North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate Blog, Donna Yates, Realtor

Blackberry - Tricks and Useful Tips

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:37:25 -0600

North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains Luxury Log Cabins, Lakefront Properties | Blackberry

To me, Blackberry is some tasty treat that I find growing on the side of a country road or in my yard which is why I recently attended a workshop to learn more about the other Blackberry. And I now know that in addition to being addicted to Active Rain, Coca Cola, and ice tea, I will have to add a Blackberry device to the list of my addictions. I think my choice of device at this juncture, is the Blackberry Bold because it has higher screen resolution and comes with almost 1 GIG based on the instructor's advice plus feedback from a room full of real estate agents already using Blackberrys (Blackberries sp.?).

The first thing I learned is that Blackberry is really the software and perhaps, I was the only person on the planet who did not know this. Anyway, I know now. I, by no means, am trying to be an expert on this topic but thought I would share some helpful information that I learned through this workshop. Perhaps, you are well along the Blackberry learning curve and will already know much more than I am including in this post, but for those that might not be as advanced, I hope you will find this information helpful:

Research In Motion (RIM) first introduced the Blackberry to market in 1999 and has risen to become virtually a household name. Blackberry is a phone, email, sms, organizer, address book, arcade, media player, picture taker, navigator, chat messenger, calculator, alarm clock which will probably become your best friend. I'm told some people love their Blackberry so much, they give it a name. As for mine, it will be named Boopi after my cocker spaniel who was my very best friend for more than 14 years. So, my Blackberry will have some large paws to fill!

It appears the Blackberry slices, dices, does the tango and waltz - but seriously, Blackberry models offer a host of all-in-one functions and features right out of the box. All-in-one device that is Integrated meaning all of the native applications included in the Blackberry operating system are seamlessly integrated with one another. For example: you receive an email from a friend that contains the telephone number of another friend to call. Within the email application, you can click the phone number and then easily dial without leaving one application to go to another - thus Integrated. Or you can snap a photo and send it via email from within the camera application. And folks, that's about as far as my knowledge and expertiese go at this point.

I'll sum this up with a list of helpful Blackberry Tools and Websites and welcome any comments or suggestions for tools, tips and advice as I am still in the research mode at this point.

www.crackberry.com www.blackberrymesenger.com www.pinstack.com www.Bbgeeks.com

www.Handango.com/blackberry www.Blackberrytune.com www.Blackberryfreeware.com

www.Pocketgear.com www.Handmark.com/blackberry www.Blackberrysolutionscatalog.com

www.Rexwireless.com www.Pocketday.com www.Wakeupyourphone.com

The source of this information comes from materials and lecture given in the recent class instructed by Randy Maynard, Managing Partner with North Georgia Cellular L.L.C. and Tammy Gross

Don't miss Coldwell Banker High Country Realty's Upcoming 10 Day Sale - An opportunity to buy exceptional properties at an exceptional price. Contact me for details.

North Georgia Blue Ridge Real Estate Sales Blitz Coming Soon!

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:21:44 -0600

Georgia Real Estate | North Georgia Mountains | Blue Ridge Real Estate | Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor

GET READY !!! IT'S COMING...

We, at Coldwell Banker High Country Realty are very excited about our upcoming sales event! We are going to have some beautiful properties for sale with fantastic price reductions during this unique marketing blitz. Don't miss it - Call or email me and let's get ready to go shopping !

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
http://www.cbhighcountry.com/re/donnayates
donna@ellijay.com

Speechless Sunday - First Birthday

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 06:21:45 -0600

Donna Yates, Realtor | North Georgia | Blue Ridge Mountains | Blue Ridge Real Estate

My granddaughter's FIRST BIRTHDAY !

I would love to see your photos of first birthdays! Please post in comment section. Thankyou.

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains
Serving Fannin, Union, Towns, Gilmer and Pickens Counties
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 office
Website: www.move2northgeorgia.net
Website: www.cbhighcountry.com/re/donnayates
Blog: www.activerain.com/blueridgemountains
Email: donna@ellijay.com

Ready to assist home buyers and sellers nationwide.

North Georgia, Blue Ridge Real Estate - Time for a Change

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:53:34 -0500

Georgia Real Estate | North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains | Donna Yates, Realtor

Peak leaf season was last weekend (October 24/25) in the North Georgia Mountains and this weekend is time to set clocks back one hour on Saturday night (Fall back).

Lots of changes going on right now with transition from summer to fall, leaves turning and daylight savings time ending. So, are there any changes going on in the real estate market, let's take a look:

On the National Level
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) who employ many economists report existing sales bounced back in September mostly due to the first time homebuyers tax credit. This has been a welcomed change. The tax credit is due to expire but we expect it will be extended and will change to allow buyers who were not eligible in the current version to be eligible in the new expanded version. There was a 9.4% jump in sales nationwide. This was the highest sales level in two years, another welcomed change. However, the market is still underperforming, some homes are selling for less than what it would cost to build them now, but there are early signs of price stabilization.

The Average Mortgage rate for conventional, fixed is 5.06% as of October 30, 2009. This is the lowest rate in 30 years and is down 1 percentage point from one year ago. Distress properties (foreclosures or those properties about to go into foreclosure) continue to distort pricing.

On the Regional Level
In the South, home sales rose 9% in September. North Carolina reported 19 out of 1000 homes or 1.9% are in foreclosure with Georgia reporting a 3.4% foreclosure rate primarily due to the Atlanta Metro market. Also, Georgia is a non-judicial foreclosure state which means, it's easier for banks and lending institutions to foreclose and they tend to pull the trigger a bit faster. Average sales price is $153,000, down 7.6% from one year ago and consumer confidence inched down in September.

On the Local Level
We are seeing stability over the last several months. Tourism has picked up in our area and internet traffic has increased, so we are experiencing a gradual improvement.

We are seeing a change in the type of loan buyers are seeking. We haven't seen many FHA Loans in our market area in the past but there has been an uptick. FHA requires a lower down payment and a different type of appraisal. For the seller that means, the appraiser will look for potential maintenance issues in addition to the standard appraisal that is typically done.

Per Northeast Georgia Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service which covers 6 counties and a few areas from outside of these counties - Gilmer, Fannin, Union, Towns, Clay, Cherokee NC, and a small part of Tennesee reports the following as of October 30, 2009:

Total properties currently for sale (includes residential, commercial and land) = 13,600, with 4,104 residential, 9,099 land and 387 foreclosures.

Month to date Closings: 113 residential; 50 land; 41 foreclosures
A very small percentage of residential properties sold and closed = 2.8%
Only one half of 1% of vacant land sold and closed (very low) and foreclosures that sold and closed made up 10%. This shows that sellers are still in competition with banks.

SOLD (Residential Sales by Price Point)

Under $100k = 20 sales / 17%

$100k to $200k = 62 sales / 55% - (Most active price point that is attracting the most buyers past 4 months)

$200k to $300k = 21 sales / 18%

$300k to $400k = 5 sales / 4%

$400k to $500k = 3 sales / 3%

Above $500k = 2 sales / 3%.

The average price on residential properties equals $182,899 or 79% of original list price; Land: $51,000 = 69.9% of list price and Foreclosures: $109,000 = 78% of list price (includes both homes and land). Foreclosures are selling on average 86 days which is 4 times better than any other segment of the market.

For sellers who do not have to sell, this is probably not the best time to be selling your home. We do not expect to see a recovery in prices anytime soon. Reduced, Reduced, Reduced ! How many sellers have reduced and feel they've gone as low as they can go, well, this is what banks are doing. They are reducing prices in order to "dump" properties and buyers who have been straddling the fence are first looking at foreclosures. Banks are scheduling automatic reductions at certain price points at certain intervals to move their inventory and even generate a bidding war in some cases. Traditional sellers are in competition with banks and sellers who really need to sell may need to consider the same strategy the bank has until they reach a price point that is attracting the most buyers. Overall, most of the changes we are seeing in the marketplace are positive and we are optimistically cautious.

Minutes from Monthly Meeting held by broker/owner June Slusser of CB High Country Realty

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
www.cbhighcountry.com/re/donnayates
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains, 449 Deercrest Overlook, Blue Ridge

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:17:12 -0500

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate | Fannin County | 449 Deercrest Overlook, Blue Ridge

BUY THIS 7 LAYER MOUNTAIN VIEW AND GET A STUNNING LOG CABIN WITH IT !

Breathtaking 7 layer mountain view luxury cabin in sought after Aska area of Blue Ridge, GA......Exquisite detail throughout.....4 bedrooms/4 baths and 2 full kitchens with stainless appliances.....Prow front log cabin with western view of sunsets.....2 decks.....Main level bedrooms have private screened sleeping porches.....Open vaulted great room with stacked stone gas starter fireplace.....Hickory cabinets with oil rubbed bronze hardware.....Main level kitchen views family room and includes large granite island with breakfast bar and view to the sky!.....Hickory hardwood floors.....All bedrooms are oversized.....Full washer/dryer laundry area....Level drive through driveway with parking for 6+ cars.....Basement includes full kitchen with wood burning fireplace, large island with custom counter tops and barnwood walls and ceiling.....Custom pecan stained 2 inch blinds.....Oversized master bath with jetted tub, separate shower, double vanity, 2 closets.....Vaulted celings.....All rooms have ceiling fans.....Screened door on front entry.....Built in bookcases next to both fireplaces.....Non smoking owner.....Cabin is personal home of licensed agent and not on rental program, however the 2 full ktichens and 4 BR/BA make it perfect for a rental.....Tinted windows....Two 80 gallon water heaters.....Laundry on main level..... 2 new decks added October 2009 for extra large outdoor space - bottom area is 20 ft. x 50 ft! Plus step down deck off back of cabin.

Type: Residential
Style: Log Cabin
Bedrooms: 4 "Oversized Bedrooms"
Bathrooms: 4 full private baths
Basement: Full, Finished with full kitchen
Lot Size: 2 acres, wooded
Built: 2006
Road: Paved
Price: $575,000
Owner: Licensed Agent

This gorgeous view comes with a beautiful move-in ready luxury log home located in the heart of the Aska Adventure Area where the beauty of nature greets you at every turn. Only minutes to Lake Blue Ridge, Toccoa River and Nantootla for great trout fishing, water skiing, boating and historic downtown Blue Ridge for specialty shopping, art gallery, festivals and arts in the park. Located 1 1/2 hours from Atlanta. VIRTUAL TOUR
Courtesy: Peggy Devoney (owner)
Keller Williams Realty First Atlanta

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
www.move2northgeorgia.net
www.cbhighcountry.com/re/donnayates
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Real Estate - Around the Mountains with Donna

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:04:48 -0500

Georgia Real Estate | North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains | Donna Yates, Realtor

Move 2 North Georgia

Foxfire Estates - Blue Ridge

Shechinah Ridge - Mineral Bluff

Mineral Bluff - Yellowstone Log

Granny Lake - Creekfront - Ellijay

Ridges Over the Lake - Blue Ridge

Lake Blue Ridge Waterfront Cottage - Won't find anything priced this low on Lake Blue Ridge

Timberwalk Estates - Ellijay

Prime Land for Development - Ellijay - 57.07 Acres

Ellijay, Gilmer County

Blue Ridge, Fannin County

Blue Ridge Mountains

Graceful Giants are Dying - Georgia's Hemlocks are Dying

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains - Lot 7A Shechinah Ridge Mineral Bluff

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:57:27 -0500

North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate | Mineral Bluff Log Cabin for Sale

LOT 7A SHECHINAH RIDGE - Mineral Bluff Georgia 30559 pronounced: "she con na"

Mountain and sunset views. Serenity is a free amenity on this very private 2.64 acres with well maintained D Log cabin, three finished levels, fully furnished with hi end furnishings, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, separate loft plus private balcony off master, dramatic stone FP, open great room with cathedral ceilings, wide covered porches, wrap deck to screen porch, full finished walk out basement to covered patio with hot tub, game room with pool table and air hockey table, bedroom on each level with full bath. All appliances plus washer and dryer remain. Some personal items are not for sale, ask agent. Home was recently under contract and was professionally inspected with a clean inspection. Truly move in ready at an excellent price. $299,900 !

Wikipedia

Shechinah (alternative transliterations Shekhinah, Shekinah,Shekina, Shechina, Schechinah, שכינה) is the English spelling of a grammatically feminine Hebrew language word that means the dwelling or settling, and is used to denote the dwelling or settling presence of God.

North Georgia Mountains - 28 Rowland Point, Lake Blue Ridge Home PRICE SLASHED

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:31:42 -0500

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Lake Blue Ridge Cottage | Waterfront Cabin for Sale in Blue Ridge

PRICE SLASHED !!! You will not see this price anywhere else on Lake Blue Ridge for a lakefront home!

Charming cottage, in great condition, bounded by forestry land and really neat babblling brook on one side, dock permit approved, gated, small community of other lakefront homes, great neighbors!
Only $299,900 This is not a typo: $299,900 !!! Unbelieveable price reduction. Owner is licensed real estate broker)

28 Rowland Pointe Lakefront Cottage, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, .52 acres, great mountain getaway

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains - Georgia's Graceful Giants are Dying

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:20:53 -0500

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Southern Appalachian Mountains | Eastern and Carolina Hemlocks Trees | Environment | Ecosystems

Georgia's Hemlock Trees - Our Graceful Giants are dying

Our native Eastern and Carolina Hemlocks are being attacked and killed by an invasive insect pest, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.
The hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is a serious pest of hemlock trees in Georgia. It is an aphid like insect that feeds on eastern and Carolina hemlock trees. The result of this feeding is eventual tree mortality. The very existence of the eastern and Carolina hemlock species is greatly threatened by HWA. It was accidentally introduced to the U.S. over fifty years ago and has been spreading up and down the entire Appalachian Mountain chain ever since. The infestation into Georgia has been steadily gaining momentum.

Hemlocks are found throughout north Georgia, and you may have them on your property. Almost all of these beautiful trees will die in the next few years unless action is taken soon.

BUT GOOD NEWS - HELP IS AVAILABLE !

Save Georgia's Hemlocks, a recently formed volunteer organization, is implementing a new Hemlock Help for Homeowners program with the goal of helping north Georgia property owners save as many of your Hemlocks as possible for the lowest possible cost. Launched first in Rabun County, the program is being deployed across north Georgia on a county by county basis.

Hemlock Clinics are free and open to the public unless specifically noted in the schedule below. They typically last about 90 minutes and include:

Slide presentation on the problem with the Hemlock woolly adelgid, the options for homeowners to save their Hemlocks at the lowest possible cost, and the services available through the Hemlock Help for Homeowners program for all of north Georgia

Hands-on demonstration on using a soil injector to treat Hemlocks
Educational hand-out materials that you are welcome to reproduce and share freely
Plenty of time for questions and answers

Save Georgia's Hemlocks will be glad to schedule special presentations for homeowner associations, conservation and recreation organizations, schools, churches, and other community groups. Call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010 to set up a time.

Date	Activity
Thursday, 7 p.m. October 15	Hemlock Clinic -- free and open to the public. Location is County Courthouse, 48 River Street, Hiawassee in Towns County.
Saturday, 10 a.m. October 17	Hemlock Clinic -- free and open to the public. Location is Pearson Pond Llama Ranch, 242 Llama Lane (Charles Lane), Ellijay in Gilmer County. For driving directions, visit www.pearsonpond.com.
October/November	A Hemlock Clinic will be scheduled in Fannin County. Notice will be posted here and in the local newspapers.
November	Follow-up Hemlock Clinics will be scheduled in Rabun, Habersham, and White Counties. Notice will be posted here and in the local newspapers.

Why Care?

Aesthetically: These gorgeous trees are a major contributor to the enjoyment of all of us who live, work and play in the North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains.
Environmentally: Hemlocks play a vital role in providing natural habitat and source of food for hundreds of species such as verterbrates and birds and they provide shade for native plants, cool temperatures for trout streams and protection for watersheds and water quality. See Trout Unlimited information on conservation and more regarding our treasured trout streams. See Science News on the affects of water dynamics for the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Economically: Mature Hemlocks may add 7 - 10% to a homeowner's property value, filters polluntants from the air, produces oxygen, and can have a net cooling affect of 10 room sized air conditioners.

(as of October 4, 2009) Source: Donna Shearer (with her permission to copy)

This is a very serious issue in North Georgia with broad environmental and economical implications. This infestation has the potential to affect every personal property owner and our beautiful National Forests. It's an issue that really warrants attention from anyone who loves the North Georgia Mountains. We cannot afford to lose these graceful giants. They are crucial to the ecology and hydrology of mountain ecosystems. By all reports, these beautiful trees are declining much faster than expected.

Hemlock Trees Dying Rapidly, Affecting Forest Carbon Cycle
ScienceDaily (Mar. 10, 2009) - New research by U.S. Forest Service Southern Research Station (SRS) scientists and partners suggests the hemlock woolly adelgid is killing hemlock trees faster than expected in the southern Appalachians and rapidly altering the carbon cycle of these forests. SRS researchers and cooperators from the University of Georgia published the findings in the most recent issue of the journal Ecosystems.
Source: Science Daily

Whether you have property here or just come for a short visit to enjoy the natural beauty of the ancient Appalachian Mountains, this issue is important to everyone. Property owners can help by taking care of their own hemlocks, be alert to signs of infestation; help neighbors save their trees and join the fight. This is going to require a unified effort to solve the problem. For those nature lovers who do not own property here, you can still help by joining the fight, spread the word through your email contacts, friends and family, volunteer or even get training to treat trees professionally and/or make a donation. Contact Dr. Mark Shearer or Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010

More Information on Save Georgia's Hemlocks can be found by clicking the links below:

Hemlock Photos

Hemlock Help

Trout Unlimited Blue Ridge

Hemlock Doctor

AdelRid

Grow It Green

Young Harris College Hemlock Project

University of Georgia

For information on professionally treating your Hemlocks call the Hemlock Help Line at 706-429-8010.

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Market Report September 2009

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:03:19 -0500

North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains | Single Family Residential Homes for Sale - North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Move 2 North Georgia | Donna Yates Sells Real Estate

SEPTEMBER Market Report - as of October 8, 2009 (Fannin, Gilmer, Union and Towns)

Fannin County (Blue Ridge, Morganton, Epworth, McCaysville, Mineral Bluff, Aska)
Active: 818
Contingent: 22
Pending: 39
Foreclosures: 41
Sold: 269 YTD

Gilmer County (Ellijay, East Ellijay, Cherry Log)
Active: 684
Contingent: 12
Pending: 48
Foreclosures: 32
Sold: 242 YTD

Union County (Blairsville)
Active: 694
Contingent: 16
Pending: 43
Foreclosures: 30
Sold: 228 YTD

Towns County (Young Harris, Hiawassee)
Active: 518
Contingent: 5
Pending: 20
Foreclosures: 21
Sold: 94 YTD

Housing Permits:
Fannin: 14
Gilmer: 14
Union: 14

TOTAL - all counties combined listed below  - As of October 4, 2009
Fannin, Gilmer, Union, Towns; Polk TN, Cherokee; Clay NC

Total Closed:   181 (slightly down from August = 213) (All counties in NE GA MLS)
Residential:     131
Land:               47
Commercial:       3
Foreclosures:     37

New Construction is outselling Existing (Re-sales)

Completed New Construction - Sold - List to Sales Price: 91.54%
Under Construction - Sold - List to Sales Price: 94.62%
Re-Sale - Sold - List to Sales Price: 89.95%

Key Notes:

Actual Sold to List Price Ratio as reported in Northeast Georgia MLS is ranging 80 - 85% of list price
June, July, August and September had the most buyer activity this year compared to same time last year
Hottest Price Point is $199,000 and below

Data source: Northeast Georgia Multiple Listing Service. All data is deemed accurate but is not guaranteed.

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate
Serving Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, and Towns Counties
Cell Phone: 706-633-0644
Office: 706-632-7311 x252
Around the Mountains with Donna
Move 2 North Georgia
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

Blue Ridge Mountains, Mineral Bluff True Yellowstone Custom Lodge Style Cabin

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:59:25 -0500

Georgia Real Estate | North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate | 324 Copperhead Trail | Mineral Bluff Georgia | Custom Yellowstone Lodge style Cabin for Sale

BIG ON STYLE! at a price that cannot be beat

Click Here for Listing Detail - YELLOWSTONE LOG LODGE CABIN

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate
Serving Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, and Towns Counties
Cell Phone: 706-633-0644
Office: 706-632-7311 x252
Around the Mountains with Donna
Move 2 North Georgia
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

Georgia Mountain Autumn Adventure with Three Dog Night and Willie Nelson

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 20:57:11 -0500

North Georgia | Hiawassee, Towns County | Lake Chatuge | Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Leaves are already changing colors and with all the rain lately, we are on tap for a beautiful display of fall colors so are your ready for a Georgia Mountain Autumn Adventure? If you are

then put the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on your "must do" list. A beautiful park situated along the banks of Lake Chatuge in Hiawassee, Towns County is just two hours from Atlanta GA, Chattanooga TN, Greenville SC, and Asheville NC. Here you will enjoy a good time for the entire family with a wide variety of unique venues.

Hiawassee located in Towns County Georgia held its first mountain fair in 1950. It started out as a three-day agricultural expo in the local high school and was host to 2000 attendees. But it didn't take long for the event to outgrow their original location. The Towns County Lions Club along with great local support, secured a large tract of land along the banks of Lake Chatuge and in 1978, this site known as the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds hosted its first Georgia Mountain Fair with more than 100,000 visitors annually.

The Georgia Mountain Fair is the premier event for North Georgia offering a variety of entertainment venues such as art festivals, country gospel, world class bluegrass and rock'n'roll. Coming soon:

October 24, 2009

Three Dog Night - Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Visit: Three Dog Night

and

October 31, 2009

Willie Nelson - Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Visit: Willie's Place

FALL FESTIVAL

FAIRGROUNDS MAP

GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUND EVENTS

Places to Stay

The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge

Lake Chatuge Lodge

Brasstown Valley Resort

Old Clayton Inn

Campgrounds

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate
Serving Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, and Towns Counties
Cell Phone: 706-633-0644
Around the Mountains with Donna
Move 2 North Georgia
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
Office: 706-632-7311 x252
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

Goodbye Summer 2009

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:49:57 -0500

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate
Serving Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, and Towns Counties
Cell Phone: 706-633-0644
Office: 706-632-7311 x252
Around the Mountains with Donna
Move 2 North Georgia
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

Gotta' Love a Great Dog!

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:37:40 -0500

The picture was emailed to me.

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Around the Mountains with Donna
Serving Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Union, and Towns Counties
Cell Phone: 706-633-0644
Office: 706-632-7311 x252
Move 2 North Georgia
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

A Rainy Night in Georgia and Rainy and Rainy and...

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:26:27 -0500

North Georgia Mountains | North Georgia Metro Atlanta | Paulding, Cobb and Douglas Counties

I'm sure it's been on the national news about all of the rain and flooding in Georgia just a few days ago. I am a Georgia native and grew up in the area where most of the flooding took place, Austell, Hiram and Powder Springs. I've seen Sweetwater Creek flood over the years and at times, thought it could not possilby ever flood any worse than what I saw back then. But, I have been proven wrong with this latest deluge.

A friend's brother shot this video of the flooding in the area that was once old stomping grounds for me. (Cobb, Douglas and Paulding Counties) which are all about 1 to 1.5 hours away from the Blue Ridge Mountains. I still have family and friends there. Of course we've had our share of rain here in the mountains too. Eight straight days had creeks and rivers rolling. But our neighbors to the south and west of the Blue Ridge Mountains suffered the most. I can't even begin to imagine the damage and destruction left behind once the waters recede. And the most tragic part of all is the loss of life.

Thank you S. Thrasher for the video.

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

North Georgia Fatz Cafe in Blairsville - Model for Excellent Customer Service

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:45:39 -0500

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Blairsville, Georgia | Union County | Fatz Cafe

Today, the sun came out and the skies were blue again after eight straight days of rain. Torrential downpours at times with Ellijay getting as much as 4 inches in just a few hours. The North Georgia Mountain creeks and rivers were rolling for sure but we were more fortunate than our neighbors to the south and west of us. Paulding County for example, got as much as 15 inches of rain on Sunday alone. Areas that have never flooded, areas designated as not being in a flood zone flooded. My son's house had a near miss but a long time friend's house wasn't as fortunate. Neither house is in a flood plain.

I took a short drive to revamp my spirit and headed to Blairsville for lunch at one of my favorite places, FATZ. I make this 20 mile trip from Blue Ridge about once a week for the sole purpose to have lunch at FATZ. The drive is beautiful and FATZ has great food, a wonderful menu selection, comfortable ambience and the service is great so it's a nice all around quick trip to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

I arrived and was greeted in their usual friendly manner. My server came over and said his name was Sam and he would be taking care of me. I didn't know Sam, had never seen Sam before. Talk about exceeding all expectations and providing excellent customer service! Sam was friendly but professional, attentive but not overbearing, and I could just tell it was as natural to him to be genuinely courteous and caring as it was to breathe. Sam had a large party to serve and several smaller parties but everyone in his section got his undivided attention. I complimented Sam for his excellent service and other diners sitting nearby echoed my praises.

Sam, should you see this blog, thank you again for your exceptional service today. You helped me slow down and appreciate a beautiful, sunshiny day and reminded me of my own personal goal to provide exceptional customer service. You inspired me and renewed my energy. It's easy to see why FATZ is so successful because employees like you are an integral part to their continued success.

So, anyone living or visiting in or around Blairsville, treat yourself to dining at FATZ and maybe you'll get really lucky to have Sam serve you.

FATZ
Party Tray Menu
Dine In Menu
Lunch Specials Menu
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Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
Move 2 North Georgia
donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

Wordless Wednesday - Will I Ever Grow Into These Ears

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:34:14 -0500

North Georgia Mountains | Blue Ridge

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 21:44:03 -0500

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Blairsville, Georgia | Union County | The Sourghum Festival

It's almost that time of year again! My favorite time by far. I love autumn in the North Georgia Mountains. The air is fresh and crisp and leaves explode with vibrant color against the blue mountain ridges. For me, it's the most wonderful time of the year.

In the evening, enjoy a warm fire and end the day with a feeling of pure comfort and joy. Yes, I do love autumn in North Georgia, and with autumn comes great fall festivals. Soon, we will be celebrating

THE 40^TH ANNUAL SORGHUM FESTIVAL

This is Blairsville's most famous event, taking place the 2^nd and 3^rd weekend in October. Locals and visitors come together to celebrate the rich mountain heritage of this quiet town. Sponsored by the Blairsville Jaycees, the admission and parking is free and will be held at Blairsville's Meeks Park starting at 9:00 a.m.

The Jaycees have sponsored this family friendly festival for 40 years. The Blairsville Jaycees are not a very large group but they certainly have accomplished by far the largest and one of the most popular festivals in North Georgia with strong support from many local businesses. For more information, contact:

Blairsville Jaycees
P.O. Box 701
Blairsville, GA 30514
(706) 745-4745

Also, one of the largest parades in the mountains takes place on October 10 at 11:00 a.m. (first Saturday of the festival). Marching bands and creative floats are sure to please the crowd.

The Parade Route

Directions to Meeks Park

Schedule of Events

Move 2 North Georgia

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker earns the prestigious J. D. Powers Award for 2009

Around the Mountains with Donna

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:53:23 -0500

North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountain Luxury Log Cabins for Sale | Creekfront | Land

Below are featured mountain listings. Just click on the respective Heading for Virtual Tour and property detail. It may take a few seconds to load.

Foxfire
Luxury log cabin, absolutely picture perfect mountain views, fantastic sunsets

Greenridge
Adorable cedar and stone cabin, very private in Aska Adventure Area - Toccoa River, Lake Blue Ridge, Historic downtown Blue Ridge well under 5 minutes away

Rooster Branch
Rushing creekfront log cabin, all one level living, great yard in popular Cherry Log

Ridges Over the Lake (Lot 23)
Acreage! Long range views of Lake Blue Ridge, Prestigious Gated Community

Timberwalk Estates (Lot 1, 2 & 47)
Very nice gated community, well under 5 minutes to Ellijay's town square, restaurants, shopping
Lot 1 & 2 next to gated entrance; Lot 47 lakefront

Pleasant Hill
57.07 Acres!!! Great farm, or subdivide, could make a great location for a business, property has small creek, hardwoods, mountain views, mutliple building sites, one side fronts GA. Highway

Move 2 North Georgia

More Real Estate for Sale

Search Northeast Georgia Multiple Listings

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
"Around the Mountains with Donna"
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker earns prestigious J. D. Power Award (2009)

Fannin County Georgia - Gateway to the Mountains

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 17:34:24 -0500

FANNIN COUNTY, GEORGIA | BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS | GATEWAY TO THE MOUNTAINS

FANNIN COUNTY OVERVIEW
Fannin County is located in the northwest mountains of Georgia and is within an hour's drive to Atlanta or Chattanooga Tennessee. Highway 515 runs through Fannin County and is a straight shot to Interstate 75 which makes for an easy commute. (I-75 provides the major link between the Great Lakes and the SouthEast to cities like Miami, Tampa, Naples, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Cincinnati, Toledo and Detroit.

Fannin County is located in the U.S. state of Georgia. It was created on January 21, 1854. The 2007 Census Estimate shows a population of 22,580. The county seat is Blue Ridge, Georgia (source: Wikipedia).

Nestled in the foothills of the Chattahoochee National Forest and Appalachian Mountains, Fannin is known as the Gateway to the Mountains. Small town ambience, old fashioned blue grass concerts and gospel music jams, fishing, canoeing, boating, hiking, riding and shopping are just a few of the adventures that continue to draw more and more people to this area year after year. Don't forget to take a nostaglic ride on the Blue Ridge Scenice Railroad. Tourism is the county's largest revenue generator and real estate is another large industry in Fannin. Many second home buyers, vacationers and retirees come to Fannin for the beauty and laid back lifestyle. It feels as though one has stepped back to a simpler time. Beautiful rustic log cabins dot the county's landscape but over 42% of the county is protected forestry land. The creeks, rivers and lake hug the foothills of the Ancient Appalachian Mountains. Surrounded by beautiful nature everywhere you go, it's no wonder Fannin County/Blue Ridge is a very popular destination.

CITIES AND TOWNS IN FANNIN COUNTY ---> Click Here Virtual Tour

Blue Ridge, Zip 30513
Historic downtown with quaint gift and antique shopping, eateries, wonderful city park.

Morganton, Zip 30560
Great camping right on Lake Blue Ridge at Morganton Point, boat launch, swimming facilities, picnic area.

Mineral Bluff, Zip 30559
Centrally located between Blue Ridge and Murphy, North Carolina. Nature and wildlife abounds with a harmonizing mix of log cabins, country rustic and farmlands with views of mountain ranges in Tennessee and North Carolina.

McCaysville, Zip 30555
Twin Cities, McCaysville GA and Copperhill Tennessee, an old mining town divided only by the state line. Here you will find the old Cohutta Mountains and the much sought after Fightingtown Creek, a Georgia designated trout stream. Epworth is another small township with gorgeous mountains and streams bordering Blue Ridge and McCaysville

A River Runs Through It
All of these towns within Fannin County are uniquely distinctive in their own right but share a common thread that runs throughtout the county. Surrounded by layers of blue mountain ridges and the beautiful rushing waters of the Toccoa River, this beautiful North Georgia Mountain county is blessed with an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty consisting of forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and streams. Lake Blue Ridge, over 3200 beautiful acres is the jewel of the county and more than half of the Lake is protected forestry land. Beautiful blue/green waters with the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as the backdrop. No wonder so many people from all over the nation and as far away as Europe, choose this area to relocate, retire or build their second, even third home here.

FANNIN COUNTY DEMOGRAPHICS

Population (2008)	22,618
Households (2000)	8369
Families	6,694
Housing Units (2007)	17,104
Racial / Ethnicity Makeup (2008)
White	97.1%
Black or African American	1.1%
American Indian or Alaska Native	0.5%
Asian	0.4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander	Unknown

Two or More Races	1.0%
Hispanic or Latino	1.6%
Gender
Male	48.3%
Female	51.7%
Median Household Income (2007)	$35,710
Georgia Household Income	$49,080
Per Capita Personal Income (1999)	$16,269
Georgia Per Capita Personal Income	$21,154

Crime

Private Schools

Public Schools

Public Library

Places of Worship

AREA LINKS

ATTRACTIONS AND POINTS OF INTEREST

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DONNA'S FEATURED REAL ESTATE FOR SALE (Fannin and Gilmer Counties)

Ridges Over the Lake - Upscale, Gated Lake Blue Ridge

Rushing Creekfront Log Cabin - Cherry Log

Timberwalk Estates - Gated, Community Lake, Paved Road Lots 1 & 2 Lot 47 Lakefront

Foxfire Estates - Picture Postcard Views, Luxury Log Cabin

Prime Land - 57.07 Acres - Great Farm or Sub-divide

Aska Adventure Area - Ripshin and Greenridge Mountain

Cartecay Lakes - Gated Log Cabin Community and Lake

More Featured Properties for Sale

FANNIN COUNTY RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY MARKET UPDATE

Number of Residential Properties FOR SALE

	ACTIVE	CONTINGENT	PENDING
Sub Area 1	251	12	9
Sub Area 2	269	10	15
Sub Area 3	301	5	14
Total:	821	27	38

Number of Residential Foreclosure Properties FOR SALE (as of September 19, 2009)

	ACTIVE
Sub Area 1	11
Sub Area 2	19
Sub Area 3	13
Total:	43

January 1 2009 to date	SOLD
Sub Area 1	78
Sub Area 2	81
Sub Area 3	84
Total:	243

*Source: NorthEast Georgia Multiple Listing Data dated September 19, 2009

All information contained herein is deemed reiliable and accurate but is not guaranteed

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
www.move2northgeorgia.net
http://www.cbhighcountry.com/re/donnayates
http://www.activerain.com/blueridgemountains
email: donna@ellijay.com

Coldwell Banker ranked as having the "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms" by J.D. Power and Associates in 2009

North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains Real Estate Market Mid-September 2009

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:02:07 -0500

North Georgia Real Estate | Blue Ridge Mountains | Single Family Residential Homes for Sale - North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains | Move 2 North Georgia

North Georgia Homes for Sale, North Georgia Active Listings - North Georgia Real Estate

September 17, 2009

Fannin County (Blue Ridge, Morganton, Epworth, McCaysville, Mineral Bluff, Aska)
Active: 812
Contingent: 26
Pending: 36
Foreclosures: 56
Sold: 241 (as of January 1, 2009 to date)

Gilmer County (Ellijay, East Ellijay, Cherry Log)
Active: 675
Contingent: 16
Pending: 43
Foreclosures: 34
Sold: 219 (as of January 1, 2009 to date)

Union County (Blairsville)
Active: 694
Contingent: 16
Pending: 43
Foreclosures: 46
Sold: 210 (as of January 1, 2009 to date)

Towns County (Young Harris, Hiawassee)
Active: 451
Contingent: 5
Pending: 16
Foreclosures: 20
Sold: 83 (as of January 1, 2009 to date)

Search ---> North Georgia Real Estate Listings in Blue Ridge Mountains

View ------> Featured Mountain Properties For Sale by Donna

View ------> Great Buys in North Georgia Featured Listings

View ------> Waterfront Listings in North Georgia

Search ---> Coldwell Banker High Country Realty Listings/Donna Yates

Search ---> Northeast Georgia Multiple Listings

MOVE 2 NORTH GEORGIA

Donna Yates
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 x252 office
274 West Main Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
donna@ellijay.com

edited September 18 2009 to add Foreclosures (Active, Contingent and Pending)

Speechless Sunday - Hear Me Roar

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:00:25 -0500

Hear Me Roar!

Donna Yates
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 x252 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

Lot 23 Ridges Over the Lake, Blue Ridge Georgia

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:26:20 -0500

Lot 23 Lakeview Road, Ridges Over the Lake, Blue Ridge Georgia

USFS road meanders along Lake Blue Ridge through national forest as it makes its way to the gated entry of the presitigous Ridges Over the Lake, nestled off the beaten path in the ever popular Aska Adventure Area. Private 2.2 acres with paved roads, underground utilities and community water ready to build your dream home in the North Georgia Mountains. Feel like you are a million miles away from it all but only 8 miles to historic downtown Blue Ridge. This upscale development is comprised of beautiful luxury log cabins and lodges, offering long range views of Lake Blue Ridge and layers of the famous "blue" mountain ridges. Priced well below other tracts in this development.

Price: $135,000 MLS #: 191105 VIRTUAL TOUR

Thank you Fred Carver, Victoria Real Estate for the tip to "Just Google"

Wordless Wednesday - Early Morning on Lake Blue Ridge

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 05:14:38 -0500

Early morning on Lake Blue Ridge

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell 706-632-7311 office
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com

Speechless Sunday - Brother and Sister

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 19:14:33 -0500

Donna Yates, Georgia Realtor
Coldwell Banker High Country Realty
706-633-0644 cell
706-632-7311 office
www.move2northgeorgia.net
donna@ellijay.com