Lake Sidney Lanier Homes Blog

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!

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.

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!

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, 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.

Saturday, December 20, 2025

Holiday Front Porch Decor

The front porch is your home’s first hello, especially during the holiday season. ✨ A few thoughtful touches can make it feel welcoming, festive, and full of personality. Whether you love classic charm or a more modern look, small details can go a long way in creating curb appeal. It’s all about making guests (and neighbors!) smile before they even step inside.

Friday, December 19, 2025

Want The Inside Track On Homes?

Staying informed can make all the difference when you’re navigating the housing market. 🏡 From new listings to neighborhood insights, having the right info at the right time helps you move with confidence. If you’re keeping an eye on what’s happening locally, you’re already one step ahead. We're always here to share insight and help you feel prepared when the moment is right.

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