Tag Archives: Lake Lanier Homes

Simple Reasons Why Great Agents are Vital to Sellers

iStock_000018444654Small_SignPapersWhether you’ve sold a home in the past or are considering doing so in the near future, chances are good that the thought, “Come on, how hard can it be to sell on my own?” has crossed your mind—especially if you live in an area that has a high buyer demand.  Even so, while it may be tempting to play seller and real estate agent, it’s possible that you may have overlooked a few real estate challenges.

At the end of the day, real estate agents have a significant job, so it’s important to understand why agents prove to be indispensable during the selling process.

  1. Exposure.  A great agent is an expert at marketing, which means they will have the experience and know-how to help you not only increase your home’s exposure, but to market it in a way that will appeal to a wide audience.
  2. Outside Perspective. Sure, you may love your home and appreciate its quirks; however, a good real estate agent will bring a sense of objectivity into the equation.  While you may overlook your home’s imperfections, it’s important to remember that most potential buyers will not, so heeding the advice of a solid agent can make all the difference.
  3. They Handle All Showings. Whether you’ve already moved out or you’re simply dealing with a chaotic work schedule, an agent will be able to show your home to prospective buyers and answer their questions as needed.
  4. Market Awareness. Plain and simple, a great agent will not only be familiar with the area, but have access to an abundance of current market data regarding pending and recent sales.  While it’s completely reasonable to expect top dollar for your home, most agents understand that accurately priced homes tend to sell quicker than those that are priced too high.
  5. Negotiation Skills. While some people truly enjoy negotiating, many people find it to be a stressful experience.  Therefore, sellers with a real estate agent will find themselves in a great position because their agent can help secure a contract that will get them the most money.
  6. Legal Knowledge. It should come as no surprise that real estate transactions involve a long list of state and federal legal requirements, which can catch up with a seller if they decide to market their home without a reputable real estate agent.  To avoid legal trouble, an agent will help prepare the necessary disclosure documents and make sure that all of the seller’s paperwork is filed correctly.

If you’re considering selling your home, I offer free no-obligation consultations and would love to help you get the ball rolling!  Please contact me for more information.

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

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

So, You’ve Bought an Imperfect House – Learn How to Deal With It

After months—and possibly even years—of planning, searching, and organizing, you’ve finally done it—you’ve signed the paperwork and left with the keys to your new home; however, unless your purchase is totally move-in ready, you’re just getting started.

renovation-businessIf you’ve decided to close on a house that could use a little bit of TLC, it’s important to understand the amount of money and effort it will take to make your home something you are truly happy with.  At the very least, a little paint will help spruce things up; however, in all reality, if there’s updating to be done, it may take more than a new color scheme.

Still, if this is your first house, it’s important to go into the process with realistic expectations about what kinds of time and money will be involved, as well as what you can reasonably expect for a final result.

To help you along the way, here are a few tips to make the process easier:

1.)  CAPITALIZE ON AN EMPTY HOUSE: While it may not be possible to delay your move-in date, if it’s even in the realm of possibilities, it presents a great opportunity to begin the transformation process without having to worry about getting your things covered with renovation dust.

2.) DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP: In our individualistic culture, many of us feel that we have to deal with things on our own, but what’s the point of having friends and family if you can’t exercise a bit of reciprocity when you need a few extra hands?  When it’s time to paint, turn it into a fun party with food and drinks, and chances are good that no one will mind the work.

3.) RELY ON EXPERTISE: There are times when pride can be a good thing; however, if you’re not totally sure what you’re doing, it’s important to swallow it when you need to admit that you cannot get the job done without the advice of your local hardware pro.  Don’t be shy about asking questions—that’s what they’re there for!

4.) HAVE PATIENCE: Yes, renovating your home—especially when you’re attempting to do it on your own—takes work, but if you attempt to rush or try to go beyond your comfort level, you’re likely to make mistakes.  Don’t risk making bad decisions when a little patience would have saved you a botched design.

5.) ORGANIZATION, ORGANIZATION: When you’re attempting to leave your old home, move into your new one, and manage renovations, staying organized is clearly easier said than done, but it doesn’t mean it’s not extremely important.  To get started, make a point of keeping all of your receipts in one place, registering new appliances and electronics, and filing for rebates within the first five days of making a purchase.  It might be tempting to postpone these tasks in the chaos of getting settled, but all that will do is lose you money in the long run.

If you’re considering a move, I’d love to help you get things going.

Marie Dinsmore | 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