Emory Point - Neighborhood Retail Addition

Construction for a new retail and mixed-use development called Emory Point has been developing during the past year along Clifton Road near Emory University, and its opening has been anxiously anticipated.

Emory Point is now open and features an attractive main street with shops like Strippaggio, carrying artisan oils, vinegars & specialty foods, Fab'rik, and Lizard Thicket, as well as popular local restaurants like Bonefish Grill and Marlowes Tavern.

While not all facilities are open yet, CVS Pharmacy, Jos. A. Bank Clothiers and Ann Taylor Loft, plus a dry cleaner are open for business and 21 shops and restaurants will be available when the project is completed. Limited parking is available along the street with credit card payment, and free 2-hour parking is available in he present parking deck. There are plans for an additional parking area when the complex is finished.

Originally envisioned as a major condominium and shopping environment by Cousins Properties, partnering with Gables Residential, the project was delayed due to the economic recession. The residential aspect has been altered to offer leasing options instead of condos. Gables Emory Point is a luxurious apartment development with dozens of available floor plans, an elegant Club House and Business Center.

Located across the street from the Centers for Disease Control and surrounded by Emory University Campus and the Emory Healthcare complexes, Emory Point is within walking distance for employees in the community and easily accessible by Emory's free shuttle service, the Cliff bus. It should prove a popular lunchtime and evening destination for Emory area neighbors as well.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company serving buyers and sellers in the Emory, Decatur and Atlanta in-town neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Winston Place - Featured Decatur Condo Community

Several  features make condos and townhomes an attractive choice for home buyers.   Winston Place is a charming small complex conveniently located close to shopping, restaurants, and medical facilities like Emory and the VA hospitals.

Winston Place is one of the few complexes in the area with full garages and some one-level units.  It also has a strong Homeowners Association and well-landscaped grounds and pool area. According to the Atlanta area multiple listing service,  two and three bedroom units here sold last year between $200,000 and $269,000.

Home buyers who choose condos and townhomes are looking for well-kept complexes in desirable neighborhoods close to work and shopping.  Buyers want less exterior upkeep,  ample interiors, updated kitchens and lots of storage.   Winston Place, built in 1985, is an older neighborhood but has many of the features that buyers are looking for today.

Winston Place is conveniently located less than 3 miles from Emory University,  approximately 1 mile from major grocery chains in Toco Hills Shopping Center, and 1/2 mile from  popular neighborhood Oak Grove Shopping Center.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company, serving buyers and sellers in the Emory University, Decatur and Atlanta neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Emory University Area Rental Outlook - 2013

The recent economic reality of plummeting home prices, increased foreclosures /short sales, and restrictive home loan requirements has changed the real estate landscape. Renting has become a popular option as public perception has been dramatically influenced by events of the past four years.

Almost everyone has been affected - homeowners, home buyers, job seekers, renters, investors, mortgage lenders.

 

While many in-town neighborhoods like Emory, Druid Hills, Virginia Highlands and City of Decatur are enjoying a healthy rebound in home prices and activity, some prospective home buyers are reluctant to embrace home ownership. After years of lost property values and uncertain economic stability, many buyers have decided to rent rather than purchase a home. And, an influx of former homeowners who have lost homes to foreclosures or short sales are now moving to rental properties in the area.

So, how are we doing? Rental properties in good neighborhoods in Atlanta seem to be doing just great. According to David Haddow, President of an Atlanta real estate consulting firm, "the average rental occupancy rate for intown neighborhoods remains very high at 96.9%."

Why Rentals are Popular Today

• No extensive qualifying beyond normal credit check
• No maintenance costs
• No Insurance or Tax Costs
• Ease of mobility if job change
• Reasonable Rents vs. mortgage payments

Neighborhoods near Emory University attract graduate students, professors, medical workers, retirees, and young couples. Rental properties in good neighborhoods are in high demand and rent prices are increasing every year. Current Rental statistics published by the FMLS multiple listing service in Atlanta indicate that the majority of homes rented during 2012 were in the $1500 – $2500 range in the immediate Emory and Decatur neighborhoods.

The rental market in the Atlanta area inside the Perimeter appears to be thriving and prospects for the near future look promising. Investors and homeowners who are renting their homes until home prices improve in these areas should be encouraged that a ready rental market will be available for some time to come.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company offering professional Property Management Services and representing Buyers and Sellers in the Atlanta, Decatur and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years

Druid Hills Neighborhood near Emory University

Posted on April 1, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

Druid Hills is one of the most desirable Atlanta neighborhoods, located just a few miles from downtown Atlanta in unincorporated DeKalb County, and bordered by wide, curvy Ponce de Leon Avenue.

The Historic Druid Hills neighborhood was originally developed in the early 20th Century by a local businessman who hired the famous landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmstead and his son, to design and implement the development of the area. Wonderful foresight produced lovely winding streets, overhanging trees, neighborhood parks and gracious homes along streets like Lullwater, Springdale and Oxford. For a more comprehensive history of the area, Druid Hills resident, David Hartle, has written Druid Hills, A Brief History.

Architectural styles in the area include stately Georgian and Tudors, as well as more humble Bungalows. Flowering Dogwoods and Azaleas are a trademark and present on most of the streets in Druid Hills.

A recent facelift and roundabout has enhanced Emory Village and the entrance to Emory University, which are located in the Druid Hills Historical District. Once a bottleneck, traffic now moves easily through the intersection and into the area. Pedestrian traffic enjoys continuous walkways through the intersection and is a pleasure to transverse.

Emory Village is small with several popular restaurants, drycleaners, bookstore and limited parking. It is located adjacent to Emory University and is a lively, bustling destination.

The main entrance to Emory University is located in Emory Village on the roundabout. Emory University was originally founded by a small group of Methodists and was named in honor of Methodist bishop, John Emory. According to Wikipedia, the university has nearly 3000 faculty members and almost 14,000 students. U.S. News & World Reports placed Emory at 20th in national university rankings in 2012. Emory has a beautiful campus with old trees and extensive green space. Several years ago, Emory opted to become a pedestrian only campus and instituted the free Cliff shuttle system for students, faculty and staff. The Carlos Museum is located on the campus and houses one of the most comprehensive art collections in the SE.

Atlanta Decatur Homes, a local Atlanta real estate company, selling homes in Atlanta, Druid Hills, Decatur, Medlock Park, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years. Professional Rental Management services are also offered.

Dog Friendly City - Dog Parks in Decatur, Georgia

Posted on March 31, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

The Dog Park

Decatur, Georgia is one of the loveliest small cities in the Atlanta area, well-known for its walkability factor, for charming Decatur homes, friendly neighborhoods and fine restaurants and shopping. It’s also a dog-friendly city with some great local Decatur Dog Parks.

In a comprehensive article by Wikipedia, the Dog Park is described as “ a facility set aside for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owner.

Dog Parks are popular everywhere, offering safe exercise areas for dogs and an opportunity for owners to gather and socialize while their dogs play. Several excellent Dog Parks are located in neighborhoods around the Emory University area in Decatur, Ga:

Mason Mill Dog Park – N. Jamestown Road Decatur, Ga. – Recently renovated – Flat open space with double fences, adjacent parking, water fountains, baggies and trash deposit plus a covered picnic area. Could use more benches.

 

 

 

 

 

Glenlake Dog Park – 1121 Church Street, Decatur, Ga. – Recently renovated – smaller Dog Park within the larger Glenlake Park with water fountains/baggies and trash deposit and a covered picnic area. Suggest entering off Church Street by the Pool and Tennis Courts, as the other entrance is a bumpy ride over stones. Good Parking

 

 

 

 

Adair Dog Park – Trinity Place next to Mary Gay House, Decatur, Ga. – This large park is one of the more appealing with benches and abundant shade – double fences/water fountains/benches/baggies and trash deposit. Limited parking but handy.

 

 

 

 

 

What Makes a Good Dog Park?

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers lists several points that constitute a Good Dog Park on their website. Good Dog Parks generally have the following:

• Parking Close to the Site
• Materials for Cleaning UP – Bags and Garbage Cans
• Drinking Fountains and Shade
• Enough Space to Avoid Crowding
• Separate Entrance & Exit Gates to Enter and Exit
• Two-Gate System to keep dogs from accidentally Escaping

Is Your Dog Ready for a Dog Park?

Dogs come in all shapes and varieties. Some are quiet and shy, some are friendly and outgoing. Aggressive dogs are not generally welcomed in dog parks and basic obedience skills are desirable. Your dog should be able to respond to basic commands, particularly the recall command. It also helps if your best friend is friendly with all types of people and has a history of amiable play with other dogs. Dog parks may be intimidating for pets that are less than 5 months old.

Visit one of these convenient Decatur Dog Parks when you have an opportunity – your dog will thank you!

Atlanta Decatur Homes, a local Atlanta real estate company, selling homes in Atlanta, Druid Hills, Decatur, Medlock Park, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years. Professional Rental Management services are also offered.

Emory Area Neighborhood - Medlock Park

Posted on March 20, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

The Medlock Park area is nestled between Scott Boulevard, North Superior Avenue and North Decatur Road in Decatur, Georgia. Small well-kept bungalows and brick ranches predominate, with newer construction interspersed. Families and individuals are drawn to the neighborhood by affordable housing and the convenience to Emory University, located less than 3 miles away.

Medlock Park Sales Update

Thirty-seven homes sold in the Medlock Park area during 2011, with prices ranging from $90,000 – $350,000, selling for slightly less than in 2010, The average list price was $192,424 and the average sale price was $180,497, averaging 100 days on the market.

Medlock Park Shopping/Hospital Facilities

Popular restaurants, grocery stores, shops, doctors and hospitals are all located close by

• Evans Fine Foods – N. Decatur Road
• Rainbow Grocery – N. Decatur Road
• UPS & Kinko’s – N. Decatur Road
• Emory Hospital – Clifton Road
• Egleston Children’s Hospital – Clifton Road
• DeKalb General Hospital – N. Decatur Road
• Publix Pharmacy – N. Decatur Road
• Clairmont Animal Hospital – N. Decatur Road

Medlock Park Area Parks

DeKalb County has numerous parks and walking paths convenient to the Medlock Park area, including recently completed bike and walking trails that lead through the woods, connecting two county parks, Medlock Park and Mason Mill Park. Both parks have been extensively renovated and offer tennis courts, playgrounds, ball fields, picnic areas and Medlock Park has a community pool. The Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve, located in the Medlock Park area, is a 28-acre nature preserve with walking trails, bogs, and bird-watching sites.

Medlock Park offers prospective homeowners a convenient location, reasonable home prices and recreation facilities within the neighborhood.

Atlanta Decatur Homes, a local Atlanta real estate company, selling homes in Atlanta, Druid Hills, Decatur, Medlock Park, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years. Professional Rental Management services are also offered.

Atlanta Real Estate Outlook

Posted on March 16, 2012by atlantadecaturhomes

Although the national housing market is showing some signs of recovery, much of the Atlanta real estate market is still playing “catch up”.

There are bright spots in certain areas of the City. For Example, in-town neighborhoods like the Druid Hills/Emory University area are beginning to increase slightly in value and volume of sales. Other parts of the metro area are reeling from numerous foreclosures and mortgage fraud, which tend to affect recovery figures for the the overall Atlanta Metro real estate market. Foreclosed homes owned by banks made up 53% of metro Atlanta sales in January, while foreclosures and short sales made up 35% of sales nationally.

Comparison figures for the number of homes sold in neighborhoods near Emory University indicate that fewer homes were sold in 2011 in the $350,000 – $$900,000 price range than in 2010, but slightly more homes were sold in 2011 in the same area in the $150,000 – $300,000 price range. This is an indication that first-time homebuyers and investors are taking advantage of very low interest rates, and lower-priced homes. The Emory area is also experiencing an increase in the number of homes that are being leased.

The Atlanta Journal indicated in a recent article that “…the region may be seeing the first glimmers of a sustainable housing market recovery with realtors and builders reporting increased interest from potential buyers in recent months.” The Real Housing Market Report reports that housing units in the South for January were up 8.1%, but average prices were down 2% from January, 2011. Economist for the National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, says “record-low interest rates, bargain home prices, rising rents and sustained job creation are helping to spur sales.”

A report published by Brookings, using recent Census Data indicated some interesting statistics. In general, Americans move around more than their counterparts in other countries, but a lot less than they used to. Homeowners are stuck in places with too few jobs and not able or willing to move to areas with healthier labor markets. The Nation is growing and moving more slowly and struggling economically between two recessions.

• U.S. is growing more slowly
• Americans are increasingly stuck at home
• Minorities are driving growth
• Boomers continue to age – age 45 and over grew 18 times as fast as under age 45 – transforming American households
• Americans lost ground on income and poverty in the 2000’s

72% of renters in a recent poll indicated their desire to own a home one day. When the job market and the economy improves, there is a healthy backlog of prospective buyers waiting to buy homes!

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company selling homes in the Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years, offering Professional Management Services as well.

Why Do You Need a Property Manager?

Posted on February 12, 2012 by atlantadecaturhomes

You need a Property Manager for many of the same reasons you need a professional real estate agent.  To make your life easier.

Realtors are licensed and knowledgeable about  State and Local laws that might affect your property.  For example, in some municipalities there is a limit on the number of unrelated adults that can occupy a home legally.

A good Property Manager can handle most of the sticky issues that may arise in leasing your home.  They can:

• Advertise the property for lease with signs, lockboxes, information boxes and emails to other local realtors and to major local businesses.  Distribute flyers and brochures to the multiple listing service, personal websites, Realtor.com, Craigslist, Postlets.com, rentdigs.com, and a host of other appropriate sites.
• Screen prospective tenants by checking credit histories, references, past landlords, and backgrounds.
• Prepare a comprehensive Lease that protects the Landlord and the Tenant, spelling out possible problems like access to the property, accountability for damage to the property, and early termination of the Lease by either party.
• Keep individual records for each client, collect and hold Security Deposits and   rent.  Pay maintenance bills or lawn service if requested.  Send out an itemized statement to the Landlord each month, and a year-end report as well. 
• Maintain the property by handling repairs when requested or necessary.  Professional Property Managers have good electricians, handymen, and plumbers available, as well as lawn services. 
• Let tenants into the property when they are locked out.

Perhaps one of the most difficult duties that Property Managers perform is maintaining  a good relationship and communication with your tenants.  Tenants come in all forms and not all of them are amiable, even though they pay the rent on time and keep the property in good condition.  Prickly tenants need a diplomatic approach and one that an experienced Property Manager can handle with ease.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company selling homes located in Atlanta, Decatur, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years and offering professional property management for homes in the Emory area.

Will Home Mortgage Interest Deduction Survive

Posted on February 9, 2012 by atlantadecaturhomes

The American Dream and home ownership have been partners for a long time.

One of the cornerstones of our American housing policy has been the Home Mortgage Deduction, which has been in place since the inception of the tax code in 1913, and allows homeowners to deduct mortgage interest from their taxes.  The tax deduction on home mortgage interest lowers the cost of owning a home significantly.

The housing industry and prospective homeowners and sellers are facing many threats to a quick recovery. 

• Limited availability of long-term, fixed-rate mortgages
• Minimum down payments of 20% or more
• Higher standards to qualify for a home mortgage
• The number of Homeowners that are still “upsidedown” in their homes
• “Short Sales” and Foreclosures that are prevalent throughout the country

Now, our fragile housing market is threatened with a more far-reaching deterrent.  The mortgage interest deduction is being viewed by the Federal Government as an expedient way to reduce the federal deficit.  Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are once again proposing measures to limit or eliminate the deduction.  The removal of this deduction would push any housing recovery into free-fall , causing the demand for homes to decrease and housing prices to tumble further.

Recent public opinion polls have indicated that although Americans overwhelmingly oppose eliminating the deduction,  lawmakers who are intent on reducing the deficit find this possibility enticing.  According to data from the National Association of Realtors, proposals to scale back or eliminate the mortgage deduction would cause home values to fall 15% for all homeowners, not just those with mortgages.

Lawmakers have bailed out the Banks and the car industry, but are now considering ways to cut benefits to average citizens, such as reducing Social Security and Medicare and  eliminating one of the few surviving benefits of home ownership.

Do the President and Congress understand the ramifications of tampering with this long-held tax deduction, especially given the present economy and the shaky housing outlook?  It seems ill-timed to say the least.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local real estate company selling homes in Atlanta, Decatur, and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Riderwood Estates Neighborhood - Decatur Homes

Posted on July 24, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

Riderwood Estates is a quiet Decatur community located near the intersection of Pangborn Road and LaVista Road, approximately 5.5 miles from Emory University/CDC and close to Northlake Mall, a major shopping complex.

Riderwood Drive, Riderwood Court, and Hunting Hill Lane contain mostly mid-century Ranch homes with winding tree-shaded streets and well-kept lawns.  The homes are generally spacious, renovated and appealing to young families, singles and retirees.  The convenience to good schools, excellent shopping and medical facilities make this a particularly attractive place to live.  Recent sales prices in the neighborhood range from $301,000 for a beautifully renovated brick ranch with a stunning backyard to $189,000 for an estate “quick” sale.   

An incredible updated Emory Area home is currently listed for sale at 1794 Hunting Hill Lane, priced very competitively at $239,900.

• Family Room with Fireplace
• Spacious Living Room/Dining Room
• Sunny Eat-In Kitchen with Updated Appliances
• 3 Bedrooms/2 Full Baths
• Hardwood Floors/HVAC
• Finished Office in Basement
• Full Unfinished Basement – Workshop & Bonus Area with Fireplace
• Loads of Space!  Great Family Home!  Fenced Yard
• Super Neighborhood

If you are searching for an ideally located neighborhood with Decatur Homes that is convenient to shopping, restaurants, good schools and excellent medical facilities, drive through the welcoming streets of Riderwood Estates and picture yourself living in this dynamic community.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local Atlanta Real Estate Company, serving Atlanta, Decatur, Emory University, and Tucker neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Decatur Arts Festival - Decatur Homes

Posted on June 29, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

The City of Decatur. Georgia, is well-known for hosting Beach Parties with sand on the Square,  annual Wine Tasting Events, and Concerts on the Park.  The Decatur Arts Festival is one of their most popular occasions.

The Decatur Arts Festival features an Art Walk with local shops, retailers and restaurants hosting a city-wide art show that is free and open to the public, as well as an Artist Market, free entertainment on the Square,  and Theater and Literary events.

During the weekend, Decatur’s main street is blocked to traffic and filled with colorful kiosks and booths, selling food and unusual art and crafts.  Singers and bands entertain the crowds from the Gazebo on the Square, and children, dogs and families wander through the area, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying this fabulous event sponsored by the City of Decatur.  And, the event is free!

If you don’t make it to the Beach Party or the Book Festival in Decatur, put this annual event on your calendar – it’s a lively affair for the whole family!

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local Atlanta real estate company serving Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, and Tucker communities for over 25 years!

North Druid Valley - Decatur Homes

Posted on May 24, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

Close-in Decatur homes like those in North Druid Valley are among the most desirable real estate in the area.  Nestled off North Druid Hills Road between Clairmont and Lawrenceville Highway lies a hidden community of winding streets and lush vegetation called North Druid Valley. 

Several factors make this neighborhood and these Decatur homes a popular choice for first-time homeowners:

• It is ideally situated within a mile of two major shopping malls – North DeKalb Mall with Macy’s and Marshall’s, and Toco Hills Shopping Mall with several major grocery stores, banks and restaurants.
• It is also located less than 3 miles from Emory University/Emory Medical Complex and the Center for Disease Control
• Home prices  range from $220,000 to $250,000 for 2-3 bedroom properties, many of which have been updated with new kitchens, baths and family room additions
• The majority of homes are ranch-style with spacious well-kept lawns

North Druid Valley has an active Homeowner’s Association and many involved and caring neighbors that help make this area an ideal place to live.  In addition to the closeness of shopping and restaurants, the area is also served by a lovely new library, the Toco Hills-Avis G. Williams Library, just a mile or so away.

DeKalb County Library – Toco Hills-Avis G. Williams Branch

Tucked away on McConnell Drive off Clairmont Road is the new Toco Hills Library, a stunning new facility featuring conference rooms, meeting rooms and a special teen area.  The interior has soaring glass windows that highlight the bright, airy space and encourage reading, studying or searching for your favorite books.  The Library sponsors monthly events like book clubs,  classes for internationals, readings by well-known  writers, and fabulous book sales.  There is ample parking and an exterior seating area.  The Library is convenient to many adjacent neighborhoods and close to schools and Emory University.

Atlanta Decatur Homes is a local Atlanta real estate company serving Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, Tucker and Emory University neighborhoods for over 25 years!

Laurel Ridge Homes - Decatur Real Estate

Posted on May 4, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

 

Brief History of the Development of Decatur real estate in the Laurel Ridge  Community

Laurel Ridge is located 4 miles from Emory University  and is  Northwest of the intersection of North Druid Hills Road and Lawrenceville Highway, roughly across from North DeKalb Mall.

Lawrenceville Highway was a major road from the earliest days of the County, essentially a road that led from the Dekalb County seat in Decatur to the Gwinnett County Seat in Lawrenceville.  North Druid Hills Road was only a two-lane road for years, often blocked by trains passing across the road near the present Hidden Valley Golf Course.

According to a comprehensive history of the area written by Bob Stubbs for the Laurel Ridge Civic Association, until the 1950′s most of the surrounding Decatur real estate was primarily rural with a large number of dairy farms -one large dairy farm was located near North DeKalb Mall. 

 Intensive residential development began in the mid 1950′s when Decatur real estate in the Laurel Ridge area was developed.  Most of the land was originally owned by the Kittredge family and was gradually sold to develop North Druid Woods, Pine Glen, Fork Creek and finally in the mid-60′s, Country Squire.  All of these neighborhoods comprise what is generally designated as the Laurel Ridge area, named for Laurel Ridge Elementary School located in the area.

Many of the homes in North Druid Woods are of modest size, but well-kept with sizeable yards.  This is a popular “starter” neighborhood with good schools and convenient to everything. Decatur homeprices in this neighborhood range from $199,000 to $265,000 for a small brick ranch-style home.

 

Fork Creekwas developed some time later and the homes are substantially larger with more bedrooms and baths and well-groomed lawns.

Pine Glenis another unique area with charming cottage-style homes and brick ranches. 

Prior to the mid-1960′s when Country Squire was developed, orchards and cattle were the primary occupants.  Country Squire homes are substantial with spacious well-maintained yards.

Two DeKalb County Schools are located within the neighborhood, Laurel Ridge Elementary School, and Druid Hills Middle School(Formerly called Shamrock Middle School).

Atlanta Decatur Homes  is a local Atlanta real estate company serving Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, Emory University and Tucker neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Lions Gate - Atlanta Townhomes across from Olmsted Park

Posted on April 17, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

Lions Gate, an Atlanta Townhome and Condominium complex, is located in Fulton County off Ponce de Leon Avenue  on the edge of Druid Hills. Lions Gateis convenient to downtown Atlanta, the Carter Center and Emory University.  Shopping is close by and the Airport is an easy drive.

This charming Williamsburg-style complex is enhanced by lush grounds and attractive landscaping. Units are priced from the $200′s to mid $300,000′s and are characterized by large rooms with dense moldings.  Many of the units have been recently upgraded or totally renovated.

Lions Gate has the distinction of being located just across Ponce de Leon Avenue from Frederick Law Olmsted’s famous Linear Park.

 

Olmsted Linear Park

Driving East along Ponce de Leon Avenue from Atlanta towards Druid Hills and Decatur is an incredible experience and one of the most beautiful drives around Atlanta. The wide curving road passes by a line of parks and elegant homes, framed by graceful trees. 

Frederick Law Olmsted was a well-known landscape architect who designed New York’s Central Park and the Biltmore Estates in Asheville, North Carolina.  He was hired by an Atlanta businessman in 1890 to develop the Druid Hills area.

Preliminary plans laying out the Linear Park were submitted by Olmsted in 1893, but the final project was completed long after his death.  Olmsted’s vision for Ponce de Leon was a roadway to connect Atlanta to Druid Hills that was wide enough for riding and for carriages. 

His vision never contemplated four busy lanes of traffic speeding by his beautiful parks, but the drive is still lovely and the parks have been attractively maintained by the Olmstead Linear Park Alliance, which was formed in 1997.

Atlanta Decatur Homes,  a local Atlanta real estate company serving Atlanta, Decatur, Druid Hills, Emory University, and Tucker neighborhoods for over 25 years.

Decatur Townhomes and Condos – Atlanta, Georgia

Posted on February 25, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

Here are a few popular Decatur Townhomes and Condos located in Atlanta, Georgia, neighborhoods close to Emory University/CDC.  Convenience is a primary concern for Atlanta homebuyers, and these four complexes are all within a mile or two of major shopping malls, grocery stores, and restaurants. 

• Brianwood – Close-in community built in 1974, located off LaVista Road in the heart of Sagamore Hills and Oak Grove and just a few miles from Emory University, CDC.  Close to shopping and restaurants. Features 3 and 4 bedroom homes with 2-car garages, plus pool and clubhouse, priced between $200,000 – $250,000.  Schools:  Sagamore Hills Elementary; Shamrock Middle, Druid Hills High School.

• September Chase Townhomes, built in 1987 with high-end finishes and garages, located in the center of established neighborhoods like Sagamore Hills, Oak Grove, and Leafmore with an east commute to Emory/CDC, shopping and restaurants.  Price ranges from $269,000 for 4 bedroom/2.5 bath to $215,000 for 2 bedroom/2.5 bath unit.  Located in an excellent school district:  Sagamore Hills Elementary, Shamrock Middle, Druid Hills High School.

• Winston Place Townhomes, located off LaVista Road near the intersection of Clairmont Road and less than 2 miles to Emory/CDC, in the center desireable Sagamore Hills, Oak Grove and Leafmore communities. Features beautifully landscaped grounds, pool and a strong Homeowners Association.  Price ranges from $230,000 to $240,000 with 2 bedroom/2 bath units and some 4 bedroom/3 bath units, most have 2-car garages.  This is another favorite Decatur Townhome community.

• Haverhill – A private residential Decatur Townhome and Condo community built in 1976, with 47 attached homes, including 2-3 bedroom townhomes and 2-3 bedroom one-level flats, located off North Druid Hills Road, just South of the Clairmont Road intersection and within 2 miles of Emory/CDC, downtown Decatur, shopping and restaurants.  Haverhill has an active Homeowner’s Association, Annual Community Events, and a great pool area.  Price ranges between $178,500 – $240,000.

For more information about Townhomes and Condos in Decatur and around the Emory University neighborhoods, call Atlanta Decatur Homes.  Follow us to view future articles showcasing Decatur and Atlanta townhome and condo complexes

I Want to Be a Gazelle, But I'm A Giraffe

I want to be a Gazelle, but I’m a Giraffe

Posted on February 21, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

A new book is being published on March 1, by Stefan Swanepoel, an established real estate expert, entitled Surviving Your Serengeti  that contrasts human survival skills with those of wild animals in the Serengeti.  In the first few chapters, Swanepoel details how the Wildebeest endures and flourishes in a competitive environment where obtaining food, shelter and water are critical.

Our patterns of survival are developed slowly, rather like rats in a maze looking for food, bumbling from one dead-end to another until a way opens.  Initially, most of us are nourished and cared for by loving parents, who teach us some of the techniques that serve as survival mechanisms in today’s complex society.  From there, our survival depends on how well we adapt to the struggles and adversity we face as we become adults, breadwinners, and parents.  We are deeply affected by events that overtake us, a sick child, loss of a job, relationships gone wrong. 

Getting through life is full of roadblocks, messy with doors that close to opportunities and windows that may not open.  Successfully navigating the setbacks and disappointments that we face, prepare us to handle the next hurdle as it comes along.  It gives us the confidence and strength to keep trying again and again. Family and friends offer a welcome support system when the worst happens and help you endure whatever you must face.  The knowledge that you’ve survived a previous setback will strengthen your resolve to survive again.

Dani Shapiro writes in her book, Devotion, “we are always adapting to new circumstances.  We think we’ve found an answer that we can carry with us for our whole lives – and then it turns out that the questions themselves have changed”.  She continues with, “the whole world is a lesson – and the lesson keeps changing”.

Heinrich Heine once wrote:  We know only that our entire existence is forced into new paths and disrupted, that new circumstances, new joys and new sorrows await us, and that the unknown has its uncanny attractions, alluring and at the same time anguishing.

Will you survive your Serengeti?  Take the popular quiz, What Animal Am I?  

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Let’s Review Your Home Buyer Tax Credit

Posted on February 9, 2011 by atlantadecaturhomes

In an effort to stimulate the economy and the housing market, our government gave us some very nice tax breaks last year for purchasing a home before May 1, 2010.  This gift from Uncle Sam allowed many first time homebuyers, and individuals who had not owned a home in 3 years to take advantage of a very lucrative tax break of up to $8,000 for first time homeowners, or up to $6,500 for those that had previously owned a home and lived in it for at least five consecutive years.

If you purchased a home in 2010, you may be eligible for the Home Buyer Tax Credit.

To claim your tax credit on your 2011 tax returns, follow the rules:

• You must have signed a contract to purchase your primary residence before May 1, 2010
• If you closed on your home prior to September 30, 2010, you should qualify for the credit, as long as your original contract stated that the purchase was to be completed by June 30, 2010.  Congress amended the original date because many buyers were involved with short sale or foreclosure transactions, which were slower than normal sales to close.
• The first time home buyer credit is worth 10% of the purchase price of your home, up to a maximum of $8,000.
• Buyers who had previously owned a home for at least 5 consecutive years of the last 8 years are eligible for a credit up to 10% of the purchase price, or a maximum of $6,500.
• The purchase price for both credits is limited to homes purchased for less than $800,000.
• Full credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income of up to $125,000, or $225,000 for joint filers.

Check with your tax accountant for more detailed information about the tax credits that may be available to you.

 

It could take longer to receive your refund, as the IRS is requiring more documentation to prove you purchased your home within the appropriate time period, and are requiring that you file your tax return by mail.  Here are some documents you may need:

1. A copy of your Closing Statement or HUD-1.  If you don’t have a copy, call Your Realtor, who can provide a copy for you.
2. If you owned a home previously, you will need copies of documents showing you lived in the residence for 5 consecutive years during the past 8 years.  You can use mortgage interest statements, tax records or homeowner’s insurance statements.

For addtional information, see the USA Today article by Sandra Block, titled “Can You Get Home Buyer Credit”.

As always, talk with the experts, your Lender, your CPA, and Your Realtor, for more detailed information.