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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE REAL ESTATE GUIDE OCTOBER 2014 Edition 0 SAM DAVIS ROAD Listed by: Pam Sunderland (770) 540-9557

The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

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A monthly magazine produced by Harry Norman, REALTORS Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office for home buyers and real estate enthusiasts... or simply people who like to look at pretty houses.

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Page 1: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

R E A L E S TAT E G U I D EF O R S Y T H / L A K E L A N I E R

OCTOBER 2014 EditionF O R S Y T H / L A K E L A N I E R

0 SAM DAVIS ROADListed by: Pam Sunderland(770) 540-9557

Page 2: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

W W W . H A R R Y N O R M A N L A K E L A N I E R . C O M

MORTGAGE & LENDINGChase HinsonHOMESERVICES LENDING(404) [email protected]

TITLE & CLOSINGBristow AndersonCAMPBELL & BRANNON(404) [email protected]

INSURANCEShelby EdmundsHN INSURANCE(678) [email protected]

HOME WARRANTYLaDonna HockerAMERICAN HOMESHIELD(678) [email protected]

EXTERMINATORSNick SandersARROW EXTERMINATORS(770) [email protected]

HOME INSPECTIONSShane GauthierBUYERS PROTEC. GROUP(404) [email protected]

APPRAISALSScott MurphyD.S. MURPHY(678) [email protected]

PROP. MANAGEMENTDavid TheurerALL COUNTY PROP. MANG.(770) [email protected]

GENERAL CONTRACT.Robert EstesATLANTA CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION(678) 524-4495www.atlantaconstruction.net

MOVERSBULLDOG MOVERS(404) 602-0442www.bulldogmovers.net

PAGE 1

BusinessPA RT N E R S

Our dedicated team of...

Page 3: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

0 SAM DAVIS ROADDahlonega, GA

149.98+/- AcresOffered at: $575,000

Wonderful opportunity to own affordable large farm or ranch tract with over 1 mile of river frontage along the Etowah River in Lumpkin County. This beautiful farm consists of a private preserve under conservation easement encompassing buffer areas along the river and extensive restored stream system. The remaining 47+/- acres are available for pasture or farming, with room for a generous sized house and barn. A perfect gentlemen's estate for farming, equestrian use, or private enjoyment. See concept plan for layout of possible trail system within preservation areas.

Listed By: Pam SunderlandPhone: (770) 540-9557

PAGE 2

Applewood Farm

Barn Site

EntranceDrive

StreamPreserve

RiverPreserve

WetlandPreserveForestCoverPasture

TrailSystem

Home SiteGrain Silos

Dahlonega, Georgia

Site Development Concept A

Charlottesville, VirginiaAustin, Texas

434-979-3846www.fi eldsport.com

Scale 1” = 200’

Contour Interval = 2’

0 200 400

Page 4: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 3

ALPHARETTA, GA11850 Little Creek Crossing7 Bedroom / 6.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,000,000Beautiful 3+/- acre private lot with top rated schools! You can't find this anywhere else.

Garel Curry: (404) 863-0835

DAHLONEGA, GA418 River Drive2 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $382,000Enjoy your very own river retreat. Log-sided river front home 'grandfathered-in' deck.

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CLERMONT, GA5675 Cottage Way3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $130,000Maintenance free siding, large fenced yard and patio. Perfect for first time buyers!

Denise Wesley: (404) 451-3692

DAWSONVILLE, GALot 41 Sundown Way 0.81+/- Acres | Offered at: $20,250This lot is a great value in a lake community. Two additional lots available for sale.

Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508

CUMMING, GA3850 Rivendell Lane3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $229,900High quality finishes. Spectacular south lake views with grand architecture design.

Barbara Cash: (770) 815-8249

GAINESVILLE, GA6447 Grand Marina Circle4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $650,000Lake Lanier home in Marina Bay with incred-ible views and upgrades galore!

Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317

CUMMING, GA4265 Evans Farm Drive4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $269,900Move in ready w/ master on main in great area and in swim/tennis neighborhood!

Johnson & Flynn Team: (770) 883-7792

CUMMING, GA2005 Sweetgum Trail4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $264,900Renovated home with new 30-year roof, hard-wood floors and crown molding throughout.

Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908

ALPHARETTA, GA50 Club Court4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $350,000Golf view lot in Windward's exclusive gated community, The Enclave at Golf Club of GA.

Garel Curry: (404) 863-0835

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Page 5: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 4

LILBURN, GA5260 Lilburn Stone Mountain Road 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $295,000Custom built, 4-sided brick home on 1+/- acre, fenced, level lot.

Jody "Jay" Green: (770) 861-7771

CUMMING, GA3830 Wake Robin Way3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $174,9002 story foyer and great room with fireplace. Large, open eat-in kitchen. Great community.

Michelle Flynn: (770) 883-7792

CLAYTON, GA152 Bywater Trail 5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $790,000No detail overlooked, escape the city life to your very own 9+/- acre mountain retreat.

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CUMMING, GA5850 Branch Valley Way5 Bedroom / 4 Bath | Offered at: $359,900Exceptional finishes throughout with pro-decorator touches at every turn!

Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559

CUMMING, GA1750 Tuliptree Court4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $239,900Best value in the community! Cul-de-sac lot w/private backyard on over a half acre!

Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570

GAINESVILLE, GA6423 Grand Marina Circle5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $795,000Executive home with views of Lake Lanier in prestigious gated, resort-style Marina Bay.

Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317

GAINESVILLE, GA1519 Enota Avenue 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $325,000All brick home is nicest in neighborhood! Landscaped yard with private courtyard.

Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908

DAWSONVILLE, GA0 Dawson Forest Road11.1+/- Acres | Offered at: $239,900Beautiful pasture already fenced in! Poultry house on property. 4.5+/- miles from GA-400!

Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040

DAWSONVILLE, GA730 McCormick Drive 2 Bedroom / 1 Bath | Offered at: $129,900Rustic mountain retreat with almost 4+/0 fully fenced acres with gated entry!

Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040

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Page 6: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 5

DAWSONVILLE, GALot 43 Sundown Way 0.77+/- Acres | Offered at: $19,250This lot is a great value in a lake community. Two additional lots available for sale.

Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508

CUMMING, GA2340 Briarwood Trail 5 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $289,900Largest floor plan in Habersham! Fantastic renovated home with new paint in and out!

Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570

CUMMING, GA4510 Sundance Circle5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $264,500Home with amazing floorplan in Swim/Ten-nis/Lake Community! Full basement!

Dave Wolfe: (716) 474-7666

DAWSONVILLE, GA138 Riley Road3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $149,900Largest floor plan available. End unit with level yard and private!

Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040

SUWANEE, GA815 Cedar Creek Drive3 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $350,000A RANCH, on full finished basement, over ½ acre lot in Lambert School District.

Jill Buysman: (678) 488-6655

DAWSONVILLE, GA38 Chestatee View3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $164,900Great lake neighborhood. No HOA rules or fees. Lots of privacy and nice trees!

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CUMMING, GA3525 Magnolia Walk Trail2 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $119,900Large bedrooms with their own full baths. End unit with impressive space throughout.

Cynthia Love: (801) 918-9560

GAINESVILLE, GA5040 Elrod Road3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $625,000Adorable Cape Cod style home with horse farm on 8.5+/- acres.

The Wesley Team: (404) 451-3692

CUMMING, GA6105 Overlook Park Drive 5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $459,000Stunning estate home with private rear yard in Lake Forest Waterside section.

Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559

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Page 7: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 6

WHAT TO DO FOR YOUR PLANTS IN OCTOBER

as black spot from over-wintering - don't compost the leaves. 14) Clear overhanging plants away from pathways to maintain access routes throughout the garden. 15) Cut back perennial plants that have died down or alternatively leave the dead foliage in place for over-wintering wildlife. 16) Lift and divide any overcrowded herbaceous perennials whilst the soil is still warm. 17) After tidying borders, mulch with bark chips, well rotted manure, leaf mould or spent mushroom compost to insulate plant roots for the winter and keep weed growth in check.

VEGETABLE GARDEN

1) Finish harvesting beans and peas. When beans and peas finish cropping simply cut the plant away at ground level, leaving the roots in the soil. These crops fix nitrogen which is slowly released into the soil as the roots break down. 2) If you plan to grow beans next year, start preparing the site by digging trenches and filling with manure or kitchen waste. 3) Harvest squashes and pumpkins before the first frosts. They will quickly turn mushy if left outside! 4) When you harvest your cabbages, leave the root in the ground and make a cut across the stem to encourage a flush of smaller leaves. 5) Any plants with green tomatoes or peppers remaining can be hung upside down indoors to ripen. 6) Protect autumn cauliflower heads from frost by wrapping the outer leaves around them and securing with string. Alternatively use a cloche or fleece. 7) Continue to plant autumn garlic bulbs now for a bumper crop next summer. 8) Plant autumn onion sets for cropping next summer. 9) Now is an ideal time to invest in mushroom kits. For more information about growing mushrooms see our 'How to Grow Mushrooms'. 10) Cut back yellowing asparagus foliage to within 5cm of the ground. 11) Reuse old grow bags by cutting away the top and sowing late salad crops. Cropping can be extended into winter if grown under glass or a cloche.

LOOKING AFTER YOUR LAWN

1) Clear up fallen leaves regularly to allow light to the grass. 2) A last mowing can be made this month before leaving your lawn for the winter.• Recut any lawn edges if needed. Try installing lawn edging to make future maintenance easier. 3) Finish off essential lawn maintenance to avoid waterlogging and compaction over winter. Try aerating your lawn with a garden fork, raking thatch from the surface and repairing dead patches. 4) Fresh turf can still be laid now. Autumn rains should ensure the turf settles successfully.

These are just a few items to take care of during the month of October to hopefully prepare all of your plants for the fall and winter months.

Article by: Thompson & Morgan

There's always something to be doing in the garden, whether it's pruning, tidying or sowing, so we've put together our top gardening tasks for October.

FLOWER GARDEN

1) Now that colder weather is approaching, protect half-hardy plants with fleece or bring into a frost-free greenhouse. 2) Lift Dahlias tubers, Begonias tubers and Gladiolus corms to store dry over the winter months. Remove the dead foliage before storing them. 3) Plant daffodil bulbs, tulip bulbs and Allium bulbs for a glorious spring display. Dot them through borders or naturalise them in grass. Plant bareroot ornamental trees and shrubs. 5) Plant out any perennials or biennials you've grown

from seed this year. 6) Plant spring bedding such as wallflowers, Bellis, Primulas and winter pansies for a fantastic spring display. 7) If your summer containers are looking past their best, re-plant them with fresh winter bedding plants. For winter plant ideas take a look at our 'How to plant up hanging baskets, flower pouches and containers' article. 8) Autumn is the ideal time to plant Clematis plants. 9) There is still time to direct sow hardy annuals. See 'what to sow and grow in October'. 10) This month is an ideal time to move trees and shrubs, and plant hedges. 11) Hardwood cuttings can be taken now from deciduous shrubs. 12) Prune climbing roses and rambling roses once they've finished flowering and tie in the stems before autumn winds cause damage. 13) Clear up fallen rose leaves to prevent diseases such

Page 8: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

RICE CEREAL MONSTERSINGREDIENTS:

8 tablespoons unsalted butter12 cups mini marshmallows (2 bags)

1/2 teaspoon salt12 cups rice cereal1 teaspoon vanilla

32 chocolate or peanut butter candy pieces 16 plastic vampire teeth

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Melt the butter and marshmallows in a large pot over medium low heat until all marshmallows are melted.

2. Remove from heat and stir in salt, vanilla and cereal until fully coated with marshmallow mixture.

3. Pour mixture into a large greased bowl or baking sheet4. Use a little butter to grease hands and form balls by pressing

firmly and rolling between palms.5. Place tightly pressed balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate

for at least 1 hour before proceeding.6. Using a serrated knife, carefully cut a wedge in the chilled

balls large enough for the teeth to fit inside. Place teeth.7. Cut the ends from both sides of the wedge about 1/2 inch

long.8. Insert the cut pieces into the opening on each side of the

monster's mouth to close up the sides.9. Use the end of a chopstick or similar utensil to make holes for

the eyes. Add candy pieces to the holes sticking straight up.

Recipes courtesy of: HGTV.com

ORANGE AND CRANBERRY BREAD PUDDING WITH CARAMEL

INGREDIENTS:

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Whisk together first seven bread pudding until well incorporated. Toss mixture with bread, and let sit for 20 minutes before baking to allow bread to absorb custard mixture.

2. Meanwhile, grease an 8x8-inch baking dish. Add bread mixture to pan and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove and let cool on counter.

3. To make the caramel, add sugar and water to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, and cook sugar until amber in color. Swirl pan to ensure even browning, but do not stir. Use a pastry brush dipped in water to remove any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.

4. Remove from heat and add cream. (Mixture will bubble up.) Return to heat and bring to a simmer. Stir mixture well, and remove off heat. Stir in salt.

5. Serve warm caramel sauce alongside bread pudding.

PAGE 7

For the Bread Pudding: 3 oranges, zested and juiced

1/2 cup dried cranberries8 egg yolks

1 quart cream1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 quarts chopped stale bread

For the Salted Caramel:2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup heavy cream1/2 cup water

2 teaspoon sea salt

Page 9: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 8

CUMMING, GA5910 Bentley Way 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $199,900Home with fenced backyard and numerous upgrades! Freshly painted exterior!

Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570

CUMMING, GA5845 Broadway Lane #393 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $184,000Gorgeous like-new luxury townhome with upgrades galore! Two car garage!

Dave Wolfe: (716) 474-7666

CUMMING, GA5570 Burruss Road4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $800,000Beautiful home with open floorplan, as well as additional 2 bed / 3 bath guest house.

Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908

ALPHARETTA, GA13666 Aventide Lane2 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $165,000Home in popular Avensong Swim/Tennis Community with private fenced yard!

Jody "Jay" Green: (770) 861-7771

DAWSONVILLE, GA69 Shadow Hills Lane3 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $175,000Delightful newer ranch on finished walk-out basement with full bath.

Pete Clay: (678) 492-3559

DAWSONVILLE, GALot 44 Sundown Way 0.75+/- Acres | Offered at: $18,750This lot is a great value in a lake community. Two additional lots available for sale.

Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508

DAHLONEGA, GA0 Sam Davis Road150+/- Acres | Offered at: $575,000Great opportunity to own affordable large farm or ranch tract with over 1 mile of river.

Pam Sunderland: (770) 540-9557

GAINESVILLE, GA6669 Marina Court7 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $630,000Amazing cul-de-sac home in gated Marina Bay. Impeccable details throughout!

Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317

NORCROSS, GA3427 Kiveton Drive #05 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $315,000Beautiful townhome with largest floor plan and large basement in this gated community.

Mike Burnett: (678) 372-2741

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Page 10: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 9

CUMMING, GA6745 Low County Road5 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $519,900Vickery home located across the street from woods, so lots of privacy and parking!

Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570

DAWSONVILLE, GA2144 Frank Bruce Road3 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $949,000Great country living. Nature lover's dream. 10+/- acres offers complete privacy!

Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908

GAINESVILLE, GA5120 Truman Mountain Road3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $124,900Very nice, clean home with finished basement. and oversize deck for entertaining.

Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040

DAWSONVILLE, GA557 Highway Nine North1.5+/- Acres | Offered at: $179,000Great Location! Potential commercial. House could be renovated for small business!

Barry Slaton: (678) 859-4040

GAINESVILLE, GA2786 Vaughn Drive3.5+/- Acres | Offered at: $850,000Beautiful lot on desirable Lake Lanier. Level lot with few trees to obstruct views of water.

The Wesley Team: (404) 451-3692

CANTON, GA975 Old Lathemtown Road5 Bedroom / 6.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,295,000Obie Award winning country estate located in desirable equestrian community.

Marie Sir: (404) 520-5263

CUMMING, GA5860 Shady Grove Lane5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $424,500Fantastic home on large, level lot, with fenced yard! Home also features 10 foot plus ceilings!

Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508

SAUTEE, GA980 Woodbrier6 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $675,000Beautiful home with long-range mountain views from almost every room!

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

HARTWELL, GA893 Bio Church Road 1 Bedroom / 1 Bath | Offered at: $70,000Perfect weekend getaway! Great for fisher-man! Only 7 miles to Lake Hartwell.

Jill Buysman: (678) 488-6655

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Page 11: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 10

Protecting your family starts with protecting your home. But with so many home security resources available out there, gathering home security tips can be a bit overwhelming. We’ve compiled the top ten home security tips to help get you started on home security and protection. All of the tips are easy to implement and inexpensive.

CHANGE THE LOCKS: Remember to change all the locks when you move into a new house. You’ll never know who had access to the keys before you moved in. If you lose the keys to your house, you should also replace all the locks for the maximum home security.

INSTALL AN ALARM SYSTEM: Alarm systems are one of the best forms of home protection. Home alarm systems immediately inform emergency authorities and warn homeowners of any potential dangers. Seeing that a home has an alarm system often prevents an intruder from even attempting a burglary. Hearing an alarm go off usually sends a burglar running.

CONCEAL ALL WIRING: Burglars often look for wiring around the exterior of a house and can cut it to disable the security system. Keep your home security wires hidden.

to Improve Your Home’s Security:GIVE THE APPEARANCE THAT YOUR HOUSE IS OCCUPIED: Professional burglars scour neighborhoods looking for homeowners who are away from their home for an extended period of time. Automatic timers are great ways to turn lights on and off while you’re away.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR KEY IN THE MAILBOX: This is a home security tip that everyone has heard, but many still ignore. One of the easiest ways to enter a home uninvited is by finding a key in the mailbox or under the doormat. Wrap your key in foil and place it in a secret spot that only your family knows about.

LIGHT UP THE ENTRANCE TO YOUR HOME: A smart way to keep thieves away is to utilize lighting. Lighting with an infrared detector automatically turns on when someone is in a specific zone or area. No burglar wants to be in easy view while committing a crime.

INSTALL DEADBOLT LOCKS: All exterior doors should have at least 1 inch thick dead bolt locks. Although more expensive than spring latch locks, dead bolts are much stronger and provide significantly more protection. When installing deadbolts, make sure to leave a minimal amount of space between the door

and its frame, as this provides an opportunity for an intruder to pry the door apart. Doors can be reinforced with plywood or a piece of sheet metal.

USE METAL BARS ON SLIDING DOORS: Any sliding glass doors, patio doors, or sliding windows should have a metal bar that is placed along the bottom track of the door or window. The metal bar will prevent a burglar from forcing the door or window open.

USE INTERIOR DOOR HINGES: If your door has hinges on the outside of your house, an intruder can easily remove the hinge pin to gain entry. For optimal home security, remove the door and reset the hinges so that they are on the inside of the house.

PROTECT YOUR WINDOWS: Burglars often gain entry into homes through windows. Protect these vulnerable areas with window locks and/or burglar-resistant glass. Installing many small panes of glass instead of one large pane of glass is a good option as well.

Article by: Allstate

Page 12: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

Remodeling projects always bring up a certain question: is this going to increase the value of the home? No one wants to jeopardize the value of their home, especially when the potential for resale is in the air. On a list of remodeling projects that bring a high return on investment (ROI), kitchens come in near the top.

So, with that being said… why are kitchen remodels so dang popular? Well, we believe it’s because it’s the center of attention and life happens there. Newer model homes incorporate the kitchen and living space with one as an extension of the other. This can usually be referred to as an “open floorplan.” Kitchen nooks with tables and overhang counters with enough space to eat a meal are popular as new kitchen formats bring the cook back into the party. Instead of being relegated to another part of the house and separated by a wall, the cook gets the chance to interact with people while preparing meals. Having enough space so that the party never has to leave the kitchen is what people are interested in when looking at new home designs, and many people are capitalizing on that trend by creating a similar space in their existing homes.

Given the size and scope of pretty much any kitchen, remodeling can be a costly affair. Countertops, appliances, flooring—all of these things add up. Especially when considering any additions that might be included, such as an island. While the cost to renovate the kitchen is higher than some other rooms in the house, the potential to recover it as part of the sale is high, too. The national average cost for a kitchen remodel is around $65,000, but that’s also not taking into consideration the variation of costs of living from region to region. Luckily, the average cost for a kitchen remodel in Georgia is just shy of $25,000.

Ok, so now you’re ready to remodel your kitchen… a popular question among many is, “what aspects should I consider?”

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GET A ROI FOR YOUR

KITCHEN REMODEL

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Article by: Ashley Panter, Marketing CoordinatorHarry Norman, REALTORS®

Page 13: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

Well, that’s an easy question. Keep it simple! Think about what people want (for resale purposes). There’s no point in spending money to remodel something that potential buyers don’t care about. Real estate agents say that kitchens are one of the first rooms people look at, and when they do, they want to see if the countertops and appliances are updated. A more modern look shows well with potential buyers, so upgrading for both functionality and aesthetics is a viable consideration. Yes, you have to live in the house now and, of course, want to enjoy your new kitchen, but instead of personalizing every detail, perhaps consider choosing more neutral items such as the countertop, cabinets, and appliances that everyone would love. You can still bring your personality into your kitchen with the color of paint you use on the walls and accessories such as chair covers, hand towels, mats, placemats, and more! That turquoise stove and lime green backsplash may be the best thing since sliced bread to you, but the older couple who is looking to buy your home may not be so thrilled about the vibrant modern feel of the most popular room in the house.

Another aspect to consider when remodeling your home is to be careful not to spend so much on your kitchen remodel that the price of the house skyrockets. Potential buyers will love the kitchen, but may not make an offer if the house is priced way over the others in the area... especially if the rest of the house

doesn’t match the new and improved kitchen. Make sure you keep renovation costs moderate so that the house can remain at a competitive price.

Sometimes, less is more, and not everything in the space needs to be replaced. Some things qualify: if the kitchen has older appliances, replacing them is a smart decision. Likewise, if the countertops show wear and should be replaced, do so. But if the kitchen is in good working order, nothing else really needs to be done aside from changing the lighting or paint for a new look. A little bit goes a long way.

For some people, a budget of $25,000 is just out of the question for a kitchen renovation. If that’s the case for you, there are several things you can do yourself that will give your kitchen a fresh design and a more updated feel. For instance: replace the knobs on the cabinets, paint the cabinets, add a backsplash, change the wall paint, install lights under the cabinets, or even add an island can make a huge difference in the feel of the room.

If your budget can stand a little more renovation, some other minor kitchen

remodeling items you could consider are: refacing cabinets and hardware, replacing older laminate countertops with newer laminate styles and adding energy-efficient technology. These renovations will cost about $15,000 to $20,000. It may seem like a lot, but the ROI hovers at around 70%. These numbers make kitchens the best room to remodel in the entire house from a ROI perspective.

People like the look of new things, and while potential buyers don’t necessarily want flashy… sleek and streamlined is always a good aesthetic to aim for. Model homes are full of fancy kitchens, so a resale kitchen has to be appealing, or else the home might be passed over. Upgrading the kitchen is a great way to give the whole home a lift.

For more information about remodeling returns on investments for resale, contact Harry Norman, REALTORS Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office and speak to one of our highly trained real estate professionals… or feel free to stop by!

PAGE 11

GET A ROI FOR YOUR

KITCHEN REMODEL

Page 14: The Real Estate Guide (October Edition)

HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

CUMMING, GA65 Pine Lake Drive3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $450,000Enjoy your own mountain retreat in the city limits of Cumming! Complete privacy.

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CUMMING, GA6279 Waveland Drive3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $215,900Charming ranch in immaculate condition. Roommate plan and move-in ready.!

Christina Abunassar: (919) 389-8317

JASPER, GA230 Old Mill White Road ExtensionCOMMERCIAL | Offered at: $2,500,000Log structure on a 10' slab, custom doors, wall murals, a kitchen and built-in bar area.

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CUMMING, GA3115 Chimney Cove Lane5 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $349,000Charming Lake Lanier dollhouse. New kitchen and bathrooms. Beautiful rear deck.

Trudy Taylor: (770) 883-8640

CUMMING, GA0 Settingdown Road 3.5+/- acres | Offered at: $79,000Build your custom dream home on 3.5 acres with babbling brooks and lots of privacy.

Kerry Neel: (404) 353-9121

GAINESVILLE, GA2264 Lake Ranch Court4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $880,000Great location convenient to Gainesville, Dawson and Forsyth Counties.

Denise Wesley: (404) 451-3692

DAWSONVILLE, GA204 Windy Hill Drive4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $400,000This home/farm on 7+/- acres is great for entertaining and close to everything!

Mike Garcia: (770) 231-9908

ROSWELL, GA110 River Mill Circle1 Bedroom / 1.5 Bath | Offered at: $78,000END UNIT! Location and amenities in this gated community! Lots of security!

Garel Curry: (404) 863-0835

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DUNWOODY, GA2191 Brooke Farm Court5 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath | Offered at: $699,9003 sided brick home with two decks and pri-vate fenced backyard. Renovated kitchen.

Tom Stocks: (678) 283-9570

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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDEPAGE 14

GAINESVILLE, GA6450 Crooked O Trail3 Bedroom / 2 Bath | Offered at: $339,000Doll house with stainless steel dock with party deck and deep water.

Trudy D. Taylor: (770) 883-8640

ALPHARETTA, GA4160 Bellflower Drive5 Bedroom / 4 Bath | Offered at: $149,900Beautiful renovated home in Park Forest! This home backs up to the greenbelt.

Garel Curry: (404) 863-0835

CUMMING, GA1510 Moorings Way4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $1,200,000Level lot home with easy walk to dock with sun bathing deck in quiet deep water cove.

Kristy Scott: (404) 645-6902

CUMMING, GA6530 Roundhill Court8 Bedroom / 7 Bath | Offered at: $550,000Drastically reduced! Exceptional home located near golf, stables, and more!

Mike Garcia: (77) 231-9908

YOUNG HARRIS, GA4431 Furman Gribble Road 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath | Offered at: $699,000Custom home with the highest level of craftsmanship and beautiful mountain views!

Ken Klosinski: (770) 406-0508

CUMMING, GA7440 Fields Drive3 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $388,750Renovated home on South Lake with party-deck dock! 2013 appraised of $447,000!

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

CUMMING, GA5980 Vinyard Lane3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath | Offered at: $159,900Gorgeous like new luxury townhome. Open floor plan with hardwoods throughout main.

Dave Wolfe: (716) 474-7666

CUMMING, GA6860 North Glen Drive4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $195,000Well maintained home with partial finished basement with full bath and bedroom.

Mike Burnett: (678) 372-2741

LYERLY, GA100 Rivermont Road4 Bedroom / 3 Bath | Offered at: $799,00036+/- acre income producing Equestrian Estate with 12-stall barn and custom home!

Terry Cooksey: (770) 503-4167

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HARRY NORMAN REAL ESTATE GUIDE

The information included in this publication is believed to be accurate but not warranted. Offer subject to errors, changes, omissions, prior sales and withdrawals without notice. Forsyth Office 770-497-2000 Robert Aiken, Broker. If your home is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. www.harrynorman.com

(770) 497-2000w w w . h a r r y n o r m a n l a k e l a n i e r . c o m

F O R S Y T H / L A K E L A N I E R

“We’re not the best because we’re the oldest. We’re the oldest because we’re the best.”

—Harry Norman

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Harry Norman, REALTORS® Forsyth/Lake Lanier Office1664 Market Place Blvd., Cumming, GA 30041