The Front Porch View Blog

2009 3rd Quarter Union County Residential Market Report

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:33:11 -0600

Much like the Fannin County Residential Market Report, we have some positive news as well as some not so good news. I would like to begin with the not so good news and end this post on a positive note. Seller's are continuing to be plagued with the Foreclosure and Short Sale Markets. The median Sold Price for Union County is down 25%. That is a change of almost $50,000 from October of 2008. Our average days on market for the Homes For Sale In Blairsville, GA. is up 35%. Since August of this year, we have seen a decrease each month in the number of days on market which is again mostly due in part to the number of Foreclosures and the aggressive pricing that the Banks are placing on their REO's.

That's all for the negative, isn't that nice? Now for some good news. The number of Homes Sold in Blairsville Georgia continues to climb. Union County home sales are up 18%, which sounds a lot better than if I were to say 4 more than October of 2008. It is still positive news any way you slice it. The Residential Inventory in Union County is decreasing each month, down 15% or 137 fewer Homes For Sale this October. The number of Homes that are Under Contract or that have gone Pending is also up 7%, a change of 2 from last October. With new construction still very slow, our number of new properties listed are way down, 37% which is 40 less new listings than we had a year ago. This may not sound like good news, but I actually believe it is. We have a lot of old inventory that we desperately need to get rid of so that more and more new construction can begin again. Finally, our Absorption Rate is down 17%. This tells us the number of months that it would take to sell all the Residential Inventory that we currently have at current market conditions. Right now that number is 23 months.

Thanks so much for coming up on "The Porch" for another North Georgia Mountain Market Report. I really appreciate it and hope that you do come back again real soon. If you know of someone looking to Buy or Sell North Georgia Mountain Real Estate, I would be grateful if you would pass along to them My Contact information. Even better, forward them this post or a link to The Front Porch View.

Batchphoto Is A must For The Realtor

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:26:28 -0600

How many of you have procrastinated in downloading your pictures from your digital camera because you just don't want to take the time to process the pictures, re-size for uploads, add filters, touch them up, or even organize them into folders? Well I know from experience that if you are in the Real Estate, pictures sells houses, and the more pictures you have the better the chance you have of someone taking a look at your clients property.

Well have I got a solution for you. Batchphoto is a powerful photo manipulation program that makes it easy to convert, re-size, watermark, annotate, touch-up, apply affects and rename hundreds of photos in a single operation. Instead of enhancing and adjusting pictures individually, Batchphoto lets you select a group of images, define a series of edits, and apply them in a single operation.

It is AMAZING! An absolute must for anyone who is constantly taking hours upon hours going through other inferior software products that make you re-size photos one-by-one. Before Batchphoto, it would literally take me hours to process photos for my listings. I would re-size all the photos that I would plan on using for the listings and put them in one folder, I would do the same for my Virtual Tours, and yet another for higher resolution use. It would take FOREVER! Now with Batchphoto I am done in minutes and I have so many more options that I love for use in my online social networking. One great feature that I love is the use of watermarks. I love taking photos of these beautiful North Georgia Mountains and sharing them online. Well, I noticed that many of my competitors were using my very own photos on their websites. Now that I have Batchphoto, I can put a watermark on the photos before I post them and it detours anyone from using my photos. This is just one of many features that I have discovered using Batchphoto.

So, you no longer have to fret and pile all of those images on your memory card putting off the dreaded job of processing those pictures. Now with the use of Batchphoto, you can be done in no time and back out doing what you love to do....taking pictures! Give it a try, you will be glad you did I promise.

Owen Glen In Blairsville Georgia Is Now Taking Reservations On Selected Lots

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:19:47 -0600

On Thursday of last week, United Community Bank and the Owen Glen Sales Team announced a limited time opportunity to reserve up to 2 lots from a selected few at drastically reduced pricing. Owen Glen, an affordable Mountain Golf Community currently has lots available from $30,000. In addition to the low prices comes low financing rates. For a limited time, United Community Bank will be offering special financing of 2.99% on a 15 year Amortization with a 3 Year Call with 20% Down.

Owen Glen is located in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains just minutes north of Blairsville, GA. It is a 350 Acre Gated Master-Planned Community. There will be Architectural Guidelines as well as protective Covenants and Restrictions. As of now those guidelines and covenants have not been finalized. They did mention that the Architectural Guidelines would favor "Mountain Traditional" but not leading to anything definite in plans. Home sites will be from 0.75 acres to larger 5 acres lots with golf, wooded and mountains views.

There are plans for several amenities for Owen Glen. The biggest of course is the Old Union Golf Course. This is a Denis Griffiths designed course, who by the way is the only American to design a golf course in St. Andrews Scotland. It opened in Summer of 2009 and I have had the opportunity to play Old Union and I can honestly say that it has the potential of being my absolute favorite course to play in all of North Georgia. It is a 7,667 yard championship length course, Par 72 with 5 sets of tees. There will be a practice facility with double tiered 400 yard grass range, two separate short game target greens, as well as a full putting green. The Golf Shop has plans to open by the end of 2009, but they are currently working out of a temporary trailer. There will be PGA Golf Professionals on hand to offer lessons and clinics.

Other amenities include miles and miles of walking and biking trails, trout fishing in Ivy Creek, and future plans of a picnic area complete with playground, pavilion, Owen Glen Community House, as well as tennis courts and a pool. Nearby you can enjoy Lake Nottely, Lake Chatuge, and Lake Blue Ridge. The North Georgia Mountains are full of hiking and mountain biking trails, charming historic towns filled with unique dining and shopping experiences, mountain streams and rivers for rafting and fishing, festivals and the list just goes on and on.

If you would like more information on Owen Glen, or I have already peaked your interest enough to want to look into a Weekend Discovery Package, please Contact Me, or give me a call at 706.994.8686. This is a Bank Owned Property and I would greatly appreciate it if you would allow me to offer you the information on Owen Glen, but only if you first learned of Owen Glen from this website. A quick registration and you will be on your way to finding out all there is to know about this great Mountain Community. I promise you, my family and I will be grateful that you did.

Thank You so much for taking the time to learn a little more about this great new community in our North Georgia Mountains. Please come back and visit me on "The Porch" anytime that you see fit. You are always welcome.

Make it a GREAT day!

Log Cabin For Sale Within Riverwood Heights In Blue Ridge, GA.

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 21:16:04 -0500

Year-round Blue Ridge View on 3 acres+

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Video
Neighborhood

$250,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Lot: 3.46 acre(s)

Location

Lot 1 Riverwood Heights
Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Chad Lariscy

Blairsville Realty
(706) 745-3000
Chad@TheFrontPorchView.com
http://www.thefrontporchview.com

Listed by: Chad Lariscy

Our recent listings

Year-round Blue Ridge View on 3 acres+

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Blue Ridge, GA real estate for sale

How Would You Like To Wake up to This every Morning?

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:06:15 -0500

This is a North Georgia Mountain Home of a good friend of mine. It is looking out over the Cohutta Wilderness in the Mount Pisgah Development just outside of Blue Ridge Georgia.

Cabin For Sale In Cherry Log, GA. - 409 Little Rock Creek Court

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 20 May 2009 09:49:05 -0500

This Log Cabin for Sale in Cherry Log, GA. is located at 409 Little Rock Creek Court. A beautiful drive up to the cabin just off of Highway 515 along Little Rock Creek, just outside The Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area. Cherry Log is a small community within Gilmer County , actually a little closer to Blue Ridge, GA which is just inside the Fannin County line. Cherry Log was put on the map because of The Pink Pig , a famous B-B-Q restaurant right in the heart of Cherry Log. Past President Jimmy Carter has often been seen there frequently enjoying himself some Good Ole’ B-B-Q!

This Cabin has recently undergone many upgrades, expansions and renovations. To start with , the Kitchen cabinets and counter tops as well as some of the appliances have been upgraded. A very nice double door refrigerator with freezer on the bottom has been added. The Master Suite has been recently extended offering a spacious yet cozy feel. There is a sitting area in front, currently being used as a home office, as well as a very large walk-in closet. The main level bathroom features a separate tub, corner shower, and double vanities. It too has recently been upgraded with tiled flooring.

Click Here for more information on this Listing in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains.

10 Reasons To Retire In The North Georgia Mountians: Reason 1

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:14:29 -0500

A good friend and business associate Art Miller who is also a Realtor here at Blairsville Realty, has been heavily invested in writing an article for the Blairsville Union County Chamber of Commerce about the 10 Best Reasons To Retire in the North Georgia Mountains. I asked Art if he wouldn’t mind if I posted his thoughts here on The Porch so that you will know “Why You Should Retire in the North Georgia Mountains!”

Reason 1: Why You Should Retire In The North Georgia Mountains

Our Weather, Climate and Change of Seasons!

Union County ranges in elevation from 1,600 ft. to 4,784 ft. above sea level. Because of its unique topography, Union County offers residents Four Distinct Seasons. Winters are generally mild, with an occasional dusting of snow. The average annual snowfall is 3 inches. Spring brings new life to the Mountains in the form of vibrant yellow-green leaves and many colorful wild flowers. Summers are mostly comfortable, with cool evenings. Autumns bring vibrant colorful changes in the leaves, making the North Georgia Mountains and particularly Union County one of the most popular for leaf-watching. Union County’s average rainfall is approximately 65 inches.

Thank you so much Art for allowing me to share your information here on The Porch. This will make a great series of articles that I am sure will be a great benefit to those who visit.

Thanks so much to you for stopping by and visiting me here on The Porch. If you have any questions or concerns about Blairsville Georgia, or any of the surrounding areas here in the North Georgia Mountains, I would be happy to answer them for you. Although I have been fortunate enough to have been born and raised here in these Mountains, you can bet that it is still at the Top on My List on places I want to retire. Unfortunately it will be a few more years for me!

Come back tomorrow to find out Reason # 2 to Retire in The North Georgia Mountains.

Make it a GREAT day!

Your Local Gas Station May Be Able To Tell you Tomorrow's Mortgage Rates

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:10:20 -0500

The retail price of gasoline is rising nationwide, now up 30 percent since the New Year.

It’s a similar run-up to what we’ve seen for retail gas prices in each of the last 5 Spring Seasons.

For people trying to time the mortgage markets bottom, clues about the future of mortgage rates may be at the local gas station.

Rising gas prices are indicative of the rising cost of energy and, indeed, crude oil is closing in on its 2009 high point. As these energy costs grow, so do inflationary pressures on the U.S. economy.

Inflation, of course, is awful for mortgage rates. When it’s present, mortgage markets deteriorate and rates tend to rise — often sharply and with little advance warning.

So, for today’s home buyers-in-process and would-be refinancers, prices at the pump may fore shadow bad news for the future of housing affordability. Even a modest, quarter-percent increase would have a palpable effect on payments, adding $372 in annual costs to a $200,000 home loan.

Since last week, gas prices are already up by 10 cents per gallon.

Here in the North Georgia Mountains, this unfortunately has a huge impact on the number of Home Buyer’s we have coming to the area. Since we are primarily a destination point and a Second Home Real Estate Market, when Gas Prices Rise I suppose folks are not as quick to jump in the car for a nice get-a-way to the Mountains. All we have to do is get you here, these North Georgia Mountains do all the selling for us!

If these Gas Prices don’t rise too much and you find yourself on I-75 heading North, please drop in and see me here at Blairsville Realty when you get into town. If you are just needing some information on the area, or you want to know a great place to eat, or just want to chat, I would be glad to assist you with any need you may have. We usually are solving the world’s problems in the foyer of the office anyway, so you might as well drop in and give us your two cents!

Make it a GREAT day!

Blairsville Union County Georgia Chamber Announces NEW Tourism Campaign

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:13:13 -0600

Members of the Blairsville - Union County Chamber of Commerce today made an exciting announcement on the New Tourism Marketing Campaign. "Each Season...Something New" is the new theme that seems so fitting to our beautiful Mountain community. Blairsville Georgia is the "Escape from the Daily Routine of Life" declared Cindy Williams, President of the Chamber. It truly is a Fun and Exciting place to visit every season throughout the year. It seems there is always something new, from a Festival or a Concert, to a Parade or Show going on in the community. Not to mention the most important, the beautiful seasons that we have here in the North Georgia Mountains.

There were over 160 in attendance today for the "Big Announcement" at the North Georgia Technical College. Many members of our community and merchants of Blairsville were in attendance with much anticipation. Cindy and her staff did an outstanding job in their presentation with the launch of our New Tourism Marketing Campaign. A slide show was presented with many key statistics on our community and ways in which the committee for tourism will be working in the future to promote Blairsville, Ga.

A lot of emphasis was placed Read the rest of the Story Here.

Breathing Easy! Awarness of Radon Gases In The North Georgia Mountains

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 20:13:19 -0600

In dealing with a recent transaction, I have become very aware of the dangers involved with Radon Gases in North Georgia. Radon causes Lung Cancer and kills thousands of Americans every year, in Non-Smokers and Smokers alike. As a matter of fact, Radon is the number 1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Overall, Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Unfortunately I know this to be true, I lost my Mother-In-Law to lung cancer very sudden in the Spring of 2007. She never smoked a day in her life.

What Is Radon Gas And Where Does It Come From?

You can’t see Radon, nor can you smell or taste it. Radon is a radioactive gas. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up from the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can then build up. Any home may have a problem with Radon. This means new homes as well as older homes, well sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements. To the right is an illustration showing the State of Georgia and the levels of Radon that have been detected through tests results taken by the EPA. Red indicates Higher potential results of indoor Radon screening. Orange, which the North Georgia Mountain Region falls under, indicates a Moderate potential screening level of 2 and 4 pCi/L. The test results of the recent transaction taking by Ron Gill with Pillar To Post home Inspections that I mentioned earlier, was higher than 6 pCi/L. Anything over a 4 pCi/L is an unacceptable level. Yellow indicates the Lowest potential indoor Radon screening.

If you would like to have your home tested for Radon, here is my recommendation. Ron Gill with Pillar To Post Home Inspections can conduct a Test for you using the lastest technology. The Radon Test will cost $200 without a Home Inspection, and $175 while performing a Home Inpection.

A must read is the The United States Environmental Protection Agency “Home Buyer’s and Sellers Guide to Radon.” This guide gives great tips on Why you should test, How to test, and What To Do if you get higher than average results of Radon Gas in your home. Read the rest of this entry »

National Forest View From This Front Porch In Blue Ridge, GA.

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 19:57:42 -0600

This is a Spectacular Front Porch View in the North Georgia Mountains. This view can be found just South of Blue Ridge in the Dial area. The view from this Cabin is located in Black Ankle Mountain, a small Gated Community about 15 miles from Downtown Blue Ridge, GA. When I took this picture back in the late summer of 2008 they were putting the finishing touches on this Cabin For Sale in the North Georgia Mountains.

There are currently Two Cabins Available within Black Ankle Mountain. The Cabin with this incredible Front Porch View is one of the two that is available for $325,000. The second Cabin For Sale is available for $364,000 which also features amazing North Georgia Mountain Views.

The One Most Important fact that makes this view so spectacular is that it is looking out over the Rich Mountain Wildlife Area which is apart of the Chattahoochee National Forest.

If you would like more information on either of these Two Cabins For Sale In Blue Ridge, GA., please Contact Me, or you can call me at your convenience at 706.633.8186. Thanks so much for enjoying this Front Porch View in the Georgia Mountain Real Estate Market.

Make it a GREAT day!

Peaceful Mountain Morning In Blairsville Georgia

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 13:59:00 -0600

On my way into the office one morning back in the early part of December, I noticed the low lying clouds that surrounded me. It was the perfect time to catch a picture at the Top of The Summit, a Residential Development in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains located just outside of Blairsville Georgia.

There is currently one Home For Sale within The Summit, and 18 Residential Lots For Sale. The views are Spectacular not only at the top, but from virtually anywhere within the development.

If you would like for Me to provide you with additional information about the North Georgia Mountains, or more particularly The Summit in Blairsville, GA., I would be grateful for the opportunity to assist you with any Real Estate need you may have and answer any question you may have. I have recently posted a Union County Residential Market Report that you might find interesting as well.

You can Contact Me or you can give me a call on this gadget that is attached to my hip 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That number is 706.633.8186. I absolutely love my job, and I would love to help you in anyway. I hope you enjoy the Pictures, I thought they turned out pretty good.

Make it an Awesome Weekend!

North Georgia Union County Residential Market Report

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 13:11:32 -0600

I want to go ahead and apologize a little bit in advance because you are going to think that I have absolutely lost my mind as you continue to read through this post. I am going to be jumping all over the place as I report to you exactly where we were as far back as 4 years ago when I got into Real Estate, where we are now, and of course where I think we are going.

As you can see from this first Graph, we have seen a very sharp decline in sales here in Union County progressively over the course of the past 4 years. However, as you will see in later posts, that it is not just Union County that has been seeing numbers like this. Over in Blue Ridge Georgia, and Ellijay Georgia, Mountain Homes For Sale there have also been on the rise because of a decrease in Homes being Sold. I have to say that it is very hard for me to get my head around the fact that there were only 8 Residential Sales in Union County this past December. There are over 200 Licensed Realtors in Blairsville according to our Northeast Georgia Board of Realtors, so let’s say 6 different Realtors sold a Mountain Home or Cabin last month, that means that over 184 Realtors in Union County worked for Free!

So what is going on with the North Georgia Mountain Home Pricing in Union County?

If you have read any of my previous North Georgia Market Reports, then you know it is my first time to took a good hard look at Price Distribution. What is Price Distribution? Good Question, and when you find out please leave me a comment and let me know would you? Actually, Price Distribution is nothing more than taking the number of Homes Listed, the Number of Homes Sold, and the number of Homes For Sale, all within a given period of time at certain price points. These price points are usually within $25,000 to $50,000 in increments, and each increment is then given a number based upon the data in each classifications above. Now you may want to know what the difference is between number of Home Listed and Number of Homes For Sale. Simple, Homes Listed is all the Homes that have been for sale or listed in a given period of time, and Homes For Sale are only those Homes that are currently on the Multiple Listing Service at that time. This is a Great Tool to use while helping a Client Sell their Mountain Home in this Shifting Market. It is an outstanding strategy tool that if used properly can give you things such as a safe but aggressive pricing strategy, it can help you to know exactly where the competition is and where you need to be. Right now the highest concentrated Homes that are being Sold in Union County is in the $160,000 to $180,000 price range.

Read the rest of this entry »

Union County Taking Action To Reduce Emergency Response Time

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 12:31:04 -0600

In an attempt to Reduce Emergency Response Time in Union County, residents may have to put up with a little aggravation. There will be more than 13,000 marker signs put in place throughout Blairsville and all of Union County. This means that your current address may change. “Boy, I am glad I didn’t spend the money for that new Address Sign Engraved with our Family name on it!” I am sure that this is going to inconvenience a lot of folks out there, but an aggravation that could even save their Mountain Home or even their own lives.

There are 2 Very Important things to know if you are a Primary Resident or even if you own a Second Home, or Vacation Home in Union County.

Do NOT move the Markers once they have been put in place

Do NOT use the New Address until officially notified by Union County.

If you are affected by the change, and there is a very good chance you will, then there is some Good News. You will have 6 Months to notify everyone of your New Address. During this time, the Post Office will deliver your mail to both your Old and New Address.

With this New Addressing Method in place, Union County should never have to re-address again. Commissioner Paris was quoted in The North Georgia News as saying “Our current numbering system is seriously outdated which could hamper response time in an emergency situation.” He did also go on to say “Most street and road names will remain the same, with only house numbers changing. However, there may be some road name changes but only when necessary to clear up confusing situations.”

I know that this will be such an aggravation, but I understand why the County is making the change. Please keep in mind that this is being done primarily for the safety of everyone in Union County. A little inconvenience now could save a lifetime of memories down the road. If you have any questions for the Commissioner, you can call him at 706.439.6000, or email at Union County Government.

If you don’t have an Address in the Blue Ridge, or Blairsville Georgia area and would like one, I am Your Man! I would be grateful for the opportunity to work with you for all of your Real Estate needs in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains. You can Contact Me or pick up that phone and give me a call Right Now at 706.633.8186. I would really appreciate it.

Make it a Great Day!

Satisfied Clients Within Coosawattee River Resort In Ellijay Georgia

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:37:14 -0600

"Having purchased and sold over 20 homes around the country ... we have seen the highs and lows of the realtor world and Melissa and I both agree the efforts you placed in selling our mountain property proved beyond doubt you are at the top of the class. So many of the other realtors in the market just "show" properties and the striking difference with your approach is you actually "sell" the property to the other realtors & buyers in the market. Simply put you are difference maker in the transaction. As you know we made a mistake in not knowing you when we first listed our property costing us at least $75,000 in lost profits due to a turn in the market but once we enlisted your help and support things changed immediately as you created, pursued and eventually found a buyer and closed our deal. Our only regret is not having listed our mountain property with you first! You know you will be our first call for any future North GA Mountain Properties ... and I am sure you will be hearing from our friends, too!"

Jeff & Melissa Olsen

Jeff and Melissa are class acts in my book. It was very much a pleasure to become good friends with them over the course of our business together. I am glad to know that I have made friends for life with the Olsens. Thanks so much Jeff and Melissa, I am blessed that our paths have crossed.

Chad Lariscy

Blairsville Realty Chosen As Business of the Quarter 2009!

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 10:16:26 -0600

The Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce has named Blairsville Realty as Business of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2009! Our Broker Robert Rogers, has been in the North Georgia Real Estate industry since 1995, and he is a native of Union County.

Robert is very glad to be back at home in our current location in Blairsville, Georgia. Robert previously owned and operated Rogers Realty Group from 2003 to late 2005 when he was given an offer he couldn't refuse to purchase his company. After selling in 2005, Robert remained in Real Estate, but concentrated his time and energy in development. Robert has been involved with the development of 3 North Georgia Mountain developments. He was involved with the development of Harbin Woods in Union County, Meadow Brooke in Towns County, and Pinnacle Ridge in Rabun County.

After somewhat regretting the sale of his Real Estate office, Robert had the opportunity to buy it back which he felt was the perfect location in Downtown Blairsville, GA. He wasted no time with the purchase, and merged companies with his Brother David Hancock who at the time owned and operated Blairsville Realty. Blairsville Realty has been a recognized name in Real Estate around the Blairsville and North Georgia Mountain Area for over 20 years. Read the rest of this entry »

Union County Property Taxes Will NOT Increase In 2009

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:06:42 -0600

In a recent article written by Norman Cooper in our North Georgia News, he quoted Union County Commissioner Lamar Paris as saying this, "we have projected our 2009 expenses to be covered without a Property Tax Increase."

Based upon a public hearing that was held back in December of 2008 where Lamar Paris went over Union County's budget for 2009, he also stated "...we are thankful with the economic slow down that we will be able to maintain our 2008 budget."

This is great news for Union County Residents here in the North Georgia Mountains. Last years Tax Increase was substantial in my opinion so it is good to hear that our Property Taxes will be remaining the same for 2009.

One thing that I also read in the article that disturbed me was the fact that there will be an increase of 3.3% for Health Care for Jail Inmates of Union County. A total of $124, 050.03 is budgeted for this year to cover this cost. Are you kidding me? One thing I don't get involved in and especially on my site is politics, but I guess I just haven't ever realized that we are paying for Criminals to have Health Care when so many Law Abiding Citizens are struggling to afford it, even if they have it! Unbelievable. Commissioner Paris went on to say, "Health Care for inmates continues to be a huge cost that is, unfortunately, a part of owning a jail." I agree Mr. Paris, it is unfortunate.

There are many ways to research Property Taxes here in Blairsville Georgia, and all the other surrounding counties. If I can be of any assistance to you, or if I can provide you with any advice such as how to save on your Homeowners Property Tax, please call me at 706.633.8186 or you can email me at Chad@TheFrontPorchView.com. Thanks so much for visiting and come back often.

Tips On Making Your North Georia Mountain Home Safe

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:03:47 -0600

Recently I received a call from a past client with alarming news. Unfortunately their new Georgia Mountain Cabin had been burglarized just before the new year. After talking with them and receiving an email with some great tips for detouring future break-ins, I decided to do a little research myself and I believe that I have come up with some great tips for you to keep your North Georgia Mountain Cabin more safe.

I do want to say that Union County, Fannin County, and Gilmer County are among the lowest in crime rates in the entire state of Georgia. This is one of among many things that make purchasing a Retirement Home or Second Home so attractive, not too mention the beautiful North Georgia Mountains, change of seasons, the Rivers and Lakes that is far and above the most attractive. Read the rest of this entry »

Union County High School Achieves Gold Award

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:48:22 -0600

North Georgia News has reported that Union County High School in Blairsville Georgia, has achieved a Gold Award under Georgia's Single Statewide Accountability System (SSAS). The accountability is based upon the students performance on Georgia curriculum exams and Adequate Yearly Progress status.

The Governor's Office of Student Achievement Executive Director Jennifer Rippner Buck was quoted as saying, "It is my honor to congratulate your school as a winner in the 2008 Single Statewide Accountability Systems Awards. Your hard work and that of your students, faculty, and community has earned your school a Gold Award for making great gains in student achievement." Read the rest of this entry »

Get Out And Vote. At Least You Are Not Shredded Waste!

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:49:30 -0600

Let me introduce myself, my name is Chad and I am nothing more than mere shredded paper waste by definition. I was created by holes left in paper, and I became famous in the 2000 United States Presidential Election. Now it is my understanding that there are many forms of chads, there is the pregnant chad, the dimpled chad, and one of my favorites and probably the most famous....the hanging chad.

Now I could sit and wonder why my parents decided to name me after shredded waste, but to give them the benefit of the doubt, I am not sure anyone even knew what a chad was until the previous mentioned Presidential Election. I blame the good old state of Florida for that, and after beating my Georgia Bulldogs over the weekend, well the nicest thing I can say about that is ROLL TIDE!

Read the rest of this entry »

So, How In The World Do You Just Get An Offer?

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Sat, 31 May 2008 16:14:31 -0500

So, How In The World Do You Just Get An Offer?

May 29th, 2008Categories: North Georgia Cabin Seller's reVIEWS, North Georgia Real Estate VIEWS

It's no surprise to anyone that we are in a Buyer's Market. I have been really concerned with the lack of showings that my client's properties have been receiving, there is no doubt. But what about those that are being shown occasionally? How can I help my client's just get an offer?

1. Price It Right!

In this market you have to be priced at the lower end of your realistic price range. In addition to be one of the lowest price homes in your immediate market, you must offer more than the competition for less. You may ask, "what do you mean more for less?" Maybe you leave the refrigerator instead of taking it, or better yet, in new construction you buy one! Basically you want to be able to have the best home on the market in your price range.

2. Prepare For Showings

Begin preparing for client showings a minimum of 2 weeks before you list the property. Having your North Georgia Mountain Cabin ready for a viewing is crucial for an offer to come in. In a market where less than 10% of the homes are even receiving an offer, you do not want to give them any reason not to want to do so. Read the rest of this entry »

1st Class Motorcycle Tours of the Blue Ridge Mountains

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:34:59 -0500

1^st Class Motorcycle Tours and The Copperhead Lodge have teamed up to offer you the ultimate riding experience. The experts at 1st Class Motorcycle Tours will take you on the ride of a lifetime touring the mountains of Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Enjoy the breath-taking scenery while testing your riding skills on the twisting mountain roads of the southeastern United States. Rest, Relax and Refuel at The Copperhead Lodge, the nations premier motorcycle resort, located in the ideal destination, the North Georgia Mountains. Copperhead Lodge in Blairsville, Georgia is the ultimate home base offering casual fine dining, comfortable overnight lodging and entertainment and events. 1^st Class Motorcycle Tours and The Copperhead Lodge can also provide you with rental accommodations of a late model motorcycle. Yes, you can rent a bike to tour the mountains making your vacation planning simple and 1^st Class!

Benefits of using them for your Motorcycle Vacation

Their 1^st Class design of your vacation allows you to focus on your riding experience and not the details of having to work with several different companies for your trip. Read the rest of this entry »

Welcome - The Oaks at Blue Ridge - An Active Adult Community

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 09:39:51 -0500

A low-maintenance active adult neighborhood, The Oaks is located five minutes from downtown Blue Ridge Georgia and is walking distance to Tammen Park and the Toccoa River. The nature trail invites bike riders and strollers alike. Paved roads, city water and sewer. It's all here at The Oaks.

The Oaks at Blue Ridge is a 55 and over gated community. There are 24 homes planned for Phase One with 60 total at completion. Lake Blue Ridge is close-by, as well as theRiverstone Medical Campus and Fannin Regional Hospital is less than 5 miles.

At The Oaks, we've focused on feature and paid attention to detail to make living here a pleasure. From the front gate to your front door, this over 55 active adult retirement community creates a beautiful setting to come home to. Outside your home, will be a community center and covered pavillion available to all members. Near the pavillion will be the outdoor BBQ grills, a stone fireplace and picnic tables to enjoy friends and family in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.

This over 55, active adult, low maintenance community is located again in the small town of Blue Ridge in the North Georgia Mountains. Serene, quaint and charming. The Oaks is located only 2 hours north of Atlanta, 30 miles from Murphy, North Carolina and 85 miles from Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Come Celebrate The Times Of Your Life

This is a very unique property here in Blue Ridge. We have very few communities in the mountains that offer the ammenities that The Oaks can offer. If you should have any questions or concerns, or you would like additional information, please don't hesitate to call me at 706.633.8186 or you can email me at ChadL@KW.com. Thank you so much for taking the time to learn a little more about The Oaks.

CADENCE - The Equestrian Community In The North Georgia Mountains

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 10:17:34 -0500

The Cadence Equestrian Community is situated on over 510 acres of rolling meadows, wooded mountain slopes and wetlands. Development of 150 homesites has been thoughtfully planned to preserve over 100 acres of open space, and protect wildlife and other natural treasures.

In addition to the Equestrian Center, amenities include a Lodge with swimming pool, clubhouse & exercise room. The master plan integrates the equestrian lifestyle into everyday life and connects family, friends and nature through the extensive network of riding and hiking trails.

Whether seeking solitude or company, residents will find intimate and imaginative destinations such as a ridge-top pavilion with covered fireplace, a hitching post at a favorite fishing hole, and a bird watching blind at the wetlands boardwalk. And always, just over the fence, they will find the soothing, regal presence of horses. Read the rest of this entry »

The Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race

Chad Lariscy (Blairsville Realty) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:14:03 -0500

The Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Site of the 2008 USARA National Championship

In the spring of 1998, the first Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race started as Georgia's first adventure race. Nine years later the race continues to be a favorite of racers throughout the southeast. Teams look forward to a new adventure welcoming spring to Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains.

Organizers of the Tenth Annual Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race on April 12, 2008, promise a challenging contest with lots of surprises and some of the most stunning scenery anywhere - plus the famous Blue Ridge hospitality racers have come to expect and enjoy.

So get your team ready to run, paddle, mountain bike and navigate in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Up to 100 co-ed teams of three (plus one support person) will run along the forested trails of the Chattahoochee National Forest, paddle on the Toccoa River and/or Lake Blue Ridge, mountain bike steep trails and complete mystery challenges along the way. Although the course changes from year to year, the finish line is still in downtown Blue Ridge City Park, with live music, food and relaxing fun. Come early and enjoy activites throughout the day in the Blue Ridge City Park. The first teams to finish usually come in around 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. You don't want to miss it! Read the rest of this entry »