E-Power Team Sells Forsyth, Lake Lanier, Alpharetta, Dawsonville Property for sale

Remembering my Nan who passed away on 9/11/2001

2008-09-11T14:20:47Z

7 years ago today whilst the world around us was witnessing the horrific events of 9/11 my dear Nan passed on.

She was a wonderful woman and totally devoted to her children and family. She was widowed at 28, having lost my Grandfather in WW11, she raised 4 children my Mum being the youngest at only 1 year of age.

My Nan was amazing, she was a sweet and fun loving lady. She provided for her children, making sure they never went without food and love. What a difference in my Nan's generation, they were unselfish and looked out for their neighbor. A close knit community of people who were united through war and hardship.

They lived on the outskirts of London, my Mum remembers the bomb shelter in the back garden. When the bombers flew over dumping bombs over Epsom Downs.

She was one tough lady and I will never forget 9/11 not just for the terror attacks and the tremendous loss of life through heroic acts of the first responders, but also as the terribly sad day my wonderful Nan left us.

I was trying to book a flight to return to England for my Nan's funeral, because of all flights being grounded for the next week in the USA I was unable to attend.

Every year I remember those who were tragically lost and the families that are still greiving, and my dear sweet Nan.

The photo below is of my Nan and my Grandfather on their Wedding day, he was in the British Navy.

We love you Nan.

From across the Pond.....Can we tempt you?

2008-08-13T15:20:04Z

I am starting to hear more and more about foreign investors buying up real estate in the good ole USA. Recent articles in the Wall Street Journal and CNN Money are extolling the virtues of marketing to foreign investors. Just yesterday on my local news, (Atlanta), they talked about the great incentives for the foreign buyer. Low cost of housing, strong foreign exchange rates and amazing deals to be had. Purchasing property in the USA makes for a sound investment.

Now property in the UK has started to nosedive, it is in my humble opinion that

the US market will turn around a lot faster than the overseas markets. Property in the UK is stunningly expensive and unlikely to rebound any time soon.

We have some gorgeous properties for sale and to think what that would cost in the south of England where it would be at least 5 times as much as here.

If you are interested in reading a couple of articles on the subject here are the links posted on my facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1216201427&hiq=alison%2Cscott&refurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fs.php%3Fq%3Dalison%2Bscott%26init%3Dq

Also here is the link to the article from the Wall Street Journal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121200120766526797.html

We are going to start syndicating our listings overseas and see what the tide rolls in!!

How about the Seller making the offer first?

2008-08-04T16:13:01Z

I read an article recently about a couple of different approaches to getting listings sold. The first I thought was pretty innovative and am interested to know if you or anyone you know have tried any of these or other ideas.

Instead of the the traditional way of waiting for a buyer to present an offer, you have the seller initiate an offer to the buyer, I guess to get the ball rolling, I would think this approach could work if the buyers really like the house and are on the fence or maybe just need a little nudge.

The other is to offer financing incentives where the seller offers up front to buy down the loan say a percentage point thus saving the buyer a lot of money over the life of the loan. This one may not be that new but is still a good idea and I think worth a try.

Please share any ideas and thoughts on the subject, it will be much appreciated by all our sellers.

27 years ago in London town.....Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles wed

2008-08-01T12:25:18Z

This week was the 27th anniversary of the wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, it made me reflect on one of the best days of my life and one of the worst.

On July 28th 1981 I moved into my first flat in Holland Park in London, it was the eve of the wedding of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles. Diana was to be the first English woman to marry an heir to England's throne in some 300+ years.

I was only 21 and in total awe of Diana, she was sweet and we loved her. My cousin, who was my roommate, a visiting friend from Canada and I decided than rather spend the first night in our new flat, to go and join the masses and sleep in St. James Park outside of Buckingham Palace. We did not want to miss a thing and also we wanted to join in all the fun.

The atmostphere was incredible, I have never experienced anything like it. Over 600,000 loyal, happy people joined together to witness a historical event. Now us Brits can get quite emotional about this kind of thing, and the good spirits and love of thy fellow man was incredible that day.

We spread our blanket on the ground and tried amidst all the excitement to get a little sleep. Until that is, a kindly Copper gently asked us if we could move along cos, her Majesty, as he put it, does not want to wake up and see a load of Yobs laying around all over the lawn!! Just kidding I think.

Around daybreak we started to stir and jockey for the best viewpoint amongst the crowd. We lugged a bloody great park bench near the railing opposite Clarence House, where Diana was spending the night. We were rewarded with being one of the first to see her emerge in her glass coach accompanied by her Father, Lord Spencer. What a tremendous thing this was to see. Then the rest of the wedding party proceeded by on their route to St. Paul's Cathedral. We listened avidly to the loud speaker system they had piping the Royal couple saying their vows in front of the world, and the crowds just kept on cheering.

We were standing amongst thousands of people when the royal couple came out on the balcony for that famous "Royal Kiss" and the crowd went beserk. To this day I have never experienced anything so amazing as thousands of people together full of good will and cheer, obviously the London pubs contributed a little but it is a memory I will cherish.

Unfortunately the fairy tail was shattered and in contrast on one of the worst days of my life, was waking from a deep sleep to the sound of a friend sobbing and telling me of Diana's death.

Sometimes it takes a momentous celebration or a terribly sad event to bring strangers together.

Do you do Freddie Mac BPO's, & Where have they gone?

2008-08-01T09:24:51Z

For the past several years I have consistantly done bpo's for Freddie Mac and other REO companies. On average about 12-15 a week for Freddie Mac. It paid for the groceries and has been the only steady stream of income in this slow market.

About 2 weeks ago the assignments from Freddie Mac have totally dried up. Is anyone else out there experiencing the same drop off in orders from Freddie Mac and other BPO companies?

My only assumption is that due to the mortgage crisis and the extension on the time frame for foreclosures that this is causing the slow-down in BPO work.

I have contacted Freddie Mac but am unable to get any kind of response from them as most of the contacts are temporary workers and I get the feeling most don't have a clue as to what is going on.

So I am sure that there are many other agents out there on AR that do the same kind of work and am interested in your comments and thoughts on the future of BPO orders. Is this just a temporary slow down?

Featured Suwanee Georgia Neighborhood "Three Bridges" has lots of Custom Homes for sale

2008-07-29T14:27:57Z

Three Bridges, Suwanee Georgia

From the Low $300's

I toured the new neighborhood in Suwanee "Three Bridges". This Swim-Tennis gated neighborhood is located on Lawrenceville Suwanee Road very close to Peachtree Industrial Blvd in Suwanee.

This is a very pretty neighborhood with a nostalgic element in the designs of the homes. There is easy access for Atlanta commuters as it is only a few miles from I85. The Mall of Georgia is about 6 miles away and if you are into Lake activities you are but a few minutes from Lake Lanier parks and boat ramps.

The homes offer custom design with an old town feel. Attractive front elevations and lots of brick and stone work on the exterior, very pretty landscaped courtyards on the rear and the use of smaller side windows gives you a feeling of privacy.

The kitchens feature granite counter tops and tiled back splash, hardwood floors and stainless appliances. Each of the homes I toured seemed to have some unique feature and creative additions to the home to make it special, such as built in book shelves, double sided fireplaces and unique landscaping.

Most homes are 2 story with a 2 car rear entry garage. Some with master suites on the main floor and some with 3 levels. There is a variety of floor-plans to choose from.

Prices range from $319,000 - $439,000.

The neighborhood offers an attractive amenities package with tree lined sidewalks, Large junior olympic pool and 2 lit tennis courts. The annual association fees are a little higher than some at $1860, but this includes your lawn care.

For more information and additional photographs on this neighborhood or any others in the Suwanee area please contact the E-Power Team at 770-337-4819

http://www.E-PowerTeam.com

Brrrrr....It's the 2008 British Open, Ever think about moving to a warmer climate?

2008-07-19T12:29:39Z

This week I have been watching the 2008 British Open at Royal Birkdale, Lancashire. The crowds and players are huddled under umbrellas and wearing sweaters and rainwear and It's July!! Winds are gusting up to 40 miles per hour and here I sit in Atlanta where the average temperature is 90 degrees.

Kids are playing in the fountain outside the Mall of Georgia where it is 90+ this week.

Meanwhile on the beach in the UK

Now I grew up in England and never do I remember a summer like this, England in the summertime was beautiful, the sounds of willow striking the ball (Cricket) and lazy summer afternoons in the glorious sunshine...What is happening? My cousin who lives in southern Ireland lamented this week of how they have had no summer at all and my Father who lives in England tells me the same thing. Well I have one idea....how about buying up some of the excess property for sale over here in the good ole Hot USA?

Whilst values in Europe plummet, does it not make sense for foreign investors to buy property in the USA? Not only do we have incredible deals going but we have a great climate in the south. You can buy a "Flat" in Atlanta for under 50,000 pounds, or if Florida is more appealing to you there are no end of properties available for great prices. You can even get in a full round of golf without catching your death of cold!!

I am getting ready to start advertising my properties on a new European syndication site, Vista Tour is launching a new product which will heavily advertise our properties overseas, in multiple languages and exposure on the top European search engines. If you have a POINT2 site it will automatically import the data from your listings and put it into the Vista Tour portal.

Networking with overseas agents is also a great way to reach potential foreign buyers. The Internet has opened up the world to us real estate people and no longer are we just relying on domestic buyers.

If you want to check on the latest scores and leader board for the British Open here is the link

http://www.opengolf.com/ChampionshipGolf/TheOpenChampionship.aspx

The begining of the Nigerian scam Part 1, There is an oil Tanker waiting for you in the harbour!!

2008-07-09T15:14:47Z

A couple of months ago I wrote a blog about how frustrated and sick I am with the scam artists that bombard our email accounts and other sites with their attempts to extort money from us. About 16 years ago my family were victims of a massive scam involving Nigeria, it was an amazing story and long before the internet was the main form of communication, so there was no way to "Google" it. It did eventually hit the front page of the UK papers but I asked my Mother to write an account of what happened in her own words about her incredible experience so without further ado......My Mum, Mrs. Jacqueline Rata.

Nigerian Experience. Heathrow to Lagos and back (twice) Part 1.

It all started with a word from a friend in passing.....He'd had a chat with someone called Bubba from Nigeria!! The investment of a few thousand dollars and we could have a tanker full of oil when the government changed hands, what an opportunity this was, how could we pass it up?!!

.....After a lot of discussion and chats with friends and family, we decided to test the waters by flying to Lagos from Heathrow. .......We had a terrible flight on Nigerian Airways, but were consoled by the thought of going to visit Africa for the first time.

On our arrival, we were greeted by numerous military personnel with placards bearing our names, all very impressive. Then we were escorted to a plush hotel in a limousine and were treated like royalty for the next two weeks, wined and dined daily, showered with gifts and generally made a fuss of.

The next day my husband went to a government office with armed military personnel and all the appropriate fanfare, to meet the Nigerian Oil Minister. My husband returned and everything seemed so bizarre. It had to be true!! After all, the military were there and heavily armed. It was a Junta country then, under military rule.

That evening we met some more officials and were taken to dinner...We felt totally pampered. For the remaining time, we were escorted to beauty spots and bought gifts from beach traders.. We were bought some Palm Wine fresh from tapping this huge palm tree..It was fantastic...We fell in love with Africa. The final day arrived and Bubba turned up to escort us to the airport in a limousine. We were ushered through each check point with no fuss and all our gifts ( a nest of tables, wall plaques,statues ,leather goods and a chieftains walking stick) went through straight into the hold of the plane without even being checked in and the flight seemed almost bearable.

We returned to GB with an agreement that it would go ahead......... (at this point I must add we were thinking it went too smoothly to be true!!) I would also like to add, at this stage they still hadn't got a penny out of us, only a few gifts they'd asked for from GB. We discussed it heavily with friends and family, and again everyone agreed there was no way this could be a scam!!

So there was lots to do and things to plan......stay tuned for the 2nd part of my Mother's story

I have been tagged to write a MeMe by Alan Langstone, so here goes...

2008-07-08T11:50:03Z

I have been tagged to write a MeMe by Alan Langstone, so here goes...

1. Who's your favorite musical artist?

I can't give a simple answer to that question because I love music, in fact there is very little I don't like. I guess my favorites would be in the Rock category Led Zeppelin, Queen, Dire Straits, Supertramp, UB40, Greenday. I love classical Mozart and Vivaldi, Crooners like Frank Sinatra, Elvis, and Ella Fitzgerald. Mostly I love anything with a good beat and great lyrics.

2. Who is your favorite artist?

Christopher Lewis, photographer, sculpter and graphic designer. He is a very talented individual and I am immensely proud of his work as he is my brother, I have some beautiful carvings he has done of Birds of Prey.

3. Who is your favorite blogger? Anyone with something interesting to say.

4. If you could meet anyone (alive or dead), who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them? Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders, I love their brilliant sense of humor and comedy writing.

5. What did you want to be when you grew up? I'll let you know when I get there. Actually according to my Mum, I wanted to be a, wait for it.....Nun. Now I know all that know me are picking themselves up off the floor, but I thought how cool it would be to be able to fly or to sing in Austrian Alps!!

6. What is the most interesting piece of trivia you know? Now this is a tough one, I don't think of anything I know as being trivial!! Just kidding. Okay I've got one, It was the English that first invented sealing wine bottles, they imported the cork from Spain and Portugal and specifically it was from the "Cork Oak". The First patented "Corkscrew" was as follows. Patent No 2061 granted to Samuel Henshall, Princes Street, Parish of Christchurch, Middlesex, on August 24, 1795 The French did not patent their first corkscrew until 1828. Bet you did not know that!!!

7. If you could live in any point of history, what would it be and why?

During the roaring twenties, I loved the clothes, the music and the cars.

8. What is the most interesting job you have ever held? I was a BlueCoat in the UK. Now I know most Americans have not a clue what a BlueCoat is, no it is not a kind of Redcoat, although we do have those as well, it is a holiday entertainer!! I worked in a holiday camp and entertained the guests, we put on shows, called bingo and ballroom danced with the campers!! Held Knobbley Knees and Talent contests, Donkey Derby's and all sorts of other wild and crazy fun things. We danced the Virginia Reel and hosted Wrestling matches (believe it or not they were fixed). I was only 17 and loved it, but that was a life time ago.

Now, as keeping with what I believe is tradition and in the words of Sonja would say...TAG.......YOU'RE IT! I have selected some else obvious targets to be MeMe!

Jodi Orlando

Chris Lewis

Vicky Jorgensen

Will the Politicians finally listen to us? Higher and Higher Fuel prices are not helping the housing market

2008-06-27T10:21:03Z

A year ago my husband and I bought a house in a rural area just outside of Dahlonega Georgia, now while I love the country, the driving and rapid rising gasoline costs started to really get to us. All of a sudden we were spending as much money on fuel as we were our mortgage. A trip to the grocery store was costly and as for visiting family and friends in Atlanta it was an expensive day trip. We felt we were flushing money down the toilet so something had to give....

The housing market has definitely suffered a great deal in the more rural areas, and I believe it is due in part to the high cost of fuel.

Lets hope that they finally start to drill our own resources and free ourselves from the control of foreign oil supplies. I think if we don't do something soon to send a clear message to our "Friends" overseas, prices will continue to rise and goodness knows what we should expect. It is beyond me that a resource rich country like the United States should be dependent on any foreign source for oil. I also think it is about time to let the powers that be..ie. Washington, what the voters want, so many of our politicians pander to special interest groups and seem to ignore what the people are saying. Heck, the sad thing is we put them there!! Okay I will get off my soap box I have said my bit.

On a positive note we have now rented a home 35 miles closer in to Atlanta, and are putting the country home on the market!! We are back in the hub of things. Only a few minutes from everything we can spend more time working and less money on gas and on the road, who knows we may even be able to afford a country vacation in a few months!!

Breaking Ground on the the Gwinnett Braves new Stadium

2008-06-23T14:35:42Z

Today I visited the new Gwinnett Braves stadium in Lawrenceville to check on the progress of the new venue.

Currently they are grading the property and I took a photo of the site. Located just a couple of miles from the "Mall of Georgia" on highway 20 in Lawrenceville. The location is wonderful with easy access and only 1 mile from I85. It will be interesting to watch this 10,000 capacity stadium take shape over the next few months. I will visit the site regularly to watch and record the progress. I must say it is incredible to think that in such a short space of time they will be able to complete this complex.

New AAA Gwinnett Braves Stadium to open in April 2009

2008-06-22T09:05:33Z

I can't remember when I have seen my husband so excited about Baseball. For years he watched the Atlanta Braves play, as a teen he worked as an usher at the Atlanta stadium. Then a few years ago the Braves went on strike and he has never really watched them like he used to since. Now he is really excited about the new stadium they are building in Gwinnett County which will be home to the former team, the "Richmond Braves", a AAA minor league team that are part of the Atlanta Braves. The projected opening for the stadium and newly named "Gwinnett Braves" is the opening of the 2009 season in April. The stadium will have seating for 10,000 and also be a venue for other events. The current projected cost is around 45 million.

You can visit the Braves Website to put down a $100 deposit for season tickets at www.gwinnettbraves.com

It is ideally located on Hwy 20 and accessible from I85 and I985. We are fortunate to live about 2.5 miles from the new stadium and look forward to going to the games. I will take some photo's and post them up on my blog from time to time to show the latest progression of the stadium, so watch this space!!

Equestrian Property in Alpharetta, Open House June 22nd From 2pm - 5pm

2008-06-20T12:25:29Z

The E-Power Team are holding an "Open House" at our listing in Alpharetta Georgia. 335 Old Jones Road from 2pm - 5pm on Sunday June 22nd, 2008.

This beautiful Equestrian home on 2 acres of fenced property is a treat to view. With a Full finished Terrace level and beautiful appointments throughout the home it shows like a model.

$425,000

Directions: 575N, exit 11;Rt on Sixes Rd, Rt on Hwy 5, Lt on E. Cherokee, Rt Lower Union Hill, Rt on Old Jones Rd. (or)140 N, Rt on Sugar Pike, Rt on Lower Union Hill, Rt on Old Jones Rd.

To view a virtual tour and more information on this home for sale visit 335oldjonesroad.e-powerteam.com

Another Hot summer in Georgia? How to improve curb appeal with container gardening

2008-06-06T10:25:21Z

You have probably heard time and time again about the importance of "curb appeal". As listing agents we cannot stress enough the importance of keeping your yard neat and trimmed, and as pretty and appealing as possible.

We are only in June and it has not rained for quite a while, and we have record high temperatures and we are not yet officially in Summertime. So you are probably thinking why bother, I can't water my yard anyway. But hold on a minute, there are things you can do to improve your curb appeal and add some colour to your yard. Consider container gardening, it requires a lot less water, you can even save water in the house to use on your plants, stick a bucket in your shower, or a watering can!! Lots of large containers with a selection of pretty flowers can really look lovely nestled in the flowerbeds.

Choose larger containers that won't dry out too quickly

For sunny spots choose flowers that are more heat and drought tolerant, such as Begonias and Vinca, Dragon Begonias look wonderful in a planter and get huge. Geraniums have vibrant colors and are easy to take care of. Mix them up and add ornimental grasses for a different texture.

For those shady areas and on decks and patios, palms and ferns can look magnificent in the right planter, Coleus adds different texture when mixed with flowers such as Impations, and verigated Ivy looks very attractive also.

Make sure you mulch the top of the container to hold in water, and use a soil that holds moisture better, Miracle Grow sells such a potting soil.

Don't forget to weed those beds or get your landscaper to spray them, Keep the bushes trimmed and neat and fresh mulch or pine straw in the beds.

For more information talk to your landscaper or if you need a recommendation just let us know.

Careful, don't get scammed with movers, make sure Yours is Certified

2008-06-05T16:59:42Z

Yesterday I was listening to the "Clark Howard" show, on my car radio when he talked about the scams being pulled by so called professional moving companies. The story he told amazed and shocked me as I had never heard about this particular scam before, so I figured it was important enough to write a blog about it warning consumers and anyone thinking of hiring a moving company.

Apparantly there are moving companies that operate a "Hostage Scam" from the initial meeting when they quote your move to the pick up and packing of your home they appear to be like any normal moving company, then the horror begins, they call you and let you know that it was a lot more than they originally quoted and to get your furniture and "photo's of the Kids", you need to pay oh say $50,000 to see your belongings again. I was amazed to hear this kind of scam has been going on for years.

Firstly look for a certified moving company
Try to get 3 estimates
Absolutely make sure you get a "Binding" estimate (that way they can't later claim further payment is due)
Buy your own Insurance, making sure you have replacement value coverage, existing insurance only covers you up to 60 cents per pound in weight of the item.
check out Moving.org to check on certified moving companies

Let us know about any scams you have heard about regarding movers, it costs a heck of a lot of money to move and the stress involved is already enough to cope with without getting ripped off as well!!

In Memory of Our Dear Friend Brad Anglin

2008-06-04T17:51:03Z

A week ago we lost our dear friend Brad Anglin. Brad was just 48 yrs old and was to all who knew him a dear man and friend.

Always fun loving and gentle, he loved life and gave so much to all the people who had the good fortune to get to know him. He was my husband's best friend for over 30 years and his passing has saddened us both tremendously.

Brad always appeared fighting fit and a gentle giant, he was struck by a brain aneurism that shocked us all.

We send our prayers and thoughts to his parents, brothers and sisters, wife Judy, and her children.

At his memorial service there must have been at least 150 people, If only he could have been there to see how many people held him in such high regard. He always had time for people, took care of his elderly clients and friends.

We will miss him more than words can say and loved him dearly.

Here is a photo of Brad with a couple of his dogs, he adopted them from the local humain society and as it says in his obituary, they were his best friends.

Wonderful Traditional Resale in Parkstone, Cumming Georgia, $350,000

2008-06-03T11:53:39Z

We have just listed this beautiful property, Wow, this home shows like a model, tastefully decorated with a finished Terrace level. Gorgeous hardwood floors on the main level and granite countertops in the kitchen, soaring 2 story family room and foyer. Formal Dining Room with Trey ceiling, Formal Dining Room. Family room has a rock fireplace.

The professionally finished Terrace level has a kitchenette with Granite countertops, fridge and built in microwave, and Full Bathroom and Bedroom. The large games room/or media room has recessed lighting and is wired for surround sound. It is approximately 4000 square feet with 6 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms. It has 4 bedrooms upstairs (with two bathrooms upstairs) one on the main level (with a full bath) and one on the terrace level with a full bath.

The terrace level also includes a media room, completely pre-wired for the media components, and comes complete with a media closet to hold the media components out of sight. In addition, the terrace level includes a kitchen area and large living/family area. The main level of the home is an open floor plan and includes a study, formal dining, family room with two story ceiling and beautiful fireplace and a gourmet kitchen with cherry cabinets and granite countertops. All appliances are black/stainless steel. Wood floors are in the entryway, living, kitchen, and formal dining, providing a very warm and elegant look to the entire downstairs living area. The study and downstairs bedroom are carpeted. The second floor is totally carpeted, with the exception of the bathrooms and laundry room, which are tiled with ceramic tile.

This home has tons of room and is in a wonderful Swim and Tennis community, the amenities include walking trails, 4 lit tennis courts and childrens play area, junior sized olympic pool and cabana.

For more information on this property and to view the virtual tour go to http://www.6050bridgefairrd/e-powerteam.com

New Listing in Alpharetta, Exquisite Equestrian Property View Virtual Tour!!

2008-05-31T18:49:05Z

Absolutely gorgeous property located in Alpharetta. 2 acres of fenced property, fenced pasture/paddock and Builders own Custom Built Home. $425,000

Wrap around Front Porch
Custom Finished Terrace Level with Bedroom and Full Bath
4 Bedrooms 4 Full Baths, and Powder Room on Main Level
Custom Trim
Gourmet Kitchen with Upgraded Stainless Appliances and double electric oven/with 6 ring gas hob
Tiled Floors in all Bathrooms and Laundry Room
Formal Dining Room
Hardwood floors on main level
Furniture style cabinets in bathrooms
Master suite bath features a "Claw Footed Tub" and separate shower
Huge rear deck overlooks Pasture, childrens play area, and landscaped bach yard
Whole property is fenced
Beautiful Family Room with Coffered Ceiling and custom interior
Upgraded Trim in Every Room
Bead board trim in bedrooms and bathrooms
Rock Fireplace in Family Room with Gas Starter

This home has it all!!

To view a virtual tour of this property please click on the link below

http://client.imprev.net/16952/175745 335 Old Jones Road, Alpharetta Georgia

Appealing to a World Wide Audience

2008-05-30T19:15:02Z

Gone are the days of wading through a MLS listing book, in today's market we are reaching out to millions.

The internet is proving to be the greatest tool for our industry. Compared to printed advertising, you get so much more for your money. I have spent fortunes on local "Real Estate Guide" advertising and in recent years seen little or nothing for it. Where as with Internet exposure we are seeing results.

We are trying all and everything to get our listings in front of Buyers. From Websites, High quality virtual tours and photography, to Blogging like mad and syndication, we are exposing our properties to an international market. I have posted properties on overseas sites, and soon will be trying a new syndication tool that reaches the European markets. This is a company called Vista Zoo and I am told will be launching their product in the next month. I will post a further blog when the product is released.

There are many new tools we have not even heard of yet, today I created a neat little "Flash" presentation and am interested to hear what you think, any innovative applications you can share would be most appreciated.

Please click on the link below to view our web commercial.

http://client.imprev.net/16952/175708/175708.swf

Buyers, Don't kick 'em' when they're down!!!

2008-05-20T16:23:34Z

Boy oh boy, I know that the market is on a downturn at the moment but so many buyers are totally unrealistic. The offers I have seen this year are even embarrasing to the agents representing the buyer, coming in $40,000-$100,000 below on a already reduced listing is really ridiculous. It is a waste of time in most cases and downright bloody greedy. I can't stand it when people are as we say "Bottom Feeding". These sellers are human beings who have to get on with their lives. They are already reducing homes sometimes well below what they paid for it, and eventually these people have to try to buy a new home.

Now I understand getting a good deal for the client is what we are about, but the level of greed is amazing. So please be happy with a great deal and stop looking for a "killing". Cos we are on the other side looking out for their interests, and it sure would be nice to have both sides feeling satisfied at the closing table.

Foreign Investors buying homes in Atlanta, how do we reach them?

2008-05-20T09:44:22Z

As I am originally from Europe I travel back and forth a fair amount to see my family. 23 years ago when I first came to the United States the dollar was at parity with the British Pound, today the dollar is half it's value. with housing values falling in most of Europe it makes sense for investors to buy against a weak dollar. I am trying to figure out the best way to get our message out there and the best places to advertise our listings to reach an international audience.

New Ranch Foreclosure in Alpharetta will be listed soon

2008-05-20T09:36:17Z

Wonderful opportunity to buy in Alpharetta. This 1 story ranch home is approximately 1630 square feet.

3 bedroom and 2 baths. I think this house will list for around 200 but it sold back in "07" for 216K. This home needs very little work, has hardwood floors throughout and is in good condition.

Built in 1993 this home has a lot to offer, current listings range from $189,900 to $252,900. The property taxes are $2833 for 2007.

Covered Rear deck with ceiling fan

Family room with fireplace and beautiful hardwood floors

Kitchen has all the appliances and overlooks family room.

This home should be on the market within the month, for immediate notification of list price please contact me by phone or text at 770-337-4819, or email me at alison.scott@powersoldit.com

Make sure you hang out with Positive People!!!!

2008-05-19T20:00:40Z

It must be terribly difficult for anyone that recently started their career in Real Estate. To start off in a down market must make it very tough to keep your spirits up and not wonder "have I done the right thing? We make a huge investment in time and money and try like mad to stay optimistic.

I have been an agent for 10 years. and even in a strong market there were the inevitable complainers. They would turn up occasionally at the office and moan about how tough business was, no matter what they did they could not get sales. Thankfully there were role models that could inspire you to keep on trying, helpful agents that were willing to mentor new agents, and took a great pride in their work. These are the people that kept you going, gave you advice and made you stick in there.

No matter how long we have been doing this, being around positive people spurs you on. It pushes you to stay the distance. Keep on going to the meetings and classes, you usually find those participating are the people that will inspire you.

On a final note, thanks to AR I am learning a lot of new stuff, wonderful ideas, people sharing information that is both inspirational and informative, and the best of all, a connection with "Positive People".

Open House today in Chesatee, 1-4pm Come and meet us and have a slice of cake!

2008-05-17T08:10:58Z

We are holding an open house today in Chestatee, Located on GA 400 in Dawson County. This custom built home includes a 1 year Membership to Chestatee Golf club and is a magnificent home. Ready for you to choose your carpet, and move in!!

We would love to meet you and answer any questions you may have about this home and the area in general.

Directions: Take GA 400 North go past the North Georgia Premium Outlets Mall, Chestatee is about 4-5 miles on the right. Take a left on Dogwood Way.

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Open House in Norcross, Sunday May 18th. 161 Chastain Manor, $299,900

2008-05-15T06:51:58Z

We will be holding an Open House Sunday May 18th, 2008, at our listing in Chastain Manor, Norcross. This 2 story Brick Traditional 4 Bedroom 21/2 Bath on full basement in is a great deal at only $299,900. Only 9 years old this home is in great condition.

The ground floor has beautiful finished hardwood floors, trey ceiling in the Family Room.

Huge Dining Room with beautiful trim seats 12 and Formal Living Room

Kitchen has lots of counter space and a breakfast bar and breakfast area, built in pantry and Hardwood floors.

Directions: Peachtree Industrial North to right on Reps Miller, right on North Peachtree St., right into S/D house on left

We hope you can make it, but should you wish to set up a private viewing of this home please call us at

770-337-4819 or 678-614-2238

Alison Scott and Vicky Jorgensen