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Your Forsyth County Insurance Rates May Be Going Down

FORSYTH COUNTY’S INSURANCE SERVICES OFFICE RATING HAS IMPROVED

Rating 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…

I 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!

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.
Gayle Barton – South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate

Gayle Barton – Cumming GA Real Estate | South Forsyth Real Estate

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.

Before 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.

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

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 — Click photo to enlarge

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 — Click photo to enlarge

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

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.

Gayle Barton – Homes for Sale in Gran Forest – South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate
Gayle Barton – Cumming GA Real Estate | South Forsyth Real Estate – Homes for Sale in Gran Forest

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!

QUALITY 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.

RECREATION:

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.

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, GEORGIA

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

FORSYTH 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.

Find a Neighborhood – Laurel Springs

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – LAUREL SPRINGS is a gated, upscale golf community located in Suwanee, Georgia – near the heart of South Forsyth County. The neighborhood is conveniently located near GA- 400 via Hwy 141 as well as to shopping on Windermere Parkway and Hwy 20.

This spectacular neighborhood, situated on 630 acres of rolling hills, offers a 72 par, private, Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course nestled among hardwoods with three lakes and two creeks terminating at an English, country-style stone clubhouse.

Despite its luxurious amenities, Laurel Springs offers a cozier, family feeling than one would expect from such a large community as the surrounding scenery provides a sense of country and nature while being convenient located to shopping, commuting and everything else metro Atlanta has to offer.

View Homes for Sale in Laurel Springs

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES:

Gated Community w/ Attendant
72 par, 18 hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course
2 – Pools and a Water Slide
8 Lighted Tennis Courts
Two-story Club House w/ Dining and Meeting Facilities

BUILDER: Multiple

SCHOOLS:

Sharon Elementary
South Forsyth Middle School
Lambert High School

Suwanee GA Real Estate information provided by Gayle Barton of BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Georgia Properties.

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

Find a Neighborhood – Chattahoochee River Club

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER CLUB is a beautiful, family friendly neighborhood in Cumming, GA conveniently located in the heart of South Forsyth County near Windermere Parkway, Hwy 141 and Hwy 20.

Situated on over 700 gently rolling, heavily wooded acres, this beautiful equestrian neighborhood offers over 10 miles of mulched trails for hiking, walking, riding horses or just enjoying the beauty of nature. More information about Chattahoochee River Club.

View Homes For Sale in Chattahoochee River Club

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES:

Riding and Hiking Trails
Junior Olympic Pool
Adults Only Pool
Club House w/ Fitness Center
6 Lighted Tennis Courts w/ Tennis Pavilion
Neighborhood borders the Chattahoochee River
View Neighborhood Website

BUILDER: Multiple

SCHOOLS:

Haw Creek Elementary

Lakeside Middle School

South Forsyth High School

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

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

Gayle Barton – Cumming GA Real Estate| South Forsyth Real Estate
Gayle Barton – South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate

Find a Neighborhood – Polo Fields

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – POLO FIELDS is a beautiful golf course community located in Cumming, Georgia – near the heart of South Forsyth County. The neighborhood is conveniently located near GA-400 as well as to shopping and dining via Peachtree Pkwy (GA-141) and Vickery Village

This family-friendly neighborhood offers Executive-style Homes and Estate Homes on large lots with amenities that are second to none. Privately positioned on acres of hardwood forested, rolling hills your family can enjoy 8 lighted tennis courts, 2 pools and a challenging 18 hole golf course as well as 30,000 sq.ft clubhouse with meeting rooms and dining options.

View Real Estate Listings of Homes For Sale in The Polo Fields

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES (Available via Polo Golf and Country Club)

18-hole championship golf course and country club designed by Joe Lee
2 Swimming Pools (1 w/ a waterslide)
9 Lighted Tennis Courts
Club House w/ Meeting Room sand Dining Options
View Neighborhood Website
View Polo Golf and Country Club Website

BUILDER: Multiple

SCHOOLS:

Vickery Creek Elementary

Vickery Creek Middle School

West Forsyth High School

Find a Neighborhood – Brandon Hall

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – BRANDON HALL is a beautiful, swim/tennis neighborhood conveniently located in the heart of South Forsyth county near Windermere Parkway, Hwy 141 and Hwy 20.

If you are looking for a family-friendly neighborhood with an abundance of children look no further! This active neighborhood offers a junior olympic pool with a water slide, 4 lighted tennis courts and an abundance of greenspace.

View Homes For Sale in Brandon Hall

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES:

Junior Olympic Pool w/ Tower Slide
4 Lighted Tennis Courts
Close to Lake Lanier
View Neighborhood Map

BUILDER: Sharp Residential

SCHOOLS:

Dave’s Creek Elementary

Lakeside Middle School

South Forsyth High School

View Brandon Hall Cumming GA 30041 in a larger map

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

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

Gayle Barton – Cumming GA Real Estate| South Forsyth Real Estate
Gayle Barton – South Forsyth Real Estate | Cumming GA Real Estate

Find a Neighborhood – James Creek

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – JAMES CREEK is a sprawling swim/tennis community located in Cumming, Georgia -conveniently located near GA 400 via Hwy 141 as well as to shopping on Windermere Pkwy and Hwy 20.

This neighborhood is a master-planned community which is broken up into mini-neighborhoods (each built by a different builder) each of which provides different home styles and price points making it popular with a large percentage of buyers.

James Creeks offers amenities such as walking/jogging trails, community clubhouse and fitness center, quality swim and tennis facilities (tennis pros on-site), playgrounds and much more.

View Active Real Estate Listings in James Creek

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES:

Junior Olympic Pool w/ Water Slide
14 Tennis Courts (Including 4 Indoor & 2 Clay)
Tennis Center/Academy (lessons available)
Two-Story Club House

BUILDER: Multiple

SCHOOLS:

Dave’s Creek Elementary

South Forsyth Middle School

South Forsyth High School

The practical tips and information I provide on my site will empower you with the information you need to take the critical steps necessary when buying or selling a home. If you did not find the information you’re looking for here, please ask me! I am always available to help.
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 James Creek, or if I can assist you with buying or selling your South Forsyth County real estate.

Author: Gayle Barton

Find a Neighborhood – Aberdeen

FEATURED NEIGHBORHOOD – ABERDEEN is a beautiful swim/tennis community located in Suwanee, Georgia – near the heart of South Forsyth County. The neighborhood is conveniently located near GA 400 via Hwy 141 as well as to shopping on Windermere Pkwy and Hwy 20.

The neighborhood, nestled in a 350 acre hardwood forest of rolling hills, offers a Junior Olympic pool, recently updated tennis courts and an English, country-style stone clubhouse.

The developer chose the name, Aberdeen, for the community to evoke the peaceful rural countryside of Great Britain and Scotland. Streets throughout the neighborhood have been aptly named after English villages, and the stone entrance gates and clubhouse continue the theme.

View Active Real Estate Listings in Aberdeen

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES: