Gayle Barton - Your Local Realtor - Forsyth | North Fulton | Cherokee | Pickens | Dawson

Does it Make Sense to Retrofit Your Home Before You Sell?

Green upgrades for your home
Does Your Older Home Need To Be Retrofitted Before You Sell It?
More often than not, a newer home will offer more energy efficient features aimed at curbing rising utility costs. So, in order to compete with these homes, you may need to update some features in your home in order to sell it.
On a day-to-day basis I see more buyers asking about “green” features such as tankless water heaters, upgraded insulation (higher R value or spray insulation) and low flow plumbing fixtures.
As builders have begun to make a point of touting these features in their new construction homes, buyers have begun expecting to find them in resale properties as well.
Upgrading an older home can be expensive, but as panelists at a REALTOR Conference & Expo held in Anaheim said, “Green upgrades aimed at energy efficiency continues to get more recognition in the real estate business as more home owners look for ways to curb rising utility costs as well as potentially increase the resale value of their home.”
Add to this the plethora of HGTV programs telling buyers that homes should be fully updated before they even go on the market, it just makes sense to make these updates now, for your own enjoyment, and then reap the benefit should you decide to sell.

 

Here are a few more articles that might help:
Upgrade Your Electrical Plugs with USB Chargers
Despite What Kermit Says, it is Easy Being Green
CES Provides New Ideas for Cumming, GA Homeowners
7 Home Remodeling Ideas to Consider Before Selling
Before You Sell- Fix it or Leave It
Still have questions?  Please reach out to me any time!

 

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.

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

Was Your Home a Good Investment? Use this Calculator to See

I spend my days showing homes for sale in Cumming, GA in South Forsyth county GA and I speak to homeowners every week who are shocked to find out that their home is not worth what they thought it was.
“But I paid $…”
On the other hand, values in our local market have really held strong when compared to the national average so others are pleasantly surprised. It really just depends on a combination of location, date of purchase and updates/upgrades that have been made over the years.
Are you wondering if buying your home was a good investment? You can use this Calculator from CNN Money to find out.
Want an up-to-date market value analysis of your home? Just use this form to provide a bit of info and I’ll share my expertise with you for FREE!
Want to know why you need a CMA or market value analysis before you decide to sell?

See what your home is worth in just seconds

 

 

 

 

 

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, North Fulton County and East Cobb cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Duluth, Milton, and Roswell. Other areas are serviced by request.

South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate
Cumming GA Real Estate | South Forsyth Real Estate

MLS Listings for Forsyth County Neighborhoods

Looking for a home in Forsyth County, GA?? There are plenty of beautiful homes to choose from.

 
If you do not see the subdivision you are interested in listed here, please contact me and I will happily set up a personalized search link for you which meets your exact criteria and then add the neighborhood link to this page. 

 

SOUTH FORSYTH COUNTY – Cumming Neighborhoods

Avington – Cumming, GA 30040
Balmoral – Cumming, GA 30041
Bethany Springs – Cumming, GA 30041
Bethelview Downs – Cumming, GA 30040
Big Creek Township – Cumming, GA 30040
Blackstock Mill – Cumming, GA 30041
Brandon Hall – Cumming, GA 30041
Chattahoochee River Club – Cumming, GA 30041
Copper Creek – Cumming, GA 30041
Coventry – Cumming, GA 30040
Creekside – Cumming, GA 30040
Creekside Estates – Cumming, GA 30040
Creekstone Estates – Cumming, GA 30041
Fieldstone – Cumming, GA 30040
Fieldstone Preserve – Cumming, GA 30040
Forest Brooke– Cumming, GA 30041
Gran Forest – Cumming, GA 30041
Ivey Walk – Cumming, GA 30041
James Creek – Cumming, GA 30041
Longlake – Cumming, GA 30041
Longlake The Commons – Cumming, GA 30041
Margate – Cumming, GA 30041
Mountain Crest – Cumming, GA 30040
Mountain Crest Townhomes – Cumming, GA 30040
Northern Oaks – Cumming, GA
Parkside at the Polo Fields – Cumming, GA 30040
Polo Fields – Cumming, GA 30040
The Gates – Cumming, GA 30041
Three Chimneys/Three Chimneys Farm – Cumming, GA 30041
Vickery – Cumming, GA 30040
Vickery Townhomes – Cumming, GA 30040
Windermere – Cumming, GA 30041
Woodland Park – Cumming, GA 30041

 

SOUTH FORSYTH COUNTY – Suwanee Neighborhoods

Aberdeen – Suwanee, GA 30024Ashton – Suwanee, GA 30024
Bridle Ridge – Suwanee, GA 30024
Champions Run – Suwanee, GA 30024
Chartwell – Suwanee, GA 30024
Deer Valley – Suwanee, GA 30024
Glencree – Suwanee, GA 30024
Grand Cascades – Suwanee, GA 30024
Habersham on Laurel Springs – Suwanee, GA 30024
Laurel Heights – Suwanee, GA 30024
Laurel Springs – Suwanee, GA 30024
Nichols Landing/Enclave/Glen – Suwanee, GA 30024
Olde Atlanta Club – Suwanee, GA 30024
Preston Oaks – Suwanee, GA 30024
Riverbrooke – Suwanee, GA 30024
Rivermist – Suwanee, GA 30024
Summerwind – Suwanee, GA 30024
The Gates at Luberon – Suwanee, GA 30024
Turnberry – Suwanee, GA 30024
Wentworth Manor – Suwanee, GA 30024
Weston – Suwanee, GA 30024

 

SOUTH FORSYTH COUNTY – Alpharetta Neighborhoods

Braemar – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Castille – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Chadbournse/Westgate at Chadbourne – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Deerlake – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Fowler Mill – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Hanover Place – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Jamestown – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Kennewick Place – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Longpointe – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Longwood – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Olde Union Preserve  – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Shepherds Pond – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Shilo Farms – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Somerset – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Tulip Tree – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Waterbrooke – Alpharetta, GA 30004
Windhaven – Alpharetta, GA 30005
Windrose – Alpharetta, GA 30005

Home Inspection Checklist Questions for Home Inspector

A professional home inspector should visually examine all parts of a house and property and then provide you with a thorough written report (with photos documenting any issues found).  Items on your inspection report should include:

 

  Foundations, Basements and Structures

Basement floor and walls; proper drainage and ventilation; evidence of water seepage

 Exterior Siding, Windows, Doors

Exterior walls, windows, and doors; porches, decks, and balconies; garage

 Roof

Roof type and material; condition of gutters and downspouts

 Interior Plumbing System

Hot and cold water system; the waste system and sewage disposal; water pressure and flow; hot water equipment

 Electrical System

Type of service, number of circuits, type of protection, outlet grounding, load balance

 Central Heating System

Energy source; heating equipment; fans or pumps; ducts or pipes; thermostat

 Central Air Conditioning System

Energy source, type of cooling equipment, capacity, distribution

 Interior Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Windows and Doors

Walls, floors, ceilings, stairways, cabinets, countertops

 Attic

Structural, insulation, and ventilation information

 Fireplace

Notes about the chimney, damper, and masonry

 Garage

Doors, walls, floor, opener

 Appliances

Includes a wide range of built-in and other home appliances; smoke detectors; and television/cable hookups

 Lot and Landscaping

Ground slope away from foundation; condition of walks, steps, and driveway

 

If you would like a copy of my Professional Vendor List – which includes the names of several reputable home inspectors, please feel free to call or text me at 404-710-0204(or drop me an email).

Cell: (404) 710-0204 ~ Office: 770-844-8484 ~ Email: gaylebarton@inbox.com

 

 

 

 

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, North Fulton County and East Cobb cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Duluth, Milton, and Roswell. Other areas are serviced by request.

South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate
 Cumming GA Real Estate | South Forsyth Real Estate

What is a CMA and Why Do You Need One?

 

Determining a suitable list price for your home is one of the most important tasks a listing agent will assist you with. Generally this begins with a CMA.
When a real estate agent says they will be completing a “CMA” on your property, they are referring to a Comparative Market Analysis. A CMA is a detailed market data report prepared specifically for your property.
The CMA process will be completed before your home is listed for sale and should provide you with a reasonable idea of what your home will likely sell for.
The CMA report is created using information about area “comps” (properties which are similar to yours) which have recently sold, are currently active on the market or were recently listed for sale but expired without selling. In the report, adjustments will be made to the price of each comp to account for additional or missing features, upgrades or size discrepancies as compared to your home.
The information provided in a CMA will be very useful in helping you determine an accurate sales price for your home. As an agent, it is my goal to help you get your home sold for the most money possible, in the shortest time possible and with the least hassle possible – and this information can help us do that.
The first step in creating an accurate CMA will involve a quick walk through inspection of your property. This inspection will not take long and need not be extremely detailed. It simply allows us to note specific details about your home (such as special features or upgrades) and assess the overall condition of the property. If you are thinking of making any updates, upgrades or modifications to your home prior to selling, this would be the best time to make us aware of your plans.
Next, we will research several property data sources to obtain information on comparable properties in your local market – including active listings, properties which have sold recently, foreclosures, etc.
Active listings: Tell us what your direct market competition will be.
Sold listings: Tell us what an actual buyer is willing to pay for home similar to yours.
Expired listings: Tell us the price at which a buyer will walk away from a home similar to yours.
The data sources we use include a blend of multiple listing services, tax records and other market trending databases. Additionally, to further enhance the accuracy of our CMA, we utilize a private data source used by many lenders to create a “desktop appraisal” report. This report provides us excellent insight into how a mortgage lender will likely evaluate your property’s value.
The sum of this information will provide the agent an accurate estimate of what your property is worth in the current market. This will be presented to you in the form a “pricing range”. (More aggressive pricing for those in need of an immediate sale – less aggressive pricing if time on the market is not an issue.)
Not only is a CMA important in terms of pricing your home for sale, but buyers often request that their agent complete a CMA on any property they are seriously considering making an offer on to verify that the asking price accurately reflects the current market value.
A CMA is not an appraisal. An appraisal must be performed by a licensed appraiser. You have the right to have a pre-listing appraisal completed on your property by the appraiser of your choice if you feel the value is in question. If the homebuyer is seeking a loan to purchase your home, the buyer’s lender will require one to be completed by an appraiser, sanctioned by them, prior to loan approval.

REQUEST a FREE Market Analysis (CMA) of Your Home

 

Chattahoochee River Club – Neighborhood Information

Learn all there is to know about the Chattahoochee River Club real estate market from Realtor, Gayle Barton of Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties.

If you have any questions about living in Chattahoochee River Club please reach out to me.  As a multi-year resident, I can provide a unique perspective that the average real estate agent simply can’t.

If you have questions about Forsyth County real estate, 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 desirable!

 

Chattahoochee River Club Homes For saleChattahoochee River Club is an established master planned equestrian community perfectly situated in the heart of South Forsyth County.  Nestled on the river’s edge, Chattahoochee River Club is located in the Windermere Parkway area of Cumming, Georgia –  just 4.5 miles east of GA Hwy 400 at exit 14 – with easy access to a host of entertainment, shopping and dining options and mere minutes from Lake Lanier.

The developers invested three years in the planning of a neighborhood where nature is as much a part of the architectural design as the homes themselves which makes the neighborhood a desirable and sought after place to live and play.

This beautifully mature neighborhood is dedicated to preserving and protecting nature making bird and wildlife sightings a daily occurrence.

Situated on over 700 acres of pristine, wooded hills Chattahoochee River Club (which is divided into 6 unique sections – The Highlands, Two Rivers, The Estates, North River, The Meadows, Bentwood and Silver Vista), is home to over 600 families.

 

The community offers its residents an incredible amenities package:

Chattahoochee River Club Amenities - Swim Tennis Equestrian

  • Community Clubhouse
  • Junior Olympic Swimming Pool
  • Adult Only Leisure Pool
  • Children’s Water Feature
  • Fitness Center
  • 6 Lighted Tennis Courts w/ with Two Cabanas
  • Tennis Pavilion
  • Lighted Basketball Courts
  • Sports Field – Ball field w/ backstop
  • Kids Playground and Picnic area

 

Chattahoochee River Club equestrian trails for riding and hikingIn addition, Chattahoochee River Club boasts over 10 miles of mulched trails for residents to explore either on foot or on horseback.

Adjacent to the Swim & Tennis Center, The Chattahoochee River Club Clubhouse is available to homeowners for a nominal fee and offers an excellent venue for social events and meetings.

Adding to the protected natural areas within the neighborhood, you will also find the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources fish hatchery which is open for tours, family fishing and offers additional hiking trails.

 

Chattahoochee River Club is served by Award Winning South Forsyth Schools:

Haw Creek Elementary

Lakeside Middle School

South Forsyth High School

 

Chattahoochee River Club offers a wide selection of unique luxury home styles with home prices ranging from the mid $300K’s to the upper $600K’s  View Homes For Sale in Chattahoochee River Club

If you are buying or plan to sell a home in Chattahoochee River Club subdivision, please feel free to contact me… it would be my pleasure to assist you as your agent!

 

 

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

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Chattahoochee River Club, or other Forsyth County GA Real Estate, I hope you will speak to me about how I can provide the assistance needed to make for 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

However, I am available to help in other areas by request. Do not hesitate to call no matter where you might be!

 

While putting a SOLD sign on your lawn is my #1 goal, I also want 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 Chattahoochee River Club for many years.   Please call or send me an email so we can discuss how I can best serve your real estate needs!

 

Gayle Barton, Realtor
Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties
325 Brannon Road, #200
Cumming, GA 30041
Phone: 404-710-0204
Email: Gayle.Barton@BHHSga.com

 

Do you have a home in Chattahoochee River Club that you are thinking of selling and want an exceptional Realtor to work with?  Call Me Today to find out why Berkshire Hathaway Georgia Properties has the #1 market share in our area.

 





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


 







Cumming Named Among Georgia’s Top 10 Best Cities To Start A Business


Cumming GA newspaperAccording to James McCoy, president and CEO of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, Cumming has been named as one of Georgia’s top 10 best cities to start a business.


He reported during the city’s June 16 Council meeting that “Some of Georgia’s biggest cities – Atlanta, Columbus, Augusta and Savannah – have the largest number of businesses in the state, but the most profitable businesses are in the suburbs and smaller cities,” citing a recent report published by personal financial website NerdWallet.com.


According to NerdWallet.com’s website, the organization helps consumers make decisions about education, finance, health, investing and shopping. The website features online tools that provide research and experts “to help consumers take back control of their choices in a marketing-driven, trillion-dollar industry.”


During his comments, McCoy noted that Cumming is listed as the 6th best place to start a business and that the top 10 Georgia cities in the report share several similarities.


“Six cities in the top 10, each with a population under 60,000, boast higher average revenue per business than the state’s most populous cities,” the report states. “All of the top 10 cities are along major transportation routes, which is a plus for businesses shipping products around the region or country. Proximity to Atlanta doesn’t hurt either.”


As locals already know, the report states that location is one of Cumming’s strengths, as is the city’s high number of already-established businesses.


“Cumming is one of the smallest cities on this list, but it has more businesses per 100 people than any place in this study,” the report says. “In fact, Cumming has almost as many businesses (5,251) as it does residents (5,504). Located along the bustling Georgia 400 corridor, businesses in Cumming benefit from the area’s transportation and technology infrastructure.


Also highlighted in the report is the fact that the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Services Center offers several programs, such as coaching and roundtable discussions, to help local business owners start and grow their companies.


Other cities, listed in order of their rank, include, Alpharetta at No. 1, followed by Doraville, Vinings, Garden City and Cumming. Those ranked 7 through 10 are Norcross, Jesup, Carrollton and Waycross.


CONGRATULATIONS CUMMING BUSINESS LEADERS on a job well done!


 


 


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


Thinking of selling your home? I have a passion for Real Estate and love to share my marketing expertise!


I specialize in Real Estate sales in the following Forsyth, North Fulton and West Gwinnett cities: Cumming, Suwanee, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Duluth, Sugar Hill, Milton, and Roswell.


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


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

Blog Topics: Cumming, GA and Forsyth County area information and current affairs.

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.

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






Your Forsyth County Insurance Rates May Be Going Down


FORSYTH COUNTY’S INSURANCE SERVICES OFFICE RATING HAS IMPROVED


Home owners insurance policyRating improvement means potential insurance savings for residents and businesses. Effective July 1, 2015 your insurance rates may be going down!  


For the first time since 2008, the Insurance Services Office (ISO) has graded Forsyth County and the news is good!


ISO recently conducted a study auditing both Forsyth County and the city of Cumming and both have received an improved ISO rating.


The study assessed Forsyth County’s ability to serve the public by examining three key areas of public safety: Fire protection, E-911 service and water services.


ISO ratings are measured on a scale from 1 to 10, with lower numbers representing better levels of protection. Ratings are based upon a number of factors, including fire response and equipment, E-911 call handling and efficiency, and fire hydrant volume and pressure availability.


The audit was followed by months of system analysis and evaluation by ISO, which resulted in an improvement of the county’s rating from a 5 to a 3. Homes and businesses located within five road miles of a fire station will benefit from the rating change from a 5 to a 3. For residences and businesses farther than five road miles from a fire station, the new rating may not apply.


Insurance companies are able to begin using the new rating to determine rates effective July 1 and this means potential insurance savings.


I encourage residents and business owner to contact their insurance provider for specific information on how the rating change may impact their insurance rates.


If you need homeowner’s insurance, or just want a quote, you might want to contact Todd Hoffman – Nationwide Insurance in Cumming, GA


A Day in the Life of a Realtor – You Just Can’t Make this Stuff Up


Just when you think you’ve seen it all…


Dinosaur on the yard of home for saleI have been a real estate agent for more years than I usually care to broadcast (let’s just say that in my first card photo I had REALLY big hair…), but while showing real estate today in north Forsyth County near Cumming, GA  I came across something I can honestly say I’ve never seen before.


I first caught sight of it out of the corner of my eye as I was pulling in front of the home I was about to show….. Do I hit the gas and try to escape or back up and check it out??? Of course I had to back up and check it out because what my brain told me I was seeing was the same thing that my brain was telling me was crazy…!


Yep, a full size dinosaur hiding in the side yard.  My first thought… “T-Rex”… but, my client’s son quickly corrected me (thank you, Tyler!). For those unschooled in paleontology… this is actually a velociraptor –  a predator with a retractable claw on each foot and a mouth full of sharp teeth (how welcoming!).


Now, you have to understand….this no cute kid’s blow up dinosaur, it was a HUGE realistically ugly dinosaur that really did not warm the hearts of the sweet family I was working with.  We all got a great laugh out of it… and  a few selfies… but it sort of freaked us all out too…  Later, while looking back over the listing sheets as we cooled off with an icy drink and some shade, we laughed when we read that one?   The basement was finished???  Did we even see it?  We were all so distracted by “Barney” that we registered virtually nothing else about the house!


Dinosaur on the yard of home for sale in Cumming GA 


Bizarre, right?  You put your home on the market and the first thing you think is … “I know.. a giant, scary dinosaur hiding in the side yard is just what we need to bring in the buyers.”


I’m not sure that the seller’s real estate agent saw any problem with the owner’s “yard art’ because when she texted me later in the day to request feedback she actually used the dinosaur in the yard as part of her description… what??????


Is this a new marketing tool I should know about?  Did I miss a memo?  Is the house memorable.. yes!  But… for all of the wrong reasons.


I hate to see sellers make this kind of mistake because it costs them time and money.  Anything that distracts a buyer from seeing (and remembering) the special features of your home needs to go.  I think that the seller’s real estate agent needs to force their hand on this little bit of “fun”, before they miss out on the summer market completely.


I truly love my job and I love that every day is different… but, I can honestly say on days like today… you just can’t make this stuff up! 🙂


 


 


 


 


 


This South Forsyth Real Estate blog is hosted by Gayle Barton of BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Georgia Properties


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


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


 


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






Cumming GA Home Makeover in Gran Forest


Just over a year ago my real estate clients purchased a home in the Gran Forest neighborhood located in Cumming, GA with a plan to make several major renovations. Read the story of their home search.   When I wrote about it at the time, I promised I would update you once the work was completed so I am here to share the details.


Gran Forest Neighborhood Subdivision Cumming GA 30041Before we start, let me clarify that not every home for sale is a candidate for a major renovation.  For a project like this to work well, the home needs to be in good condition structurally and in a neighborhood whose price point can withstand the additional costs involved.  You don’t want to risk over improving for the neighborhood unless you plan to stay in the home long term.


I knew that my clients have excellent taste so I expected that their makeover would be spectacular, but I really wasn’t prepared for all that they accomplished. Their renovations touched virtually every space in the home, but I’ll only be walking through the major areas with you here.


Of course, like any good real estate agent, I have to start at the beginning…. curb appeal.  At the time of purchase the house needed a MAJOR update to the curb appeal (landscape, garage doors, etc…) and repairs to a bit of deferred maintenance.  There were no structural issues (verified during the home inspection), but the old girl looked tired!  Now, the home looks fresh and inviting.  The removal of the overgrown shrubbery also allows more light into the house which is a nice bonus.


Gran Forest Home Renovation Front Facade


 


While we are outside, let’s just step around to the back yard.  The new fence was for practical purposes as well as aesthetics, but I love how nicely it frames the yard. A little pruning and a whole of added decking makes a major difference in the look and functionality of the space.  The small original deck was removed and replaced by a larger, multi-level deck to better accommodate entertaining.


Gran Forest Backyard Renovation
Click photo to enlarge


 


 Gran Forest Back Yard Deck Renovation 
Click photo to enlarge


 


The interior changes begin as soon as you walk through the door.  All of the carpeting was replaced with hardwood and the existing hardwoods were stripped and re-stained with a warmer, updated color.  New paint colors and updated lighting also enhance the feeling of light, fresh and new throughout the property.


Starting in the foyer,  a new chandelier (not visible in this shot) replaces the old brass fixture. You can see the stairs, which were previously carpeted, now boast hardwood treads and iron spindles. This space now creates and elegant entry for visitors.


 Gran Forest Home Renovation Foyer
Click photo to enlarge


 


The dining room benefits greatly from the removal of the over grown shrubbery as light now pours in through the new plantation shutters. An on-trend paint color and  modern lighting really give this room a fresh, sophisticated feeling.


Gran Forest Home Renovation
Click photo to enlarge


 


Across the foyer is the living room which previously felt dated and dowdy. The home owners removed the dingy carpet and replaced it with hardwood and added the plantation shutters which provide privacy while allowing light to flood the room.


 


Gran Forest Home Renovation Living Room
Click photo to enlarge


 


Passing into the family room, one of the things you notice right away is the abundance of light. Replacing the heavy valances with plantation shutters also gives the illusion of larger windows.


Gran Forest Home Renovation Family Room
Click photo to enlarge


 


Turning to the kitchen, I have to say that nothing really prepared me for the change I found here.  The homeowners kept the major things in place (cabinets and appliances are original), but the updates are dramatic.  The only thing I can think of to describe it is “country to country club”!  The lighter cabinets reflect more light making the room appear larger, the glass tile backsplash is on trend but not “trendy” and the updated lighting sets the perfect tone. (note the chandelier over the eating area has been removed to cause less


Gran Forest Home Renovation Kitchen


 


Just off the kitchen is the main level bath and powder room.  This bath serves both the guestroom and main level visitors.  Once just a plain-Jane tub/shower combo, it is now offers a sleek, tiled double shower with a frameless, glass shower door.  A new vanity, with a granite top and an oversized mirror, adds more storage further updating the room’s over all appeal.


Gran Forest Home Renovation Powder Room
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Heading upstairs to the master suite, all I can say is “ahhhh”.   The homeowners have truly created a master suite oasis for themselves. Replacing the dingy carpets with gleaming hardwoods and the heavy drapes with plantation shutters gives the master bedroom the feeling of an upscale bed and breakfast – not a bad place to wake up to everyday!


Gran Forest Home Renovation Master Suite
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But, as beautiful as I think that master bedroom is, nothing can overshadow the spa-like master bath they created.  The transformation here is incredible!  Of the entire project, this room is the true Cinderella story.  What my photos can’t show is the mold under the carpet (Yes!… carpet in the bathroom.. yuk!), the chipped tile and dirty grout that graced this once sad little bathroom.  Now, it is an oasis worthy of any spa I have ever visited.


Gran Forest Home Renovation Master Bath
Click photo to enlarge


Gran Forest Home Renovation Master Bath
Click photo to enlarge


As you can see, this is not a huge home nor is it an extravagant home, but the owners have made a smart, upscale renovation that has turned the house the bought into their castle.  Of course mots of their updates will definitely amp up their home value when the time comes to sell!


I think that this story shows the importance of looking at a property’s potential when looking for a new home.  Of course, not everyone is willing to take on a major renovation like this, but looking for a home that can benefit from a few updates can certainly be a rewarding challenge.


 


 


 


 








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