Jamie Parker's Blog

Fall in Snellville Along Ronald Reagan Parkway

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:03:36 -0600

See what fall looks like in Snellville. We are blessed to have beautiful fall colors just a short drive from Atlanta.

Black Friday starts Thursday?

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:58:02 -0600

We are blessed in Snellville to have most of the big box stores. Upon making our Thanksgiving rounds between families, I was shocked by what I saw. As we drove by Old Navy around 5:00 p.m., I asked my wife if they are open today? The parking lot was full! As we continued along the main drag, we passed Office Depot. They had a tent in the front of the store. We then continued past Best Buy, and they too had a 2 tents in front of the store.

In an effort to drive a little extra to hopefully make our kids fall more sound asleep in the car so it would be easy to put them to bed (didn't work but we tried), we decide to take the scenic route home and drive by Best Buy and Office Depot. We estimated there were at least 30-50 folks waiting in front of Best Buy at 9:00 p.m. with several tents. Office Depot still only had that one tent in front of the store and no one else in line.

By the way, temperatures will be in the high 30's tonight! See the pictures below.

Housing Figures for September

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:01:55 -0600

6.1% gain overall

5% in the south

21% higher than last September

New Construction spending is up .08%

15 year mortgages are hovering in the low 4's

Mortgage applications are up 3%

These are great signs that the economy is recovering. However, unemployment is still over 10%. While all of these figures look good, that 10% has to change in order to truly have a full recovery.

Fire Sprinklers to be the Standard in New Homes

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:57:43 -0600

I just read an article that the International Code Council's Residential Building Code Committee (RBCC) has said that in 2011, these will become the standard in all new homes. This is the council that 48 states use to regulate their building codes. There was debate last week whether this would go through and the council voted for it 7-4.

I find this to be a very interesting development. I believe this could help jump start new home sales since consumers are all about safety and security. Or, it could hurt sales by driving up the costs of new houses and making them not as competitive with existing homes.

The article points out there are some safety hazards that need to be considered such as cabling in the home that comes from inferior manufacturers. This could be a fire hazard.

I am also thinking another hazard could be what if the sprinklers go off when you are cooking fatty burgers on the stove which cause an excess of smoke? Maybe the code should also include ventilation pipes that go out of the kitchen (seen in more high end homes) or down-draft ventilation.

Click here to read the article.

Sesame Street and its Impact on our Cultrure

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:26:47 -0600

I read a very interesting article on the history of Sesame Street and its impact our society. My generation was one of the first or second generations that got the benefit of Sesame Street. I have fond memories of Big Bird and Cookie Monster.

Academics quickly began to study the effects of the show very early on and concluded that kids that watched it were better prepared in school. What it really did was help me to do better in school. They discovered that kids like animals and other animal like characters teaching them and got very bored with adults talking. How ironic is that, considering that is how we educate our kids in this country- adults talking and children listening. I know we have made great strides in the area of hands on learning, but still most of the nuts and bolts are taught the old fashioned way- getting off of my soap box now.

I hope you enjoy the article.

Sesame Street

Condition, Condition, Condition

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:18:49 -0600

Condition is so very important when marketing a home. Taking care of the little things makes a huge difference in the overall impression a home makes.

Via Jim Kouns (Coldwell Banker Lunsford):

If "Location, Location, Location" are the three most important words in real estate, the three second most important have to be "Condition, Condition, Condition." I was reminded of this again last week when I was working with a relocation buyer and over the course of two days, looked at 25 upscale homes in the Muncie area. My client had been out of the U.S. for several years and was new to the Muncie area so we visited homes with a broad range of styles and ages.

The differences in condition really stood out. Several were vintage homes with lots of space and charm, but one had a damp, musty odor and some obviously leaky windows that completely obscured the many updates and the terrific location. Another was filled with busy, out-dated wallpaper and had a cedar-shake roof that appeared to have more moss than wood. Both screamed,"maintenance nightmare."

Many of the homes that were 12-20 years old had outdated plumbing fixtures, paint and carpet colors. Others had ceiling stains from current or previous leaks. Poorly maintained decks were also frequent. Even in great condition, it's hard for these properties to compete with newer ones in newer subdivisions. In poor or even mediocre condition it's impossible.

We looked at newer homes that were built in the last 5 yrs and even there some of the conditions were apalling. One in particular had great curb appeal, but walking up to the fron door we noticed the shrubbery was infested with bag worms, even to the extent of having bags on the railing and around the front door. Inside, the property had been beaten up. There were several holes in the drywall and lots of tape-joint cracks and nail pops. Needless to say, we didn't spend much time there.

It amazes me that some listing agents, even veterans, don't sit down and have an honest "heart to heart" with their sellers. In addition to the deficiencies noted above, many of the homes, regardless of age, were cluttered, filled with personal items and collectables and often just too much "stuff." People need to know what it takes to make their home competitive. After all that's what they hire us for. If done tactfully and authoritatively, sellers will not be offended and will thank us when the showing feedbacks come in.

Life is Short- RIP Jerry Fuchs

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:50:15 -0600

Wow- being on Facebook this evening has been a trip down memory lane. From a post of my 1993 Pope High School Bands of America Winning Marching Video to a good friend in grade school who suddenly passed yesterday whom I hadn't seen since I was in fifth grade. Jerry was a kind friend, the kind that not many of us had. As one who got picked on and was not popular, I didn't have many true friends. Jerry was one. We hung out and did all the things elementary school kids do. I had lost touch with him since we went to different middle and high schools. It turns out that our paths were very similar with us both becoming musicians. Musicians have a bond with one another even before God has revealed our talent. My sympathy goes out to his family who was always very gracious in having me over. Please watch this short clip of this amazing talent.

Ronald Reagan Parkway Extension: Beginning Stages

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:10:36 -0600

Gwinnett County has convened an exploratory committee to explore the possibility of expanding Ronald Reagan Parkway so it connects with 85. $2 million has been put on the table to explore and plan. A community meeting was held a few nights ago. Notes from that meeting will be included in a future post.

Ronald Reagan Parkway is one of the nicest roads in Gwinnett. Although less than 10 miles long, it feels like you are driving through the mountains. The trees that were planted and left up are magnificant this time of year. Look for a future post on the beauty of the parkway.

100% Financing, Free Down Payments in Gwinnett County

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:43:47 -0600

Just when you thought it was gone, one of our local banks is now offering 100% financing on some of its foreclosed or short-saled communities. This is a great opportunity for those who are paying high rent but don't have tons of cash to take advantage of getting into a home with equity and a lower payment then their rent was.

There are also many different programs available for 1st time buyers that give them their down payment or match their downpayment.

We are living in unprecedented times in regards to incentives to purchase a home. Combine these incentives with low interest rates and their has never been a better time to buy or sell.

Tax Credit Extended...Brookwood Area Get Ready to Sell

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:33:32 -0600

The tax credit has been extended until 4/30/2010. This means you have until that day to be under contract. You must close by 6/30/2010 to be eligible for the tax credit. For first time buyers, it is $8000 and for existing homeowners who have been in their residences for 5 of the last 8 years and are purchasing a primary residence, the credit is $6500. As always, check with your tax advisor to make sure you are eligible for a credit.

This credit will help well established communities such as the community around Brookwood High School with move up buyers. With new homes being available from the $190's to $900K, The Brookwood area is sure to see some movement with this new incentive. If you are thinking of moving or upsizing, now is the perfect time.

The Corner Stop Cafe: One of Northeast Georgias Best Kept Secrets

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:07:17 -0500

Seeking a family friendly place to have a relaxing lunch, I decided to go to downtown Lawrenceville. Even though I live just a few short miles from this wonderful area, I seldom take advantage of all of the fantastic dining, shopping, and atmosphere of this great downtown area.

There is a myriad of restauraunts in the "square". We parked and on one side of the square, we had four choices. One of which I had eaten in before and the others were mysteries. As we walked, there was a nice sign outside of the Corner Stop Cafe letting us know the days specials. When I saw mac and cheese, I knew this was the place for us.

Located in one of the historic buildings in Lawrenceville, the place is just brimming with history. Classic hardwoods adorn the floors. Country style tables and chairs perhaps bring memories of having a great meal with with family in the comfort of your home. On the wall is a banner that lets everyone know they were selected as one of the best places in Lawrenceville to eat lunch.

I got the pot roast and my spouse ordered the country fried steak. Portions were generous. You get your choice of biscuits or corn bread which make for great starters as they come in a basket. You can choose from 2 sides as well. We selected the fried okra and mashed potatoes. My daughter had the "kids' portion of mac and cheese. The size was more adult like than "kid". The portions were huge on all of our meals. We came in very hungry and left full and very satisfied.

For 3 adults and a child, lunch rang in at about $30. This included drinks as well. All in all, I give it a 5 star rating.

Snellville News: Brookwood High School, The Today Show

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:47:50 -0500

Brookwood graduate Amy Robach, now one of the Today Show hosts, returned to Brookwood high school to do a segment on the school. One of her classmates is now one of the teachers and her family still runs the drama department. It was great to see the contrast of how things have changed since she graduated in 1991 versus today and how things have also stayed the same. Click here for the link.

Congratulations to Brookwood High School Teacher of the Year: Joe Cox who has also been named one of the 6 finalists for Gwinnett County's Teacher of the Year.

Bringing the kids to show homes... okay or not?

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:45:29 -0500

Welcome to my world. I have a 14 month old and an almost 3.5 year old. Life is busy. Life as an agent is also very busy. How do you find that proper balance of time between family and the demands of your clients, who typically need you right when you are trying to put one of your kiddos to sleep?

I have read and heard various commentaries on this very topic of family versus business. We were encouraged in our pre-license class to leave a message on our phone saying that calls left after a certain time may not be returned until the following business day. To me, if I were the consumer, that would say that when I need you the most, namely after I get off of work, you will not be there since your work day ends at 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. While there are certain limits, offering your clients some other way to communicate with you in their time of need helps quite a bit.

This brings us to our main topic: should you or can you bring your kids to show homes with you? From a strictly logical perspective, most of us would say NO WAY! I have a hard enough getting my kiddo to behave at my home, let alone someone elses. What if your other half has a commitment they told you about 2 weeks ago, but you have a client who is looking in a lucrative price point for you wants to go out? What do you do?

Where am I going with this- all this relates back to customer service. Most clients, in my experience, will appreciate that you are willing to go all out for them, even if it means bringing your kids with you. In the course of conversation, I am sure that you have let them know that you have kids. Most clients you will be working with also have kids and are totally empathetic. In fact, bringing the kids can add an extra level of service you didn't even think about: relatability. You are showing your most valuable thing in life to them. Most, especially at the age my kids are, go nuts over how cute they are, especially over the 14 month old.

This is not to say I do this all the time, but there are times where it is necessary. Our kids are our most precious gifts. They can give to our business in ways that may not always seem apparent. Making yourself relatable to your clients will greatly help your business to improve in ways that you can't even imagine.

Search Foreclosures: Snellville, Georgia

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:30:39 -0500

I have a brand new website that is dedicated to serving Snellville, Lawrenceville, Grayson and the Lilburn areas of Gwinnett County. Search for foreclosures or any other type of home. Get useful information on buying and selling. Check it out:

www.liveinsnellville.com

Atlanta Flooding Videos

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:35:58 -0500

More You Tube Footage:

Click Here

Flooding in North Atlanta

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:22:03 -0500

Click here for You Tube Footage of the flooding.

Wet in Atlanta- Gwinnett County Schools Cancelled Tomorrow

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:16:40 -0500

Many of you have heard that Atlanta is getting pounded with tons of rain. In my part of Snellville, I did venture out during one of the downfalls to get some stuff for my kids. One road was backed up with traffic and many yards were starting to look flooded. I was the last one in the grocery store- they were closing as I pulled up and were merciful enough to let me in to get milk for my kids. My hats off to the Aldi in Lawrenceville for being so customer friendly.

My neighbors to the right of me have had some water seeping in through the basement. We have all been out in our yards trying to make sure that our homes will be ok. We are weathering the storm thus far. I was going to include some pictures, but my cell won't let me email them to myself to include- it is too cloudy out and not enough signal. Click here to see pictures of the Atlanta area and what is happening.

Brookwood and Parkview: Top 20 Solds in Last 2 Weeks

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:28:56 -0500

Here is the Brookwood/Parkview area area 64 top 21 properties sold. Top means that they range from most expensive on down. This will really help you see where the sweet part of the market is and where buyers are buying. There are a few properties scattered in the mix that were high priced in the Berkmar (3) and Central Gwinnett Districts (1).

This area also encompasses other school districts. There were 60+ properties in neighboring school districts that went for less than the lowest priced home here.

Please click on the link(s) below to view property information.

Buyer Full

The link(s) sent with this email will expire in 30 days on 10/1/2009.

Jamie Parker
Solid Source Realty
NAMAR ELITE REALTOR
www.liveinsnellville.com
jamiepsellshomes@yahoo.com
404-483-7816

Information is believed reliable, but is not guaranteed.

6416 Gina Agha Circle: Best Yard Ever...Seriously

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:07:19 -0500

6416 Gina Agha Circle, Lithonia,GA 30038

Location: Riverbend Overlook

Totally renovated from top to bottom. New flooring, kitchen counter tops,fence, interior paint,storm doors, thermal pane windows, model home. Beautiful lower level basement suite with 1/2 bath and bedroom with a sitting area. Gorgeous back yard- you have to see to believe. Won't last long! A perfect 10 in every way. Great location. Just minutes from I-20 and Stonecrest Mall.

Information

Contact Information

Jamie Parker

404-483-7816

www.liveinsnellville.com

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Price: $148,000.00

Property Location

6416 Gina Agha Circle
Lithonia, GA 30038
View Map

Links

Features

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 2003

Subdivision: Riverbend Overlook

Garage Size: 2

School District: Martin Luther King Jr

Square Footage: 1939

Agent Name: Jamie Parker

Broker: Solid Source Realty

MLS #: 2536482

Yard: Professionally Landscaped

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Vaulted Ceilings

Basement

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (8 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 2733658

We are all God's Master Piece Watch and Learn

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:49:49 -0500

God's masterpiece:

Let him chisel away at you and make you into his creation- remember that he doesn't make junk.

Great Chinese food in Lawrenceville

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:35:20 -0500

If you live in the Lawrenceville area, you have to check out this place called Lavender. They are a gourmet Chinese and Thai restaurant. Their food is unlike most other Chinese food. They serve many unique dishes, including Sweet and Sour Shrimp.

You may be thinking, what is so unique about that? It is all in the sauce baby! Not only is it sweet, they include fresh strawberries, pineapple and peaches in the sauce that the shrimp is saute`d in. It is the best I have ever had, and we are Chinese food junkies.

Like soup? Their hot and sour is among the best, not too hot and not to sour. Better yet is their coconut soup, made with coconut milk, chicken and veggies.

Check out this link to see what Yahoo travel users say. I am not the only one who thinks so! Happy Dining!

Bridgemill Beauty: 1036 Bridgemill Ave

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 21:04:02 -0500

Links

Photo Gallery

Great Curb Appeal	Spacious Great Room	Open Kitchen
Kitchen View	Beautiful Dining Room	Nice windows
Gorgeous Back Yard	Master Bath

Description

Nice 3/2 ranch, upgraded wood floors in kitchen,foyer,dining, and nook, upgraded ceramic tile in bathrooms,jetted tub in master, ceiling fans,back yard adjacent to woods with patio and deck, hot tub, riding distance to Blankets Creek bike trail, great swim/tennis/golf community.This home has been very well maintained. Have it all and live in Bridgemill, one of Canton's premier communities.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1999
Subdivision:	Bridgemill
Lot Size:	.37
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Woodstock
Square Footage:	1689
Agent Name:	Jamie Parker
Broker:	Solid Source Realty
MLS #:	02730895, 3951543
Yard:	Level, private

Location

1036 Bridgemill Ave Canton GA 30114

vFlyer Id: 2726706

Housing is up 7.2%...$8000 tax credit...what are you waiting for?

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:42:01 -0500

July saw housing sales increase 7.2%. With the tax credit soon expiring, buyers should be flocking to snap up what is available. This is a positive trend that has continued for the past 4 months. This is the biggest increase in sales since August of 2007. This is great news for realtors, buyers and sellers.

My experience has been that my listings are selling quick. It certainly backs up the recent statistics. Whether you need to buy or sell, now is a great time.

Facebook and Business

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 21:07:47 -0500

I received the below email from someone I know who received an newsletter from me. They went on further to talk about Facebook:

I dislike the advertising you are doing on Facebook wall to wall. I'm not sure if that's authorized on Terms of Use. (Facebook normally gets paid money for advertising displayed; there might even be some level of liability.)

Like anyone else who uses Facebook, I use it to report what I am doing both peronsally and with my business. I often reference my Active Rain posts on Facebook, including my listings and open houses, to try and draw interest to my blog and business.

How do others use Facebook? Is what I am doing a violation?

Brookwood High School Open House: 1496 Sheridan Place, Sunday from 2-4 p.m. Flowers Crossing at the Mill

Jamie Parker Snellville Realtor, Gwinnett Realtor (Solid Source Realty ) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:45:18 -0500

Links

Photo Gallery

		Breakfast area in Kitchen
Family Room	Front Porch	Master Bath
Master Bedroom w/ Sitting Nook	Master Bedroom Sitting Area

Description

You won't find a more well maintained home. The owners of this magnificent home have kept this home in tip top condition. You will find it hard to believe that it isn't new. This home has it all. Brick front, hardiplank siding, Granite counter tops, hardwood floors, 2 story foyer, energy efficient windows, electric water heater, spectacular entry foyer with beautiful custom door and transoms, private front porch with interior access, spiral front exterior stair case with iron rail, level yard, and gorgeous landscaping.

The master bedroom features a sitting room as well as a sitting nook. It also has trey ceilings and his and her closets (hers is big enough to live in!). The master bath is huge and features separate vanities and a jetted tub.

The other bedrooms each have access to a bathroom (3 total baths upstairs). Two share a jack and jill bath and one has its own dedicated bathroom.

The kitchen is totally updated with recessed lighting, granite counter tops, and tile back splash. You need to see the detail in the tile to believe how beautiful it is.

The finished basement contains a full bath, office and huge bedroom with plenty of light.

This is one home that you will find hard to bit. Priced right and in the Brookwood School district in the Flowers Crossing at the Mill neighborhood which has swim, tennis, a lake and a playground. You and your family will enjoy this gem for many years to come.

Features

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	4.5
Year Built:	1998
Subdivision:	Flowers Crossing at the Mill
Lot Size:	.36
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Brookwood
Square Footage:	3400
Agent Name:	Jamie Parker
Broker:	Solid Source Realty
MLS #:	3885127
Basement:	Finished

Location

1496 Sheridan Place Lawrenceville GA 30044

vFlyer Id: 2415947