Atlanta Home Search Blog

Decatur Condominiums - THE ARTISAN in Downtown Decatur

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:37:59 -0600

Condos and townhomes for sale in Decatur GA - Downtown Decatur homes for sale

In the heart of Downtown Decatur, on the corner of Ponce de Leon and Commerce Drive, this upscale condominium home has one of the largest floorplans in the building and includes a BONUS room (perfect for a 3rd bedroom or home office), as well as hardwoods, an open floor plan, light-filled rooms, and storage galore.

The spacious master suite is large enough for a king-sized bed and features a spacious master bath with double vanity, garden tub and separate shower, and a French door that opens to the patio overlooking the courtyard (a great spot for your morning coffee!).

A gourmet kitchen opens to the living room and includes stainless appliances, breakfast bar and granite countertops. It's the perfect setting for entertaining friends and family.

The Artisan itself is absolutely gorgeous and offers residents secured parking, 24-hour concierge services, billiard room (overlooking Downtown Decatur), a rooftop pool, spacious club house, guest parking and of course, a location that just can't be beat - restaurants, shops, MARTA and the Decatur Square are at your doorstep.

This home is priced to sell quickly at $319,900. If you would like to schedule an appointment to view this exquisite condominium, please call Kerry Lucasse at 404.432.1844.

>>> Get additional information and view photos <<<

>>> View ALL of the condominiums for sale at The Artisan <<<

Proudly presented by:

Kerry Lucasse :: Decatur Real Estate :: Keller Williams Realty :: 404.432.1844

Virginia Highland Real Estate - See what's new on the market

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:46:44 -0600

Homes for Sale in Virginia Highlands - VAHI Real Estate

Virginia Highland is one of Intown Atlanta's most popular neighborhoods for young professionals and families.. and I can personally attest that it's a great place to live!

First and foremost, the location can't be beat - it offers easy access to the interstate and is just a few miles from Downtown Atlanta, Downtown Decatur, and Buckhead. The "VAHI" neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and night life. Virginia Highland is surrounded by several other popular Atlanta neighborhoods, including Druid Hills, Midtown Atlanta, Morningside / Lenox Park and the Emory University neighborhoods.

To follow are a the latest and greatest homes for sale in the neighborhood...

548 PARK DRIVE, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$998,500 Single Family Residential 5 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms	Listing # 3981302
Photo Tour (13) \|

964 ADAIR AVENUE, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$899,000 Single Family Residential 5 Bedrooms 3 Full \| 1 Partial Bathrooms	Listing # 3983603
Photo Tour (16) \|

826 SAINT CHARLES AVENUE, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$847,000 Single Family Residential 5 Bedrooms 3 Full \| 1 Partial Bathrooms	Listing # 3984431
Photo Tour (16) \|

784 FREDERICA ST, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$599,900 Single Family Residential 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms	Listing # 3986411
Photo Tour (12) \|

687 PARK DRIVE, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$549,000 Single Family Residential 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms	Listing # 3981522
Virtual Tour \| Photo Tour (16) \|

1323 CHALMETTE DRIVE, ATLANTA, GA 30306

	$499,900 Single Family Residential 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms	Listing # 3980505
Photo Tour (16) \|

TO VIEW ALL THE VIRGINIA HIGHLAND HOMES FOR SALE, VISIT: www.VAHI.com

FOR ALL THE VIRGINIA HIGHLAND CONDOS, LOFTS AND TOWNHOMES, CLICK HERE.

Questions about the neighborhood? I lived in VAHI for almost 10 years and know it like the back of my hand. Call anytime at 404.432.1844

KERRY LUCASSE :: KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY :: KerryLucasse@KW.com

Please note that the listings above are not all Keller Williams or Kerry Lucasse listings and we do not intend to promote the homes or guaratee the accuracy of the information contained in the property description. If you would like the contact information for the listing broker, please don't hesitate to email or call.

Kirkwood Atlanta Open Houses - More than 30 homes open on November 15th

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:09:01 -0600

Kirkwood Atlanta Real Estate - Homes for Sale in Kirkwood

This Sunday, November 15th, more than a dozen real estate agents teamed together to hold a KIRKWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN HOUSE!

More than 30 homes will be open from 2 - 5 pm for your viewing pleasure. This is a fantastic opportunity to start your house hunting.

We will be offering great food, coupons and gift cards to local merchants... and of course, some gorgeous Bungalows, townhomes, and ranch-style homes.

OPEN HOUSES in KIRKWOOD

Sunday from 2 -5 pm

__________________________________________

162 Campbell -- 3B/2b, $234,900 -- Earl Burdette, Avenue Realty

93 Clifton -- 3B/1b, $225,000 -- Kirsten Hobday, Keller Williams

2005 College Ave (open 2-4) -- 3B/1b, $210,000 -- Vicki & LaJan, Bo Bridgeport Brokers

1984 Dunwoody Street -- 4B/3.5b, $489,900 -- Kirsten Hobday, Keller Williams

2099 Dunwoody (open 2-4) -- 4B/2b, $347,000 -- Lisa Iakovides, Atlanta Intown

93 East Lake Terrace SE -- 4B/2.5b, $350,000 -- Kirsten Hobday, Keller Williams

204 Elvan Ave -- 3B/2.5b, $400,000 -- John Rippe, Keller Williams

217 Elvan Ave -- 4B/3b, $479,900 -- Davis Ray, Chapman Hall Realtors

190 Hawthorn Circle -- 3B/2.5b, $429,900 -- Kathy O'Brien

1699 Hosea Williams -- 3B/2.5 b, $389,900 -- Margot Berry , Solid Source Realty

2113 Hosea Williams, (open 2-4) -- 3B/2b, $279,900 -- Chrystal Clifton, Buckhead Home Realty

2130 Hosea Williams -- 4B/3b, $299,900 -- Gina Dickerson, ReMax Platinum

2206 Hosea Williams -- 2B/2b, $244,900 -- Kerry Lucasse, Keller Williams Peacthree Road

23 Kirkwood Road -- 3B/2b, $389,900 -- Michael Lewis, Atlanta Intown

2122 Lanes Lane -- 3B/3.5 b, $339,900 -- Mark Haley, Larry Manning Realty

233 Norwood Ave. (open 2-4) -- 3B/2b, $369,000 -- Mike Richardson, Harry Norman

2033 Ridgedale -- 4B/2.5b, $384,900 -- Patrick Peyer, Coldwell Banker

2117 Ridgedale -- 3B/2b, $329,900 -- Kirsten Hobday, Keller Williams

2285 Ridgedale -- 2B/1b, $235,000 -- Patter Byrne & Meghan Riley Parham, Keller Williams

2020 Robson Place -- 5B/3.5b, $429,00 -- Kirsten Hobday, Keller Williams

153 Rockyford -- 3B/1b, $189,900 -- Jeff Sowell, Chapman Hall Realtors

154 Rockyford -- 3B/2b, $219,900 -- Stacy Collier, Harry Norman Realtors

168 Rockyford Road -- 4B/3b, $299,900 -- Derek Scheidt, Coldwell Banker

295 Rockyford Road -- 3B/2.5b, $379,000

309 Sisson Ave (open 2-4) -- 2B/1b -- Vicki & LaJan, Bo Bridgeport Brokers

55 Warren St. -- 2B/2b, $219,900 -- Mary Anne Walser, Keller Williams Premier Atlanta

2112 Wisteria Way -- 4B/3b, $474,900

SEE YOU ON SUNDAY!

Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate and Historic Homes and Bungalows

(404) 432.1844

View ALL the homes for sale in Kirkwood at:

Equal Housing Opportunity. Information is believed to be accurate but not warranted.

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension - 2010

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:57:43 -0600

Atlanta Home Search - Georgia Real Estate

B R E A K I N G N E W S ! ! !

Moments ago, the House voted 403-12 to expand and extend the Homebuyer Tax Credit (as part of the Unemployment Insurance Bill). The bill is now on its way to President Obama for his signature... so this is ALMOST a done deal!

The agreement on the extension and expansion of the credit is as follows:

Credit available for purchases before May 1, 2010. Prospective purchasers with binding contracts in place as of April 30, 2010 will be allowed an additional 60 days to complete the transaction.
Credit remains at $8,000 for first-time purchasers. No change to definition of first-time purchaser.
NEW $6,500 tax credit for REPEAT BUYERS who purchase between December 1, 2009 and May 1, 2010. Repeat buyers must have lived in their homes consecutively for 5 of the previous 8 years.
Income limits are expanded to $125,000 on a single return and $225,000 on a joint return. Current law $20,000 phase-out retained.

*New anti-fraud limitations will be imposed. Stay tuned for more details.

>>> SEE ARTICLE ON CNN.com

If you, your friends, neighbors, co-workers or family are looking to buy a home soon, please let us know how we can help before the April 30 deadline.

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

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Posted by: Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate, Condos, Lofts and Historic Homes

CALL ANYTIME AT 404.432.1844

You're too late - Kerry Lucasse & the Atlanta Home Search team did it again!

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:59:05 -0500

Atlanta Real Estate - Atlanta Home Search

With the end of the first-time home buyer credit coming to an end, property virgins are scooping up some fantastic deals on Intown Atlanta homes. Many of the homes I've listed in the last 2 - 3 months sell in the FIRST WEEK! To follow are just a few from the last month...

Charming newer home in East Atlanta's Gates at Bouldercrest neighborhood... we received multiple offers!

Renovated cottage in the East Lake / East Atlanta area. We had an offer from a first-time home buyer within 4 hours of listing this home!

Updated bi-level home about a mile from the East Atlanta Village. We received THREE offers on this home in the first week.

When we list a home, we market, stage and price the home correctly to ensure that it SELLS quickly! If you are considering buying or selling, give Kerry Lucasse and the Atlanta Home Search team a call at 404.432.1844. We are down-right passionate about Atlanta real estate and would be honored to assist you.

See Kerry's client feedback at:

Cabbagetown Atlanta - Chomp & Stomp 2009

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:11:40 -0500

Top Atlanta Intown Neighborhoods - Cabbagetown Homes for Sale

It's that time again! Get ready for a good ol' fashioned chili cook-off in one of Atlanta most unique neighborhoods. The "Chomp & Stomp" in Cabbagetown brings in quite a crowd each year and is a fantastic way to spend a "chilly" Saturday afternoon.

This will be Cabbagetown's 6th Annual Chili Cook-off & Bluegrass Festival and there is definitely a little something for everyone:

5K Run (AM)
Live Bluegrass Music all day
Artists Market
And of course, lots and lots of CHILI!

The festival will be in the Cabbagetown Park on November 7th from 10 am to 6pm. It gets pretty crowded later in the day, so be sure to get there EARLY if you want to sample all the chili!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: http://www.chompandstomp.com/

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

THINKING OF MOVING TO THIS UNIQUE INTOWN ATLANTA NEIGHBORHOOD?

>>> View ALL of the homes for sale in CABBAGETOWN

GREAT BUYS in CABBAGETOWN:

633 GASKILL ST SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$324,900
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

Virtual Tour Photo Tour (12)
Listing # 3932636

244 ESTORIA ST SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$289,000
3 Bedrooms
3 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms

Virtual Tour Photo Tour (6)
Listing # 3876477

266 BEREAN AVENUE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$279,900
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

Photo Tour (16)
Listing # 3948540

172 BEREAN AVENUE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$279,900
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

Photo Tour (6)
Listing # 3955536

795 KIRKWOOD AVE SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$274,990
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

Photo Tour (5)
Listing # 3978273

211 ESTORIA STREET, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$249,500
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathrooms

Virtual Tour Photo Tour (12)
Listing # 3890162

226 BEREAN AVE SE, ATLANTA, GA 30316

$218,000
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathrooms

Virtual Tour Photo Tour (12)
Listing # 3914391

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Posted by: Kerry Lucasse with Keller Williams Realty. Kerry is an Intown Atlanta real estate agent, specializing in East Atlanta, Grant Park, Cabbagetown and the surrounding ITP neighborhoods. If you have questions about the area or if you are considering selling your home, please call (404)432.1844.

Metro Atlanta Suburb of the Week: Stone Mountain, GA

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:41:00 -0500

Stone Mountain Homes - Affordable homes in Metro Atlanta

If you are thinking of buying a home in Atlanta but are not sure where you can get affordable housing that is still within 30 minutes of Downtown Atlanta, you've come to the right place! This week, we are highlighting one of the popular Atlanta suburbs, Stone Mountain Georgia.

Stone Mountain is located about 16 miles east of Atlanta GA, Stone Mountain is in DeKalb County and is a great place to live if you need to commute to Downtown Atlanta, Decatur or anywhere along the eastern side of the I-285 Interstate).

The epicenter of this Atlanta suburb is Stone Mountain itself. Stone Mountain Park is home to one of the world's largest mass of exposed granite and the largest relief carving. The park offers residents the opportunity to walk, hike, swim. boat and participate in several fantastic special events. If you're not the outdoors type, the City of Stone Mountain also offers some of the best shopping in Metro Atlanta -- it is a shoppers paradise along Highway 78!

We've highlighted this area because the home prices are so reasonable for Metro Atlanta. A family can usually find a newer 4 bed / 2.5 bath house for less than $250,000. There are also many opportunities for deals on foreclosures and short sales, so this area is a great option for first-time home buyers or savvy investors!

Houses under $199K - Houses over $200K

Search for ALL the Stone Mountain Condos, Lofts and Townhomes

View ALL the FORECLOSURES in Stone Mountain GA

For more information about the area, call us anytime at (404)432.1844.

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Posted By: Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Metro Atlanta Real Estate, including Decatur, Snellville and Stone Mountain GA

East Atlanta Homes for Sale - Deal of the Week

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:18:21 -0500

Intown Atlanta Neighborhoods - East Atlanta Homes for Sale

This East Atlanta home was just renovated and is the PEFECT opportunity for a 1st time buyer!

With 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, sparkling hardwoods, NEW systems, new energy efficient windows throughout and even a household water purifier, this home has it all!

New Kitchen just added with IKEA cabinetry, butcher block countertops and black / stainless appliances.

All appliances are included, even the one-year old washer and dryer.

At a very aggressive listing price of just $109,900 this home will sell QUICKLY!

>>> GET MORE INFORMATION & VIEW PHOTOS <<<<

View ALL the homes for sale in East Atlanta at:

www.inEASTATLANTA.com

Best Places to Work in Atlanta - Keller Williams Realty (Rawls Group) rated #2

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:19:55 -0500

JUST ANNOUNCED TODAY by the Atlanta Business Chronicle...

Keller Williams Realty Rawls Group is now #2 in the Atlanta Business Chronicle's annual BEST PLACES TO WORK in Atlanta GA. We were the ONLY real estate company recognized in the Large Business category.

Keller Williams Realty even placed ahead of popular companies like Earnst & Young, Children's Heathcare of Atlanta and Price Waterhouse Cooper, so this is a great honor!

After almost five years at Keller Williams, I understand why our brokerage received this honor today -- the agents are honest, hardworking and LOVE what they do, the education programs are the best in the business and of course, our broker and team leads, are top notch. They provide us with the latest market data, assist with business development plans / strageties and are the best cheerleaders I've ever seen! :-) Keller Williams management style promotes a positive, "can do" attitude DAILY... and even with the current market conditions, we are outpacing the competition!

If you can't tell, I am very proud of the our office and to be associated with a realty company like Keller Williams. If you are anyone you know is interested in learning more about the real estate industry or if you would like to see why our office is the #2 BEST PLACE TO WORK in ATLANTA, I would love to talk with you!

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Flooding in Georgia is delaying real estate closings -- NEW LENDER REQUIREMENTS!

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:01:25 -0500

Governor Sonny Purdue has issued a State of Emergency due to the rain and flooding in Georgia for 17 counties. This will affect any closings you may have in the next 30 - 45 days.

Due to the flooding and water damages, lenders will be requiring final inspections on properties that are closing and had been appraised prior to the declaration. Most of the lenders will require either a final home inspection or a disaster report, as they will need to confirm that they have loans that are insurable and that the properties are still a viable asset. The additional lender requirements are already delaying closings across the city, regardless of the lender.

If you are an agent in Georgia, a seller or a buyer who has a home under contract, please be pro-active and make sure that if the lender is requiring a disaster report and/or an updated home inspection, that they are ordered immediately to prevent delays.

The counties affected include: Carroll, Catoosa, Chattoga, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Crawford, Dekalb, Douglas, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton, Paulding, Rockdale, Stephens and Walker.

If you were impacted by the flooding this week, our thoughts are with you.

Conyers Real Estate - Best Buys on FORECLOSURES in Conyers Georgia

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:00:38 -0500

Metro Atlanta Home Search - Search ALL Homes for Sale in Conyers GA

Looking for a great deal on a foreclosure home in Conyers GA? Our newest member of the ATL Home Search Team lives, works and breathes Conyers real estate, so I asked her to select some of the "Best Buys" on foreclosure homes in Conyers Georgia. Many are under $150,000 and could be perfect for first-time home buyers! Take a peek at the list below...

1210 WELLBROOK PLACE NE, CONYERS, GA 30012

$184,900 Single Family Residential
4 Bedrooms
3 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms Listing # 3908592

2023 JESSICA WAY, CONYERS, GA 30012
$143,500 Single Family Residential
4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms Listing # 3962334

Photo Tour (6) |

2909 STONECREST POINTE SW, CONYERS, GA 30094
$141,900 Single Family Residential
4 Bedrooms
2 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms Listing # 3934996

Photo Tour (2) |

1587 COLONIAL SOUTH DR SW, CONYERS, GA 30094
$118,000 Single Family Residential
4 Bedrooms
2 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms Listing # 3956055

Photo Tour (9) |

391 CALLAWAY LANE, CONYERS, GA 30012
$105,000 Single Family Residential
4 Bedrooms
2 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms Listing # 3940298

Photo Tour (9) |

2002 BRIAR CREEK CT NE, CONYERS, GA 30012
$78,000 Single Family Residential
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms Listing # 3956918

Photo Tour (16) |

>> View ALL the homes, condos and townhomes for sale in Conyers GA

>> View ALL the FORECLOSED homes for sale in Conyers GA

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONYERS / ROCKDALE COUNTY AREA?

Call us anytime at 404.432.1844.

Thank you for visiting our Metro Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

PLEASE NOTE: The Conyers foreclosure homes listed above are not our listings and we don't intend to promote them or guarantee their availability. If you are a buyer and would like the name of the listing agent, please let us know and we would be happy to provide that information to you. If you are a listing agent and would like to have the property removed from the blog, send us an email and it will be removed asap.

Kirkwood Atlanta Homes - Best Buys for First-time Home Buyers

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 03:02:33 -0500

Atlanta Home Search - Kirkwood Atlanta Real Estate

If you are one of the many first time home buyers out searching frantically for your dream home before the $8000 tax credit expires, you will have watch the internet closely to see what is new on the market. Usually homes under $250K in the popular Atlanta intown neighborhood, Kirkwood, sell in the first two weeks.

So for all of you fine-tuned home shoppers, I thought it would be helpful for you to see what just came on the market in Kirkwood...

#1 -- MY TOP PICK IS THE FOLLOWING 2 BED / 2 BATH BRICK BUNGALOW WITH A 2-CAR GARAGE. LISTED AT $250,000 this is one of the homes that will sell quickly! Get more info and view photos >>>

37 CLAY STREET, ATLANTA, GA 30317
$279,900 Single Family Residential
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms Listing # 3962823

Photo Tour (8) |

2141 DELANO DRIVE NE, ATLANTA, GA 30317
$250,000 Single Family Residential
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms Listing # 3961141

Photo Tour (14) |

2112 HOSEA L WILLIAMS DR, ATLANTA, GA 30317

$249,900 Single Family Residential
6 Bedrooms
3 Full | 1 Partial Bathrooms Listing # 3961976

Photo Tour (3) |

1641 HOSEA L WILLIAMS DR, ATLANTA, GA 30317
$219,900 Single Family Residential
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms Listing # 3963326

Photo Tour (12) |

304 S HOWARD ST SE, ATLANTA, GA 30317
$199,000 Single Family Residential
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms Listing # 3959622

Photo Tour (7) |

2019 EMERY PL, ATLANTA, GA 30317
$189,900 Single Family Residential
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms

PLEASE NOTE THAT MOST OF THE HOMES ARE NOT OUR LISTINGS AND IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO MARKET THE HOMES IN ANY WAY - OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE YOU WITH THE LASTEST AND GREATEST INFORMATION FROM THE FMLS (FIRST MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE). IF THIS IS YOUR LISTING AND YOU WOULD LIKE IT REMOVED, PLEASE CALL US ANYTIME.

Best,

Kerry Lucasse

Kirkwood Atlanta Real Estate Consultant :: Keller Williams Realty :: 404.432.1844

East Atlanta Homes for Sale - Just Listed Homes near the East ATL Village

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 02:16:00 -0500

Atlanta Home Search - East Atlanta Village homes

Just listed yesterday, this 3 bedroom / 3 bath "intown" home is just a short drive to the popular East Atlanta Village.

The living room with a 2-story full wall of windows is the first thing that grabs you when you enter the home. A French door leads you from the living room to a private patio overlooking wooded area.

In the light-filled kitchen, you'll find stained cabinetry, lots of counterspace, a pantry, island and black appliances. The kitchen overlooks the dining room and offers plenty of room for entertaining.

Upstairs, there are two bedrooms and two full bathrooms -- the perfect setting for roommates or a family. The spacious master suite features vaulted ceilings, built-in bookshelves and a well-equipped master bath with garden tub and separate shower.

Back on the main level, don't forget about the 3rd bedroom and 3rd full bath! It's ideal for a guest bedroom and/or a home office.

At just $150,000, this is the PERFECT opportunity for a first-time home buyer! The Gates at Bouldercrest community is a quiet, well-kept, gated neighborhood AND for a small annual HOA fee, they also take care of your lawn! It's a win-win for the busy young professional or growing family.

To schedule an appointment or for more information about this home, please visit: http://www.inEastAtlanta.com.

KERRY LUCASSE :: Intown Atlanta Real Estate Consultant :: 404.432.1844

News Flash!! FHA is squeezed for money!

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 01:28:53 -0500

Via TED CANTO, Sr. Loan Consultant (Academy Mortgage):

I found this to be very newsworthy information since many of AR members have been really focused on FHA and the First-Time Tax Credit. What a bumpy ride it's going to be. Tell me what you think! We are about to see a whole lot of lenders disappearing as a result of this. In fact, as of November 18th, FHA borrowers will no longer be able to finance their closing costs into their loans when they refinance, known as a "STREAMLINE REFINANCE" as one of the results of the current announcement. We all better wish for a recovery and fast.

The Federal Housing Administration has been hit so hard by the mortgage crisis that for the first time, the agency's cash reserves will drop below the minimum level set by Congress, FHA officials said.

The FHA guaranteed about a quarter of all U.S. home loans made this year, and the reserves are meant as a financial cushion to ensure that the agency can cover unexpected losses.

"It's very serious," FHA Commissioner David H. Stevens said in an interview. "There's nothing more serious that we're addressing right now, outside the housing crisis in general, than this issue."
...
[Stevens] said he is planning to announce Friday several measures that should help the reserves rebound quickly.
...
An independent audit due out this fall will show that the agency's reserves will drop below the 2 percent level as of Oct. 1, the start of the new fiscal year, Stevens said.
...
For one, he will propose that banks and other lenders that do business with the FHA have at least $1 million in capital they can use to repay the agency for losses if they were involved in fraud. Now, they are required only to hold $250,000. Second, he will propose that lenders also take responsibility for any losses due to fraud committed by the mortgage brokers with whom they work.
emphasis added

Here is a table of FHA lenders with a 2 year default rate of 15% or more (This consists of lenders with 100+ originations included). There are 10 lenders with "perfect" records (100% default), but they only have one or two originations each. Many of these lenders will probably go away with the new rules.

The FHA is banking on a "recovery in the housing market":

The new audit shows that even without any new measures, the reserves will rebound to the required level within two or three years largely as the result of the recovery in the housing market, Stevens said. This calculation is based on projections of future home prices, interest rates and the volume and credit quality of FHA's business.

Kirkwood Atlanta Real Estate - Brick Bungalow Just Listed for $250K

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 10:11:40 -0500

JUST LISTED in KIRKWOOD!

Fully restored brick bungalow with a 2-car garage

2206 Hosea Williams Drive | Atlanta 30317

2 BR | 2.5 BA | 2-car Garage

only $250,000

>> Get More Information<<

Proudly Presented By:

Kerry Lucasse
Keller Williams Realty
3925 Peachtree Road | Atlanta, GA 30319
404.432.1844

View ALL the homes for sale in Kirkwood at:

Equal Housing Opportunity. Information is believed to be accurate but not warranted.

Atlanta's East Lake Neighborhood has a NEW neighbor!

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:30:20 -0500

Intown Atlanta Neighborhoods - East Lake Atlanta Homes

CONGRATS to Ben & Laura! They just purchased their FIRST HOME in East Lake (near the Oakhurst Village).

Their new home is an traditional brick bungalow with gorgeous hardwoods, an open floor plan and a fully renovated kitchen. It would have sold for at least $35,000 more just a few years ago, but Ben & Laura were very savvy "first timers" and immediately knew it was the perfect home for them.

Not only do they have a gorgeous new home at an exceptional price, Laura & Ben have a low interest rate on their mortgage AND they qualify for the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit. I couldn't be happier for them!

If you are thinking of buying your first home, the clock is ticking! Please don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To qualify for the tax credit, you need to purchase your home by November 30, 2009.

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

POSTED BY: Kerry Lucasse - Keller Williams Realty - 404.432.1844

Do you "Overpromise and Underdeliver" or "Underpromise and Overdeliver" ?

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 21:10:01 -0500

Via Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Owner - RE/MAX Affiliates):

Do you "Overpromise and Underdeliver" or "Underpromise and Overdeliver" ?

This is one of my favorite mottos and practices that I practice in the real estate industry and should also be applied for anyone in the services industry. We all can learn from our mistakes but sometimes we may not even know that we are making them and as a result, a client gets disappointed. A disappointed client reduces your chances drastically for referral and residual business whereas a happy client can be a client for life !

Some simple example are as follows:

If you tell someone that you will do something, do it !

Give yourself enough time to return a call and be specific... I like to say "I will get back to you by the end of the day or a certain day" versus "I will get back to you right away" or "I will call you in an hour" when that is not realistic.

Return all emails promptly - at least within 3 or 4 hours. If you do not have a smartphone, get one !

In client communication:

For a buyer when estimating closing costs and mortgage payment, overestimate the closing cost and interest rate. That way come settlement the amount that they need will be less than what is planned as well as the mortgage payment being less than expected to. There is nothing worse when a buyer is short money and you are just looking at each other dumbfounded at settlement.

For a seller, estimate a certain amount of repairs in your estimated proceeds so that is not a shocker come home inspection time. You can remind them that you are included some concessions from repairs. If there are no repairs, super !

On your listing appointment, be conservative with what their final sales price will be and recommend a fair and realistic listing price. If the sales price is going to be $240 to $260K, do not list the property over $300K, or even worse, recommending starting there ! Sometimes we may take a listing that starts higher than we like but at least we made a firm recommendation in the beginning. Which also sets the stage for price reductions.

When working with another agent or professional:

Communicate communicate communicate ! If you know there is going to be a delay in settlement, let the agent know sooner than later. Do not wait until the day before settlement !

If there is an issue that is being worked on that is time sensitive, check in with the other agent even if you do not have a firm update to let that person know that you are on it.

The above also applies to communicating with the mortgage pro or title company.

What this does by practicing simple follow-up and consistent communication is "Under Promise and Over Deliver" ! Your clients as well as your colleagues that you work with will not be set up for disappointment and your reputation will grow as an outstanding professional in your area ! That reputation is huge in our industry as it is the cornerstone for growth and excellence.

What additional ways do you practice this ?

Please comment with your thoughts and experience. And Subscribe to Our Blog to come back for more !

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Kirkwood Atlanta Bungalows - Fully Renovated 2 bed / 2 bath Bungalow - COMING SOON!

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 15:14:25 -0500

Atlanta Home Search - Homes for Sale in Kirkwood ATL

If you've been looking for that perfect Intown Atlanta bungalow, it will officially be on the market in the next week!

With 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms AND a 2-car garage, this charming 1920s brick bungalow was fully renovated just a few years ago by a local builder. With a price tag of just $250,000, it is the perfect choice for a first-time home buyer!

On the inside...

Open floor plan
Gourmet kitchen with granite, stainless appliances, breakfast bar and French door that opens to the back deck
Formal dining room that comfortably seats 6 to 8 people
Master bedroom with cozy adjacent bathroom
Gleaming hardwoods and crown molding throughout
Light-filled living room with fireplace overlooks covered front porch

On the outside...

2-car garage (a rare find in Kirkwood!)
Fantastic curb appeal
Rocking chair front porch
Professionally landscaped in front and back
Deck in back with firepit area
Easy walk to both Kirkwood Village AND the Oakhurst Village

At $250,000, this Kirkwood bungalow is priced to sell quickly, so if you would like to schedule an appointment to view the home later next week, please call Kerry Lucasse, Keller Williams Realty, at 404.432.1844.

In the meantime, you can view ALL the homes for sale in Kirkwood...

>> Search for homes by Intown Atlanta neighborhood

+++++++++++++++++++++++

(404) 432.1844

Real Estate Market - Home Sales are UP - Highest Monthly Increase in 10 YEARS!

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 12:09:51 -0500

The National Association of REALTORS just announced that in July home sales are UP 7.2% - the largest monthly increase in at least 10 years.

Experts say this is primarily due to all of the first time home buyers rushing out to purchase their first home and take advantage of the $8000 tax credit that expires on November 30, 2009.

>> Read the article from Yahoo Finance - "July Home Sales Surge"

>> Read the article from MSNBC -"Home Sales Soar 7.2 percent"

If you are a potential first time home buyer in Atlanta and are still on the fence, please do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In addtion to the Federal Tax Credit of $8000, home values are down and the interest rates are still fantastic. Trust me, you will pat yourself on the back in a few years!

PLEASE NOTE: If you want to take advantage of the tax credit, there are only 97 days left! Typically it takes 30 to 40 days to purchase the home once you are under contract, so you really only have about 60 days to find your dream home.

Have questions about the home buying process in Atlanta or Decatur? Call the Atlanta Home Search Team anytime at 404.432.1844. About 70% of the buyers we are working with are "first-timers" and we would love to help you find your first place in Atlanta or Decatur GA.

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate, Condos, Lofts and Historic Homes

(404) 432.1844

Atlanta Farmer's Markets in "Intown ATL"

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:02:21 -0500

Welcome to In & Around Atlanta!

If you are new to Atlanta or just looking to "eat local", there are some fantastic options around the city.

I would have to say that the "best of the best" is the Dekalb Farmer's Market just outside of Downtown Decatur. With food and wine from around the globe, is it an experience just walking in the building! The Dekalb market is open 7 days a week, similar to a typical grocery store.

If you would like to eat hyper-local, the new trend in many of the Intown Atlanta neighorhoods is to host their own Farmer's Market. Here are just a few...

* Piedmont Park - every Saturday

* East Atlanta - every Thursday

* Glenwood Park (near East ATL Village and Ormewood Park) - Every other weekend

* Morningside Farmers Market - every Saturday

* East Lake - every Saturday

* Decatur Organic Market - every Wednesday, March thru November

* Peachtree Road Market (Buckhead) - every Saturday, April - December

This weekend, get out and support your local farmers and maybe meet a few new neighbors -- it's a great way to start the day!

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Neighborhood Blog!

Call us anytime at 404.432.1844.

CONYERS GA Real Estate - Metro Atlanta Suburb of the Week

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:42:59 -0500

Metro Atlanta Home Search - Homes for Sale in Conyers GA - Rockdale County

Located about 22 miles from Downtown Atlanta, this quiet town is a fantastic choice for first-time home buyers and families. More and more people are moving to Conyers and the population has experienced tremendous growth over the last decade, increasing about 30% since 2000.

WIth an average home sales price of about $160,000, this is probably one of the main reasons that this Southeast suburb of Metro Atlanta is so popular! To follow ALL the homes, condos and townhomes for sale in Conyers...

>> SEE THE "JUST LISTED" HOMES in CONYERS, GA

>> SEARCH FOR ALL THE HOME FORECLOSURES

>> SEE ALL THE NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES in the CONYERS AREA

>> VIEW ALL THE CONYERS CONDOS, LOFTS & TOWNHOMES FOR SALE

A bit more about Conyers, GA....

Conyers is probably best known as one of the hosts of the 1996 Olympic Games. They built the gorgeous Georgia International Horse Park for the equestrian Olympic event.
In the 1970s, several episodes of the Dukes of Hazzard were filmed in Conyers and in the late 90s, Sweet Home Alabama was filmed in Conyers.
The area is broken up into three zip codes -- 30012, 30013 and 30094
Conyers is located in Rockdale County
Cherry Blossom Festival each Spring (usually in March)
Rockdale County Fair in the Fall (usually in Septemer)
Many popular companies have set up shop in Conyers -- from John Deere, AT&T and many more

For more information about the area, call us anytime at (404)432.1844.

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Call us today @ (404) 432 - 1844

Atlanta Condo Market -- Things are looking up

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 20:17:59 -0500

Atlanta's Intown condo market appears to be (FINALLY) rebounding. The inventory is down and prices are starting to stabilize and we are in a good position to sell MORE condos than we did last year.

Articles from the Atlanta Journal Constitution (AJC) and the Atlanta Business Chronicle confirm the market improvement. Be sure to read the following articles:

>> Atlanta Business Chronicle - ATL's Intown Condo Market Improved

>> AJC - Intown Altanta Condo Market Steadying

If you are thinking of buying a condo, loft of townhome, there are still some FANTASTIC deals out there -- especially on short sales and foreclosures homes.

SEARCH FOR CONDOS, LOFTS and TOWNHOMES by ATLANTA NEIGHBORHOOD

FORECLOSURE FINDER - ATLANTA CONDOS

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate, Condos, Lofts and Historic Homes

If you are thinking of Buying or Selling a Condo Loft, call us anytime at 404.432.1844.

Price Reduction news - so what does it all mean for YOU the seller and agents?

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:44:32 -0500

Great advice from a fellow agent when pricing your home...

If you have questions about the article or pricing your Atlanta GA home to sell quickly, please don't hesitate to call me at 404.432.1844.

Via Pierre Calzadilla (Trulia.com):

Price Reduction news - so what does it all mean for YOU the seller and your agents?

I was astounded when I read the Price reduction news this morning. I was astounded because I know so many agents try their hardest to price homes correctly, only to have a seller demand a higher listing price. Some agents will walk away, knowing that their price is right, not wanting to align themselves with an unsuccessful sale attempt.

Other agents agree to the higher list price, only with a pre-signed price reduction, in the event that the only sound heard around the home are “crickets” chirping. I used to use this tactic myself, and I recommend it both for sellers and their agents. Simply put, you agree to disagree and place a limit on your losses. The first two weeks are so important for a successful sale of your home. Often the buyers that walked through those first two weeks will be the ones who come back 90 days later, after your 3rd price cut, to make a deal. So if you don’t correct your price immediately, you will likely end ,in a slippery slope, chasing the market down.

Why go through that?

The sales price is controlled by the market. There is a misconception that agents control listing price, or ultimately, the sales price. This price does not occur until after the sale. There is no way to forecast exactly what it will be, and you won’t know until the day you sign the offer letter. Your initial asking price is as important as your location.

Don’t chase the market down. If your city has an average 10% decrease in price, then you may want to consider a 15-20% cut to stay ahead of the trend. Too often sellers play catch-up, only adjusting the price down when it is too late and the vicious cycle continues. Situations like your neighbor asking $25K less than you, and selling within a week for the same price you are going to ask a month later, need to be avoided.

Fear. That is the number one reason people don’t price correctly – let me let you all in on a big secret. If you price your home for $1 and put it on the market tomorrow, the demand will be so high, and the offers will compete so much, that eventually you may get more than you actually expected just because of the demand and competition. $1 may be a little drastic, but I hope you get the point.

Gain the position. The position you want as a seller is CHOOSING an offer, not waiting for one. Work with your agent to see what listings you are competing with and price accordingly. Price yourself under the market and watch buyers come in fast – or learn the truth you don’t want to hear, “you should go off the market and wait”. News abounds about multiple offers coming in on aggressively priced homes.

Sellers – look at this report understand what it means for your market.

Agents – use this report to articulate to your sellers how important pricing right is, and how they need to avoid chasing the market down.
Charts are available for download at: http://bit.ly/4EQCNB

Original Post: http://www.trulia.com/blog/pierre_calzadilla/2009/08/price_reduction_news_-_s

Atlanta Real Estate Market - See what homes are selling for in your Atlanta Neighborhood

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:39:21 -0500

Atlanta Home Search - Search for Homes by Intown Atlanta Neighborhood

If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, there are quite a few fantastic (and not-so-fantastic) sources out there for home values in your area. To follow is a no-nonsense list of ALL the homes that have sold in 2009 (as of July 31, 2009).

Please click on the links below to view the Atlanta and Decatur homes that sold and see how your home stacks up!

OAKHURST Decatur - Zip code 30030

>> See ALL the Oakhurst home sales in 2009

>> View ALL the current Oakhurst homes for sale

KIRKWOOD Atlanta - Zip code 30317

>> See ALL the Kirkwood home sales in 2009

>> View ALL the Kirkwood homes currently for sale

EAST ATLANTA - Zip code 30030

>> See ALL the East Atlanta home sales in 2009

>> View ALL the East Atlanta Village homes for sale

GRANT PARK Atlanta - Zip code 30312

>> See ALL the Grant Park home sales in 2009

>> View ALL the Grant Park homes currently for sale

ORMEWOOD PARK Atlanta - Zip code 30316

>> See ALL the Ormewood Park homes that sold in 2009

>> View ALL the current homes for sale in Ormewood Park

CANDLER PARK / LAKE CLAIRE Atlanta - Zip code 30306

>> See ALL the Candler Park and Lake Claire home sales in 2009

>> View ALL the current homes for sale in Lake Claire

>> View ALL the current homes for sale in Candler Park

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

If you are thinking of Buying or Selling a Home, call us anytime at 404.432.1844.

Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate and Historic Homes

Sell Your Atlanta Home in 30 Days or Less - Part One

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 23:44:30 -0500

In today's Atlanta real estate market the thought of selling your home in less than 30 days may sound like an unrealistic goal, but it really is possible.

In this series of blog posts, you will have the tools and advice needed to sell your home quickly and for the fair market value.

The first step -- and one of the most important -- is to FIND THE RIGHT REALTOR!

1) Whether this is your first time selling a home or the 10th, jot down a list of what is important to you in a real estate agent and/or your home sales experience.

2) Next, take a drive. Drive around the neighborhood and see who is SELLING (not just listing) homes in your area. Also, surf the the internet to see which REALTOR names appear when you google "homes for sale in XYZ neighborhood" or "Top real estate agents in Decatur GA". From there, you can look at their website and blog, and review their credentials.

3) Then interview three real estate agents. Taking the time to do this will not only help you find someone that you will feel comfortable working with, but one who also offers the strongest marketing plan for your Atlanta home. Also, see how the agents stack up against your list of priorities (#1 above).

A few important questions to ask the REALTOR:

1) How do they plan to communicate / work with you? Will they be personally responsible for weekly updates and buyer feedback or do they have an assistant or business partner?

2) How familiar are they with your Atlanta or Decatur neighborhood? Have they sold any homes in the area in the past year?

3) How many clients and/or listings do they manage at one time? [There isn't one perfect answer to this question -- the powerhouse agent may have 30 to 50 clients at one time and a system in place to manage it or you could choose an agent who will give you personalized service and only works with 3 or 4 clients at a time]

4) How's business? [If the agent is a realistic optimist, that is usually a good sign]

5) What is your "list to sales price ratio?" -- if it is higher than your neighborhood average, that is another good sign

6) How long does it typically take you to sell a home (i.e the average "days on market")-- this is VERY important if you want to get your home sold in 30 days or less!

After the interviews, if you just can't decide between the different real estate agents, go back online and "Google them" again. In order to sell your Atlanta home quickly, the agent's internet marketing strategy is critical and you want to make sure that they will give your home the MAXIMUM INTERNET EXPOSURE -- from Blogs to Realtor.com, Trulia, Facebook, Twitter, Craiglist, Oodle, OLX and everything in between!

Thank you for reading "Selling Your Atlanta Home in 30 Days or Less - Choosing the Right Realtor®".

Be sure to stop by again this weekend for Part Two in the series!

Thank you for visiting our Atlanta Real Estate Blog!

If you are thinking of Buying or Selling a Home, call us anytime at 404.432.1844.

Kerry Lucasse - Atlanta GA Real Estate Agent - Atlanta Home Search Team
The ATL Home Search Team is part of Keller Williams Realty,
specializing in Intown Atlanta Real Estate and Historic Homes

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