Maura Neill - Buy Sell Live Atlanta

My 10 Favorite Free iPhone Apps for My Real Estate Business (Right Now)

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 10:45:06 -0700

I am an iPhone devotee. I suffered through years of Palm Treo and various Blackberries (a Curve and two Bolds) to land, finally, in the land of the iPhone. And I couldn’t love it more. The usability and variety of the apps available for work and for play are a big part of that. It’s the device that seems to have an app for everything (except, as the joke goes, for actually making a phone call) – and here is a list of my 10 favorite apps for my real estate business... And yes, I’m a cheapskate – all of these apps are FREE. Want to see my Top 10? Click here to keep reading and please feel free to post your faves - or connect with me on Twitter @MauraNeill and tell me there! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.AtlantaHomeSpotlight.com/blog: http://www.NorthAtlantaRealtyBlog.com/ Photo Credit: "iphone to infinity for righty's" by K!T on Flickr.com

Mark Your Calendars and Be There, Y'all! Making Time For Yourself and Your Business

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 08:23:51 -0700

Sure – the economy’s tanked, your market stinks, and money’s tight. I get it. So pull yourself up by your bootstraps and get on down South, ya’ll, for two of the best events you’ll attend all year. If you’re like me, you’re carefully planning where and when to spend not only your money but also your time. These two events will transform your business – and they’re more than worth the money you’ll spend to get there. And these ain’t your momma’s real estate conferences – from events held in bars, karaoke nights, and live Twitter feeds teaching you almost as much as the speakers themselves, you’ll come away with more information than you bargained for — and that’s a good thing! To continue reading and find out more about these two great events, please click here. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.AtlantaHomeSpotlight.com/blog: http://www.NorthAtlantaRealtyBlog.com/ Photo Credit: "Compact Calendar Card - Design 3" by Joe Lanman on Flickr.com

Looking for Something to do In or Around Atlanta? How About 365 Things?

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:30:17 -0800

Whether you're new to Atlanta or a native, there's always something new to discover. Our great city is vibrant and eclectic, full of vitality and variety - and that's why so many of us love to call it home! So newbie or native...do you sometimes find yourself yearning for something new to do? Well, how about 365 things to do? A new blogsite started about 2 weeks ago that will give you just that - 365 things to do in and around Atlanta! Atlanta: 365 Days, 365 Things To Dowill feature one new thing to do (and occasionally two!) every day. Who should not visit this site: Those of you who just want the normal, tourist-y things to do, like visiting the World of Coca-Cola and going to a Braves game. While those are cool things to do - definitely! - you can find that information anywhere! Who SHOULD visit this site:Everyone else! Those of you who want to try a restaurant you've never been to, want to visit a place off the beaten path, find a place in this great Metro Atlanta area that's new and different to you. People who want something a little wacky (a pillow fight in Piedmont Park), a little wild (a comedy improv show) and a little wonderful (contests and free stuff)! So - whether you've been here a week, a month, or a lifetime...check out 365Atlanta.com! You can also follow on Twitter at @365Atlanta or become a fan on Facebook for updates, contests and more! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.AtlantaHomeSpotlight.com/blog: http://www.NorthAtlantaRealtyBlog.com/

I'm More than a REALTOR - I'm a Real Estate Concierge, or What My Business Has In Common with the Wedding Business

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 03:08:49 -0800

I had a delightful morning today with a friend of mine, Patrice Ducoffe of Ducoffe Wedding Concierge (doesn't her name just sing with sophistication?). We met at Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee in Roswell, Georgia, to network and learn a little more about each others' businesses. We realized, while drinking rich African coffee and indulging in delicious (and huge!) muffins that what we do is very comparable. Patrice is a wedding concierge - she is a hands-on wedding coordinator who can do everything for the bride from researching florists and reception venues to reminding her to write her thank you notes. Similarly, as a REALTOR®, I am the concierge of my clients' real estate transactions. I do more than just show homes- I coordinate the transaction from the first contact through the closing (meeting the home inspector, communicating with the attorney and the lender, sometimes more than the buyers themselves) and beyond closing day, including reminding them to file for their Homestead Exemption, wishing them a happy first home anniversary and continuing to provide them with valuable referrals to vendors when they need them. Those vendors who have proven themselves trustworthy and reliable and who have been referred to me by clients who have used their services. As we discussed my own wedding experience (she can't believe I only paid $36 for my dress, but that's another story for another day!) as well as some of her recent experiences with brides, we also discussed the fact that the vendors we know and refer on a daily basis are a reflection on our own businesses. As the saying goes: a happy client will tell one person, an unhappy client will tell ten! So I constantly monitor the feedback I receive - if a client has been unhappy with a vendor or service provider whose name they got from me, I won't feel comfortable giving out that person's name again. That being said, I know that I can feel good about giving out the names and numbers of my most trusted service providers, from my painters to my electrician to my hardwood flooring contractors, and on and on. If my clients choose another vendor, I ask them to give me feedback about that person, as well as why they chose them (price, personality, referral) - I want to know whether I have another person to add to my list...or not. Sometimes knowing someone on a personal level is different than knowing them on a professional level, but even though I haven't worked directly with Patrice or had occasion to use her services (sadly, I was married before we met - I wish I'd met her earlier!) I know that Patrice truly loves what she does and has built a fabulous business built on personalized customer service. In our two industries - where stress and strain can often rule the day - knowing that you have someone on your side to be your concierge and confidante can alleviate the anxiety and make the process what it should be - an enjoyable time to remember, whether it's your wedding day or buying your first (or second or third!) home. ENGAGED? Patrice and six of her preferred vendors and service providers are currently holding a contest called "Lucky in Love." If you're newly engaged and are feeling lucky, log onto her website at www.DucoffeeWeddingConcierge.com and share your "oh-so-romantic, why-I-love-this-guy engagement story. You could WIN a Wedding Giveaway Package worth $3500 which includes a wedding gown from Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique (up to $1000 value), a bridal bouquet from Blossoms Atlanta ($250 value), an engagement photo session from PhotoSynthesis Atlanta ($300 value), a bride's hairstyle from Plum Tree Salon ($250 value), a bridesmaids luncheon from Party Chic ($250 value), wedding favours from Angel Lane Bakery ($250 value), and a month-of-the-wedding coordination by Ducoffee Wedding Concierge ($1250 value). (For a flyer with more info, click here or just visit www.DucoffeWeddingConcierge.com.) Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Clients vs. Past Clients - A Wise Friend Shared This Thought With Me

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:59:24 -0800

A wise friend, Ira Serkes, shared this thought with me today on my Facebook Wall: So Ira got me thinking - about 92% of my business comes from referrals: from my friends, family and clients. Many of my clients are also my friends - if they aren't my friends before we do business together, by the time we are finished, they have become friends. They stay in my life, becoming a source of future business while remaining, if not close friends, then at least casual friends who are happy to stay in touch via email, Facebook, the occasional phone call. They are, at the risk of sounding cliché, my biggest fans, at least from a professional standpoint. They are the reason my business continues to grow and in large part deserving of thanks for many of my successes! Therefore, as Ira pointed out,they are not ever in my past. They are just my clients, plain and simple. The ones who end up being "past" clients are the rare ones who do not wish to establish a more personal relationship. Because after all, the business of real estate is more than just business - it's extremely personal. You learn your clients' tastes (and they probably learn about yours, too), their financial situation; you get a first-hand look at a husband and wife's relationship and how they deal with potentially stressful situations; you become their confidante, psychologist, counselor, decorator, negotiator, and - oh yes! REALTOR®! You wear many hats, one of which, if you're lucky, is also friend. It's one of the many reasons that I love what I do. Every day and every client is different - it's truly a fabulous career and I wouldn't trade it for anything! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Penny-Pinching Homebuyer? 5 Places NOT to Cut Costs on Your Real Estate Transaction

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:55:29 -0800

It's no secret that times are tough - money is tight and people are cutting back on expenses and spending. And yet, there are still people out there buying homes. In fact, the federal government's new extended and expanded homebuyer tax credit is making buying a home rather attractive to a large number of potential homeowners out there, who are racing against the clock to get under contract by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30, 2010. But for many first-time homebuyers, money can be tight - perhaps they have spent months or years saving enough for a down payment for their first home and additional expenses eat further into their savings and liquid assets. There are, however, a number of places NOT to cut costs on your real estate transaction. Yes, buying a home is expensive - probably your single largest investment - but cutting costs on these 5 items can cost you even bigger in the long run. (This is by no means an exhaustive list - this is simply my opinion of some of the most important expenditures in your real estate transaction. Keep in mind- I am a REALTOR® in Georgia and the laws and requirements may differ widely in other states. Do not consider this post to be legal or financial advice - always consult an attorney or financial planner for legal or financial advice.) 1. Home Inspection - Possibly the single most important expenditure. A home inspection can determine whether there are serious defects with the home that may not be visible to the naked eye or obvious to you or your REALTOR®, such as faulty wiring, unsafe appliances, . You should choose your home inspector wisely, as all home inspectors are not created equal. Seek referrals from your REALTOR® or from friends or family who have recently bought a house and were pleased with their inspector. 2. Owner's Title Insurance - Your REALTOR®, lender and/or your closing attorney or title agent may talk to you about lender's title insurance prior to your closing, or it may just show up on your Settlement Statement, which might leave you bewildered by the charge. Though it is optional, it is an extremely important expenditure, especially in these times of rampant foreclosures, short sales, mortgage fraud, etc. Your homeowners' insurance will protect your physical home and its contents, but it won't protect you against financial loss due to defects in the title of the property, liens on the property, or other aspects of your financial investment. You can be sure that your lender will purchase lender's title insurance, so shouldn't you protect your own interests? You may have options when purchasing your title insurance - you can - and should - discuss those with your closing attorney or closing agent prior to closing. 3. Home Warranty - A home warranty is definitely an optional feature in your home purchase, but it can save you big down the road. In many cases, your REALTOR® may be able to negotiate a home warranty into your purchase contract, asking for the seller to purchase a one-year policy on your behalf. However, if the seller does not agree to purchase a home warranty for you, you can still purchase one for yourself. There are a number of reputable home warranty companies with various policies for you to choose from - from basic policies to those with expanded coverage. After the first year, you will have the option to renew your home warranty each year. Your warranty can cover many defects in the home, such as your hot water heater, air conditioner, furnace - but be sure to read the fine print in your contract so that you understand exactly what your policy covers and doesn't. 4. Radon Inspection - In various parts of the country, radon levels can be high and can seep into homes. Many home inspection companies offer radon inspections, as well, and may give you a package deal if you order it when you order your home inspection. The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) website has extensive information on radon testing and even provides a map of radon levels across the country. If for no other reason, get a radon test to give yourself and your family peace of mind. 5. Survey - A survey is an official diagram or drawing of your property, including lot lines, public utilities on the property, easements, etc. While some lenders may require a survey, it is often optional. The seller of the home may have a seller from when they bought the house or from much earlier than that, depending on the age of the home. It is always a good idea to get an updated one, whether the seller provides you with one or not. An updated survey can tell you if a neighbor's fence has intruded over your property line or if that dead tree is your liability or the neighbor's, saving you the trouble and hassle of dealing with those issues down the road - and there can be costly issues associated with disputes over property lines and ownership. It's best to get those out of the way before you are the property owner. Of course, there are many other costs associated with buying a home - you should consult your local REALTOR® with questions about what is the norm in your area. And if you have questions about buying a home in North Georgia and the North Metro Atlanta area in particular, call The Gebhardt Group today. We're happy to answer your questions for you and help you navigate the homebuying process! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia) on the Unintended Consequences of Well-Intended Regulation

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:42:12 -0800

United States Senator Johnny Isakson is a REALTOR® and a great friend to the real estate industry and a proponent for homeownership and personal property rights. In this video, from February 1, 2010, "Senator Johnny Isakson talks about the unintended consequences to regulation and how we need to start looking at the cause and effect to help our economic recovery." I wanted to share this video because I think it's important information. I won't take away from Senator Isakson's speech and remarks by paraphrasing - you should just take a few moments to view this video. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

I'm Representing the Buyer in this Transaction...and Now I Have to Pre-Qualify the Seller, Too?

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:25:28 -0800

Here's a hypothetical for you: You are representing the buyer in a transaction. The listing sheet clearly states, "Not a short sale," but you notice, while doing your due diligence and researching the property in the MLS, tax records, county courthouse records, etc. that the list price is significantly less than NOT ONLY what the seller paid for the home but also less than the amount of their loan. You ask the listing agent, "This definitely isn't a short sale?" He says, "No." You write the offer, and following negotiations, your client (the Buyer) reaches an agreement with the Seller - they are under contract. The normal things happen from here: the inspection and subsequent repair negotiation; the appraisal; the loan package arrives at the closing attorney's office; the HUD-1 Settlement Statement is prepared and sent to all parties. You notice that the Seller needs to bring upwards of $51,000+ to closing in order to sell their home. "You're sure it's not a short sale?" you ask the listing agent. He says, "No." And then...four days before closing, your phone rings. It's the listing agent, and he says, "I really need to talk to you." Sure enough - the seller doesn't have the money to close. They are more than $10,000 short and have no way to come up with the money. Their bank has turned them down for a loan for the amount they need. They are a bad risk. They have asked family and friends, who have also turned them down. Suddenly, the closing that has been 45 days in the making (not to mention the time you spent showing properties to your clients) is falling apart. You feel helpless. Your buyer is confused and angry. The listing agent...well, you wonder where was he throughout this process? The question is, what do you do when the listing agent doesn't fully do their job? As REALTORS®, our job is to counsel our clients. That includes preparing a "Net to Seller" sheet when an offer is received AND at the time of each subsequent counteroffer. It also includes talking them through the situation - do you know how much you owe on this home? Do you have the funds you will need to close? It includes requesting a preliminary HUD-1 from the closing attorney to show the seller, in black and white, what their financial obligation is at closing. It includes being brutally honest with your client about their financial obligations, as well as being diligent and DOING YOUR JOB. Our Georgia Association of REALTORS® contracts has a "Source of Buyer's Funds" exhibit and a "Financing Contingency" exhibit that sellers can use to insist on knowing the buyer's financing plan; however, there is no "Source of Seller's Funds" exhibit that we can use to protect our Buyers and be sure that the Seller has enough money to close in a situation like this one. After this week, I really think there should be. Because this is not a hypothetical. It happened to me this week. Thankfully, we closed the loan, with some artful maneuvering on the part of the closing attorney, who was able to eek out some additional funds for the seller by netting their escrows and applying that amount to the deficit, among other things. The money was "found" and the closing happened right on schedule. But the point it, it might not have closed. And the sad fact is that, in this market, doing due diligence on just one side of the deal is no longer good enough. We've entered a time in which we now have to worry about not only prequalifying OUR clients, but also prequalifying the clients on the other side of the table, in case that agent has not done his or her part. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

QR Codes - The Gebhardt Group's Newest Tech Innovation to Help Sell Your Home!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 07:47:00 -0800

I just returned from the CyberStars Summit in Scottsdale, AZ, and WOW, was I ever blown away by the amount of idea-sharing and learning. I attend lots of conferences and educational opportunities every year - I've always wanted to be a perpetual student - and this was, by far, one of the best! The number one takeaway that I learned from this conference was using QR Codes in my real estate business to help me sell your home. What is a QR Code, you ask? Good question! A QR Code is like a bar code - the ones you see in grocery stores, bookstores, almost any retail establishment. It is a code that, when read by the correct device, can provide you with information about a product - whether it's a price on a retail product, or in this case, a website and information about a home listing. A QR Code looks like this: It's the next wave in technology that allows you to download information in a "green" way. For example, if you drive past my listing and want more information, you would use your iPhone, Blackberry or other PDA/Smart Phone device to scan the QR code on my sign instead of picking up a paper flyer. You could then download the information stored in that code, which contains the website address for that listing and would take you to www.3003Mulberry.com - the website for my listing at 3003 Mulberry Street. If you have a Smart Phone/PDA, iPhone, Blackberry - you can download a QR code reader. (I have an iPhone - I like the free QR Code reader app called "QR app".) There are FREE, downloadable apps for these devices that can not only allow you to be mroe "green" (i.e., not pick up and waste paper flyers) but also to have instant access to information at the touch (literally!) of a button! Will a QR code guarantee a quicker sale of your home? Not necessarily, however, it will open up your listing to a whole new realm of possible buyers. As Gen X, Gen Y and the Millenials become the largest group of homebuyers and also the most tech-savvy, they look for more and more technologically savvy REALTORS® and real estate. The more resources we give them, the more attracted they will be to your listing. It's an exciting time to be a REALTOR®! Call me today if you are interested in buying or selling a home - let me put our tech-savvy marketing plans in place for you today! Visit Maura and The Gebhardt Group online. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

REALTORS(R) Who Are Always Learning Are Your Best Choice - CyberStars Summit 2010

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 07:45:34 -0800

I just returned from the CyberStars Summit in Scottsdale, AZ - January 10-13, 2010. There, I was able to learn from and network with some of the top tech-savvy REALTORS® in the nation - wow! was I ever blown away! The weather was lovely - after our unseasonably cold weather and snow/ice storms in Atlanta - and the networking and learning were even better! Not only was I able to meet and put a face to a name with REALTORS® whom I've had the pleasure of knowing only on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and other social networking sites, but I was also able to expand my tech-knowledge to help me serve my clients better and expand my network of REALTORS® around the nation. How does this help you, my clients and friends? First, it means that I was out sharing ideas with some of the top minds in the biz - my business can only improve and my service to my clients can only get better from the education I gained from my colleagues. This time, with the CyberStars®, I have learned the latest technology to help you buy or sell a home - to help me stay in touch with you - to market your home. Second, my network of trusted REALTORS® across North America has expanded further. Every time I travel and attend a conference or an education session, I am able to get to know other real estate agents - when you are planning a move across the country or across the state, I can help you find a great REALTOR® to help you buy a new home - and I can refer him or her with confidence. Finally, it means that I can continue to learn from and network with these great people - the brightest minds - the top producers - and now my good friends! I've found that the key to a successful real estate career is not what you know but whom you know - and knowing the best helps me strive to be one of the best. The best tech-tip I learned at this year's CyberStars® Summit was the QR Code. Want to know more? Click here! Thanks, CyberStars® - I am already looking forward to next January's Summit and to seeing you all again throughout the year at other conferences! And friends, I'll keep you posted on my future travels and learning! Stay tuned! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

North Atlanta Homebuyers: Valuable Tax Credit Information - FAQs and More Information for You!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:47:53 -0800

The 2009 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit was pretty great - it enabled many first-time homebuyers to become homeowners and created an incentive to help kick-start our slow economy. The NEW 2010 Extended and Expanded Homebuyer Tax Credit is creating quite a stir, too, but it has also created some confusion and brought up many questions from homebuyers, both veteran and first-timers. Here are some answers to a few of the many questions out there - they may be questions YOU have, as well: Is the tax credit for first-time homebuyers only?No, the NEW Extended and Expanded Homebuyer Tax Credit is for all buyers. There are a few exceptions. If you have owned and occupied a residence for five consecutive years of the past eight years, you qualify! First-time homebuyers still qualify, as well. There are also some income caps and maximum purchase price qualifications. What is the deadline for the homebuyer tax credit?To qualify for the 2010 Extended and Expanded Homebuyer Tax Credit, you must be under contract to purchase a home by April 30, 2010, and you must close on that home by June 30, 2010. Is there a maximum purchase price?Yes, the maximum price to qualify is $800,000. However, there is no minimum purchase price. What is a tax credit?A tax credit is a direct reduction in tax liability owed by an individual to the IRS. In the event that no taxes are owed, the IRS will issue a check to the individual for the amount of the credit. Where can I get more information about the credit?You can click on the image below to download our FREE comprehensive guide to the NEW Extended and Expanded Homebuyer Tax Credit. After receiving your copy, there is no obligation to contact us further. If you have additional questions, you can email me at Maura@gebhardtgroup.com for more information and guidance toward your home purchase. PLEASE NOTE: Neither The Gebhardt Group nor any of its members are Certified Public Accountants. Please consult your financial advisor and/or your attorney before following any financial advice. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Johns Creek, Alpharetta, GA Flood Victims Now Eligible for Federal Aid

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:47:31 -0700

According to a press release sent out by the City of Johns Creek, Georgia, Fulton County was officially added to the list of counties declared federal disaster areas, following the flooding and torrential rains two weeks ago in Georgia. This means both residents and business owners are eligible for aid. Those affected by flooding in Johns Creek are encouraged to notify the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency at 404-730-5600 and report any flood damage to the City of Johns Creek at 678-512-3200 or send an email to info@JohnsCreekGA.gov. There is detailed information on how to apply for aid and the types of aid available on the Johns Creek government website, which you can access by clicking here. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

The Gebhardt Group's 4th Annual "Trick or Treat for the Troops" | Johns Creek, Georgia | How You Can Help!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:39:11 -0700

It's that time of year - time for The Gebhardt Group's 4th Annual Trick or Treat for the Troops! Once again, we are collecting donations for our holiday care packages to be sent to brave men and women of our Armed Services who will be deployed during the holiday season. How can you help? There are a number of ways! Donate items from our list - our donation drop-off day is Saturday, October 24 from 1:30-5:30 PM at our office, located at 10220 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA. Donate $$ toward postage fees, which are completely subsidized by The Gebhardt Group. Send us the names and addresses of your family members, friends and neighbors who are serving overseas, so that we can send them care packages for themselves and their units. Pass this email along to your friends and family, so that they can be involved, too! Here's what we are collecting: To read two stories of soldiers who received our care packages, click here: From the Chief of MedOps - Afghanistan From the 10th Mountain Division Band - Iraq Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

October 4 - 10 is Fire Prevention Week - Have You Checked Your Smoke Alarms?

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:02:39 -0700

October 4 - 10 is National Fire Prevention Week. It's a good time to check your smoke and fire alarms, and you might as well check your carbon monoxide detectors while you're at it! While we usually remind people to check their smoke alarms twice a year -- usually when we change our clocks, springing forward and falling back -- Fire Prevetion Week is a great time to check them, too. Make sure that you text your smoke alarms weekly and be sure you test and replace batteries at least twice a year. If you live in Johns Creek, Georgia, you can visit local firehouses to learn more fire safety tips and fire prevention methods all throughout this week - just click here for more information. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Johns Creek, Georgia, Celebrates National Fire Prevention Week by Educating Citizens, Opening Fire Stations

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:01:06 -0700

October 4 - 10 is National Fire Prevention Week and the City of Johns Creek, Georgia, is using it as an opportunity to educate its citizens about fire prevention and fire safety tips. All this week between 4 PM - 6 PM, the public is invited to stop in to its local Johns Creek fire station for a tour and children's fire safety materials, badges and hats. You can click on the press release below or just click here for more information. In addition, The Gebhardt Group reminds you to check your smoke and fire alarms, and you might as well check your carbon monoxide detectors while you're at it! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

100% Chance of Snow in Johns Creek, GA, on October 3 | Movies in the Park Playing "Ice Age 3"

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 07:57:36 -0700

The final installment of this year's "Movies in the Park" in Johns Creek, Georgia, is Ice Age 3 - scheduled for Saturday, October 3 at Johns Creek's Newtown Park. And there's a 100% chance of snow that evening, at least according to the City of Johns Creek! In celebration of the last film of the year and the fact that the showing is Ice Age 3, the city will have a snow machine on hand! The event is FREE and starts at 6 PM with pre-show events, with the movie starting at 7:30 PM. Food vendors will be there selling snacks and beverages, but you can also feel free to bring picnic baskets - no alcohol is permitted. Here's a map to Newtown Park, which is located in Johns Creek, near the intersection of Old Alabama Road and Haynes Bridge Road: See the press release below for more information or visit the City of Johns Creek website by clicking here. * * * * * * * Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

City of Johns Creek has New 911 Service

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:49:53 -0700

The City of Johns Creek is seeing its tax dollars go toward another worthy investment - its own 911 Emergency Communcations Center. Developed with the City of Sandy Springs and servicing both of the new cities in north Fulton County, Georgia, the promise is that the new 911 center will provide more efficient service that the current Fulton County system, under which both cities previously fell. I took the Johns Creek 101 class back in the spring and it was refreshing to hear the Mayor and the City Manager talk about the new 911 system with so much enthusiasm and pride. Only time will tell if it truly improves the efficiency and response time from when we were under the Fulton County system, but on paper, at least, it looks great now! Please see below for the official press release and to visit the City of Johns Creek website, please click here. * * * * * * * Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Congratulations to The Gebhardt Group's Pam Gebhardt - Featured in CRS magazine, "The Residential Specialist"

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:14:49 -0700

It's not every day you get to see your mentor, teammate and boss in print! Congratulations to Pam Gebhardt - who is all three of those things to me - on being featured in the CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) magazine, The Residential Specialist, in the September/October 2009 issue with a referral story. I wanted to share it here because it's a great story - and if it doesn't convince you to begin working on (or finish) your CRS designation...I don't know what will! I became a CRS because Pam is one - I saw the amazing impact it can have on your business and just one month after receiving my designation, I got my first referral, too. Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

City of Alpharetta Road Closures - Monday, September 21 - RAIN & FLOODING!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:45:17 -0700

Dear Friends and Clients, We just received an Emergency Advisory email from the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce with road closures for Alpharetta. Please drive with caution - lights and wipers on - do not attempt to drive through large pools of standing water - be more careful than you think you need to be! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Rain, Rain, Go Away! Rain Continues to Plague Georgia and the Southeast

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 05:53:02 -0700

This time last year, Georgians were praying for rain...literally! And now, we're hoping for some kind of respite from the torrential downpours! Last summer, our lakes were severely down, strict watering restriction were in place and being patrolled by police, the drought was in full effect. This morning on 11 Alive, the weatherman reported one to two inches of rain falling per hour. Schools are closed today because of flash flooding - two have been reported dead and one missing child is thought to have been swept away by the rushing water. Respondents on the 11 Alive website/blog are reporting being trapped in their neighborhoods and homes, with entrances and driveways flooded and surrounded by rushing water. There are videos of kids clinging to trees to avoid being swept away. Not to mention countless homes and basements flooding. This morning's news reported water levels in Cobb County being 2 1/2 feet over flood stage. Is there an end in sight? According to weather.com, we don't have sunny skies in the forecast until Monday, September 28. Let's hope that, as often is the case, the weather forecasters aren't completely accurate! Rain, rain, go away! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/ _____Photo Credit: "inside rain" - Posted to flickr.com by pulihora on September 23, 2006

My Letter to My U.S. Congressional Representatives - Please Extend the Homebuyer Tax Credit!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 05:13:25 -0700

Interested in taking action and urging your U.S. Congressional Representatives to extend the homebuyer tax credit? Good! So am I! I sent this letter to both my state senators and my state representative in Congress: Senator Saxby Chambliss, Senator Johnny Isakson and Representative Tom Price - if you would like to do the same, it's simple. Just copy and paste my letter (below) and send it to your representatives. For a quick and easy way to find your representatives and how to contact them via e-mail, snail mail and/or telephone, click here. Follow the simple instructions and then let the emails fly! And while you're at it, bookmark the site, so that you can contact your representatives for any issue that you are passionate about. Let your voice be heard! * * * * * * * Dear Representative, As a Realtor and a constituent, I can assure you that the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit has definitely been a success. Homebuyer interest and housing sales increased almost as soon as the ink was dry on the tax credit legislation. Today's lower prices and interest rates appeal to consumers, but it's been the tax credit that has attracted people to open houses and to homeownership. That progress could grind to a halt sooner than you think. Congress must act NOW to extend the credit through 2010. Otherwise, uncertainty will return and the market might again be frozen -- possibly as soon as October.A homebuyer is eligible for the tax credit only if the home is "purchased" before December 1, 2009. That means that buyers have to find a house, complete a contract, satisfy any contingencies, secure financing and go to closing by November 30. Accomplishing those tasks by November 30 will become more difficult with every passing day. In today's market, it generally takes between 45 and 60 days to go from contract to closing. The market has improved, but it has not yet fully corrected itself. The credit needs to be extended for an additional period of time and expanded in order to build upon the progress that's been made. Uncertainty about the future of the credit will dampen consumer demand. The best way to assure continued housing activity is to extend and expand the credit and to do that NOW. We can't wait until late in the year to see what happens. Consumers will drop out soon if they can't predict what's in their future. Please act NOW to extend and expand the credit through 2010. Sincerely, Maura Neill Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

YOU Can Help Extend the Homebuyer Tax Credit! Write to your Congress Representatives Today!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 05:12:38 -0700

The Georgia Association of REALTORS® and the Atlanta Board of REALTORS® have been campaigning the past two weeks to help get the Homebuyer Tax Credit extended, as have many local REALTOR® organizations, following the National Association of REALTORS®' lead. YOU can help to get this important legislation extended - for the good of the economy - simply by writing to your representatives in Congress! And it's easier than you may think! Simply visit www.Congress.org and type in your zip code to be linked directly to your representatives. Then click on the representative's name and click on "Contact" to reach a link to the Web Form you need to send an email directly to that Representative's office: You'll also see their addresses and phone numbers for both their local and Washington, D.C., offices. Not sure what to write? Click here for the letter I sent - via the Georgia Association of REALTORS® - simply copy and paste it into your representatives' web forms and hit send - it's that easy! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Pet Adoptions This Saturday in Johns Creek / Alpharetta

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 03:44:31 -0700

Want to bring a furry friend home to be a part of your family? Visit Veterinary Medical Center in Johns Creek / Alpharetta this Saturday, September 12, 2009, from 10 AM to 4 PM and take part in their Pet Adoptions! Veterinary Medical Center is located at 8750 Nesbit Ferry Road. It's my personal vet, where I bring my three cats and my Beagle, Charlie. I even adopted my sweet little tabby cat, Emma (pictured below), from them three years ago. Also, if you just moved to the area and are looking for a new vet for your furry friends, you can stop by, meet the staff and check out the facilities. They have a caring staff and wonderful doctors. They also provide boarding and grooming services. So if you live in the Alpharetta / Johns Creek area - or in the North Metro Atlanta, I encourage you to stop by the Veterinary Medical Center on Saturday, September 12, 2009 between 10 AM and 4 PM. There will be a variety of cats and kittens, dogs and puppies available for adoption. Refreshments will also be provided. You can call (770) 998-8450 for more information or to ask for specific information about available pets. And don't forget to bring a friend! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Get Your FREE Chicken Sandwich at Chick-Fil-A on Labor Day!

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 03:27:38 -0700

Love Chick-Fil-A? Love their Original Chicken Sandwich? I know I do! I just worked with a client from Texas who currently lives in Los Angeles, CA - there is only one Chick-Fil-A anywhere near her home in LA. She can't wait to move to Atlanta to be closer to Chick-Fil-A! This Labor Day - Monday, September 7, 2009 - you can get a FREE Chick-Fil-A Original Chicken Sandwich, just by wearing your favorite sports team logo to a participating Chick-Fil-A. I'll be here - at my favorite local Chick-Fil-A, located at 8475 Holcomb Bridge Road in Alpharetta, Georgia. I'll be wearing my Florida State University Seminoles logo - we play our first game on Monday night! Whose logo will you be wearing to get your FREE Chick-Fil-A Original Chicken Sandwich? For more information, you can visit the Chick-Fil-A website and click on the Labor Day Giveaway logo. Will I see you at lunchtime at my Chick-Fil-A in Alpharetta? Look for me wearing FSU gear! Come on over and say hello! Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/

Recession 101: What if nobody participated?

Maura Neill, North Metro Atlanta Real Estate (RE/MAX Around Atlanta) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:48:06 -0700

Thanks to Sheila Moran of RE/MAX Access in San Antonio, TX, for this great post - and for allowing me to re-blog it. I definitely choose not to participate in this recession - how about you? Subscribe to The Gebhardt Group's Real Estate blog today! Maura Neill, ABR, CRS, MAThe Gebhardt GroupRE/MAX Greater Atlanta10220 Medlock Bridge RoadJohns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 238-0595email: Maura@GebhardtGroup.comwebsite: http://www.GebhardtGroup.com/blog: http://www.GebhardtGroupBlog.com/ Recession 101: What if nobody participated? Driving along a cut away street on the North East side of San Antonio I curiously came across these billboards. I couldn't believe my eyes and stopped the car and photographed each and every one. I'm sure I was a spectacle to the cars driving by. I hope the billboards were also a spectacle. I was so pleased that someone was out there putting positive words out to the masses. It was then that I read the story of how these billboards came to be. An anonymous donor wanted to remind Americans to collectively "take a deep breath". Have you ever heard of such a thing? Not me. Do I like it and appreciate it? You bet. The entire campaign is geared to raising Americans spirits and lift them up according to the website: www.recession101.org or you can catch them on twitter: twitter.com/recession101 I tell you that morning there was nothing better than seeing these uplifting words "up in the sky". To anonymous donor, I thank you. I'm sure many Americans would also give a "collective" sigh of relief too. Either we participate or we don't.