The Greater Savannah Georgia Area Real Estate Blog

Offshore

2013-11-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

This smaller, charming community on Wilmington Island offers homes built in the 1990s so they have a more contemporary layout than many of the older Wilmington Island neighborhoods. Open floor plans, porches off the main living level and wooded and marsh views depending on the location. Some homes look right onto the salt water marsh and there is a community dock and boat slip.

Current prices from just under $200,000 to the mid $300,000s for a home with it’s own private dock.

If you would like more information about Offshore or any other communities just give me a call or send me and email and I will be happy to email you what’s available. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Tom

Offshore neighborhood

Thomas Tolbert – Realtor

Keller Williams – Savannah Downtown

Office 912-232-8580

Mobile 912-308-6839

Mobile 912-308-6839 (Best way to reach me)

thomas.tolbert@mac.com

SEARCH THE MLS

The Merritt at Whitemarsh

2012-11-23T14:53:00.001-05:00

This gated community on Savannah's Whitemarsh island offers lots of amenities and is under a 10 minute drive to both the downtown Savannah historic district and the beach at Tybee Island.
Amenities include a fitness center, business center, approximately 5000 sq. ft. clubhouse, billboards room and a beautiful swimming pool and spa. The property is well landscapes and there is a large lagoon just inside the gate.

There are a a variety of floor plans including one, two and three bedrooms as well as 3 story town homes with 2 car garage and a "Carriage House" style condo with a garage and a very large screened porch, storage unit and lower level patio. All units have wide crown molding, great closet space and screened porches.

There have been some exceptionally reasonable prices over the past year with some foreclosures and short sales as low as the mid 50s for a one bedroom and some two and three bedrooms condos going for less than $100,000.

If you're looking for a gated island community with amenities and great location then The Merritt at Whitemarsh is an excellent choice. Perfect for full time living or a lock and leave vacation home and the short drive to the downtown Savannah historic district makes a great choice for students attending SCAD, Savannah College of Art and Design.

For more information and a current list of available condos, including foreclosures, just give me a call or send me an email.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

"Hey Y'all"... Savannah's Own Paula Deen and "The Lady and Sons"

2008-10-07T11:13:00.006-04:00

I guess there aren't many people who haven't heard of Paula Deen, the emmy award winning food network star and owner of The Lady and Sons restaurant in Savannah, Georgia. I've never driven by her restaurant in the historic district without a line outside, often extending around the corner and down the block.

Paula Deen fans love just can't get enough of her heavy southern accent saying "Hey Yall", her many cookbooks or her food network show "Cooking with Paula Deen" and "Paula's Party". Seems like everyone in town either knows Paula, knows someone who knows Paula or just can't wait to meet Paula!

It's hard to think that there was ever a shy bone in her body to see her now but at one time Paula was actually agorophobic, suffered from panic attacks and was basically house bound. Originally from Albany, Georgia she moved to Savannah in 1989 she started a catering business called The Bag Lady which grew into the Lady and Sons with the help of her sons, Jamie and Bobby and the rest is history.

Here top ten favorites as chosen by Food Network

» Southern Fried Chicken

» Creamy Macaroni and Cheese*

» Gooey Butter Cake

» Baked French Toast Casserole*

» Hoecakes

» Chicken and Rice Casserole*

» Cheese Biscuits

» Grandmother Paul’s Sour Cream Pound Cake

» Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

» Hurry Up Chicken Pot Pie

So if you're hungry come on down to Savannah and take the Paula Deen Trolley Tour over to The Lady and Sons restaurant and say "Hey Y'all".

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Some of the top Savannah Inns and Bed and Breakfasts in the Historic District

2008-10-04T16:23:00.001-04:00

Considering a visit to Savannah? Here are some places to consider staying
in the Historic District......

The "Gastonian Inn"

Voted "Savannah's Most Romantic Inn" in 2007 and recognized by Conde Nast as one of the finest places to stay in the world, this four diamond inn has 17 Guest rooms with working fireplaces all uniquely furnished. Close to Forsyth Park, The Gastonian consists of two adjoining Regency-Italianate style mansions built in 1868. Personalized breakfast menus, silver tray service or family style breakfasts. Complimentary tea, hors d'oeuvres and wine served in the afternoons and desserts and cordials served in the evenings.
http://www.gastonian.com/

The "Marshall House"

Located on Broughton Street, Savannah's equivalent of "Main Street" is Savannah's first hotel, The Marshall House. At one time it seved as a hospital for soldiers toward the end of the Civil War. In 1999 , 12 million dollar restoration returned the building to its origingal purpose. Guest rooms feature a Southern-style decor and heart pine floors. 65 guest rooms and suites.
http://www.marshallhouse.com/

The "Eliza Thompson House"

Built in 1847, this award winning Inn is on historic Jones Street, within walking distance to shops, antique stores, museums and restaurants. 13 rooms as well as Eliza's own "Carriage House" which overlooks the courtyard. Amenities include a deluxe continental breakfast, Wine and hors d"oeuvres, turndown service and desserts and coffee in the evening.
http://www.elizathompsonhouse.com

The "Kehoe House"

Built in 1892 for William Kehoe, this Queen Anne style mansion is adorned with cast iron railings, Corinthian columns, porches, balconies and window moldings. The house was built back in 1892 for a whopping $25,000. There have been numerous reports of hauntings in the mansion so be on the lookout for ghosts! Some interesting trivia is that the mansion was formerly owned by football great, Joe Namath. The Kehoe House features 13 guest rooms, each uniquesly furnished and named for figures in Savannah's History.
http://www.kehoehouse.com

The "East Bay Inn"

Built in 1852 as a home to cottom merchants and a cotton warehouse, the East Bay Inn is located just one block from Savannah's River Street in the Historic District. Lots of amenities including flat screen televisions, high speed internet, robes, turndown service, hairdryers, coffee makers and irons and ironing boards. If you happen to be in Savannah for Thanksgiving they have an outstanding buffet on Thanksgiving Day.
http://www.eastbayinn.com

Hope you have a great time in Savannah!

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

The Savannah International Film Festival

2008-10-01T18:24:00.002-04:00

Peter O'Toole after his lifetime achievement award at the Savannah Film Festival, flanked by critic Roger Ebert and actor Jason Patric. (Photo by Mark Von Holden)

Savannah has long been a favorite setting for movies from "Forrest Gump" to "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" the original "Cape Fear"..... the list goes on and on. But did you know that thanks to the Savannah College of Art and Design we have our very own film festival?

The Savannah International Film Festival is highly respected in the film community. The 2007 honored guests included Michael Douglas, Vanessa Redgrave and Milos Forman and the 2008 featured guest will be Malcolm McDowell.

We're used to celebrity here.... some of the Savannah area residents both full and part time include Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Kevin Spacey, Cindy Lauper and Sandra Bullock. It's not uncommon to walk into Starbucks and see Sandra Bullock or run into Ben and Jennifer in Home Depot.

Having been in the film industry for many years in my former career I don't exactly get star struck but it is a little surreal having so many celebrities running around town. I guess it's the beautiful scenery, beaches and laid back "live and let live" attitude of Savannah that attracts them.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

What Does A Buyer's Agent Cost?

2008-10-01T15:10:00.005-04:00

The short answer is nothing.

When a seller lists a home with a broker they agree at the time of listing on the amount of commission that the seller pays to the listng broker at closing. Let's say that you call the listing agent to see the property, you like the home, you make an offer and purchase the property. Great for the listing agent because they get the entire commission! But if you as a buyer have a buyer's agent then they must share their commission with the cooperating broker (the buyer's agent). It's that simple.

Since the listing agent represents the seller they have an obligation to look out for the seller's best interest - not your's as the buyer. If you were to go to court for example you surely would not want to use the same attorney as the guy who was suing you so why would you enter into a real estate transaction without being represented? It's not that the listing agent is being greedy, it's just that they must represent their client, the seller, to the best of their ability.

On the other hand a buyer's agent can look at the property objectively. Run a market analysis, pull the tax records, help you determine whether it's a good deal and what would be a fair asking price. As a buyer's agent I want my clients to have a clear picture of the market and help negotiate the best deal for them. The job of a buyer's agent is not to "sell" any particular property, but to represent the best interests of thebuyer/consumerthroughout the home buying process.A buyer's agent helps consumers make smart decisions as they buy the home they love.

Buying a home is a major investment and as a buyer you need someone on your side. A good buyer's agent isn't just interested in a quick sale, we want to keep your business in the future, we want referrals from your friends, neighbors and business associates. The best way to ensure that is to have happy clients.

So many of my out of town buyers relocating to the Greater Savannah Area start out searching on the internet and it's a great way to start but when you get serious about your move you really need to find a buyer's agent to assist you.

A while back I met a couple who had relocated to Savannah from out of state. The called the listing agent on a home, closed on the home, moved in and then started to explore the area. They quickly realized that they much had made the wrong choice. The listing agent had not shown them a clear picture of what was available in their price range and they found other neighborhoods that they much preferred. I showed them a variety of homes in those neighborhoods and they settled on a home. I helped them to negotiate a great deal and they closed on and moved into their new home. We put their first home that they purchased through the listing agent on the market but they had paid too much and the market was declining more and more with the mortgage crisis. Eventually the home sold but they had to take a substantial loss.

If only they had used a good buyer's agent they would have avoided a costly mistake by having a clear picture of the local market and someone looking out for their needs and best interests.

If I can answer any questions about the benefits of a buyer's agent please don't hesitate to let me know.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Wondering where to stay in Savannah's Historic District?

2008-09-30T00:24:00.006-04:00

My favorite Savannah hotel would have to be "The Mansion on Forsyth Park".

Besides being a AAA four diamond award hotel the location is outstanding. Right across the street from beautiful Forsyth Park, a 20 plus acre park that's the gathering place of local Savannahians and tourists alike. There's always something to do in the park, from a Jazz festival, Symphony in the Park to a picnic which the hotel staff will be happy to provide for you.

Set in a restored 1888 Victorian mansion, there are 126 guest suites, an art gallery, the Poseidon Spa, 24 hour fitness center, and much more. They even offer cooking classes! I love to have lunch in the restaurant overlooking Forsyth Park.

The location is great for exploring the Historic District on foot. If you're looking for a fine hotel that's unique and historic you may want to check it out!

Here's a link to their website.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Greater Savannah area foreclosures and short sales

2008-09-27T15:24:00.006-04:00

What is a short sale?

A short sale is a situation where a lender may agree to take less than is owed on a home in order to avoid it going in foresclose. This allows the seller to often sell below fair market value just to get out from under their loan and avoid the credit impact of a foreclosure.

How do Foreclosures work?

Typically once a property becomes a foreclosure a market analysis is done and the property is listed at fair market value. But banks are not interested in holding on to the property for a long time, they want to get the home sold and off the books as soon as possible.

Basically the longer the foreclosure home is on the market the more they will be willing to come down on the price. It's not unusual to see a 10% price reduction every four to six weeks so you can see how you can purchase a foreclosure well below market value.

How do I find Foreclosure and Short sale properties?

As a local Realtor familiar with the market I can identify foreclosures and short sales for my clients and help them through the entire process from beginning to end. Not all realtors even know how to identify these properties but I stay on top of the foreclosure and short sale market so that I can help my client buyers get the absolute best deals.

How do I get started?

Just give me a call or send me an email. Of course my services are free to a buyer. Just let me know your preferred area, single family home, condo or townhomes, your price range, likes and dislike in a home, timeframe for purchase, etc. and we'll get started!

If you are a seller facing the possibility of foreclosure communication with your mortgage lender is key! They can discuss your options to refinance and if that is not possible you they may be willing to work with you to negotiate a short sale rather than face foreclosure. An experience Realtor can discuss the short sale option with you and offer advice. Please let me know if I can help.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Savannah College of Art and Design - SCAD

2008-09-26T16:34:00.009-04:00

Founded in 1978, the Savannah College of Art and Design has grown into one of the most sought after colleges worldwide for graphic design, animation, film and television, fashion and photography today.. With a student body from all 50 states and 90 countries as well as Professors and faculty from around the world SCAD has contributed to making Savannah a rich and diverse cultural community. With 11 art galleries including the SCAD Museum for the Arts and campuses throughout the Historic District SCAD's contribution and influence everywhere. By mingling their campuses and facilities throughout the entire Historic & Victorian districts, maintaining and restoring the historic architectural integrity of the buildings they occupy, SCAD remains unobtrusive in this historic landscape of the Savannah community.

Since many students choose not to live in student housing many parents choose to purchase a historic condo, loft or townhouse as an investment property while they are attending SCAD. Costs can be offset by taking in one or more roommates depending on the size of the property. With the steady rise in real estate prices in the Historicand Victorian Districts buying rather than renting can be a wise investment.

Degree Programs at SCAD-Savannah

SCAD-Savannah offers a full range of degree programs, certificate programs and

individual courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. All courses are developed and taught by

SCAD faculty and are offered for academic credit under the authority and accreditation of the college.

View course schedule and descriptions.

Most degree programs have corresponding undergraduate minors. Additional minors are offered in accessory

design, British-American studies, business management and entrepreneurship, ceramic arts, cultural landscape,

dance, decorative arts, drawing, electronic design, exhibition design, interaction design, marine design, museum

studies, music performance, new media art, storyboarding and technical direction.

Savannah offers degrees in the following:

Bachelor of Arts

Digital Media with a concentration in Game Development

Digital Media with a concentration in Interactive Design

Visual Communications with a concentration in Advertising Design

Visual Communications with a concentration in Graphic Design

Visual Communications with a concentration in Illustration

Visual Communications with a concentration in Photography

Visual Communications with a concentration in Sequential Art

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Accessory Design
Advertising Design
Animation
Architecture*
Architectural History
Art History
Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics
Fashion
Fashion Marketing and Management
Fibers
Film and Television
Furniture Design
Graphic Design
Historic Preservation Sequential Art Professional Writing Production Design Photography Performing Arts Photography Painting Illustration Industrial Design Interactive Design and Game Development Interior Design Metals and Jewelry

Master of Architecture*

B.F.A./Professional M. Arch*

Postprofessional M.Arch with a concentration in Electronic Design

Postprofessional M.Arch with a concentration in Urban Design

*Visit the Architecture page for more information

Master of Arts

Accessory Design
Advertising Design
Animation
Architectural History
Art History
Arts Administration
Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics
Cinema Studies
Commercial Photography
Design Management
Digital Photography
Documentary Photography
Fashion
Fibers
Film and Television
Furniture Design Graphic Design Historic Preservation Visual Effects Illustration Illustration Design Industrial Design Interactive Design and Game Development Interior Design Metals and Jewelry Luxury and Fashion Management (2009) Painting Performing arts Production Design Photography Sequential Art Sound Design

Master of Fine Arts

Accessory Design
Advertising Design
Animation
Architectural History
Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics
Design Management
Fashion
Fibers
Film and Television
Furniture Design
Graphic Design
Illustration
Historic Preservation Industrial Design Interactive Design and Game Development Interior Design Metals and Jewelry Painting Performing Arts Photography Luxury and Fashion Management (2009) Production Design Sequential Art Sound Design Visual Effects

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Georgetown - A popular southside Savannah Community

2008-09-25T20:21:00.006-04:00

Located on Savannah's southside is one of the most popular communities in Savannah called Georgetown. The community started growth back in the 1970s and has continued to flourish with continuous new construction from single family homes to villas and townhomes.Made up of over 20 neighborhoods Georgetown is affordable with resale homes from the 150s to close to a million for homes along the river, and the architecture varies from brick ranch to traditional to Low Country.

With lots of amenities including pool, tennis courts and playgrounds as well as Georgetown Elementary School Georgetown has been a long time favorite for families. With the Savannah Mall nearby there's no need to have to go far forshopping, yet with the completion of the Southwest Bypass you can be in downtown and midtown Savannah in under 20 minutes. The close proximity to Hunter Army Airfield makes Georgetown convenient for military families.

Traffic can get a bit congested sometimes at rush hour off Hwy 204 (Abercorn Extention) but for the most part it's not that bad. If you're considering a family oriented community that's both convenient and affordable you should check out Georgetown.

Some of the neighborhoods in Georgetown include:

The Abbey (Chalis Way @King George Blvd)

Knightsbridge (St. Ives Dr @ King George Blvd)

Audubon Park (1400 King George Blvd)

Lion's Gate (Lion's Gate Rd @ King George Blvd)

Baron's Place (Baron's Way @King George Blvd)

Lott's Landing (Sea Gull Ln @ King George Blvd)

Eagle's Landing (Chevis Rd @ Cormorant Way)

Magnolia Woods (Dovetail Crossing @ Avocet Way)

Georgetown Townhomes (1233 King George Blvd)

Oxford Apts (Dukes Way @ King George Blvd)

Georgetown Place (777 King George Blvd)

Summerfield (Cormorant Dr @ Misty Morning Way)

Heron's Crest (Wild Heron Rd @ Lion's Gate Rd)

St. Ives (St. Ives Dr @ St. Ives Way)

Hunter's Green (1401 King George Blvd)

Sugar Mill (Sugar Mill Dr @ King George Blvd)

Hunter's Pointe (1211 King George Blvd)

Village Green (Westminister Dr @ King George Blvd)

King's Grant (Red Fox Dr @ King George Blvd)

Wexford (Dukes Way @ King George Blvd)

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Savannah's Historic City Market

2008-09-25T14:24:00.004-04:00

Savannah's City Market started back in 1755 was where farmers and fishermen delivered their their wares in horse drawn wagons. Pretty much abandoned in the early 1950s the City Market just couldn't compete with the modern air conditioned grocery stores. Today the City Market, at Jefferson and West Julian Streets is again thriving with art galleries, unique gift shops, pubs and restaurants to ice cream and candy shops. .

A favorite for locals and tourists alike, the market is busy day and night. Many of the restaurants have outdoor seating for both lunch and dinner. One of my favorite restaurants in the market is Vinnie Van Go-Go's Pizza. It's a great place to sit outside and watch the horse drawn carriages go by.

The City market is just a block off of Bay Street and two blocks from River Street in walking distance of most of the downtown hotels and inns, so when you're in town be sure to drop by and check it out!

The Savannah Dog Park and some other Dog friendly Savannah Parks!

2008-09-24T20:23:00.000-04:00

If you're a dog lover visiting or moving to Savannah, Georgia you'll probably want to know some great places to take your dogs for a walk. Savannah is fortunate to have some beautiful parks and most of them are dog friendly. Dogs are required to be on a leash in all of Savannah's public parks.

On the east side of town is Daffin Park, especially convenient to the Ardsley Park, Parkside and Gordonston neighborhoods. Daffin Park is sprawling with sidewalks along Victory Drive and Waters Avenue, a huge, stocked fishing pond and fountain and acres of open grass lined with timeless oaks. If you or your dogs get thirsty there are water fountains to stop and cool down. Our Dobermans Xena and Argo are fascinated by one of the ducks who lives there and they usually make a big production when they spot him.

Another favorite is Forsyth Park in the Historic District surrounded by stately Victorian homes. Forsyth Park is convenient for downtown residents and at 20 plus acres there is always a lot of activity and it's a great place to take in the scenery. It's particularly important to make sure they are on a leash at all times, Drayton and Whitaker Streets which border the park are busy one way streets with fast moving traffic.

If you're looking for an Off Leash Dog Park then you may want to consider "The Savannah Dog Park". The Savannah Dog Park is located on 41st St and Drayton streets in the "Starland Connunity. The dog park offers a shaded, fenced in area where dogs can play and socialize with other dogs off the leash. They do ask for a modest donation to become and member and the money goes to the upkeep of the park. Members are given a card key for access to the park. They have a lot of fun activities for members and their dogs like "Doggie Carnival" and An Annual Halloween Doggie Costume Party.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Savannah's Beautiful "Isle of Hope"

2008-09-23T14:43:00.000-04:00

Early maps refer to Isle of Hope in French as L'Isle Desperance. Legends abound of Pirates using the island to hide their booty, and generations of children have been digging for treasure there. Legend also says that the island was used as a place of refuge for french Huegonots fleeing persecution.

Isle of Hope has been the location of quite a few movie productions including the origingal Cape Fear and Forrest Gump. It's a great neighborhood for strolls or dog walking along the waterfront. You'll find a variety of homes from quaint bungalows to grand mansions. Because of the close proximity to the Truman Pkwy you can be in Historic Savannah in about 20 minutes. Home prices range from around 300,000 into the millions.

A great place to live or take a Sunday drive!

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Great Video Tour of Savannah, Georgia

2008-09-20T13:57:00.000-04:00

I found this great video of Savannah for you to enjoy!

Savannah: The Creative Coast from Fitz Haile on Vimeo.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Savannah's Historic Gordonston Neighborhood

2008-09-18T08:56:00.003-04:00

One of Savannah's most charming older neighborhoods, Gordonston is located on the east side of Savannah. The newest neighborhood in Savannah to be named to the National Register of Historic Places, Gordonston is definitely worth considering. Nestled between Skidaway Rd to the south, Pennsylvania Avenue to the east and Gwinnett St. to the north, this subdivision formed in the early 20th century boasts a variety of architecture from Neo-Classical, Colonial Revival to Arts and Crafts.

Beautiful overhanging trees draped in spanish moss, manicured lawns and the beautiful Juliet Gordon Low Park make Gordonston one of Savannah's most prized jewels. Named for the noted Gordon family of Savannah, their most famous family member being the founder of the Girl Scouts, Juliette Gordon Low. Quite similar to Ardsley Park in many ways, the smaller subdivision of Gordonston is just a short drive to downtown Savannah and the Islands.

The east side of Savannah has seen a lot of expansion in recent years with revitalized shopping centers and major retailers attracting homebuyers and businesses to the area.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Stubbs Tower Implosion, Savannah, Ga

2007-12-24T16:00:00.001-05:00

Stubbs Tower's, a high rise senior citizen residence built in the late 1970 had been evacuated several years ago and the city had it demolished a couple of weeks ago. There are plans to put a park on the spot. Stubbs Tower's was located on the east side of Savannah, about 4 blocks from the historic Gordonston neighborhood. Since I live in the area, we walked over to watch the implosion in person..........it was so surreal and amazing! Over very quickly as you can see from the video.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Why You Should Use A Buyer's Agent

2007-12-01T16:57:00.003-05:00

One of the biggest mistakes made by a new or veteran home buyer is to purchase a listed property without the use of a buyer's agent. Many buyers incorrectly believe that if they don't use a buyer's agent they can get a discount in lieu of paying the full commission to the listing agent. This is almost always wrong! The seller enters into a listing agreement with the listing broker for an agreed upon amount or percentage. Once the property is listed in the MLS, that fee, is shared with the agent who sells that property. If the listing agent sells the property, they keep 100%. That means not only do you not get a discount equal to the shared fee, but you also are letting the seller have an advantage over you in the negotiations. On the other hand, having your own buyer's agent can save you a bundle.

Buyer's agents are agents who work with home buyers to look out for their best interests and get their client, you the buyer the best deal. They are paid by the seller or builders listing agent but owe no loyalty to the seller in negotiations, only their client, the buyer.

Here's an example. Let's say that you are in the market to buy a very a very specific car and walk into a dealership to find one. Guess who those friendly sales people work for? The dealer of course. They're all trying to get you to buy using every tactic in the book. Do you feel comfortable? Of course not.

Now, what if you could hire an independent consultant to find you the vehicle you are looking for from among all of the dealers in that region. Someone to handle all of the negotiation, at your direction. Someone who knows the market and the costs associated with this vehicle as well as how long a dealer typically takes to sell this car. All of this information is vital to getting the best deal. To get all of this at no cost to you, you simply sign an agreement with that individual that outlines the following:

That the consultant is to look out for your best interest (they are legally bound to do so).

You agree to allow your consultant to be paid a pre-determined fee from the dealership in which you decide to buy.

That the consultant will help you find the best deal. Performance based compensation. If they don't find you what you want they don't get paid.

You agree to work exclusively with that consultant. (This ensures that there is no pressure on you to buy because that consultant knows that they will eventually be rewarded by their efforts to help you.

You agree to buy from dealerships that pay your salesperson a finders fee.

Now, substitute the car for a house and the consultant for a real estate buyer's agent and you've

accomplished the same thing, which in real estate is known as buyer's agency.

Services that Buyer's agents offer to their clients:

The original purchase price of the house.

Evaluating improvements that the sellers may have made.

Comparative market analysis for similiar houses in the neighborhood.

Knowledge of their local market and experience negotiating the best deal for their client.

Knowledge of special promotions and buyer's incentives.

Information on property taxes.

The average drop in list price to sold price and the average days on market.

Introduction to reliable mortgage lenders, home inspectors, closing attorneys, etc.

If new construction they can keep you up to date on the status of your home as if goes

through various stages of completion.

You worry about deciding on the perfect house....they take care of the details.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Savannah's Coastal Neighbor - Richmond Hill

2007-10-21T13:45:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite communities!
Just minutes from Savannah is a picturesque community with more than 10,000 residents, yet still manages to keep it's small town feel and charm. Known as the city that Henry Ford Built, it is formerly the home of industrialist Henry Ford, it was named Richmond Hill in 1939 after the name of Ford's winter residence. On August 16, 2004 Laura Bush designated Richmond Hill among the nation's Preserve America communities.

A family oriented community, Richmond Hill's public school system is considered among the best in the coastal Georgia area. For more information on schools you can visit the Bryan County Schools website.

Whatever your looking for in a coastal community, Richmond Hill has to offer, from boating and fishing, to golf, shopping, great seafood, and fun outdoor community events like the Annual Great Ogeechee Seafood festival, the Annual Christmas Parade, Annual Chili Cook-off and the Annual Great Ogeechee Open Vehicle Show.

Because of the convenience to both Hinesville - Ft. Stewart base and Savannah's Hunter Army Airfield, Richmond Hill is a favorite among military families as well.

Due to the popularity of the community there are a lot of new construction communities throughout as well as older neighborhoods with mature landscaping. Median home prices are about $175,000 to $350,000. Many homes offer larger lots, often close to a half acre and beyond.

If you are considering moving to the area this is one community you don't want to miss!

Let me know if you would like more information on Richmond Hill or what's available in your price range.

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Why not just have the listing agent show me a home?

2007-10-20T17:56:00.000-04:00

Let's say you're searching the internet for homes or just driving around a neighborhood and see a house you like. You just call the listing agent and ask to see the home, after all it's their listing, they know it better than anyone. Sounds like a good idea , but here's the problem.......the listing agent represents the seller! The listing agent is bound by a fiduciary responsibility to the seller to act in the seller's best interest creating an agency relationship with the seller. The listing agent's job is to get the best price for the seller's home and on the seller's terms.

Sure, the listing agent can write an offer on your behalf and submit it to their client, the seller.

But remember, that agent's duty is to get the best deal for their client, not you as their customer.

If all parties are in agreement, the listing agent can represent both the seller and the buyer in what is called dual agency, but that can be tricky because then the agent is limited to ministerial acts and is not allowed to help either party to negotiate the best price.

On the other hand, if you have your own agent, that agent has an obligation to work on your behalf to help you negotiate the best price and the terms most favorable to you, his client. A buyer's agent can give you objective advise on the home, the neighborhood, the current market value of the property, help you with financing, the inspection process all the way through the closing process, looking out for your best interest the whole time.

When you are ready to begin looking for a home be sure to find the right realtor to represent you as a buyer!

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

Ardsley Park - A Savannah Favorite

2007-10-20T14:55:00.000-04:00

Ardsley Park is an extremely popular Savannah, Ga neighborhood. Most of the homes were built in the first half of the 20th century and are a mixture of large two story homes and smaller "bungalows". Savannah's first suburb, laid out in 1911, is a mixture of prestigious four and five bedroom mansions and quaint, craftsman style bunglalows situated on tree lined streets. The Arsley Park area, located in Midtown and loosely bounded by Victory Drive on the north, Waters Avenue on the east, 55th Street on the south and Bull Street on the west- has become one of the city's hottest neighborhoods favored by young professionals and families.

Real estate prices range from about 200,000 to $350,000 for to up to a million and beyond for very large homes. Located about 10 minutes from both the southside business areas and the downtown Historic District helps make Arsley Park a convenient neighborhood. Only a 20 minute drive to Wilmington Island and a 30 minute trip to the beach.

Definitely an area to check out if you appreciate the appeal of an older home. Lots of hardwood floors and beautiful architectural details are found in many Ardsley Park homes.

For more information email me at thomas.tolbert@mac.com

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS

New Homes Communities in Greater Savannah area

2007-10-20T12:08:00.001-04:00

Savannah, Pooler, Richmond Hill, Rincon, Guyton and Port Wentworth have all seen a huge growth spurt of new construction is the past few years. In the current market there is a lot of competition so builders are offering lots of incentives to attract buyers. Some may offer to pay closing costs, free upgrades like granite counters or hardwood floor, upgraded cabinets, lighting packages and more. Typically, the farther out from the immediate Savannah area, the more you can get for your money and often the lot size is much larger. Most of these communities are a short commute from midtown Savannah between 20 and 40 minutes drive.

If you're not familiar with the outlying areas, a local realtor can give you information to help you decide which communities are convenient to your needs

It always amazes me that so many new construction home buyers just drive up to the model home by themselves. Remember, that smiling face that greets you at the door works for the seller! They are happy to see you come in on your own and have an advantage when you come in without your own realtor and can have you in their design center picking out flooring and kitchen counters before you know what happened!

A local real estate agent is familiar with many home builders and can objectively provide you with the comparison you need to make a decision. We're constantly updated with builder special, discounts and incentives from their competitors and can help you negotiate to get what you want. I'm often amazed at the flexibility they have when an agent walks in with a buyer. They know that the agent is looking out for the buyer and are most likely taking them to other communities so they have to be as competitive as they can.

Your own agent can objectively help you decide which community is right for you, and guide you through the whole process. If an agent accompanies you to the community and signs you in then the builder is the one paying the agents commission, not you, but you will have someone on your side.

I recently represented a buyer in a purchase in a new homes community for a buyer relocating from out of state. It was down to the wire and the family was set to close on the property in just a couple of days and move in right away. They were at their old home hundreds of miles away packing a moving van. I stopped by their new home to make sure everything was being finished properly on time. To my surprise I found that the gourmet kitchen that was included in the price, with double ovens about to be installed with only one oven and that the surrounding cabinets were being configured around the single oven. I immediately called a meeting with the sales manager and the builder and got my buyer the ovens and cabinet configuration she had been promised and avoided a disaster.

Any number of things can pop up, you really need someone looking out for your best interests.

Whether you choose me or another agent, please do yourself a favor and get your own agent!

Thomas Tolbert

Keller Williams Realty

Office 912-232-8580

Direct (Best way to reach me) 912-308-6839

thomas.tolbert@me.com

SEARCH THE MLS