Lake Lanier Blog

Lake Lanier Housing Market Report For December 2011

2012-01-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

Cumming Georgia Real Estate Market Report

2012-01-09T16:14:00.000-05:00

4 Ways to Stoke Kids’ Boating Enthusiasm During th... - MARINEMAX BOATING COMMUNITY

2011-12-21T13:16:00.000-05:00

4 Ways to Stoke Kids’ Boating Enthusiasm During th... - MARINEMAX BOATING COMMUNITY
Hmm...This is an interesting article, but could be a bit chilly out here on Lanier!

U.S. Army Corps To Burn Debris Along Lake Lanier Shore

2011-12-21T08:12:00.000-05:00

Corps plans to burn debris along lake shore

Mixed reviews for new DOT bridge plan | AccessNorthGa

2011-12-14T08:27:00.000-05:00

The meeting to discuss the proposed building of a new bridge to replace Bolling Bridge on Hwy. 53 over the Chestatee River received mixed reviews. The following link provides a summary of the varying opinions:

Mixed reviews for new DOT bridge plan | AccessNorthGa

Forsyth Schools Making The Grade

2011-12-13T18:29:00.001-05:00

2011 Georgia Schools of Excellence Named http://t.co/dmMYjynD

Georgia Resort News and Calendar: Lake Lanier Islands Resort Calendar of Events

2011-11-27T09:17:00.000-05:00

Georgia Resort News and Calendar: Lake Lanier Islands Resort Calendar of Events

New Year's Eve Masquerade Party at Legacy Lodge on Lake Lanier! Are you planning a night out?

Lake Lanier Real Estate Homes Waterfront Property Lake Information

2011-11-18T10:09:00.000-05:00

This one could potentially be a great Lake Lanier investment when the water rises! Great location and super price for lake frontage! Contact us to see it! Lake Lanier Real Estate Homes Waterfront Property Lake Information

Lake Lanier Housing Market Report For October 2011

2011-11-11T14:27:00.000-05:00

Colorful Interiors: What Are the Top Color Picks for 2012?

2011-11-11T10:38:00.000-05:00

Colorful Interiors: What Are the Top Color Picks for 2012?

New Picasa Web Albums Activity

2011-10-24T19:16:00.001-05:00

Recent Uploads

Arthur Prescott added a photo to Drop Box

Oct 23, 2011 5:12:57 PM


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Lake Lanier Fall Color

2011-10-24T08:03:00.001-05:00

Saturday Morning Lake Lanier

2011-10-22T08:23:00.001-05:00

Sunrise on Johnson Creek Lake Lanier.

Another Lake Lanier Home Under Contract!

2011-10-20T13:47:00.002-05:00

We are under contract on another beautiful Lake Lanier property. View this wonderful home, location and listing details! What do you think?
Lake Lanier Home Under Contract!

GAR Contract Changes

2011-10-17T07:41:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again. As we approach the end of 2011, the continuing ed seminars ramp up. We'll be at a seminar this afternoon, focusing on potential changes in the GAR real estate contracts for next year. Should be interesting to hear the changes and why!

Boling Bridge

2011-10-16T19:38:00.001-05:00

Boating south on the Chestatee River today. A look at Boling Bridge at Lake Lanier.

Johnson Creek Lake Lanier Sunday Morning

2011-10-16T07:53:00.000-05:00

The coolest morning yet. Literally!

Photos From Ada Creek Lake Lanier

2011-10-14T10:24:00.001-05:00

Lathem Bay Lake Lanier 7 AM

2011-10-14T10:10:00.001-05:00

Fall Sunset On Johnson Creek Lake Lanier

2011-09-24T18:44:00.001-05:00

Saturday Morning View Lake Lanier

2011-09-24T17:40:00.001-05:00

This Evening's Sunset At Lake Lanier!

2011-09-21T18:46:00.001-05:00

New Lake Lanier Recreational Videos!

2011-09-20T16:27:00.001-05:00

Outdoors Gwinnett: Sailing on Lake Lanier from TVgwinnett on Vimeo.

Outdoors Gwinnett: Striper Fishing on Lake Lanier from TVgwinnett on Vimeo.

Lake Lanier Home Sales Stats Encouraging!

2011-09-20T13:42:00.000-05:00

We've just completed our Lake Lanier Housing Market Report for August, and we feel encouraged by the the trend that has developed for 2011. In almost every month, the number of home sales and the sales prices have increased over the same month's comparison in 2010. This bodes very well for lake residents and values, as we see them going into the Fall. The trend indicates a solid pick up in lake transactions and sales prices. Average days on market is still slightly extended but we're not complaining! These numbers overall suggest a solid recovery is under way. Please click on the link below for all of the latest stats!Lake Lanier Housing Market Report

Shoreline Expanding

2011-09-19T08:12:00.001-05:00

I hate to say it, but here we grow again! Lake Lanier's shoreline is expanding as we are now approximately eight feet below full pool. This means more shoreline, longer walks and better fishing. Here's a look at the lake's shore in my neighborhood as I walked my dog, Beignet, this morning.

Weather On Lanier

2011-08-18T13:14:00.001-05:00

The temps are cooling and Fall is near! This time of year is great for boating and lake home shopping! Don't get left out!

Lake Lanier Real Estate - Arthur Prescott - PRUDENTIAL GEORGIA REALTY - 123 Toto Creek Drive E Dawsonville GA 30534

2011-05-12T11:18:00.000-05:00

Dawson County Real Estate - Arthur Prescott - PRUDENTIAL GEORGIA REALTY - 123 Toto Creek Drive E Dawsonville GA 30534

Check out our newest Lake Lanier listing by clicking the link above. This waterfront cottage will steal your heart!

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-How Can You Beat a Cash Bidder?

2011-04-15T05:03:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-How Can You Beat a Cash Bidder?

Bridge at Clarks Bridge Park set for replacement

2011-04-06T07:04:00.000-05:00

Bridge at Clarks Bridge Park set for replacement

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Home Inspections Can Spur Haggles Over Price

2011-04-06T06:54:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Home Inspections Can Spur Haggles Over Price

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Distress Sales Used as Comps: Right or Wrong?

2011-04-06T06:52:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Distress Sales Used as Comps: Right or Wrong?

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Builder Takes Different Approach, Starts Renting

2011-04-05T05:33:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Builder Takes Different Approach, Starts Renting

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Vacation-, Investment-Home Shares Hold Even

2011-03-31T05:24:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Vacation-, Investment-Home Shares Hold Even

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Mortgage Rates Drop Again This Week

2011-03-28T20:48:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Mortgage Rates Drop Again This Week

Lake Lanier Housing Market Report

2011-02-21T15:12:00.000-05:00

Wow! What a nice way to start 2011! Our Lake Lanier Housing Market Report is complete and indicates a sharp increase average sales price for lake homes that sold in January. The average price was the highest we've seen in quite some time! The number of homes sold ticked up slightly as well. Days on market was a bit extended, but overall the results were encouraging. To view the report and all of our recorded data simply click on the link below.

Lake Lanier Housing Market Report
Courtesy Of Arthur Prescott
Prudential Georgia Realty
LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Insider Secrets To Buying Your First Home

2011-02-17T10:27:00.001-05:00

Here is a fantastic article which provides advice on buying your first home. The process can be daunting and complicated, but taking charge with these secrets can make the task a winning experience!

Insider Secrets For The 5 Stages Of Buying Your First Home

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-All-Cash Deals Offer Big Boost to Housing Market

2011-02-09T07:03:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-All-Cash Deals Offer Big Boost to Housing Market

Showing Property Sunday At Lake Lanier!

2011-01-31T17:07:00.000-05:00

Prudential Georgia Realty Advanced Marketing, Technology & Information

2011-01-26T14:50:00.003-05:00

Click the title link above to watch this informative video!

Prudential Georgia Realty's Atlanta Luxury Homes

2011-01-26T14:42:00.000-05:00

Prudential's latest Atlanta Luxury Real Estate Magazine is now online! Let us know what you think!

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers Get Picky When Home Shopping

2011-01-26T07:40:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers Get Picky When Home Shopping

CNBC.com Article: Real Estate Red Flags

2011-01-15T06:49:00.000-05:00

CNBC.com Article: Real Estate Red Flags

As potential homebuyers begin wading back into a battered real estate market, it's helpful to know how to evaluate properties, especially foreclosures and houses that may have stood abandoned. Is that fixer-upper really such a bargain?

Full Story:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/41062261

------------------------------------------------
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iPad users: http://m.cnbc.com/ipad
iPhone users: http://www.itunes.com/apps/cnbcreal-time

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REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Homes Get Smaller, More Energy Efficient

2011-01-15T06:40:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Homes Get Smaller, More Energy EfficientHere's a recent article on the continuing move among buyers to move toward more efficient and smaller homes. A good read regarding trends in today's real estate market!

Lake Lanier Buford Dam Road Snow Video

2011-01-14T15:38:00.001-05:00

A video of the effects of the recent snow storm that hit the Lake Lanier area this past weekend. Video of Buford Dam Road in Cumming, Georgia along the south end of the lake.

Finally Digging Out

2011-01-14T10:16:00.001-05:00

Here's a pic from Monday. The first day of the big Atlanta snow storm which socked us in here on Lake Lanier! Finally digging out today and traveling has become a bit easier!

More Borrowers Face Expiring Lock-in Rates

2011-01-14T09:30:00.002-05:00

More Borrowers Face Expiring Lock-in Rates
http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2011011304?OpenDocument

This article updates the latest news on mortgage rate lock-ins, and the increasing time frames needed to close real estate transactions. This is valuable news if you are considering purchasing a short sale or foreclosure property!

***********************************************************************

CNBC.com Article: The Foreclosure Dump

2011-01-13T21:25:00.000-05:00

The Foreclosure Dump
Today's report from RealtyTrac serves as a warning to big banks, Fannie, Freddie and local communities; The foreclosure glut is coming, and they'd better be ready to get rid of that glut in a big way.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/41059824/

Sent from my iPad

Excellent Advice On Purchasing Foreclosure Properties

2011-01-13T08:27:00.001-05:00

We can't preach the risks involved in purchasing as-is foreclosures
enough! However, this broker advice is well given and very accurate!

http://m.trulia.com/blog/taranelson/2011/01/4_tricks_and_traps_foreclosure_buyers_need_to_know?ecampaign=cnews201101A&eurl=www.trulia.com%2Fblog%2Ftaranelson%2F2011%2F01%2F4_tricks_and_traps_foreclosure_buyers_need_to_know

--
Arthur Prescott
Realtor, ABR
Prudential Georgia Realty
925 Sanders Road
Cumming, Georgia 30041
Office: 678-513-2014
Cell: 770-309-7531
Email: aprescott@prudentialgeorgia.com
Prudential Georgia Realty's Masters' Society
<aprescott@prudentialgeorgia.com>Active Life Member Million Dollar Club
Website: Lake Sidney Lanier Homes <http://www.lakesidneylanierhomes.com>
Website: Lake Lanier Lots And Land <http://www.lakelanierlotsandland.com>
Website: Cumming Foreclosure Homes <http://www.cummingforeclosurehomes.com>
Blog: Lake Sidney Lanier Homes Blog<http://lakesidneylanierhomes.blogspot.com/>
FB: Facebook<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lake-Sidney-Lanier-Homes/130167946998688>

"Arthurize The Best!"

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Top 10 Most Searched Markets at Realtor.com

2011-01-13T07:51:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Top 10 Most Searched Markets at Realtor.com
No mention of Atlanta or surrounding suburbs in this article. But there sure are a lot of tempting opportunities available in our Lake Lanier area market!

CNBC.com Video: Zillow's Numbers

2011-01-12T14:40:00.000-05:00

CNBC.com Article: Zillow's Numbers

Discussing Zillow's latest numbers and what it says about the housing market, as well as what it means for homebuilders, with CNBC's Diana Olick.

Full Story:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/15840232?play=1&video=1736398613

Sent from my iPad

A Very Cold Wintery Morning On Lake Lanier's Johnson Creek!

2011-01-08T08:33:00.000-05:00

A hint to the wintery mix heading in tomorrow!

A Beautiful Day Here On Lake Lanier's Sardis Creek!

2010-12-17T18:48:00.001-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Selling Homes With Pets

2010-12-07T23:01:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Selling Homes With Pets

Morning Photos Northern Lake Lanier!

2010-12-07T22:55:00.000-05:00

It was a chilly morning today on the Chestatee River on the north end of Lake Lanier! Just a beautiful winter day.

5 Tips For Showing And Selling Your Home During The Holidays

2010-12-02T09:42:00.001-05:00

If you are selling your home during the holidays, you should consider these great tips from Tara Nelson, a broker and writer for Trulia. These are informative and realistic tips to know about real estate selling during this time of year!

Ask Tara @Trulia
make smart decisions w/Tara's real estate + mortgage need-to-knows

By Tara-Nicholle Nelson | Broker in San Francisco, CA
5 Tips For Showing And Selling Your Home During The Holidays

If you've been active in the market for long, you know that the real estate pauses for no man, woman or life event. Nor does it pause for any season; while the market usually does a major slowdown around the winter holidays, the very most motivated buyers and sellers are still doing deals. If your home is currently listed for sale, here are some tips for showing - and selling - your home during the season of peace, love and joyous overeating/overspending!

1. Don't, if you don't have to. During the holidays, the pool of qualified and active buyers shrinks - dramatically. The cold, wet weather in some areas makes buyers hesitant to come out and view properties, and holiday travels cause others to put their house hunts on hold. Buyers also know that many sellers take their homes off the market during this period, so the forecast for receiving lowball offers is: highly likely. Taking your home off the market during the holidays and relisting it after New Year's holds the potential of exposing your home to a fresh set of buyers motivated by a fresh set of resolutions. Plus, many sellers simply don't want to deal with buyers' muddy feet and scheduling intrusion while they are at home on vacation or hosting holiday dinners or guests. (Note: Most of these issues are slightly less impactful in warm-weather climates.]

With that said, there are some advantages to having your home on the market at this time of year, too. Although there will be a larger pool of buyers out and active after the first of the year, the ones who are out in the wet and the cold right now tend to be really motivated to buy. Holiday house hunters usually fall into two camps: they either plain old need a place to live, fast, or they need to close escrow on their new home by year's end for tax reasons. Given that post-tax credit buyers have been characterized by an almost stunning lack of urgency, keeping your home on the market over the holidays is one way to try to capitalize on the urgency this season's motivated buyers face, due to their circumstances.

2. Ditch the holiday decor or make it meticulous. No Charlie Brown trees, people. Staging your home at its festive holiday best can truly backfire if your seasonal staging comes off as amateurish or overdone. if your living room is already small and your marble mantel is the main selling point, crowding the room with a massive arboreal masterpiece (i.e., big tree), piles of gifts, life-sized reindeer-and-sleigh set and covering the entire mantle with faux snow and stockings will do more harm to a prospective buyer's first impressions than good.

If you DO decide to decorate, rethink it as staging with some holiday cheer; this will help you follow the staging mandates of depersonalizing and decluttering your place. If you have a dining room, stage it for a holiday dinner - many a buyer has bought a whole house around their holiday dinner fantasies. Help them visualize their first Hanukah, Christmas or Kwanzaa hosted at their new home (psst - that's your home, in the vision).

But keep your holiday decor somewhat secular and ethnically neutral, if possible. Trees, garlands, lights and bulbs are great - but if I personally were selling my home during the holidays, I'd probably pack my family's nativity scenes away. You might not want your cherished family heirlooms exposed to the public, in the first place. And you definitely don't want to let your ethnic or religious stuff interfere with the buyers' ability to envision their own holidays in your home.

3. Set a few, clear "no show" dates and times. There is no faster way to lose a potential buyer than to make it difficult for their broker or agent to schedule a showing for your home. Sellers seem to forget that most often, buyer's brokers are scheduling multiple properties to be shown in a couple of hours'-long-showing - if the other 3 dozen homes for sale in your neighborhood are vacant or very easy to show, and yours has a bunch of random black out times or dates that the agent can't figure out without making multiple calls to your agent, who then has to call you and call the other agent back - geez, I'm exhausted just writing that! Imagine how tiring it is for buyer's brokers to do that on 5 or 6 properites per showing. This is an easy way to tip buyers toward a competing property.

By the same token, it's understandable that you may need to blackout showings on particular hoildays or times when you're hosting guests. So, rather than going through the drama and frustration of back-and-forth scheduling arrangements around your vacations and obligations, give your listing agent a couple of clear guidelines around holiday season showings (e.g., no showings on12/24, 12/25, 12/31 or 1/1) and ask your agent to include these dates in the confidential remarks for buyer's agents on MLS. The keyword here is "a couple" - keep these "no show" slots to an absolute minimum. If there are multiple, whole weeks or lots of half-day time slots during which you don't want your home shown, consider taking it off the market and relisting it in the New Year, rather than running the risk of getting bumped to the bottom of buyers' brokers' "show" lists.

4. Expect some inconvenience and irritation. Selling during the holidays can be rewarding, but smart sellers approach it knowing it won't always be fun. Go in with realistic expectations. Some buyer is highly likely to track rain, mud or snow into your house, at some point. If you're home for a long staycation, chances are good that someone will interrupt your Zen for a showing. It's even possible that some buyer will leave your front door open longer than you'd like, letting your expensively heated air seep into the great outdoors (on your dime). These things will happen, but the upside is that an uber-motivated buyer-to-be may also come see your place. Avoid the emotional rollercoaster and irritation by expecting these issues and chalking them up as par for the course. It might not hurt to flex your holiday shopping muscles to invest in a $50-ish hand-held carpet cleaner, either! Expectation + preparation eliminate irritation, I like to say. (Seriously - I made that up!)

5. Engage in safe, sensory staging. Holiday food smells ike spiced cider, pumpkin pie and baked appley/cinnamoney things are about as universally comforting as smells get. It certainly wouldn't hurt to do some sensory staging to create a sense of comfort and cheer. Also, remember that dreary winter weather can make even the loveliest house and showing take on a gray cast; counteract this by making sure your home is well-lighted and -heated. One thing, though - if your holiday home is a candle-lit home, make sure you leave no candles burning if you clear your family out for showings.

Second Liens Roadblock for Short Sales

2010-11-30T14:27:00.000-05:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Second Liens Roadblock for Short Sales

Prudential Georgia Realty Sales Meeting

2010-11-30T13:55:00.001-05:00

Prudential Georgia Realty Sales Meeting

Hosted by KM Homes! See their homes in the following communities:

Evans Farms
The Gates At Luberon
Parkside At The Polo Fields
Forest Creek

New homes ready now and more coming in December! Close by the end of 2010! Preview these wonderful communities at www.KMHomes.com and then let us know when we can show you these homes and tour them at your leisure. Most of these communities are located in Forsyth County and are convenient to Lake Lanier.

Suntrust announces their home fix it loan with opportunity for lending on foreclosures and homes left partially unfinished!

Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco our alliance partner and closing attorneys welcome Joanne Elgart as their marketing director and broker liason for assisting in our transactions. WNCW is the Atlanta law firm most instrumental in writing our GAR contracts and forms used in real estate transactions in the state of Georgia. We are grateful for our alliance with this fine team of attorneys!

HSA Home Warranty announces free home warranty coverage for Prudential Georgia Realty listings for the listing period. This is a fantastic opportunity for coverage of many mechanical items found in the home, and protection for our home sellers during the life of their listings!

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Title Insurance: More Important Than Ever

2010-11-30T13:44:00.003-05:00

Title Insurance: More Important Than Ever
http://www.realtor.org/RMODaily.nsf/pages/News2010112905?OpenDocument

Lake Lanier Fishing Fun!

2010-11-28T00:10:00.001-05:00

Look what showed up at my dock tonight!

Autumn Grilling On Lake Lanier!

2010-11-20T13:47:00.001-05:00

We us the Big Green Egg! Even burgers taste better when you have this view! Beautiful day here on the cove...

More Lake Lanier Autumn Color!

2010-11-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

These gorgeous colors are everywhere in our Lake Lanier neighborhood! What photo worthy landscapes are in your neighborhood?

Kroger Sugar Hill Grand Opening!

2010-11-20T10:48:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the newest Kroger near Lake Lanier! The perfect stop for food and supplies as you head to the lake. Suwanee Dam Road at Hwy. 20. The largest Kroger in Georgia! (-:

Lake Lanier Autumn Color!

2010-11-20T10:29:00.000-05:00

Buford Dam: A unique little powerhouse | ajc.com

2010-08-14T09:32:00.000-05:00

Buford Dam: A unique little powerhouse | ajc.com

Lake Lanier Lot At 7643 Maple Place

2010-07-12T11:42:00.009-05:00

We've seen a trend over the last few weeks of more people starting to return to Lake Lanier and evaluate different property opportunities. Many of these potential buyers have been considering Lake Lanier waterfront lots as an option to the ultimate goal of being on Lake Lanier. While the banks and lenders seem to have tightened requirements for obtaining a loan for raw land, we have found construction loans available in many situations.

With that in mind, we would like to introduce you to 7643 Maple Place in Murrayville, GA. This lot is priced very aggressively and is arguably one of the best opportunities available right now on Lanier. It is a relatively level tract, approximately .34 acres and is located very close to the water. It is at the very end of the street, which provides a nice amount of added privacy. 7643 Maple Place includes a double slip dock with party deck, a lighted path down to the dock, and views that cast across the Chestatee River into the sunset. Priced at $200,000 this lot is a STEAL! If you are out kicking around the lake, looking for property, contact us for more information while this prime property is still available. It is simply too good to pass up!

7643 Maple Place

Photos From Today's Real Estate Travels

2010-07-10T16:44:00.002-05:00

Private Lake Lanier Beach

2010-07-10T12:29:00.004-05:00

Pristine private beach at Lake Lanier!
Just want to enjoy the beach? Live it right here on Lake Lanier!

Lake Lanier Sunset Cruise

2010-07-04T14:51:00.001-05:00

Photos from our July 4th, 2010 sunset cruise to view the Marina Bay Fireworks display on Lake Lanier! What a gorgeous evening and sunset!

Price Reduced On This Gorgeous Lake Lanier Home!

2010-07-02T10:39:00.006-05:00

Attention! Check out this $10,000 Price Reduction on this sensational Lake Lanier home! Motivated Seller, beautiful cove, single slip dock, move-in condition! Subdivision also has a private boat ramp, swimming pool and tennis courts!

Lake Lanier Home

Lake Lanier Photos From June 27, 2010

2010-06-28T15:26:00.004-05:00

Lake Lanier Photos

2010-06-28T15:26:00.003-05:00

Google Map of property showings from June 23, 2010!

2010-06-24T16:11:00.005-05:00

Google Map of property showings from June 23, 2010! All gorgeous properties listed from the $700k price range up to almost $1 million.

View Larger Map

Obama Administration's Housing Scorecard - CNBC

2010-06-21T17:35:00.000-05:00

If you've notice a recent slow down in your home's listing activity, this recent article from CNBC could shed some light on what's going on

Obama Administration's Housing Scorecard - CNBC

NAR's 2010 1st Quarter Market Report

2010-06-17T11:48:00.002-05:00

The National Association Of Realtors has released its 2010 Local Market Report for the 1st quarter of the year. The results are stunning and provide a very good insight into Atlanta's housing market. You can read the results by clicking the link above.

Find Us On Facebook

2010-06-15T14:42:00.001-05:00

Lake Sidney Lanier Homes and our latest updates are now on Facebook!

Prudential Georgia Realty Announces May Results

2010-06-15T14:32:00.005-05:00

There can be absolutely no question regarding the power of Prudential Georgia Realty in real estate, please see the following link for the latest May 2010 sales statistics which include the Lake Lanier market area.

Trendgraphix reports that Prudential Georgia Realty was #1 in Sales, #1 in Buyers and #1 in Listings for May 2010 (all FMLS counties). For the past 3 years, Prudential has grown market share in sales, buyers and listings more than any other large brokerage.

"We are so proud of our agents and our staff. In the past few years, our company has made significant investments in marketing & technology, better sources of market data, valuable agent skills and agent support resources. Our results continue to prove that these innovations are giving our agents and clients a competitive edge,” said Dan Forsman, President & CEO of Prudential Georgia Realty.

Prudential Georgia Realty was the first large brokerage in the nation to be awarded the Realtor.com Online Marketing Award of Excellence. The company is recognized for leadership in marketing and technology innovation. Recently, the company also received major national awards from Prudential Relocation and SIRVA Relocation. Metro Atlanta continues to be a popular destination for businesses and Prudential Georgia Realty is the leader in helping those buyers find homes. That gives our sellers an advantage.

Since 1875, Prudential has established a tradition of excellence in real estate, insurance and financial services. Right now, there are specific opportunities to make money in real estate. If you know someone who is interested in selling, buying, investing or renting, I would be honored to assist them.

Prudential is Delivering the Future of Real Estate... Now!

Information deemed to be accurate but not warranted.
If your home is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.

Market Report

Today's Home Showings

2010-06-09T11:01:00.003-05:00

We'll be out showing eight to ten homes this afternoon in Cumming! Is yours one of them? Here's a hint: They do not need to be waterfront! Let me know if we missed your home!

Lake Lanier Lot At 9035 Hayes Drive

2010-06-08T16:26:00.001-05:00

These beautiful photos were taken today at our Lake Lanier lot listing at 9035 Hayes Drive in Gainesville on Lake Lanier. This is an individually gated lot located amongst an exclusive group of homes in Cloister Cove. Please contact us for more details at 678-513-2014!

Lake Lanier Sales Actibity

2010-06-08T08:08:00.002-05:00

We're up and running with the research this morning. A quick look at the FMLS, and we're seeing about 429 homes for sale on Lake Lanier that have a dock/permit attached. That's a lot of inventory! The median price comes in at about $599,000. So pricing is still pretty strong and there are a bunch of properties for sale. Now is the time to start looking and to try to pick up a steal. Last month's sales showed an approximate average of $100,000 discount off of original list price of homes sold! Folks, it's time to dive in!

Two Intriguing Home Showings Today!

2010-06-05T17:54:00.005-05:00

We saw two very nice properties today. Each property was lake front with build dates that stretched back to the 1960's. It was like going back in time and seeing a slice of Lake Lanier history. Both were very intriguing in their own ways. You can check them out too! Just follow the links below!

http://www.lakesidneylanierhomes.com/4013251
http://www.lakesidneylanierhomes.com/4066800

Athens Boat Club & North End

2010-06-05T17:31:00.003-05:00

Friday was a quiet day, and a beautiful one on the lake. We made our way to the north end of the Chestatee River on Lake Lanier and took these photos of the lake as we went. Some beautiful homes, gorgeous shoreline and a photogenic canine!

Aqualand Marina Lake Lanier

2010-06-03T19:38:00.002-05:00

Photos from our lunch outing today at Aqualand Marina on Lake Lanier. What a beautiful day and a gorgeous boat ride!

Port Royale Marina Lake Lanier

2010-06-02T15:56:00.000-05:00

We visited the recently remodeled Port Royale Marina for lunch today! Wow what a makeover! This place is sure to be a HUGE hit. Check out the photos from our lunch. Great burger!

Why Use A Realtor?

2010-03-02T16:13:00.001-05:00

This article was recently published from The National Association Of REALTORS:

Why Use a REALTOR®?

All real estate licensees are not the same. Only real estate licensees who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® are properly called REALTORS®. They proudly display the REALTOR "®" logo on the business card or other marketing and sales literature. REALTORS® are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate. An independent survey reports that 84% of home buyers would use the same REALTOR® again.

Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Transactions today usually exceed $100,000. If you had a $100,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a CPA? If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be foolish to consider a deal in real estate without the professional assistance of a REALTOR®.

But if you're still not convinced of the value of a REALTOR®, here are a dozen more reasons to use one:

1. Your REALTOR® can help you determine your buying power -- that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity. If you give a REALTOR® some basic information about your available savings, income and current debt, he or she can refer you to lenders best qualified to help you. Most lenders -- banks and mortgage companies -- offer limited choices.

2. Your REALTOR® has many resources to assist you in your home search. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your agent to find all available properties.

3. Your REALTOR® can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. Agents who are REALTORS® have access to a variety of informational resources. REALTORS® can provide local community information on utilities, zoning. schools, etc. There are two things you'll want to know. First, will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?

4. Your REALTOR® can help you negotiate. There are myriad negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession and often the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. The purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required.

5. Your REALTOR® provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your REALTOR® can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do most of these investigations and provide you with written reports. You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements (access rights) for utilities. Your REALTOR®, title company or attorney can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date.

6. Your REALTOR® can help you in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders.

7. Your REALTOR® can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.

8. When selling your home, your REALTOR® can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the price, financing, terms and condition of competing properties. These are key factors in getting your property sold at the best price, quickly and with minimum hassle.

9. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. Often, your REALTOR® can recommend repairs or cosmetic work that will significantly enhance the salability of your property. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. In many markets across the country, over 50% of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. Your REALTOR® acts as the marketing coordinator, disbursing information about your property to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service or other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, etc. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics requires REALTORS® to utilize these cooperative relationships when they benefit their clients.

10. Your REALTOR® will know when, where and how to advertise your property. There is a misconception that advertising sells real estate. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® studies show that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, family and personal contacts. When a property is marketed with the help of your REALTOR®, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR® will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.

11. Your REALTOR® can help you objectively evaluate every buyer's proposal without compromising your marketing position. This initial agreement is only the beginning of a process of appraisals, inspections and financing -- a lot of possible pitfalls. Your REALTOR® can help you write a legally binding, win-win agreement that will be more likely to make it through the process.

12. Your REALTOR® can help close the sale of your home. Between the initial sales agreement and closing (or settlement), questions may arise. For example, unexpected repairs are required to obtain financing or a cloud in the title is discovered. The required paperwork alone is overwhelming for most sellers. Your REALTOR® is the best person to objectively help you resolve these issues and move the transaction to closing (or settlement).

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-02-18T20:49:00.003-05:00

A few photos from my travels on Lake Lanier today! The temperature didn't seem that cold but the wind made it mighty chilly. Still, a beautiful day of sunshine and peaceful blue waters!

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-02-14T21:02:00.003-05:00

We made a lot of travel time on Lake Lanier today. Our sixty-eight miles took us from Cumming to Flowery Branch to Gainesville and back to Cumming. It was an enjoyable day with lots of beautiful sights. Here are a few photos from some of the places we visited. The snow had melted, but more could be on the way!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-02-14T10:35:00.002-05:00

I was planning to show lake homes Saturday, but Mother Nature had different plans. Here's a look at my driveway! I've got all wheel drive, but this would be deadly if I started to slide.

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Prudential Georgia Realty

2010-02-06T16:54:00.002-05:00

Our 400 North / Lake Lanier Office.

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Big Time Incentives From Peachtree Residential

2010-02-06T15:16:00.006-05:00

Wow! Peachtree Residential is really firing up the incentives on their new homes. I just received another flyer today that makes buying a new home in the Lake Lanier area that much more attractive. Peachtree Residential has developments in some of Lake Lanier's surrounding counties, namely Forsyth and Hall counties. This means that you can buy new construction homes that are within minutes driving distance to Lake Lanier's parks, boat launches and recreation. Lots of nearby communities boast Peachtree Residential homes including Windermere, Lake Forest, Liberty, Provence, St. Michaels Bay, Towne Square At Liberty, Westbrook and Sterling On The Lake. Let us work for you and show you the wonderful new homes in these communities! We will represent as our client and provide you with extraordinary service every step of the way.

LET PEACHTREE RESIDENTIAL DOUBLE YOUR TAX BREAK!

For all February sales that close by the end of March, Peachtree Residential will match the federal tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers, or up to $6,500 for existing home owners who have owned the same residence for at least five of the last eight years.

But the savings don't end there! Receive up to $3,000 in closing costs when you choose Peachtree Residential Mortgage for your financing!

Potential savings:

$8,000 tax credit
$8,000 Peachtree tax credit match
$3,000 in closing costs with Peachtree Residential Mortgage
$19,000 in Savings!
Use your savings toward design options, closing costs, or the countless ways in which Peachtree Residential enables you to tailor your home to your personal style!

NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE FEDERAL TAX CREDIT??? No worries! Count on Peachtree to give it to you! Just ask any Peachtree Residential sales manager for complete details.

Don't delay - the tax credit match is good during the month of February ONLY!

Come on! What are you waiting for?! Let's go check out these fantastic opportunities!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Five Reasons Why Refinancing May Be A Good Option Now

2010-02-04T19:30:00.002-05:00

With low interests rates, efficiency mortgage options and short-term loans readily available, now might be the time for homeowners to consider refinancing their homes. Consider the following article published recently by RISMEDIA.

RISMEDIA, February 4, 2010 Mortgage experts from Bills.com, one of the leading resources for free, objective and expert money advice, advised that consumers considering a home refinance should begin the process now. Further, the company reported that the most frequently asked question of its Ask Bill expert advice center concerned home refinancing rates and recommendations.

Market conditions have aligned to make this a perfect environment for home refinancing, said Ethan Ewing, president of Bills.com. Low rates and compelling opportunities to refinance into shorter term loans have arrived at the same time as large consumer demand.

Ask Bill is a free service that allows consumers to ask any money question of human experts and receive personalized advice to their inquiries. One of the most frequently asked questions of 2009 concerned interest rates for home refinancing.

This high level of interest on behalf of consumers corresponds to favorable market conditions for refinancing. Specifically, these factors include:

1. Interest rates continue to hover around all-time lows, making it sensible for anyone carrying a higher rate interest loan to consider refinancing. With some exceptions, a 1/2-point to a 1-point drop in rate will generally make refinancing worthwhile.

2. Low fixed interest rates make converting from an adjustable rate loan into a fixed 15- or 30-year loan a smart move. Even if the adjustable payment is currently lower than a fixed rate payment, when rates rise again the monthly payment on an adjustable rate loan will quickly leapfrog a fixed rate loan.

3. The current difference between fixed 15-year and 30-year interest rates is significant, making refinancing into a shorter-term loan a compelling opportunity. This can save hundreds of thousands of dollars over the life of a loan and shorten the time to payoff with sometimes only a slight increase in monthly payment.

4. FHA efficiency mortgages provide consumers with an opportunity to refinance into a loan that will help pay for home efficiency improvements. These loans are meant to provide consumers with a way to make energy efficient improvements to their home as part of an origination or refinancing. This is a great way for homeowners to cost-effectively lower their utility bills through basic home repairs.

5. Those homeowners whose equity situation has steadily deteriorated, leaving them with little, no or negative equity in their homes, should ask their lender or broker for help. Most have some flexibility with government programs aimed at reducing rates for homeowners in weak equity positions.

This interest rate environment provides opportunities for those trying to escape high interest rates as well as those making savvy long-term financial decisions, continued Ewing. Anyone considering a home refinance should move quickly to lock in rates now.

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

More Downtown Cumming Photos

2010-02-04T15:07:00.004-05:00

The statue in front of the Forsyth County Courthouse is of Statesman and former governor, John Forsyth. The marker shows the details. If you decide to go to auction in Forsyth County, you will most likely stand very near this location.

Forsyth County Courthouse

2010-02-04T15:01:00.003-05:00

Had to take care of a little real estate business in downtown Cumming today, so I snapped a few photos with my handy Blackberry. Not real view friendly, just straight up photos with no editing. Part of our entry into mobile blogging!

Don't Let The Buyers' Market Pass You By!

2010-02-03T13:01:00.002-05:00

The cost of waiting to buy a home could be quite expensive for buyers who are considering a purchase in this real estate market. As an example, consider the following hypothetical purchase on a $350,000 home with a 5% down payment.

First Time Home Buyers could lose an $8,000 credit if they wait until after April 30, 2010.
Move-Up / Trade-In Buyers could lose a $6,500 credit if they wait until after April 30, 2010.
FHA Seller Contributions (6% to 3%) could lose $10,500 credit if waiting until after Spring 2010.
FHA Upfront MIP (1.75 to 2.25) could lose $1,750 credit if waiting until after Spring 2010.

So, the bottom line in this example could mean that a First Time Home Buyer could lose $20,250 and a Move-Up Buyer could lose $18,750! That's a lot of dough to leave on the table! Don't wait!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

New Homes Promotion From D.R. Horton!

2010-02-03T12:04:00.006-05:00

If you're shopping for a new home near Lake Lanier, now is an excellent time to buy! Many of the Lake Lanier area home builders are offering tremendous incentives to purchase. Take our vendor alliance partner, D.R. Horton. Right now, you may be able to take advantage of the first time home buyer $8,000 tax credit and have NO PAYMENTS UNTIL JULY 2010! Now that's an incentive! Check out the promotional flyer! Many of D.R. Horton's communities are in Forsyth and Hall counties, just minutes from Lake Lanier. And as always, be sure to contact us to represent you as our client in your home search. We'll guide you every step of the way!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-02-02T14:23:00.005-05:00

Peachtree Residential Builders is offering fantastic quality and some great incentives at their Lake Lanier development, St. Michael's Bay! I just received this email ad today. Check out the this super announcement!

To some builders, beauty is only skin deep. But to Peachtree Residential, the real beauty starts much deeper.

If you’re in the market for a new home, you should seriously consider the following question. “What does quality mean to YOU?” Some builders often try to influence a customer’s perception of quality by only addressing the surface details of a home.

Here’s an example: a client recently remarked that he had visited a home that he felt was quality built. When asked which quality features came to mind first, he replied that the home was loaded with extensive trim detail, hardwood floors, custom cabinets, tile accents and upgraded lighting. While Peachtree Residential offers all of those great enhancements for the home, we want you to know that they are not a reflection of how well built a home is. For a builder like Peachtree Residential, where exceptional quality is guaranteed, quality begins deep within.

Peachtree Residential wants you to be confident that you’re buying from the best, from the foundation to the rooftop!

• Our Foundations: Our Slab and basement homes are poured concrete with basement walls are 9’ tall and approx. 8” thick. Basement walls are framed with solid 2 X 6’s (not finger jointed 2 X 4’s) for structural integrity. Exterior walls are framed and insulated which makes our basements easy to finish.

• Our Floor Systems: Engineered I-Joists are specifically calculated to carry the loads and spans of each individual home we build. Advantech sub flooring is then glued down, screwed and nailed down allowing for less floor movement which is a major contributor to being able to properly maintain our site finished hardwood floors.

• Our Exterior Walls: Peachtree Residential uses OSB sheathing on the exterior of our homes and combined with our house wrap, our homes provide structural integrity with added insulation benefits.

• Our Windows: Our classic double hung, wood windows are also individually wrapped for extra protection from air and water infiltration providing peace of mind.

• Our Insulation: Peachtree Residential uses both R-30 blown insulation in our flat ceilings and R-30 Batts insulation in vaulted areas and rooms over the garage. Our walls are R-13 Batts providing energy efficiency.

• Our Exterior Materials: Fiber-Cement siding, provides exceptional protection from the elements and is fire and termite resistant. In addition, brick and real stone (not synthetic) are structurally sound building products that also provide a timeless appeal.

• Our Roofing: Our roof systems are comprised of 2 X 6 rafters with 2 X 6 or 2 X 8 ceiling joists with 7/16” OSB for decking. A 30 year Chalet shingle provides the ultimate protection.

• Structurally Inspected: Every Peachtree home is inspected by a third party structural engineer for additional peace of mind that we are constructing a solid, quality built home.

We guarantee exceptional quality as well as provide a 10 year structural warranty for additional peace of mind and the assurance that our home owners won’t need to call us repeatedly for repairs. In addition to our quality construction, Peachtree Residential provides a design center to assist with interior enhancements that add to the interior beautification of a well crafted home.

So, the next time you hear the word “quality”, don’t just look at the surface beauty. Instead consider, that it’s the deeper beauty within that helps the surface beauty last longer.

__________________________________________________________________________

St. Michaels Bay is currently offering "Available Home and PreSale Savings".

On available homes that can close fast, save thousands PLUS receive up to $8,000 in closing costs AND receive a 1% buydown. (Incentives are flexible and can be used to accommodate your specific needs. Let us know how we can best help you!)

On presales, save thousands on structural and designer options PLUS lock in your rate while we build (under 5%-for a limited time) AND receive $3,000 in closing costs. Call today for available home sites and floor plans!!!

For more information and for assistance in viewing homes in this wonderful Lake Lanier community, contact us today at 678-513-2014!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-02-01T21:21:00.001-05:00

A few photos from our drive by Buford Dam this afternoon. We drove into West Bank Park. We saw a family of cats and kittens playing on the shore just a few yards from the Guard house at the front gates. This is a wonderful park for walking, jogging and picnics! www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Annual Lake Lanier Waterfront Lot Market Report

2010-01-21T10:11:00.002-05:00

Our Annual Lake Lanier Waterfront Lot Market Report is now complete! The report analyzes which lots sold on Lake Lanier this past year. It includes pricing information, location, days on market, discounts, and comparisons. For all of the latest details please click on the link above.

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-01-20T18:31:00.005-05:00

We had a productive day via the internet today. It seems that activity is edging up ever so slightly on our Lake Lanier websites and on our Cumming Foreclosure Homes site. Is the Home Buyer Tax Credit program driving this activity?

One of the sticking points for second-home buyers and investors on Lake Lanier has been the strict requirements on getting approved for loans in those categories. Banks are holding firm on 20% down on second home purchases. But is this still the norm? It seems that there are rumblings in the market about potential softening on this requirement. Potentially, loans that might be available with only 10% down for second home purchases. I even heard the suggestion of using a home equity line on a primary residence to raise the 20% cash down payment for a second home! Folks, the wonder years of zero down, no doc, 5% down, etcetera on second-home loans is a thing of the past. Or is it?! Please let us know what you're hearing from your lenders!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-01-19T21:19:00.003-05:00

We had our business meeting this morning at the Church Of The Good Shepherd. We usually meet twice a month at the meeting room at this church. It is a large space, clean, well kept, and we especially want to thank the Church for their continued hospitality.

Our special guest this morning was from Beazer Homes. Beazer has been building quality homes in the United States for years. Today, the representative from Beazer announced their new high performance home. An eSmart home that is designed and built with superb insulation and energy efficiency. It is built to save money thru its energy efficiency and superior design. This is the latest building technology and it promotes all our endeavors to improve our "Green" desires. You can get all of the details on this design by visiting the following link:

www.Beazer.com

And remember, we're always here and available to represent you in the purchase of your new home!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com

Lake Lanier Real Estate Today

2010-01-16T21:59:00.003-05:00

We had a fantastic time today showing homes! Yes, the weather is rainy, cold, dreary and temps are in the 40's but real estate activities were abundant.

We started out with a two hour HOA meeting in Gainesville for the community where my lake home is located. That meeting had a good turnout, was very productive, informative and upbeat. We discussed various topics ranging from the community's budget to pool repairs and landscaping. After voting on board officers, I was forced to escape early for home showings at Rim Cove on the south end of Lake Lanier.

At Rim Cove, I visited five condos with varying lake views, dock access, and swim/tennis amenities. These units ranged in price from the low $80K to the $160K+ range. We saw foreclosures in need of major renovations and also saw remodeled cozy cottages with tremendous vacation appeal. Overall, my impression was that these units offer fantastic amenities and lake access for an unbeatable price!

Later, we moved on to show off-lake homes in Buford and Sugar Hill. There are lots of foreclosure and aggressively priced homes on the market, and with so many homes available, many buyers start to feel guilty about asking a Realtor to accompany them to so many showings. It made me feel happy and inspired to be a part of their buying process. I made them realize that when you love what you do, it is not about selling your client a home, but about finding your client the perfect home that they would love to own. That is what makes real estate so much fun. To all of my clients, "Many thanks for allowing me to be a part of your home search!" And many thanks for a great weekend of real estate!

www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com