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Do The Quality of Local Schools Determine where You Buy?

 

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 Forsyth County, GA and schools are almost always at the top of the list for my buyers. There are many award-winning public schools in the Forsyth County GA 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.
Here are several helpful links written about the Forsyth County GA schools:
  • School Digger – Forsyth County GA Schools
  • Public School Review – Forsyth County GA Schools
  • Niche.com (Best School Districts in GA) – Forsyth County GA Schools 
  • GreatSchools. Org – 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!
Please feel free to call or text me at 404 710 0204 (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 Forsyth County real estate.

 

 

 

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

I specialize in Real Estate sales in the following Forsyth County and North Fulton County cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Milton and Johns Creek. Other north metro-Atlanta suburbs are serviced by request, so please call.

Gayle Barton Forsyth County Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate | Mountain Crest Homes For Sale
Gayle Barton Cumming GA Real Estate | Forsyth County Real Estate

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 expressed written permission.

Can a School District Rating Really Affect Your Sales Price?

Can a School District Rating Really Effect Your Sales Price?Don’t have kids in school? You should still consider buying a home in a great school district to help keep your resale value high.  Realtor.com® released the results of a new study which identifies the price premium homebuyers are willing to pay for a home in a strong public school district.
In their study, Realtor.com® compared homes located in school districts which held ratings of 9 or 10 on the GreatSchools.org 10 point scale to homes located in districts which rated 6 or less. Not surprisingly, the results showed that homes located in the higher rated districts brought a higher sale price, but I was surprised to see just how significant that difference could be – on average, 49 percent more expensive – at $400,000 – than the national median of $269,000 and 77 percent more expensive than schools located within the boundaries of the lower ranked districts with a median of $225,000. In addition, home located in the better school districts sell more quickly.
We are fortunate that the Forsyth County school districts rate high on the scale which help keep our property values at a premium. Of course, even in our area, some schools do better than others. Here’s an easy way to see how your Forsyth County schools compare.
You have questions about your homes value? Please feel free to reach out to me directly. I would be happy to provide you a FREE market analysis that will give you the information that you need.

 

 

 

 

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

I specialize in Real Estate sales in the following Forsyth County and North Fulton County cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Milton and Johns Creek. Other north metro-Atlanta suburbs are serviced by request, so please call.

Gayle Barton Forsyth County Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate | Mountain Crest Homes For Sale
Gayle Barton Cumming GA Real Estate | Forsyth County Real Estate

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 expressed written permission.

Hiking Sawnee Mountain Preserve in Forsyth County GA

Looking fun things to do with the kids in Forsyth County, GA?
Cumming, GA is home to the Sawnee Mountain Preserve which offers over 3 miles of wooded trails that meander past abandoned gold mines (which were dug after the 1829 gold rush) and overlooks the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. Peaks of this ridge actually reach 300 feet higher than Stone Mountain making it one of the highest spots in Metro Atlanta.
All of Sawnee Trails are for foot traffic only (walkers, runners and hikers) and are designed for hikers of all levels. View Map
The main trail, called the Indian Seats Trail, runs through the Preserve with the Yucca Trail and Eaglet Trail serving as short connection trails.  All trails connect and are part of the long-range trail system planned for Sawnee Mountain.
Don’t miss the observation deck which sits at the top of the Indian Seats Trail (approximately 1680ft). The Indian Seats, which are a natural rock formation at the top of the trail system, are believed to have used by Native Americans for ceremonial purposes and offer a beautiful view of the North Georgia Mountains
Sawnee Mountain Preserve Visitor Center Hours: Monday – Saturday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Trail Hours: November – February 6:00 AM-7:00 PM March – October 6:00 AM-9:30 PM
Admission is free of charge.
Please note that pets are not allowed in the Preserve or on the trails
There are two parking areas with trailhead access:
SMP Visitor Center:
4075 Spot Road, Cumming GA 30040 (770-781-2217)
and
2500 Bettis Tribble Gap Rd.

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

I specialize in Real Estate sales in the following Forsyth County and North Fulton County cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Milton and Johns Creek. Other north metro-Atlanta suburbs are serviced by request, so please call.

Gayle Barton Forsyth County Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate | Mountain Crest Homes For Sale
Gayle Barton Cumming GA Real Estate | Forsyth County Real Estate

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 expressed written permission.

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New 5+ Mile Section of Phase V of the Big Creek Greenway Now Open

A ribbon cutting ceremony held on June 3 announced the opening of two new segments of Phase V of the Big Creek Greenway trail system.
One of the new segments extends the Greenway by a distance of 2.27 miles – from the intersection of Kelly Mill Road and Johnson Road to Canton Hwy (SR 20).
The second segment, which originates at the intersection of Canton Hwy (SR 20) and the Spot Road Connector (near Sawnee Elementary school), travels a distance of 2.48 miles along the Spot Road Connector, Doc Bramblett Road and Spot Road, ending at the Sawnee Mountain Preserve and Visitor Center,
A planned one-mile segment of Phase V will eventually run parallel to Canton Hwy (SR 20). connecting all portions of the Greenway. This future segment will be constructed at a later date as part of the planned GDOT widening of Canton Hwy.
When complete, Phase V of the Greenway will add an additional 5.7 miles (extending the multi-use trail from Kelly Mill Road to the Sawnee Mountain Preserve Visitor Center) extending the entire Forsyth County Big Creek Greenway to a final length of just over 16.5 miles .
Your local tax dollars at work:  Funding for this project was provided by the Parks, Recreation and Green Space Bond & SPLOST.
Click here for more information on the Big Creek Greenway.
Printable map

 

 

 

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

I specialize in Real Estate sales in the following Forsyth County and North Fulton County cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Milton and Johns Creek. Other north metro-Atlanta suburbs are serviced by request, so please call.

Gayle Barton Forsyth County Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate | Mountain Crest Homes For Sale
Gayle Barton Cumming GA Real Estate | Forsyth County Real Estate

Forsyth County GA – Area Information

Learn all there is to know about the Forsyth County area and real estate market from Realtor, Gayle Barton of Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties.

If you have questions about living, working or playing in Forsyth County, GA please reach out to me.

If you have questions about Forsyth County real estate (Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Johns Creek), please get in touch as I have been successfully servicing real estate needs in town for many years! There are very few real estate agents in Forsyth County who have a stronger track record for being a top producer year after year and, as a Realtor living and working in the area, I know what makes Forsyth County special!

 

create curb appeal that equals web appealQUALITY OF LIFE:

Forsyth County is a northern suburb of Metro-Atlanta, conveniently located between the waters of Lake Lanier and the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, which provides homeowners with an enticing combination of both rural charm and upscale living.

One of the things you will quickly find out about the Forsyth County real estate market is how many exceptional subdivisions there are.

If you’re in the market to buy real estate in Forsyth County, GA or thinking about relocating, you’ll find an excellent selection of housing options, many of which are nestled around world class golf courses. Established residential neighborhoods abound with lush mature landscapes, with new construction opportunities available in the southern and western quadrants.  Upscale or moderately priced, homes can be found conveniently located near award winning schools and shopping centers. In addition, those who are attracted to resort living may find the cottages and luxury homes around Lake Lanier an excellent choice.

For many years, Forsyth County has been one of the fastest growing areas in the United States in terms of percentage of growth. This growth is believed to be a result of the county’s proximity to Atlanta via GA-400 expressway and its appeal as a commuter area for people working in the Atlanta area. In 2008, the influx of high earning professionals increased the average income to a point where Forbes.com named it as the 13th wealthiest county in the United States in terms of median household income.

While Forsyth County residents find themselves able to commute to metro Atlanta’s numerous occupational, educational and cultural opportunities, they have been able retain a favorable blend of a convenient, upscale suburban living experience nestled in a semi-rural environment.

 

Sawnee Mountain Preserve - Hiking Trails in-Forsyth County GeorgiaRECREATION:

The undisputed center of Forsyth County recreation is Lake Lanier, a beautiful 37,000-acre lake created and maintained by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. With its many marinas and parks,  Lake Lanier is enjoyed by residents and non-residents alike with fishing, boating, tubing, wake boarding, and water skiing the most popular activities.

The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department maintains over 15 parks in the county.  Most notable are Sawnee Mountain Preserve, Fowler Park, Poole’s Mill Covered Bridge and the Big Creek Greenway.

In addition, the Cumming Fairgrounds hosts many events throughout the year including a rodeo, the always popular Cumming Country Fair, as well as the annual Master Gardener plant sale and a farmers’ market.

 

Forsyth County Schools EDUCATION:

The Forsyth County School system is Georgia’s 7th largest school district, and home to over 42,600 students and 4,300 exceptional staff members. 35 of the local schools are state and national award winners which draws many parents looking for quality schools without the high property taxes usually associated with them.

 

Elementary Middle High Academies of Creative Education 
Big Creek Lakeside Forsyth Central iAchieve Virtual Academy  (6-12 school)
Brookwood Liberty Lambert Gateway Academy (6-12 alternative program)
Chattahoochee Little Mill North Forsyth Forsyth Academy(9-12 non-traditional program)
Chestatee North Forsyth South Forsyth
Coal Mountain Otwell West Forsyth
Cumming Piney Grove
Daves Creek Riverwatch
Haw Creek South Forsyth
Johns Creek Vickery Creek
Kelly Mill
Mashburn
Matt
Midway
Sawnee
Settles Bridge
Sharon
Shiloh Point
Silver City
Vickery Creek
Whitlow

 

FORSYTH COUNTY, GEORGIAForsyth County GA map

Forsyth County Offices
110 East Main Street Cumming, GA 30040
770-781-2101
www.forsythco.com

 

Chamber of Commerce
212 Kelly Mill Road Cumming, GA 30040
770-887-6461
www.cummingforsythchamber.org

 

 

Gayle Barton Realtor - with Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties in Forsyth County GAFORSYTH COUNTY REALTOR – Gayle Barton

If you’re thinking about selling your home, investment property or other Forsyth County GA real estate, I hope you will allow me to provide the assistance needed to make it a smooth and pleasant experience.

When you set aside time to interview Forsyth County GA real estate agents, here is a list of important things you should expect to see in the agent’s presentation:  Their past track record of success, statistical data such as list price to sale price ratios and average days on market, along with information about the agent’s communication and marketing skills.

My area of expertise encompasses the North Fulton/Forsyth County area (Cumming, Suwanee, Alpharetta and John’s Creek, Windward, Milton and Roswell).

Because this area is also my home, I have an in-depth knowledge of the real estate market, school districts, and neighborhoods.

While that may seem somewhat limiting, I pride myself on being an “area specialist” and, as you’ll see from my website, I have extensive knowledge of these communities.

AS A BUYER, this specialized knowledge allows me to assist you in locating the perfect home, in the perfect area, for YOUR family.

AS A SELLER, my specialized knowledge allows me to market your home to the buyers most likely to purchase a property in your neighborhood

While putting a SOLD sign on your lawn is my #1 goal, I also want to do all that I can to help make the experience of selling your home a less stressful one!

I am well known for my use of innovative technologies to successfully market properties and matching buyers with the properties that most closely fit their needs. I am confident that there are few Realtors in Forsyth County who provide a higher level of online exposure by using social media channels, as well as search engine optimized results!  But, despite my use of the most up to date high tech “gadgets”, I still believe that personal service is at the forefront on my success!

My honesty, integrity and enthusiasm guarantees that my clients are satisfied 100% of the time!  Through my dedication to service I have earned the respect of my previous clients developing a rapport which has allowed me to build a business based strongly on referrals.  I would welcome the opportunity to discuss with you why I am well respected as a Forsyth County Real Estate agent that homeowners can trust with their most valuable asset.  Read my Client Reviews

I have been listing and selling homes in and around the Forsyth County area for many years.   Please call or send me an email so we can discuss how I can best serve your Forsyth County real estate needs!

Do you have a home, or other Forsyth County real estate, you are thinking of selling and want a hardworking Realtor with a proven track record to work with?  Call Me Today to find out why Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties has the #1 market share in our area.

What my Clients Say…

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My clients needs are my number one priority and putting them first is how I distinguish myself from other agents in my area.
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