Atlanta Real Estate Update

The weather is getting warmer and so is the Metro Atlanta real estate market. Pendings are up and closings are up. Below is the summary for Metro Atlanta with data through June 2017.

• Year-to-date pended sales through June were up 20% versus last year. Year-to-date closings were up 4% versus last year and down up 3.4% from last June.
• The average sales price for June was $309,000 - up 2% from last month and up 6.1% from last year. 2017 is on track to be the highest average sales price on record.
• The listed inventory for June was up 5.6% from last month and down 5.4% from last June. But the limited availability of desirable properties is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales in select areas.
• Overall months of supply for June was 2.9 months. Six months is considered normal. Luxury properties are taking longer with homes above $1 million averaging 13.3 months and properties over $2 million averaging 25.4 months to close. These numbers indicate a seller’s market under $500,000 and a buyer’s market over $1 million.
• The latest Case-Shiller Index for Atlanta (6/27/17) was up 1.42% compared to the previous month. Metro Atlanta home values are up 65% from the bottom of March 2012.  Increased homes values are building equity and getting sellers back into the market.
• Visit HomeServices Lending at Georgia.HomeServicesLending.com for the latest mortgage rates. Ask about our Close On Time Guarantee and Free Second Opinion programs. Over 77% of clients who tried the Second Opinion Program found a better solution and ended up closing their loan with HomeServices Lending.

Click here for a more detailed set of charts including the National Real Estate Market, Metro Atlanta Real Estate Market and Trends for Georgia Real Estate.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 770-844-8484 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Update – November 2016

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out the specific details for your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

 

The Metro Atlanta real estate market remain active going into the holiday season. Here is the summary for Metro Atlanta real estate through October 2016. Click here for more detailed slides.

• Closings for October 2016 were down 14.4% from last month and up 2% from last October. Year-to-date 2016 closings were up 9.2% compared to YTD 2015.
• The average sales price for October was $270,000 - down 1% from last month and up 5.4% from last year. The ASP is on track to beat the record levels posted back in 2006.
• The listed inventory for October was up 1.9% from last month and down 3.4% from last year. But the limited availability of desirable properties is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales in select areas.
• Overall months of supply for October was 4.1 months. Six months is considered normal. Luxury properties are taking longer with homes above $1 million averaging 17 months and properties over $2 million jumping to an average of 55 months to close.
• The latest Case-Shiller Index (10/25/16) was up .23% from the previous month. Metro Atlanta home values are up 60% from the recent bottom of March 2012 and up 6% from the average index last year. Increased homes values are building positive equity and getting some sellers back into the market.
• Visit HomeServices Lending at Georgia.HomeServicesLending.com for the latest mortgage rates. Recent events have driven mortgage rates back down to historically low levels. This creates a great opportunity to buy before rates move back up! Ask about our new On Time Closing Guarantee program!
• New Homes are moving fast – but many builders cannot build them fast enough for the demand. Visit www.newhomesdivisionga.com to view new home communities.
• Commercial real estate is also making a comeback in Metro Atlanta. Our Commercial Real Estate Division specializes in these areas and would be happy to help you.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Real Estate Advisor For Metro Atlanta – October 2016! Let's Check The Highlights!

Highlights from the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Real Estate Advisor For Metro Atlanta – October 2016.

The Metro Atlanta real estate market is still hot as we move into the fall. Here is the summary for Metro Atlanta real estate through September 2016. Click here for more detailed slides.

• Closings for September 2016 were down 18.3% from last month and down .3% from last August. Year-to-date 2016 closings were up 8.7% compared to YTD 2015.
• The average sales price for September was $274,000 - down 4% from last month and up 4.9% from last year. The ASP is on track to beat the record levels posted back in 2006.
• The listed inventory for September was up .4% from last month and down 4.1% from last year. But the limited availability of desirable properties is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales in select areas.
• Overall months of supply for September was 3.9 months. Six months is considered normal. Luxury properties are taking longer with homes above $1 million averaging 18.1 months and properties over $2 million averaging 33.2 months to close.
• The latest Case-Shiller Index (9/27/16) was up .39% from the previous month. Metro Atlanta home values are up 60% from the recent bottom of March 2012 and up 7.21% from the average index last year. Increased homes values are building positive equity and getting some sellers back into the market.
• Visit HomeServices Lending at http://Georgia.HomeServicesLending.com for the latest mortgage rates. Recent events have driven mortgage rates back down to historically low levels. This creates a great opportunity to buy before rates move back up! Ask about our new On Time Closing Guarantee program!
• New Homes are moving fast – but many builders cannot build them fast enough for the demand. Visit http://www.NewHomesServicesGA.com to view new home communities.
• Commercial real estate is also making a comeback in Metro Atlanta. Our Commercial Real Estate Division specializes in these areas and would be happy to help you.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

The Latest Real Estate Market Trends For Metro Atlanta! Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Real Estate Advisor – January 2016!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Georgia Properties
Real Estate Advisor – January 2016

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out the specific details for your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!




The strong potential for rising mortgage rates is motivating many consumers to take action now. Therefore, we expect early 2016 to be more active than normal.

Closings for 2015 were up 12.5% versus 2014. The December closings were up 3% compared to last month and down 12.8% compared to last year.

The average sales price for 2015 was $266,000 compared to $249,000 in 2014. The December average sales price was $272,000 which was up 2.6% from last month and up 6.7% from last year.

Listed inventory was up 3% in 2015 versus 2014. The inventory for December was down 8.2% from last month and down 3.5% from last year. Inventory is up 52% from the recent low mark of February 2013. But the limited availability of desirable properties is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales in select areas.

Overall months of supply for 2015 was 4.2 months versus 4.5 months in 2014. The December months of supply was 4.6 which was down from 5.2 months in November and up from 4.2 months last December. Six months is considered normal. 

Luxury properties are taking longer with homes above $1 million averaging 19 months and properties over $2 million averaging 36 months.

The latest Case-Shiller Index (12/29/15) reports that Metro Atlanta home values are up 53% from the recent bottom of March 2012. Increasing homes values are getting some sellers back into the market but also decreasing affordability for other buyers.

Visit HomeServices Lending at http://georgia.homeserviceslending.com for the latest mortgage rates. The Mortgage Bankers Association predict rates over 5% in 12 months.

New Homes are moving fast – but many builders cannot build them fast enough for the demand. Visit http://www.NewHomesServicesGA.com to view new home communities.

Commercial real estate is also making a comeback in Metro Atlanta. Our Commercial Real Estate Division specializes in these areas and would be happy to help you.



Realtor.com predicts that Metro Atlanta will be the Number 5 Hottest Real Estate Market in 2016. Chief Economist, Jonathan Smoke predicts a 7.4% increase in existing home sales. Realtor.com also noted that surging demand can be attributed to growing household formation, a prosperous job market, and low unemployment rates as well as large populations of key demographics. Older Millennials (25 to 34 years old), younger Gen Xers (35 to 44 years old), and retirees (65 to 74 years old) will be driving home sales in 2016.

SmartNumbers reports that Baby Boomers continue to be the largest segment for new construction buyers in Metro Atlanta. First Time Buyers are #2 but lower than historical trends. The average age of a First Time Buyer is now late 20s/ early 30s. Rental rates have skyrocketed which makes home ownership very attractive. Gen Xers are the next largest segment driven by the normal trends of household formation with growing families and move-ups. The rising costs of new home construction and scarcity of larger land tracts are driving builders to move out further into the suburbs for new projects. Tear-downs, renovations and smaller new home projects are still popular in the interior markets.



Our mobile app now offers “search by school district” for all metro area public schools. This search option is also available on our websites. To search by school district, simply click the “search icon” and enter the name of your school in the search bar. Select any other attributes and click “search homes” to see the available properties in that school district. Our mobile app offers many advantages including search by DriveTime, Sold Properties from the MLS and more. Our app is fully integrated to our website so you can use any device, anytime and anywhere.



Interested in the latest home values? Check out our exclusive home value estimate tool that provides three value estimates from sources including Zillow, Local Public Records and RPR (Realtors® Property Resource). We also provide a new option to make your own value adjustments on any property. You can also print, save, share and get a reminder for the latest updates. This is the most comprehensive solution for home value estimates available. If you are interested in listing your property, we have additional information sources and local insight to help determine the most accurate value of your property.



We want to wish you a Happy 2016. We hope it is your best year ever!

We would be honored to assist you or someone you know with their real estate needs. We are experts in the local market and have access to proprietary information sources that are not available to the public. Better information leads to better decisions!


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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

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• The Latest Real Estate Market Update For Cumming Georgia And Other Lake Lanier Areas! (lakesidneylanierhomes.blogspot.com)
• Get Your Instant Lake Lanier Home Value Estimate Here! Plus, More Valuation Resources Coming Soon! (lakesidneylanierhomes.blogspot.com)

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Advisor - July 2015! We Check The Stats!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Georgia Properties
Real Estate Advisor – July 2015

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out the specific details for your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know.Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

Summer is here. The real estate market is hot and sales activity is high. Click here for the full Greater Metro Atlanta Real Estate Report. Here is a summary:

• Closings for June were up 4.9% compared to last month and up 12.3% compared to last year.
• The average sales price jumped to $288,000 in June versus $281,000 in May. The average sales price for year-to-date 2015 is $263,000 which is up 49% from the bottom of 2011.
• Listed inventory was up 5.3% from last month and flat compared to last year. Inventory is up 42% from the recent bottom of February 2013. But the limited availability of highly desirable properties in select markets is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales in those areas. Remember, real estate is local and markets can be very different.
• Months of supply remained very low at 3.5 months for both May and June. Six months is considered normal. Luxury properties are taking longer to sell with homes above $1 million showing 10 months of supply and properties over $2 million showing 21 months of supply.
• The latest Case-Shiller Index (6/30/15) reports that Metro Atlanta home values are up 47% from the recent bottom of March 2012. Increasing homes values are getting some sellers back into the market but also decreasing affordability for other buyers.
• Mortgage rates remain very attractive but are expected to move higher soon. Click here for the latest rates.
• New Homes are moving fast – but many builders cannot build them fast enough. Visitwww.NewHomesServicesGA.com to view new home communities.
• Commercial real estate is also making a comeback in Metro Atlanta. Our Commercial Real Estate Division specializes in these types of projects and would be happy to help you.

MEGA Open House Event!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties is pleased to announce our next MEGA Open House event on Sunday, July 19th from 2-5pm. There will be hundreds of beautiful properties on display. With low inventory and mortgage rates expected to rise, the market is very active this summer. Visit one of our open houses and register for a chance to win a brand new iPad Air2. Contact us to learn more.

SOLD PROPERTIES Now Available!

New MLS rules now allow us to show SOLD PROPERTIES on our websites without requiring registration. Now you can easily view SOLD PROPERTIES on your desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. This also applies to our Mobile App. Our search tools offer the best data and most comprehensive options. Here are some examples of searches you can perform:

• See Instant Home Value Estimates
• Search By Google Map
• Search By Neighborhood (using Advanced Search Options)
• Search By School District (using Advanced Search Options)
• Search By Drive Time and Walk Score (Mobile App)

We would be honored to assist you or someone you know with their real estate needs. We are experts in the local market and have access to proprietary information sources that are not available to the public. Better information leads to better decisions!

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Advisor – December 2014

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out the specific details for your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!



Closings for Metro Atlanta in November were down 24% compared to last month and down 9.5% compared to the previous year. This reflects the normal seasonal slowing for the fall plus some impact from world events and the November elections.

The Metro Atlanta market is 359 units ahead of 2013 closings which is essentially flat. If you exclude the heavy volumes of investors buying properties under $200,000 last year, the market above $200,000 is actually up 2,916 units or 13.6% compared to 2013.

The average sales price was $249,000 in November versus $245,000 in October. The average sale price for YTD 2014 was $250,000 which was up 42% from the bottom of 2011.

Listed inventory was down 6.1% from last month and up 14.9% compared to last year. Inventory is up 48% from the recent bottom of February 2013. But the limited availability of highly desirable properties in select markets is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales. Remember, real estate is local and specific markets can be very different.

Months of supply is 5.9 months versus 4.7 last month. Six months is considered normal.

New Homes are making a comeback. The problem is that many builders cannot build them fast enough! Visit www.NewHomesServicesGA.com to view new home communities.

Commercial real estate is also making a comeback in Metro Atlanta. Smart RE Data reports that land sales, industrial sales and office leases are improving. Our Commercial Real Estate Division specializes in these areas and would be happy to help you. Contact us for details.

Instant Home Value Estimates



Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties offers an innovative new solution that allows consumers to enter an address to“click and see” local home value estimates. The estimates are free and do not require registration. In one month, we had over 125,000 new consumers enter their home address to get an estimate. Our website traffic and listing views are up considerably. This is one of the unique ways we are providing more relevant local content to attract more potential buyers for our listings.

Contact Us For Additional Market Details Including Our Exclusive Report Used By Lenders To Value Homes For Mortgages.

The Best Mobile App For Real Estate!

Many consumers will be getting new mobile devices this holiday season. This is a great time to update your device with the latest version of our BHHS Georgia Properties Mobile App. Our Mobile App provides all the listings from our 8 local MLS services. We have the fastest updates, the most filtering options plus Sold Properties and the ability to Search Properties by Drives Times. Contact us to learn more about these amazing mobile search tools.



We want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Holiday Season!

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

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• Typical Seasonal Slowing Of Lake Lanier Home Sales This November, But Lake Home Prices Looking Higher! (lakesidneylanierhomes.blogspot.com)

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Advisor October 2014! See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate Market Trends!

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out exactly what is happening in your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

• Closings for Metro Atlanta in August were down 16.9% compared to last month and down 2.5% compared to the previous year.  This reflects the normal seasonal slowing for the fall.
  Click here for a detailed report.
• The Metro Atlanta market is 50 units ahead of 2013 closings.  If you exclude the heavy volumes of investors buying properties under $100,000 last year, the market above $100,000 is actually up 3084 units compared to 2013.  The largest segment is $200k - $500k.
• The average sales price was $253,000 in September versus $256,000 in August.  The average closed sale price for the full year was $250,000 which was up 42% from the bottom of 2011.
• Listed inventory was down .3% from last month and up 18.2% compared to last year.  Inventory is up 50% from the recent bottom of February 2013.  But the limited availability of highly desirable properties in select markets is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales. Remember, real estate is local and markets are different.
• Months of supply is 5.2 months versus 4.4 last month.  Six months is considered normal.
• New Homes are making a comeback.  The problem is that many builders cannot build them fast enough!  At the peak of 2006, we were building over 60,000 new homes per year.  Today, we are on pace to build around 18,000 new homes in 2014 and we expect to get to the 20,000 unit run rate by 2015.  Click here to view new home communities.

Introducing Local Home Value Estimates

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties is introducing a new feature that allows consumers to enter an address to “click and see” local home value estimates.  The estimates are free and do not require registration.  The company is also introducing a new market trends report calledMarket Watch (based on MLS data) and a new Interactive AVM (Automated Valuation Model)report which is the same report used by lenders to estimate home values for mortgages.

"It is clear that consumers want to see home value estimates and we are pleased to be the first brokerage in Metro Atlanta to provide these innovative new solutions," said Dan Forsman, president & CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties.  "Real estate is local.  We have the advantage of proprietary MLS data, exclusive analytics tools and unique insight from our 1200 local experts.  These powerful new tools will bring significant advantages that benefit our clients and our agents.  And we are just getting started!  Look for more exciting announcements very soon."

Home values estimates have become popular on national real estate websites like Zillow.com, Trulia.com and Realtor.com.  The accuracy of these estimates is very mixed as the data is primarily based on tax records.  The home value estimates provided by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties are powered by Collateral Analytics which has been rated as one of the most accurate sources by the lending industry.  The report shows a value estimate, value range plus other data from tax records such as last sale price and date, comparable properties and local market trends.

View Market Trends Including The Latest MLS Data

The Market Watch report includes local MLS data for a more accurate perspective of local market trends.  If a property was sold yesterday, it would be reflected in this report as opposed to reports based on tax records which may take weeks or months to update.  To view a Market Watch report, consumers can register for a free My Home Finder account.  Only member brokerages and their registered clients can get access to local MLS data.

Get Report Used By Lenders To Qualify Mortgages

The new Interactive AVM (Automated Valuation Model) report is the same report used by lenders to estimate home values for mortgage loans.  The I-AVM allows the agent to adjust comps and other factors for a more accurate value estimate.  This powerful tool can combine MLS data, tax records and the unique insight from the local agent.  The I-AVM is only available from your local Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties agent.

Just visit our website or contact us to learn how to take advantage of these new innovations that provide better information about real estate.  Better information leads to better decisions!

If you or someone you know are considering moving, contact us to learn about our Advanced Property Marketing System – the most effective approach to selling your home for the highest value.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Related articles

• Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Advisor - September 2014 (lakesidneylanierhomes.blogspot.com)
• Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Introduces Local Home Value Estimates for Consumers (rismedia.com)

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Metro Atlanta Real Estate Advisor - September 2014

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Georgia Properties
Real Estate Advisor - September 2014


We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. Remember that real estate is local and every market is different. Contact us to find out exactly what is happening in your local area. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

Closings for Metro Atlanta in August were down 16.1% compared to last month and down 8.6% compared to the previous year.

The Metro Atlanta market is currently running 1% behind 2013 in closed transactions.

The average sales price was $260,000 in August versus $271,000 in July. The average closed sale price for the year was $250,000 which was up 42% from the bottom of 2011.

Listed inventory was up .5% from last month and up 21.3% compared to last year. Inventory is up 52% from the recent bottom of February 2013. But the limited availability of highly desirable properties in select markets is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales. Other areas have more normal conditions. Remember, real estate is local and markets are different.

The overall “months of supply” is 4.7 months versus 4 last month. Six months is considered normal.

The largest buying segment for Metro Atlanta is Baby Boomers/ Gen X. Thousands of these homeowners are moving to smarter living environments with less maintenance. Others are moving toward homes that accommodate their health and lifestyles as they move into their senior years. First Time Buyers have slowed due to increasing prices, student loan debt and challenges with employment.

New Homes are making a comeback. SmartNumbers reports that new homes are up 16%. The problem is that many builders cannot build them fast enough! Labor shortages are one of the most significant inhibitors.

At the peak of 2006, we were building over 60,000 new homes per year. Today, we are on pace to build around 18,000 new homes in 2014 and we expect to get to the 20,000 unit run rate by 2015.

New home prices are rising with strong demand and limited inventory. Presales are once again becoming the majority of sales. In this environment, you want to make sure you are protected with strong representation to help set up the right expectations and agreements with the builder. Contact us to learn more about best practices for buying new homes. Click here to view new home communities.

Metro Atlanta Ranked #3 Most Popular Destination

Atlanta was the No. 3 most popular destination for U.S. families moving to a new city in summer 2014, according to a new survey by United Van Lines. The city was particularly popular for people moving for new jobs, or due to corporate transfers. The survey also shows Atlanta was the No. 3 city families are moving from. The Summer Long-Distance Moving Trends Study says the most popular metro areas for U.S. families were:

Top Metro Areas To Move To:

1. Chicago

2. Washington D.C.

3. Atlanta

4. Boston

5. Los Angeles

6. Dallas

7. Phoenix

8. New York

9. Minneapolis

10. San Diego

Top Metro Areas To Move From:

1. Washington, D.C.

2. Dallas

3. Atlanta

4. Houston

5. Phoenix

6. Chicago

7. Seattle

8. Los Angeles

9. Denver

10. San Jose, California

If you or someone you know are considering moving, contact us to learn about our Advanced Property Marketing System – the most effective approach to selling your home for the highest value.


Georgia Rated The Best Place For Business

Georgia is the best place in the country for doing business, according to Area Development Magazine’s fifth annual survey of site consultants. Georgia unseats Texas to take the title.

1.GEORGIA
2.TEXAS
3.SOUTH CAROLINA
4.ALABAMA
5.TENNESSEE
6.LOUISIANA
7.INDIANA
8.NORTH CAROLINA
9.OHIO
10.MISSISSIPPI

It’s difficult to beat Texas on any list of economic development power states these days, but Georgia did exactly that in the Area Development survey of site consultants, nudging Texas down into the No. 2 spot after it finished No. 1 a year ago. Georgia’s accomplishment was especially impressive because of the breadth of its strong performances over most of the 18 categories voted on by the consultants, including top-three finishes in 12 of them.

The Area Development honor follows other recent recognition of Georgia’s rise in the ranks, which included its choice by a CNBC study as the No. 1 place for business in America. Such rankings “are a testament to the commitment from Georgia businesses, communities, economic development partners, and the people of Georgia,” Gov. Nathan Deal said in a statement, indicating his confidence that “more businesses will consider expanding or relocating here.”

Contact us to learn how our award-winning Corporate Relocation team and our Exclusive Referral Networks are positioned to attract more corporate buyers for our listings.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Honored – Again!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties was recognized as one of the 2014 Atlanta's Best Places To Work at an exclusive event hosted by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. The company was the only large real estate brokerage to receive this prestigious honor.

BHHS Georgia Properties received a Consumer’s Choice Award for residential real estate based on feedback from local consumers.

BHHS Georgia Properties has been consistently ranked the No. 1 real estate company by Trendgraphix, RealValuator and SmartNumbers for 5 years in a row.

President & CEO, Dan Forsman was named the 2014 Most Admired CEO in Residential Real Estate by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices was named “2014 Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” in the 26th annual Harris Poll EquiTrend® study of consumers across the nation.

Our New Homes Services team was the winner of over a dozen OBIE Awards for new homes marketing & sales.

Our Marketing Team was recognized with a National Print Industry Award for our beautiful property marketing materials.

Our award-winning Corporate Relocation team continues to receive numerous honors as the leading organization handling relocating corporate employees moving to and from Metro Atlanta.

We are honored to receive such recognition and work hard every day to deliver exceptional service and value to our clients.

If You Know Someone Who Can Benefit From This Information Or Our Real Estate Expertise, We Would Love To Help Them.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at www.LakeSidneyLanierHomes.com or 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Atlanta Real Estate Advisor - July 2014

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market.  Remember that real estate is local and every market is different.  Contact us to find out exactly what is happening in your local area.  If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know.   Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

• Click here for a detailed market report for the Greater Metro Atlanta area.  BHHS Georgia Properties was Number 1 in both homes sold and buyers represented.  We have been ranked #1 for 5 years in a row!

• Closings for Metro Atlanta in June were up 7.8% compared to last month and down 3.8% compared to the previous year.
• The Metro Atlanta market is currently running 2.02% behind 2013 in closed transactions and 9.6% ahead in sales volume.
• It seems surprising to most that the market is down in units sales compared to last year.  But there is more to that story…

• Last year, we had a significant number of closings from large investors buying single family properties to put into their rental programs.  This year those large investors have slowed their purchases considerably.
• Equity Depot recently announced that “notices of default” for foreclosures had shrunk to a 12 year low in Metro Atlanta.
• The combination of fewer investor deals and fewer foreclosures reflect drastically smaller numbers in the $100,000 and below segment of the market.  Remember, those were unusual patterns.  If you factor out those transactions, the market is up 8.8% versus last year in units.
• The largest buying segment for Metro Atlanta is Baby Boomers/ Gen X.  Thousands of these homeowners are moving to smarter living environments with less maintenance and others are moving toward homes that accommodate their health and lifestyles and they move into their senior years.  First Time Buyers have slowed due to increasing prices, student loan debt and challenges with employment.

• Listed inventory was up 6% from last month and up 25.8% compared to last year.  Inventory is up 48% from the recent bottom on February 2013.  But the limited availability of highly desirable properties in select markets is still driving multiple offers and very quick sales.  Other areas have more normal conditions.  Remember, real estate is local and markets are different.
     

• The overall “months of supply” is 4.3 months versus 4.2 last month.  Six months is considered a normal market.
• But you can see that the numbers are very different depending on the price point and area.  Contact us to learn more about your specific area.

 

• New Homes are making a slow but sure comeback.  The problem is that many builders cannot build them fast enough!  Labor shortages are one of the most significant inhibitors.
• At the peak of 2006, we were building over 60,000 new homes per year.  Then the numbers dropped to 5,000 during the recession.  Today, we are on pace to build around 18,000 new homes in 2014 and we expect to get to the 20,000 unit run rate by 2015.
• New home prices are rising with strong demand and limited inventory.  Presales are once again becoming the majority of sales.  In this environment, you want to make sure you are protected with strong representation to help set up the right expectations and agreements with the builder.  Contact us to learn more about best practices for buying new homes.
• There are some wonderful new home communities coming online with the latest innovations in smart building that may be great options for buyers.  Click here to view new home communities.

• The Case-Shiller Index reports that Metro Atlanta home values have increased 40% from the bottom of March 2012.  But values remain down 15% from the peak of July 2007.   Click here for the latest report.
• As the chart shows, our home values are back on a more normal trend line after over-inflating and then over-correcting.  These are common market cycles that work themselves back to a normal trend over time.
• The long-term trend for mortgage rates is higher.  The Mortgage Bankers Association and Freddie Mac predict 30-year mortgage rates to be over 5% in late 2014 and 2015.  We still have exceptional mortgage rates.  The average mortgage rates in the last 50 years was 8%.  Act now before rates move higher!

This is an excellent opportunity to make your move while prices remain below replacement costs and financing costs are historically low.  Contact us to get started.

Introducing DriveTime For Mobile!

We are pleased to introduce our new Drive Time and Walk Time services for our Mobile App.  This is the first of its kind for Metro Atlanta.  It is available immediately for iPad and will be available soon for Android tablets, Smartphones and all our websites. Contact us to learn more!

If You Know Someone Who Can Benefit From This Information Or Our Real Estate Expertise, We Would Love To Help Them.

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 a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties Real Estate Advisor For Metro Atlanta - April 2014

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Georgia Properties
Real Estate Advisor - April 2014

We are providing this monthly real estate advisor report to keep you informed about the latest trends and issues in the real estate market. If you know someone else who might be interested in receiving this report or who may benefit from our expertise, please let us know. Better information helps our clients make better real estate decisions!

• Click here for a detailed market report for the Greater Metro Atlanta area.
• Once again, BHHS Georgia Properties was Number 1 in both homes sold and buyers represented for February 2014. We have been ranked #1 for 5 years in a row.
• Closings for Metro Atlanta in February were down 15% compared to last month and down 25% compared to the previous year.
• For the Greater Metro Atlanta area, listed inventory was down 1.9% from January 2014 and up 16% compared to February 2014 levels. The limited availability of quality properties has turned some local areas into a seller’s market.
• The available “months of supply” rose to 6.6 months which is similar to January 2014. The slower pace of sales and slightly higher inventory are creating a more normal market condition.
• The pace of short sales and foreclosures coming on the market has slowed considerably. In 2010, over 60% of sales were distressed properties but in February we only saw 134 foreclosures and 209 bank-owned sales. Resales and New Homes are the larger mix of sales.
• New Homes are making a slow but sure comeback. There are some wonderful new home communities coming online with the latest innovations in smart building that may be great options for buyers. Click here to view new home communities.
• The Case-Shiller Index reports that Metro Atlanta home values have increased 37% from the bottom of March 2012. But values remain down 16.94% from the peak of July 2007. Click here for the latest report.
• The trend for mortgage rates is higher. The Mortgage Bankers Association and Freddie Mac predict 30-year mortgage rates to be over 5% in 2014. This could significantly reduce buying power for those that wait.
• Baby Boomers are the leading buyer segment followed by First Time Buyers. Move-Up Buyers are showing some signs of improved activity but remain well below historical levels.

This is an unprecedented opportunity to buy the home of your dreams while prices and financing are historically low. But these conditions will not last as the real estate market continues to recover.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Ranked Brand Of The Year

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, the new real estate brokerage network operated by HSF Affiliates LLC, today announced it was named “Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” in the 26th annual Harris Poll EquiTrend® study. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices received the highest ranking in the Real Estate Agency category based on consumers’ perception of its brand familiarity, quality and purchasing consideration, among other qualifying elements. The study was based on opinions of more than 40,000 U.S. consumers surveyed online earlier this year.

“We are delighted to be recognized by consumers in the venerable Harris Poll EquiTrend ® study,” said Earl Lee, CEO of HSF Affiliates LLC, which operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “This terrific honor by consumers is a tribute to our powerful brand – whose namesake is the world - renowned Berkshire Hathaway Inc. – and the top-quality affiliates and agents who represent it.” Added Stephen Phillips, president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices: “We are humbled by the honor, particularly since our brand was not even a year old at the time of the study. We look forward to a bright future as part of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices.”

The brand received the highest numerical Equity Score among large real estate brands included in the 2014 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study, which measures and compares the brand health of more than 1,500 brands across 170 categories from airlines and apparel to retailers and real estate. Consumers responded with their brand perceptions, gauging their emotional connection to the brand, plus brand awareness, influence and familiarity. According to Harris, a brand is defined as a set of persuasive promises about a product, service or organization that differentiates it from others in a universally positive, contextually relevant or personally compelling way. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, which transitioned its first affiliates in September 2013, has grown exponentially with independently owned brokerages operating across America. The network is built on a foundation of quality with rigorous standards for affiliation. 

Contact Us To Put The Power Of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices To Work For You!

Happy Good Friday and Happy Easter 2014!

Easter is a wonderful sign that spring is here. It is celebrated by people of many faiths. From Easter egg hunts, visits from the Easter Bunny and Easter brunches with great food – this is a popular time of year. It is also noted as the beginning of the social season in many circles.

For Christians, Easter is a religious feast and holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day at Calvary as described in the New Testament. Easter is preceded by Lent, a forty-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance. The last week of Lent is called Holy Week, and it contains MaundyThursday and the Last Supper, as well as Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus. Easter is followed by a fifty-day period called Eastertide or the Easter Season, ending with Pentecost Sunday.

We hope you and your family have a wonderful Easter. We are so happy that spring is finally here!

If You Know Someone Who Can Benefit From This Information Or Our Real Estate Expertise, We Would Love To Help Them.

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 over a decade of Lake Lanier real estate experience. If you would like to schedule a free buyer or seller consultation, please feel free to contact us directly at 678-513-2014 or email us at Arthur.Prescott@BHHSGeorgia.com.

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