Lake Sidney Lanier Homes Blog

Friday, January 09, 2026

The Current Rate Of Homeownership

Homeownership is still one of the strongest ways to build long-term stability—and it’s more attainable than many people think. 🏡 If you’re curious about what it would take to make the leap, we're here to walk you through your options step by step. Ready to see what’s possible? Send us a message and let’s get started!

Lake Sidney Lanier Homes is the most comprehensive online source for information on Lake Lanier homes for sale and Lake Lanier area real estate. View the latest Lake Lanier home listings, foreclosures, lots, land, sales trends, and real estate topics on Lake Lanier. Arthur Prescott is an Accredited Buyer's Representative and Certified Residential Specialist with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. He has over twenty years of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please contact us at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 770-844-8484 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Thursday, January 08, 2026

Perks Of Being A Homeowner

When it comes to homeownership, some of the most compelling benefits are 1) stable monthly payments, and 2) the ability to generate long-term wealth. If you're looking to get your foot in the door of real estate, send us a message and let's chat about how to get you there!

Wednesday, January 07, 2026

New Year New Goals... Is Homeownership One Of Yours?

A fresh year is the perfect time to reflect on what you want your next chapter to look like. ✨🏡 Homeownership doesn’t have to happen overnight—big milestones often start with small, thoughtful steps. Things like reviewing your budget, checking your credit, or simply learning what’s possible can make a huge difference over time. Planning early helps turn goals into something tangible and achievable. This could be the year those plans start to take shape.

Tuesday, January 06, 2026

Real Estate Resolutions For Sellers

2026 is the year to get your home ready to shine on the market! From refreshing your space and tackling small upgrades to keeping up with maintenance, every little improvement can make a big difference. Start the year strong and make your home irresistible to buyers, and give us a call!

Monday, January 05, 2026

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For January 5, 2026!

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For January 5, 2026!

Discover the latest sales data for Lake Lanier waterfront homes with docks, including recent selling prices, median sales figures, and average days on market. Explore area information and more valuable insights for your next Lake Lanier waterfront property investment.

Sunday, January 04, 2026

Let's Write The Story Of Your New Home This Year

A new year is the perfect time to turn the page and imagine what home could look like for you. ✨🏡 Every move comes with its own story, shaped by the moments you want to create and the spaces that fit your life. Whether you’re dreaming big or just beginning to explore, we're here to help guide the process with clarity and care. Here’s to fresh beginnings and a year full of possibility. 🥂

Saturday, January 03, 2026

Some Important Real Estate Reminders

Some important real estate reminders! With so many myths out there surrounding homeownership and purchasing a home, be sure to send us a message to review your options before counting yourself out. You might be closer to homeownership than you think!

Friday, January 02, 2026

Is It Time To Downsize?

You might know it’s time to downsize when maintaining your current home feels more like a burden than a comfort—whether that’s due to high costs, unused space, or physical upkeep. Maybe the kids have moved out, you're craving a simpler lifestyle, or you want to free up cash for travel or retirement. If your needs have changed but your space hasn’t, downsizing could be the right next step. Call us for personalized real estate advice and to make a plan!

Thursday, January 01, 2026

New Year New You New Home

Could this year be the year you become a homeowner? Or use your equity to move into the home of your dreams? Give us a call or send us a message and let's figure out how to turn your daydreams into reality.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

What Do Millennials Want In Their Home?

Every buyer has their own vision of the perfect home, and knowing what matters most can help you navigate the market with confidence. 🏡 Whether you’re looking for flexible spaces, modern upgrades, or low-maintenance living, we're here to help you find a home that truly fits your lifestyle. With the right guidance and a clear plan, your must-haves are absolutely within reach. Ready to start the search? Let’s connect and make it happen! ✨

Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Tax Deductions For Homeowners

Owning a home comes with significant tax advantages that renters typically miss out on. Certain home-related expenses, like energy-efficient upgrades, may qualify for tax credits. Unlike renting, where monthly payments build no equity or tax benefit, owning a home allows you to invest in an appreciating asset while reducing your tax liability. Be sure to consult your tax professional to ensure you're taking advantage of everything you can!

Monday, December 29, 2025

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For December 29, 2025!

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For December 29, 2025!

Sunday, December 28, 2025

How A Quality Kitchen Can Sway A Home Sale

Given that the kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, investing in upgrades can not only enhance your home's appeal to buyers but also potentially boost its value when it's time to sell. Whether you're making minor updates like new hardware or major renovations like installing an island or upgrading countertops, a little change can make a big difference. Looking for other ideas for optimizing your home for sale? Send us a message and let's chat!

Saturday, December 27, 2025

Homewowners Insurance Mistakes

Homeowners insurance is essential for protecting your property and belongings from unexpected events like natural disasters, theft, or accidents. Remember to regularly review your policy to ensure it reflects your home’s current value and any major updates or renovations. Pro tip: bundling your home and auto insurance and exploring discounts for safety features like smoke detectors or security systems can often help you save money too! Questions about buying or selling? We're here to help!

Friday, December 26, 2025

What’s the Difference Between Assessed and Appraised Market Value?

In today's blog post, discover why the listed price isn’t always the one that counts. Explore the nuances of assessed market value and appraised market value and uncover what truly shapes the number that closes the deal. Want to discuss? Feel free to reach out! #BHHS #BHHSRealEstate #MarketValue

How much is your home worth? How much should you pay for your next home?

These are questions about market value—a figure best determined by a licensed or certified appraiser.

Appraisers are typically employed by:

Homebuyers, to confirm for lenders that a property is worth the loan amount.
Property tax or appraisal districts, to assess a property’s market value for tax purposes.

Appraisers rely on two primary methods to determine market value:

1. MLS Data

The local multiple listing service (MLS) provides detailed information about active listings, recent sales, and tax records. Appraisers analyze factors such as days on market, price changes, and square footage to identify market trends and comparable sales.

2. Observation

A visual inspection of the property helps appraisers evaluate its condition and compare it to similar homes within the same neighborhood.

It’s important to remember that a home’s market value isn’t set in stone. Ultimately, true market value is the price a willing buyer agrees to pay—and a willing seller agrees to accept—for a given property.

Thursday, December 25, 2025

Happy Holidays!

However you celebrate the season, may it be filled with joy, laughter, and moments of peace with the people who matter most. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year ahead!

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Home Ownership Builds Wealth

Homeownership is one of the most effective ways to build lasting wealth and secure your financial future. Unlike renting, owning a home turns your payments into an asset you can leverage. Whether it’s funding future goals, passing down wealth to your family, or simply achieving financial stability, homeownership is a powerful step toward a brighter financial future. Let us help you get there!

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Call Us If You Want A Real Estate Agent Who Sleighs

This season is a great time to get clear on your home goals and what’s next for you. ❄️🏡 Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we're here to make the process smooth and stress-free. With the right plan and guidance, you can move forward with confidence. Ready to take the next step? Send us a message and let’s get started!

Monday, December 22, 2025

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For December 22, 2025!

Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes For Sale With Docks - Your Neighborhood Report For December 22, 2025!

Sunday, December 21, 2025

How to Avoid Property Tax Shock

Your lender should warn you that the amount you have in escrow for property taxes will go up when you receive your first assessment as the new owner within the following year. You’re paying the previous homeowner’s assessed rate, prorated to when you purchased the home to the end of the year.

Chances are you paid much more than the previous owner for the home, so your assessment will be higher, based on current market value at that time—which you helped establish with the price you paid for the home.

Your annual assessments should reflect market value at the time, but if you think it’s too high, you can protest your home’s valuation:

1. Check your assessment for incorrect data and exemptions you may qualify for, such as those regarding homesteads, seniors, veterans, workforce personnel, and disabilities.

2. Ask your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network professional for a comparative market analysis.

3. File an appeal using your evidence.

To avoid getting property tax shock in the future, be proactive. Increase your housing budget for next year.

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