus on relocation.  By sweetening the deal, builders create a win-win situation for themselves, as well as the buyer, which allows them to finish one division before embarking on newer projects.

Still, year-end incentives are not just about drawing potential home owners to close-out communities—in many ways, they help attract shoppers to start-up developments as well.  In these neighborhoods, once the first four or five homes have been sold, the early-bird pricing goes up, making it important to take advantage of low prices as they occur.

In regards to what types of year-end incentives are offered, it generally depends upon what the developer thinks local buyers will value the most.  Kitchen upgrades tend to garner a lot of attention; however, other builders offer everything from third garages and closing costs, to design options and flat screen TVs.

As we get further into fall, if you’re in the market for a new home, it’s wise to consider your options before the year is through.  Instead of waiting until spring when prices will have gone back up, you’ll save a lot of money by getting a head-start on the process in November or December.

If you need assistance or would simply like some advice on how to best utilize the next few months, I’d love to speak with you.

Please do not hesitate to contact me.

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

Traditions in Cumming, GA: Phase I Now Open

130909_ProjectSitePlan_FromHook_Updates-01 Ground was broken on this desirable neighborhood in 2013; however, Traditions in Forsyth County has announced their initial release. With pricing ranging from about $433-$537 thousand, this beautiful, tree-lined development is located within close proximity to some of the top-rated schools in the state, as well as a wide variety of shopping and dining options.

With 12 available homesites—four of which have basements—and four available homes, this first phase sits within close proximity to the community amenities, as well as Fowler Park and the Big Creek Greenway.

AMENITIES

siteplanFront Door Communities, which is an award-winning, full-service firm with extensive experience developing neighborhoods and building homes, has made it their goal to create an amazing community that truly honors the needs of its residents.  From over a dozen neighborhood parks with a competition pool and children’s splash area, to a lake with walking trails and four lighted tennis courts, the amenities at Traditions are second-to-none.

HOMES
The homes, which feature a blend of classic materials—brick, stone, shake, board and batten, and siding—come standard with architectural shingles and stone front porches, and boast professional landscaping and carriage-style garage doors.

130917_Traditions_Rendering-01Inside, gleaming hardwoods line the foyer, kitchen, breakfast and powder rooms (living room and dining room included in larger models), while granite countertops come standard in all homes.  Each kitchen boasts an oversized kitchen island, as well as Whirlpool stainless steel appliances, and each bath comes complete with cultured marble countertops, with a Barclay free-standing soaking tub in the master.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY & SAFETY

For their residents who are interested in making sure their homes are saving them money on heating and air costs, each home in the community has been built with an array of eco-sensitive and energy-efficient options such as LP TechShield radiant barrier roof sheathing, Low-E, double-pane vinyl windows, and ENERGY STAR appliances.  From there, homeowner safety is also of the utmost importance, leading to pre-wired security systems with two keypads and motion sensors on all doors and windows, as well as carbon monoxide detectors and decorative exterior door hardware with dead bolt lock.

CONCLUSION

If you’re interested in learning more about this luxurious community (www.traditionsatl.com), it’s important to remember that utilizing the services of an experienced buyer’s agent is a prudent move when purchasing a new construction.  The community will have their own agents; however, by having a Realtor working in your corner, you can rest assured that your best interests will be protected throughout the buying process.

If you have questions, I’d love to be of service to you.  For more information, please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.

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

Tips For Purchasing a Luxury Home

Luxury Home Pool ShotIf you’ve worked hard for years in an effort to accrue a certain income level, then at some point, you’re likely to want to invest your hard-earned money into a lavish home that you and your family can enjoy.  Whether it’s a modern high-rise condo or a sprawling golf course estate, there are a few items that should be considered before purchasing a luxury home.

1.) UNDERSTAND THE SEARCH PROCESS: While most buyers have the option of perusing home listings on large real estate search engines, the house hunting process can be somewhat different if you’re looking to buy within the luxury market.  Often times, in an effort to protect the seller’s privacy, many high-end homes go unlisted and tend to be found through the Realtor’s personal connections instead of the MLS.

2.) DON’T PLACE TOO MUCH WEIGHT ON PHOTOS: Surprisingly, large homes don’t always show well in photos, especially since many of the details which make them truly amazing are better seen in person.  If you’re concerned about what is around the property, perform a search on Google Earth to get a better idea of what the area looks like, but when it comes to viewing the home itself, make a point to go beyond the pictures.

3.) WORK WITH A LOCAL EXPERT: While this is important in any real estate transaction, it’s even more important when you’re considering a luxury home.  Plain and simple, working with a knowledgeable Realtor is critical since most high-end properties offer viewings by appointment only.  By selecting a buyer’s agent who not only knows the area but has an abundance of connections, you’re more likely to have success.

4.) DOCUMENTATION IS VITAL: Even though the housing market has begun to turn around, there is still a great deal of scrutiny in the luxury market, which means financial documentation is imperative.  Generally speaking, most people who are able to afford high-end properties are working with accountants and money managers who have diligently sheltered their money; however, while this may be important wealth protection, it makes things difficult when banks are pushing for income verification.

5.) HIRE SMART ADVISORS: Since you’re the one purchasing the home, you want to be the one making the ultimate decisions; however, it’s important to have reliable advisors to help you along the way.  If you’re working with both a financial planner and a Realtor, you’ll want to make sure they’re on the same page.  Good advisors will not make your decisions for you, but they will keep you from making rash decisions that may hurt you in the long run.

In regards to hiring the proper Realtor, don’t make the mistake of assuming that all agents are the same.  Just like any other industry, real estate professionals tend to have varying specialties, so when it comes to working with someone, it’s a good idea to consider Realtors who are Certified Home Luxury Marketing Specialists (CHLMS).  This designation, which is given by the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing (www.luxuryhomemarketing.com), helps buyers feel confident that they’ve selected an agent who has documented performance in the top 10% of their market and has also successfully demonstrated their expertise in the luxury home field.

In the end, making a purchase within the luxury home market is obviously not something you just want to jump into without a lot of planning and preparation.  Purchasing a home is a massive investment for anyone; however, there’s something to be said for spending the amount of money that most high-end homes require.  Don’t get caught up in the excitement—think smart, hire smart, and make sure you’ve dotted your “I’s” and crossed all of your “t’s.”

If you’d like to speak with a Certified Home Luxury Marketing Specialist in your area, you can search for members through their website at www.luxuryhomemarketing.com, or you can contact me at your earliest convenience.

Marie Dinsmore, Certified Home Luxury Marketing Specialist | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789

Mountain Crest


MOUNTAIN CREST by Lennar

7630562014AvalonFrontwebAs the second largest homebuilder in the United States, the Lennar Corporation has announced that they are securing the permits to build a large neighborhood of houses and townhomes just West of Cumming.

As part of Forsyth County, the Georgia division of the Miami-based company says the new division—covering 444 acres and entitled Mountain Crest—will consist of 572 single-family homes and 124 townhouses along Chamblee Gap Road.

The project, which will hopefully connect to the Big Creek Greenway’s trail network, has a completion date of 2022; however, the first initial phases are expected to be open by 2016.

FamilyRm2-EDG-LindenThe actual development calls for 1.6 units per acre, but Lennar is promising an unprecedented 200 acres of green space within the community.

For now, Lennar is going through the process of getting approval through the county, as well as the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission (which is required for all developments with 300+ lots).  Once all comments are addressed through the GMRC, Lennar will be looking to reduce the area’s required commercial and office use from 25% to zero, while also reducing the stream buffer from 50 feet to 25 feet.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to seeing this wonderful new development become a reality!

Lennar-sized

Featured Neighborhood: Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is a luxurious, gated community located in Johns Creek. Just 30 miles outside of Atlanta and 20 miles from Lake Lanier, this area offers residents numerous amenities and recreational opportunities, including the Atlanta Athletic Club and the Country Club of the South.

Greenwich

With homes built by the respected builders, Traton Homes, these estates will have stunning architectural exterior and interior design, including four sides of exterior detail, elegant yet functional features and 3 car-side entry garages. Gourmet kitchens will be garnished with stainless steel appliances and granite countertop; hardwood flooring will spread throughout the homes and each owner’s suite will be equipped with a luxurious bath and walk in closet.

Greenwich 2

Johns Creek is a diverse community that is proud of its impeccable public safety, various national park services and exceptional public schools. In fact, the children of Greenwich Park will attend the finest public schools in Georgia, including State Bridge Crossing Elementary, Autrey Mill Middle and Johns Creek High Schools.

With easy access to I85, I285, 141 and GA400, Johns Creek offers its residents the perfect balance between rural and city life. Johns Creek national park services include the Chattahoochee River, National Recreation Area, Autry Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center and the Johns Creek Art Center. Music lovers will also take note of the 45-acre Encore Park, which includes the 12,000 seat Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, the summer home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and venue for top musical acts.

Each of the 21 Greenwich estate homes rest on 1/3 acre to 3/4 acre lots, and prices are in the $800,000’s. For more information about this fabulous community, please contact me.

Marie Dinsmore, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

The Dinsmore Real Estate Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com

Marie@DinsmoreTeam.com | 770-712-7789