South Forsyth Real Estate Blog

So God Made a Realtor - Paul Harvey VIDEO

2014-02-05T17:58:00.002-05:00

They say that Laughter is the BEST Medicine... Here's to your Health!

This a fun video by Paul Harvey that pays homage to all of the Realtors who put their hearts and souls into helping their clients, customers and friends (even those who don’t always fully appreciate them).

Please feel free to call or text me at 706-455-0180 (or drop me an email) if I can provide you with more information about this article, or if I can assist you with buying or selling your South Forsyth County real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office: 770-844-8484 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

Author: Gayle Barton

Blog Topics: Paul Harvey, Paul Harvey Video, God made a Realtor, Funny Video, Humor,

You Could Lose THOUSANDS So Choose Your Real Estate Agent Wisely

2013-08-07T20:54:00.000-04:00

Prudential Georgia Realty Ranked #1 Residential Real Estate Company By The Atlanta Business Chronicle

The following press release explains why choosing a PRUDENTIAL GEORGIA REALTY agent makes sense:

Atlanta, GA (March 18, 2013) Prudential Georgia Realty was ranked the #1 residential real estate company in Metro Atlanta for 2012 by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. The rankings were published in the Home Quarterly: Million Dollar Agents supplement for the March 15-21, 2013 edition. The rankings displayed the top 25 residential real estate companies by gross residential sales volume. Prudential Georgia Realty was also the #1 company in homes sold. This makes the third year in a row that Prudential Georgia Realty was ranked #1 in sales volume and homes sold.

Click here to view a PDF of the rankings.

“It is an honor and a privilege to have achieved the #1 ranking for the third year in a row, said Dan Forsman, President & CEO of Prudential Georgia Realty. Our associates and employees have worked very hard to deliver exceptional services to our clients and customers. I want to thank and congratulate our entire team for another outstanding performance in 2012. We recently celebrated our 50^th anniversary as a company and are excited about the opportunities ahead.”

SmartNumbers, Trendgraphix and RealValuator and have consistently ranked Prudential Georgia Realty #1 in transactions, listing sales, buyer sales and current inventory for Atlanta real estate. REALTrends recently released a study that recognized Prudential Georgia Realty as one of the top 17 companies in the nation based upon performance over the past 10 years.

About Prudential Georgia Realty:
Prudential Georgia Realty is a diversified real estate brokerage with major operations in new homes, residential resale, corporate relocation, property management, REO Services and commercial real estate. The company has 22 locations and over 1,000 Realtors across Metro Atlanta and has been serving clients in Metro Atlanta for 50 years. Prudential Georgia Realty is an independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, LLC. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation with Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. See Atlanta real estate, Atlanta new homes, search by neighborhood, search by school district, search rentals and much more at PrudentialGA.com.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of Prudential Georgia Realty Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this article or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456- 8066 ~ Email: gbarton@prudentialga.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission. Gayle Barton

Do The Quality of Local Schools Determine where You Buy?

2012-03-08T16:01:00.000-05:00

Are you in the market to purchase a new home? How will you determine WHERE to buy?

In real estate we have all heard that the key factor for most home buyers in determining which home to buy is “location, location, location”. While this is usually true, what makes one location better than another? A short commute time… area attractions… close to family or friends… all legitimate reasons a buyer might be attracted to a certain area.

However, for a family with school-aged children, their idea of a prime location is usually determined by the quality of the area schools.

I represent both buyers and sellers in many neighborhoods in and around Cumming, GA and schools are almost always at the top of the list for my buyers. There are many award winning public schools in the South Forsyth County school system, a fact which proves to be a major draw for families buying in this area.

I have had the opportunity to work with both local buyers as well as those transferring in from other areas within the United States and abroad and it seems that, consistently, one of the most critical factors in determining whether to move to a specific area is schools.

In fact, I have recently written several blog articles about the Forsyth County GA schools:

So, where do schools rank on your decision to move to an area? What websites do you use to obtain school information? Need more information about local Cumming GA schools, ? Just give me call and I'll be happy to help you with that!

Will The Quality of the Local Schools Determine if You will Buy in Cumming GA?

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

A Guide for Families Seeking Quality Day Care in Cumming, GA

2011-12-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

I would like to introduce guest writer Dan Gilbert, of Primrose Schools. Dan has written an excellent article designed to assist families currently living in Cumming, GA, as well as those searching for a new home in this area, in their search for premium child care services. Primrose schools, whose innovative day care centers are committed to making a difference in children’s lives, is an education partner our family has used, personally, and one that I know to be extremely popular with discriminating parents in this area. Dan has written a number of articles on topics varying from bilingual learning to teaching the importance of volunteering.

The most important part of a child’s life often occurs during the infant years, and on through the age of five. During this time, a child’s brain is undergoing development, and research tells us these formative years are very crucial to future success. To properly nurture a child during this period, there must be constructive experiences that engage the child on a consistent basis. Most would agree that researching, and deciding upon the most apt form of child care to encourage child development, is the most important decision that can be made.

The best place to start, is to find out what’s available to you in your area. Check with people around you to find out what they know. Chances are they will have done a lot of the work for you. See what your peers think of institutions in your area. Inquire directly at local educational facilities, and visit them online for further information. Be sure to get a first-hand look and schedule a tour with facilities that might meet your standards.

Upon visiting, don’t simply pay attention to what you are being told; there are many other factors that you should be able to sense indirectly. How is your child greeted? How does it feel? Your senses will tell you many things, but what it all amounts to, is does the facility have the right feel for you and your family. Remember that these initial impressions may continue to plague you if you choose to ignore them.
While at the facility, get to know the staff that will be looking after your child. Try and get a sense if they truly want to aid your child in their development, as these people will be your partners in providing solid cognitive experiences in your child’s life.

After you’ve established what your instincts tell you about the institution, it’s time burrow in further and inquire about crucial topics like teacher accreditation, institutional policy and their approach to education in general. To help you ascertain if it’s a good match, here are some guidelines for you to follow.

1. Principles and educational instruction: What principles does the school employ to guide its educational instruction, choice of materials, and methodology? Do the school’s principles mirror those you have for your child? Will your child be prepared for elevation to elementary school, and has the school researched this thoroughly?

2. Teacher and institutional qualifications: What kinds of qualifications has the facility achieved, and are there measurable standards in place to ensure these qualifications are met? If the school has proper accreditation, not only will the governing body have a system in place to make sure their standards are met, these standards will also ensure the school evolves along with the growing research of the governing body.

Likewise, do the instructors also have adequate certifications? How about CPR and First Aid? Are they undergoing continual education to keep up with the times?

3. Educational atmosphere: Upon your visit, make sure to observe what’s going on around you. What is the learning environment like? Is it positive, with teachers interacting with, and engaging children? Are the children being spoken to, or spoken at? Get a copy of the schedule before you leave, and check and see where this schedule is posted around the classroom.

4. Policies of the facility: Be sure to inquire about some basic policies, such as those related to the safety of your child, how they communicate with you, the parent, if they comply with state regulations, and lastly what payment options are available.

The bottom line is that these years are integral to your child’s developmental success. Take the time to do the proper research, examine all your options, and make an educated choice that’s best for you and your family.

A guide to finding the best daycare in Cumming, GA

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

I Just Know My Real Estate Agent Under Priced My House

2011-12-09T08:59:00.000-05:00

Do you believe that your Cumming GA real estate agent under priced your home?

A recent survey by RISMEDIA showed that 76% of home sellers believed that their property was worth more than the listing price recommended by their real estate agent.

Interestingly enough, 68% of the buyers involved in the survey were certain that those same agents had overpriced the listings by as much as 10%.

Who’s right? Everyone!

Why? Because they all determine “value” in very different ways.

Virtually every seller I’ve worked with in the last two years has honestly believed, deep in their heart, that their home was worth much more than the price at which I (CMA in hand), the multiple real estate agents they interviewed before me, the buyers and the bank appraiser ultimately valued it. And, to a point, I understand. These sellers loved their homes and love is blind.

Have you ever looked at a friend’s husband and wondered just exactly what it is that she sees in him?? In your eyes, he’s too tall, too short, too chubby, too skinny, talks too much is or is just too quiet for your taste… Yet, in her eyes he is the perfect man and the best husband on the planet. It’s the same with houses!

When you have lived comfortably in a home, raised children in a home and made happy memories in a home, you feel that it is a warm, special place full of love that must be evident to all who enter (not so true!). Sellers don’t always smell the litter box or see the tattered, outdated wallpaper or that notice the fact that virtually every surface in the house needs to be de-cluttered because they are looking at their home through the eyes of love. They’ve been happy there for years, why wouldn’t evreyone else love it too?

When you add to that the fact that the seller remembers EVERY PENNY that has been invested in the property (yep, even ugly carpet costs money…) they place a value on their home that reflects their “total investment” both financial and emotional.

Because of this, I never argue with a seller about the “worth” of their home. I simply say: “I’m not telling you that your home is not worth that amount. What I am saying is that the current market simply won’t support that price (black & white numbers of a CMA don’t lie) nor will it appraise for that amount. This is a function of the current market, not a statement about your home!”

Like the end of any love affair it is a tough step to take, but if a seller can get past the emotional arguments and allow themselves to understand that the buyers who view their home will not be “in love” with their house, and will be seeing it as it truly is (warts and all), they are one step closer to getting their property sold and moving on.

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

BEWARE: All Home Improvement Projects Are NOT Created Equal

2011-12-07T15:39:00.000-05:00

Not All Home Improvement Projects Will Benefit You in the Sale of Your Cumming GA Real Estate

If you are currently updating your Cumming GA home for sale, BEWARE… In today’s market many of the tried and true upgrades are failing to boost your property’s market value as they have in the past.
We’ve all heard it said that kitchens and baths sell homes, and that still holds true today. In the past, quality updates to those rooms generally provided a very high rate of return on your investment however, in today’s topsy turvy South Forsyth County real estate market, that rule is no longer a certainty.

If you are planning to upgrade your Cumming GA real estate in the near future, you might be interested to know that the installation of steel entry doors may recoup as much as 102% of your investment vs only a 60% return on the installation of fiberglass replacement doors based on data provided by Remodeling magazine.

In a recent article, Forbes Magazine listed 10 of the worst home improvements for the money. If you are planning a remodel you’ll certainly want to read the full article as it is a certainty that, in the current market climate, not all home improvement projects are created equal

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

The Right Price is the Key to Getting Your Home Sold

2011-12-02T17:31:00.000-05:00

In the current Forsyth County real estate market we are seeing agents, and homeowners, using many interesting and inventive ways of creating a “buzz” about a new home listing. And, while home-sale incentives can help, price is the key to getting you home sold!
A recent MSN real estate article explored just how far is too far when it comes to home sale incentives – Read the full story here>>

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

The Right Price is the Key to Getting Your Home Sold

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Top 10 Cities with the Highest Concentration Of Millionaires

2011-11-30T10:21:00.000-05:00

We have all been hearing a great deal about “the 1%” in the media lately. Have you ever wondered where the richest of the rich live? Well, now we know!

To be honest, some of these did not come as much of a surprise, but a few really did!

Here is MSN Real Estate’s list of the 10 cities with the highest concentration of millionaires>>

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Thinking About Painting Your Home? How much Paint Will You Need?

2011-11-16T08:46:00.000-05:00

Thinking about painting your home? Here is a handy guide to help you determine how much paint you will need to purchase.

Measure the areas you are going to paint, and then convert to square feet.

Surface                                 Coverage (per gallon)

Exterior Rough                         90-110 sq ft
Exterior Smooth                       375-475 sq ft
Interior Rough                          120-190 sq ft
Interior Smooth                        420-490 sq ft

These numbers will assist you in determining the amount you will need for the first coat. If a second coat is required it usually requires about 2/3 as much paint.

You will want to have your painting contractor/vendor confirm these numbers based on their product’s coverage as amounts may vary depending on the type of paint selected and the painting application technique used.

How much paint will I need to paint my house (room)? — Your Forsyth County Real Estate Partner

Buy a Mountain Cabin as an Investment Property

2011-11-08T15:33:00.000-05:00

Did you know that it is possible to buy a second home in the north Georgia mountains and then use it as an investment property / vacation rental when you’re not there?

View the virtual tour of one log cabin perfect for use as a vacation rental for sale or checkout the online photos and information.

*** DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS ONE ***

Priced at only $239,900

This pretty log home is located in the popular ASKA ADVENTURE AREA known for its peaceful setting, pretty mountain views, fun outdoor activities and abundant wildlife.
This cabin is located in a log home development close to town offering – mixture of rentals and second homes.

The 2-story family room features a sky-high stone hearth fireplace which is wood
burning, and large windows overlooking the mountains.

In addition, you will find a fully equipped kitchen with ELECTROLUX stainless steel appliances, a dining area and 3 roomy bedrooms.

The lower level boasts 9’ ceilings making it the perfect place hours of family fun.

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Even Trump Can’t Win Every Time!

2011-11-04T13:19:00.000-04:00

Photo Courtesy of Realtor.com

As we all know, many homeowners are losing money on their real estate investments these days, but they are not alone.

Even the nation’s most well recognized real estate mogul, Donald Trump, just took a huge loss on the sale of one of his personal homes.

The 11,000 sq. ft. home in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA cost $12M when it was built in 2010, but recently sold for only $7.15M.

While this doesn’t take the sting out of a personal loss for the average homeowner, it does help squelch the question of “am I the only one who makes bad investments?”.
Read the full story and see more photos>>

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Have You Ever Considered Buying a Mountain Cabin in North Georgia?

2011-11-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

Did you know that it is possible to buy a second home in the north Georgia mountains and then use it as an investment property / vacation rental when you’re not there?

View the virtual tour of one turn-key vacation rental for sale or checkout the online photos and information.

*** DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS ONE ***
Priced at only $250,000

GREAT turn-key rental investment property – North Georgia mountain vacation rental log cabin for sale in Blue Ridge. This FULLY FURNISHED vacation rental cabin with a successful rental history makes real estate investing easy!

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.
This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.
Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Would Superstition Keep YOU From Living in a Home You Built?

2011-10-28T14:06:00.000-04:00

Can you imagine building a 27-story, 1BILLION dollar home and then refusing to live in it?

That’s what has happened in Mumbai, India. Just over a year ago, India’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, built a home but decided that living in it would bring bad luck to his family.

While most of us have heard of the Chinese tradition of feng shui, few are aware that India has a similar practice call vastu shastra.

No one is quite sure exactly which fundamental principle of vastu shastra was not followed, but it is certain that the family holds a strong belief in its tenets. Read the Full Story>>

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Tiny Houses are all the Rage!

2011-10-26T08:55:00.000-04:00

Can you imagine living in less than 100 square feet?? That is what is offered in one version of the tiny house by the Tumbleweed Tiny House Co.

Many homeowners are now bucking the trend of the “McMansion” and are choosing to reduce their “living foot print”.   Some have even taken it a step further by choosing to live in what is known as a “tiny house”.

With less space to heat and cool, lower maintenance costs and certainly less to clean and polish, many home owners are opting are opting to downsize to this adorable jewel-box of a house.

Due to the small size tiny houses are not built on foundations, but on a trailer base similar to a mobile home. However, they do offer a kitchen, bathroom and in some cases even a fireplace. And, of course, there’s no need to sell when you are ready to change locations… your house can go with you!

This trend has, in fact, become so popular that a HGTV used the build out and decoration of a “tiny house” as the final challenge for the designers competing in the last season of “HGTV Design Star”
I’m not sure that I’m ready for a “tiny house” just yet, but with maintenance and utility costs on the rise it may start to look appealing before too long!   Read the whole story and see more pictures here>>

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066   ~   Email:  gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Preparing Your Home for Sale - Should You DIY?

2011-10-24T10:01:00.000-04:00

In a time when Dave Ramsey economics reins supreme, we are all looking for ways to make every dollar stretch even further.

And, when your home is on the real estate market, the idea of completing any needed repairs or updates yourself may be tempting.

While DIY may be a great way to save money, you have to know which projects are the suitable for homeowner completion and which DIY projects may end up costing you much more in the end!

Read Full Story: http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/contracting/when-it-pays-to-do-it-yourself

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming GA real estate.

This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (678) 456-8066 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Will REO Sales Finally Reach the Peak Soon?

2011-10-20T14:37:00.000-04:00

Based on a report from HousingWire, which pulls its information from numerous analysts and recent reports, foreclosures may not peak until 2013.

In fact, according to analysts from Bank of America, foreclosure sales are expected to reach 1.48 million properties in 2013. However, due to the fact that liquidation volumes are much smaller than the glut seen in 2008, analysts do not expect to see the same level of downward pressure on home prices that we experienced then.

Source: “REO Sales May Not Peak Until 2013,” HousingWire (Oct. 17, 2011)

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Forsyth County real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA – The Real Estate Connection.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

America’s Scariest Homes – Real Life Haunted Houses

2011-10-19T11:43:00.000-04:00

Photo Courtesy of Frontdoor.com

Just in time for Halloween, Frontdoor.com gives us a look at a few of the nation’s creepiest homes, known for the spirits that haunt their hallways. Click through to read the whole story and see more photos.

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Forsyth County real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Some Buyers WANT a Haunted House

2011-10-18T12:32:00.000-04:00

For most of us, the thought of living in a haunted house is a nighmare, but some buyers actually WANT to buy a haunted house! Read the whole story>>

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Haunted Celebrity Homes

2011-10-17T11:09:00.000-04:00

Just in time for Halloween, Frontdoor.com shares the spooky history of a few hollywood homes owned by popular celebrities. Ghosts, goblins and things that go bump in the night. Read the full story – see photos

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Michael Jackson's Home

2011-10-15T19:13:00.002-04:00

I found this story by Frontdoor.com interesting because the house is ultra-conservative.. not at all what I expected from the home of the “King of Pop”.

Before his death in June 2009, Michael Jackson leased this lavish L.A. mansion for $100,000 a month. Take a tour of the King of Pop’s last residence. See the photos and read the full story provided by Frontdoor.com

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Forsyth County Mixed Use Project Delayed

2011-10-14T08:26:00.000-04:00

For those following the ongoing saga, you may not be surprised to hear that the Forsyth County mixed Use Project has been delayed.

In 2008, Taubman Centers Inc. signed a deal with Forsyth County to build a regional mall, office space, hotels and residential units on a 164 acre plot that sits between Union Hill and McFarland roads. The original agreement called for a finish date of 2015.

However, due to current economic conditions and recent sale of a parcel of land for apartments which that developer plans to begin soon, Taubman sought changes to the agreement.

In a meeting held on October 7, 2011 Forsyth County commissioners voted 5-0 to make amendments to the development agreement with Taubman which will push back some of the contractual dates resulting in an opening date of the regional mall being delayed until 2020.

The amended agreement will also push back the county’s deadline to reimburse Taubman for right-of-way costs and allow the developer to purchase a portion of its reserved sewer capacity at a reduced rate.

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.
This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is Coming to Cumming!

2011-10-09T17:28:00.001-04:00

Venture Construction, a Norcross-based company, finalized its permits on September 23^rd, 2011 and had the current buildings demolished by September 30^th so it looks like rumor has become fact!

The restaurant is expected to open in early 2012 and will sit on a two-acre property located just off Ga. 400 at exit 14. The property, which is part of Tri-County Plaza, was formerly the home of two now defunct restaurants, Pappy Red's BBQ and Mrs. Winners Chicken and Biscuits.

The property currently sits in Forsyth County, but it appears that the city of Cumming, GA is currently in the process of annexing the property, at the request of the property owner.

Though the county has yet to see any plans for the annexation, city property extends on both the north and south sides of the parcel, and the city provides water and sewer services for the property so it may well get what it is requesting.

Either way, Forsyth County residents will have a great new place to enjoy a family-friendly meal!

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.

This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.
Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice. All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Forsyth County / Cumming, GA Country Fair & Festival Starts Today (October 7, 2011)

2011-10-06T14:12:00.000-04:00

One of the largest, and most loved social events in the city of Cumming and Forsyth County, starts today.

The family-friendly festivities, which begin this afternoon at 4:00 PM, will extend through the next 11 days at the Cumming Fairgrounds on Castleberry Road.

The Fair, which offers a variety of entertainment, rides, food and other attractions, is the largest and longest running event in Cumming. Last year the fair drew almost 125,000 people to the city and there is hope for an even higher attendance this year.

Musical entertainment will kick off with Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, October 7^th followed by Joe Nichols at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 11^th and the Charlie Daniels’ Band at 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 13^th.

In accordance with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta being one of this years major sponsors, Fair coordinators promise even more activities for the children than usual. One of the featured acts sponsored by Children’s HCOA will be the Marvel Comics superhero show at 6 and 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 12^th, as well as free admission that night.

Another new attraction to the fair this year will be the American Bull Riders Tour competition which is to be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 15^th and 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 16^th.

The fair has been, and likely will be, a family favorite for most Forsyth County residents and visitors for years to come.

Now, where that corn dog vendor??

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.
This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

Four Forsyth County Elementary Schools Rank in Top 10

2011-10-05T15:12:00.000-04:00

Once again, the excellence of the South Forsyth County schools system is on display.

Following on the heals of South Forsyth High School being named by NEWSWEEK as one of the Top 500 High Schools in the country, now Four Forsyth County Elementary Schools have Ranked in the Top 10 out of 1176 Georgia Elementary Schools Statewide.

Rank* (of 1176)	School	District	City	Total students (2010)	Student/ Teacher Ratio (2010)	CRCT, avg Math** (2011)	CRCT, avg English Language Arts** (2011)	CRCT Combined
1	Britt David Elementary Computer Magnet Academy	Muscogee County	Columbus	548	19.7	100	100	200
2	Sharon Elementary School	Forsyth County	Suwanee	1018	17.7	99.7	99.8	199.5
3	Peeples Elementary School	Fayette County	Fayetteville	693	16.2	99.2	100	199.2
4	Marietta Center For Advanced Academics	Marietta City	Marietta	259	16.7	98.9	100	198.9
5	Daves Creek Elementary School	Forsyth County	Cumming	933	16.6	99.5	99.3	198.8
6	Haw Creek Elementary	Forsyth County	Cumming	927	18	99	99.6	198.6
7	Big Creek Elementary School	Forsyth County	Cumming	604	16.1	99	99	198
7	Findley Oaks Elementary School	Fulton County	Atlanta	801	14.2	98.5	99.5	198
9	Birmingham Falls Elementary School	Fulton County	Milton	766	14.8	97.9	100	197.9
10	Crabapple Crossing Elementary School	Fulton County	Alpharetta	762	15.5	98.4	99.4	197.8

South Forsyth is well known for its excellent school system. In fact, it was recently named as one of the major factors responsible in keeping property values high in an otherwise declining real estate market (along with low taxes, local amenities, updated infrastructure, etc…).

Congratulations to Dave’s Creek Elementary School, Haw Creek Elementary School, Big Creek Elementary School and Sharon Elementary School for a JOB WELL DONE!

Please feel free to call (866-413-1781) or drop me an email if I can provide you with more information about this blog post or if I can assist you with buying or selling your Cumming, GA real estate.
This Cumming GA Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of ERA - The Real Estate Connection.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!

Forsyth County GA Homes Holding Value Better than Most

2011-10-03T13:52:00.000-04:00

A recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey determined that based on its 2009 reporting - the most recent year for which data was available - Forsyth County has held its home values far better than most other areas of metro Atlanta.

Per the report, Forsyth’s median home value was stated as $275,200; compared to Fulton at $250,800, Dawson at $210,700 and $194,300 in Gwinnett.

Other neighboring counties also faired worse with lower 2009 values. Hall County’s median home value was stated as $171,100 with Cherokee County slightly higher at $199,800.

While this is a powerful statement in regard to the overall strength the Forsyth County real estate market, it is not a surprise to me as this area has a great deal to offer a prospective home buyer.

With a high standard of living in relation to area amenities, a strong infrastructure and low property taxes, as well as an outstanding school system, Forsyth County remains extremely attractive to homebuyers. Understandably, this combination of benefits creates a higher demand for homes in the area resulting in more stable home prices.

While Forsyth County has seen a drop in homes sales over the last year it is still faring better than the rest of metro Atlanta. And, in terms of price, while Forsyth prices did drop by almost 9 percent over the last 12 months, Metro-Atlanta sales prices saw a decline of 16.4 percent overall during that same time period.

In the current market, I believe that this drop in local sales prices can easily be attributed to an increase in foreclosures and short sale homes on the market as well as local builders undercutting prices to sell off existing spec homes.

On the positive side, home sales have increased overall and market inventory has dropped to less than 25 percent over last year’s numbers which means that the homes that are being put on the market are selling!

An additional indicator that the Forsyth County real estate market may be headed out of the slump is the fact that, for the first time in the last four years, we have seen two consecutive quarters reflect a positive home sales number without having a Federal Tax Credit program in place.

While Forsyth remains a buyer’s market it appears that we are working toward reaching a more balanced market which paints a beautiful picture for the future Forsyth County real estate market.

Cell: (706) 455-0180 ~ Office (706) 632-0367 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

Disclaimer: Information contained in this post is deemed reliable on the date of publication, but it is not guaranteed and it is subject to change without notice.
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Gayle Barton and may not be used without the expressed written permission.

If you found this post to be helpful or entertaining, please click the +1 button below to score it!