Positively At Home In Gwinnett

Brookwood High School - Loaded With Upgrades

2009-09-10T11:23:00.004-04:00

1121 Mary Lee Lane, SW, Lilburn, GA 30047. 4-5 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths. Large fenced back yard. Crawl space foundation. $224,900. This custom built home has been meticulously maintained and beautifully updated by the original owners. It features a large living room, formal dining room, updated kitchen with recessed lighting and stainless steel appliances, and family room with gorgeous hardwood floors. The brick patio overlooks a private landscaped back yard with privacy fence. Both front and back yards have an irrigation system for easy maintenance. There is a large bedroom on the main level. Upstairs are a spacious master suite with walk-in closet and double vanity bath. The huge bonus room/5th bedroom shares a hall bath with two secondary bedrooms. Gwens Ridge West is convenient to Ronald Reagan Park, Mountain Park Park, Yellow River Park, and Stone Mountain Park. It is close to grocery stores, retail centers, and restaurants, and an easy commute to Emory and the CDC. Be sure to take the multi-media tour, linked from http://www.patsabin.com/1121.html.

2.57 Acre River Lot - Brookwood HS- $272,900

2009-08-24T10:25:00.006-04:00

1317 Rivermist Drive, Lilburn, Georgia 30047
$272,900

WOW! If you're looking for privacy and nature, you'll love the 12' x 49.5' wooden deck (or huge concrete patio below) for entertaining or just enjoying the peace and quiet. This 4-5 Bedroom two-story home with full daylight basement offers many flexible living spaces. The formal living room features French doors, and would make a perfect office or library. The dining room easily seats large gatherings. The updated kitchen features new hardwood floors, miles of solid surface counter top space, and updated appliances, plumbing, and lighting. The fireside family room includes judges paneling, gorgeous fireplace, and built in bookcases. The luxurious master bath features a vaulted ceiling, 6' garden tub, new lighting and plumbing, and all new tile shower with frameless glass door. Three secondary bedrooms and large bonus room / 5th bedroom share a large hall bath. Located in the popular RIVERMIST swim-tennis community, this home is very convenient to R. D. Head Elementary, Five Forks Middle School, and Brookwood High School. Please take the full tour linked from the title. Equal Housing Opportunity.

NEW LISTING - PARKVIEW H.S. $189,900

2009-07-24T08:13:00.004-04:00

I'm very pleased to present this meticulously maintained home located on a quiet cul-de-sac street in the popular Parkview High School - Camp Creek Elementary School cluster of Lilburn. Be sure to click on the title above to read more and take the multi-media tour.

Priced at only $189,900, this home offers 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, a full daylight basement with boat door, large master bedroom with vaulted ceiling and His & Her walk-in closets! The large, beautifully landscaped fenced back yard can be enjoyed from the wooden deck or brick patio. There's a separate driveway and parking pad for an RV!

Ridgeland Forest is located in the popular Lake Lucerne area, convenient to Stone Mountain, Mountain Park Park and Library, Yellow River Park, shopping and restaurants. It's an easy commute to Emory and the CDC. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Social Networking - How Much Is Too Much?

2009-07-16T09:02:00.006-04:00

Am I the only one out there who is getting sort of overwhelmed with social networking? When Twitter rolled out, and I understood the implication of tracking the minute by minute events in other people's lives, I was horrified. Years ago, I remember feeling the same way when cell phones became affordable and prevalent. I thought, "Why would I want to be accessible every minute of the day???"

There are two magazines on my bathroom floor. One is AARP Magazine's July/August issue, and the other is REALTOR(R) Magazine's March issue (OK, I'm a slow read when it comes to business publications).

AARP features a very amusing article by Hugh Delehanty, "Confessions of a Facebook Addict," in which he describes how he realized that he was an addict when, on a dream vacation, he sneaked into the bathroom at 3:00 a.m. to check his Facebook page. He became so obsessed with making new friends, especially collecting celebrity friends, it took awhile for him to realize that he was no longer participating in his own life, his passions, and his marriage.

AARP lists several social networking sites and their basic characteristics: Facebook.Com, MySpace.Com, LinkedIn.Com, AARP.org, Twitter.Com. Of course, there really are thousands of online communities in the U.S. They don't mention Second Life, but if Facebook is addictive, imagine how seductive a virtual reality can be. In Second Life, you can be and have anything you want: Young, skinny, curvy, long hair or short, male or female. You can go to parties (without your spouse, who doesn't exist in your Second Life), dance, listen to your favorite bands. You can lounge in your beautifully decorated loft condo. You can even hook up!

The REALTOR(R) Magazine features (yet ANOTHER) article about social networking, "Managing Your Reputation In The Age Of Social Media." It's talking about the obvious sites like Zillow and Trulia, as well as agent/broker sites like ActiveRain. I know many agents who post almost every day on ActiveRain. This may sound like heresy, but I'm not sure that it enhances their businesses. Maybe yes for some, and no for others. I think it can be almost an escape to a real estate world in which they can still feel in control. I keep in touch with my clients and friends, and share relevant real estate news, through my monthly newsletter "Positively At Home." It's linked all month from my real estate web site.

So, here's why I'm not signing up for Twitter, or blogging every day on ActiveRain. I get over 300 e-mail messages a day. Many are from an online information/support group for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) which I've hosted since 2005. There are over 600 members, and new members are joining every week. I started this group because my dad was diagnosed and treated in 2003. It's a busy, busy list, but very rewarding.

For over ten years, I have been an active volunteer and county coordinator for the USGenWeb Project, and any day of the week, I get genealogy list messages from various counties and states (that just reminded me that I need to vote in the National elections today!). Many of my personal messages are requests for look-ups or advice about research. Sometimes, they are offers to clean up or transcribe old cemeteries, and I sponsor several Eagle Scout projects for the Gwinnett County GAGenWeb.

I'm a "lurker" on a great postcard collecting list, and many of the members (all over the world) have been collecting for over 50 years. My interest is in pre-1914 postcards of particular cities, but I enjoy learning about the hobby and hearing the stories of other collectors.

I'm a Budget Geek who assigns every dollar a job each month, and keeps in touch with my budget and bank account almost every day. I'm active on a budget message board because while we may be in different boats, we're all paddling up the same river.

I also love music and books, and occasionally, I check in with message boards for my favorite authors or book series, TV shows, and musicians. I want to know what others think about things, what's going on (the next album release, the next book release, the next TV appearance). I confess that I really appreciate that Kris Allen twitters the fans on his web site every day.

I joined Classmates.Com prior to my last high school reunion, and I check in occasionally to see if any additional classmates have signed up. I've never been particularly sentimental about my high school years, but years later, I've found it to be a lot of fun to connect with other people who remember the same teachers, old hang-outs, etc.

So, the next time I get an e-mail or magazine urging me to take the plunge into "social networking," I think I'll just DELETE, and go back to following my own passions.

TAX ASSESSMENT - BEFORE YOU APPEAL....

2009-07-10T09:36:00.008-04:00

At almost every closing these days, several minutes is dedicated to discussing the possible appeal of the current property tax assessment. While we homeowners have had to face declining values, home buyers are getting some amazing deals. Often, their first instinct is to run to the Gwinnett County Tax office to appeal their assessment.

I don't usually editorialize, but I would like to suggest that we slow down and give this a lot of consideration. We are fortunate to live in Gwinnett County, where we are able to count on the amenities of good schools (Gwinnett was the only metro Atlanta county to move forward in building needed new schools in 2009), beautiful public parks, public libraries, road improvements, and fire and police services. So far, Gwinnett has weathered the recession better than most. However, this may change because of budget deficits.

Yesterday, I got an e-mail notice from the Library Elf, telling me that a long awaited book was ready for pick up. Just an hour later, I received the following press release from Michelle Long with Gwinnett County Public Library:

"LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA (9 July 2009) - In an effort to balance the County budget, Commissioners will undoubtedly implement cuts that impact all aspects of Gwinnett County, including Gwinnett County Public Library. While the Library does receive a small amount of funding from the state, the majority of the funding is from the County.

"The Library has made a number of significant cuts over the last six months, and further cuts are anticipated in 2010. Unfortunately, due to the difficult financial times, the library administration has been forced to make some drastic decisions that impact library hours, services, and programs. A hiring freeze has already been implemented, and the library has now reached the tipping point where full services can no longer be provided with reduced staff."

The way the library has decided to handle this economic crisis is very reasonable, and the citizens of Gwinnett will easily adapt. However, this is a sign of things to come. Let's support Gwinnett County to enable our government to continue to provide services to its people.

NOSTALGIC FOR THE 1980'S

2009-07-02T20:07:00.017-04:00

June was a nostalgic month. I don't know if it was revisiting Michael Jackson's old music videos (I'd forgotten how good he was in the 80's), or the 1980 issues of "Atlanta Magazine" my dad gave me, but I've found myself thinking a lot about how things have changed. Doesn't it seem like 1980 was just a few years ago, and do you remember the recession of the 1980's as a kinder, gentler recession?

One particular ad caught my eye and tugged at my heart a little. Remember Ellman's catalog showroom? I worked in the diamond and fine jewelry departments at the new Southlake store and the Cumberland store (adjacent to the corporate offices) from 1976 until 1985 when the company was bought by Service Merchandise. We all worked the annual tag sales at the Cheshire Bridge store, and all of us in diamond sales knew and covered for each other. Anyone who worked at Ellman's during those years will recognize this quote and remember who greeted everyone with, "Is that you?" (Actually, it sounded more like, "Izzat chew?"). There's a wonderful blog called Georgia Retail Memories that I recommend to Atlanta natives.

Other advertisements may be names you may recognize from 1980 Atlanta Magazine:

Davison's , C&S (Citizens and Southern Bank), Bailey, Banks & Biddle Jewelers (still with us!), Eastern Airlines, Rich's, WQXI AM/FM (remember "Quixie"?), Anthonys fine dining restaurant in Buckhead (still there- 200 years old!), WSB 750-AM (still going strong), Muse's menswear (filed Chapter 11 Bankrupcy in 1991 after 112 years in business).

There's an article about the B52's, and a scathing review of Richard Gere's new movie, "American Gigalo." There's also a full page ad for JVC's new video cassette recorder (I bought my first VCR that very year for almost $700!). You could buy VHS tapes at the Record Bar at Northlake or Southlake Malls.

And, in closing, here's my favorite ad from 1980: "Your $90,000 home at Horseshoe Bend comes with $4,000,000 worth of extras. And something else that's priceless. The river." Who would have guessed that almost thirty years later houses would, once again, sell for $90,000?

Lake Views and Fabulous Kitchen $143,900

2009-04-03T10:08:00.015-04:00

2820 Mountberry Drive, Snellville, Georgia, 30039

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Finished Basement, Lake Access

This is a beautifully maintained and updated home with a large level back yard and lake access. The kitchen is all new, with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and tile backsplash and floor. Lighting has been updated throughout, and it features extensive hardwood floors. Be sure to click on the link above for more information, or visit http://www.patsabin.com/2820 .

What A Difference a Month Makes

2009-04-03T09:50:00.009-04:00

We enjoyed a rare March snow here in Gwinnett County, Georgia this year, and I took the photo above from my front porch. The second one was taken in the first week of April. No matter how bleak things look for us, personally or financially, I'm reminded of the speech that Peggy Slappey gave at last year's Northeast Atlanta Metro Association of REALTORS celebration last spring. Peggy noted that she has been a developer and real estate broker in Gwinnett County for many decades, and has been through several financial winters. The one thing she came to believe is that winter is always followed by spring.

3.5 Sides Brick, Granite Counter Tops, Full Basement

2009-04-03T09:33:00.010-04:00

1120 Thistle Gate Path, Lawrenceville, GA 30045

4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Master Sitting Room, Full Basement

$359,900

Please check out this exceptional home in Spring Arbor subdivision off Webb Gin House Road. It features 3.5 sides brick construction, extensive hardwood floors, granite counter tops in kitchen and baths, an amazing large level back yard, and tons of light and space. The full daylight basement opens to an oversize patio for easy entertaining and family fun. Click on the title above to take a virtual tour, or go to http://www.patsabin.com/1120.html.

Quiet Cul-de-sac Street - Parkview High School

2008-10-07T11:37:00.003-04:00

556 Beth Court, Lilburn, Gwinnett County, Georgia. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Bedroom and bath on main level. Sunroom, Bonus Room, Family Room, Living Room, $199,900. This is a meticulously maintained and beautifully updated home in Hanarry Estates in Lilburn. The exterior is high quality and low maintenance vinyl siding, and architectural roof shingles. The home has been freshly painted inside and out and features all neutral wall colors and flooring.

The fully remodeled and expanded kitchen features warm wood cabinets, solid surface countertops, tile back splash, and new appliances. You'll never be able to fill all the cabinets, roll out shelves, and built in pantry space! Truly the heart of the home, this kitchen is large enough to accommodate a large table and center island with plenty of room to spare.

You'll find extra storage in garage built-ins, a bonus room over the garage, and large outbuilding with double doors and electricity.

Lush landscaping includes a variety of perennials, flowering trees, and low maintenance shrubbery. An in-ground irrigation system serves the front and back yard. The fenced back yard is a private paradise, with an expansive lawn, secret gardens, and ornamental streams, waterfalls, and ponds.

Hanarry Estates offers optional membership to Hanarry Swim and Racquet Club with lighted tennis courts, swimming pool, clubhouse and playground. This is an active Alta Tennis and Swim Team community, convenient to Mountain Park and Lilburn Park, schools, libraries, shopping and restaurants. It is an easy commute to Emory and CDC. Parkview High School is among the best schools in Georgia.

Be sure to take the Virtual Tour, linked from this page: http://www.patsabin.com/556.html

New Listing - 5 BR, 4 BA in Parkview HS Cluster

2008-08-22T20:15:00.004-04:00

This is an immaculate home in a quiet neighborhood in the sought after Camp Creek Elementary School district (Parkview High School) in Lilburn. It features two bedrooms and two full baths on the main level, and three bedrooms and two baths upstairs.

The back yard is a peaceful paradise, large, level and fully fenced. The in ground swimming pool is ready to enjoy for the rest of the summer (plenty of time left to swim this year!).

Freshly painted inside and out, new carpeting, and renovated baths and kitchen make this an excellent value. All the work is done. Just move in! Listed for $199,900. No basement, but plenty of storage space! Click on the title above to take the virtual tour.

The Olympics in Beijing

2008-08-22T20:04:00.002-04:00

I don't know how everyone else is feeling about the 29th Summer Olympics, but I've been more engaged than I have been for years. China has been an exceptional host to these games, and the opening ceremony was a stunning event that will never be topped.

I've enjoyed some of the sports that have gotten little camera time, like trampoline, synchronized diving and swimming, and rhythmic gymnastics, in addition to the typical audience favorites. I find myself looking at all of the young people representing the USA in these games, their varied skin colors and heritage, and thinking how amazing it is to live in a country that is so diverse. I've also been so impressed with how affectionate the coaches of all countries have been with their athletes, even when they have not performed as well as they'd hoped.

Anyway, I'm so proud and uplifted by the whole experience. It's just what the world needs right now!

MID-CENTURY MODERN IN TUCKER

2008-08-03T18:48:00.003-04:00

4253 Smithsonia Drive, Tucker, DeKalb County, GA 30084

3-4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Fenced Yard $237,900

I'm so excited about this new listing in Tucker in the exceptional Livsey Elementary School district. It is a light filled, dramatic plan with hardwood floors, two-story entry foyer, and dual staircases to the second floor bedrooms in separate wings. The kitchen is adorable, with see through glass cabinets, breakfast bar, and updated appliances. The finished lower level offers a huge recreation room with built in bar and door to the back yard, and a 4th bedroom/den. The back yard is enormous, level, private and fenced. Close to Emory, CDC, Mercer University, Decatur and Atlanta. Be sure to take the Virtual Tour at http://www.patsabin.com/4253.html (or click on the title above). See you there!

New Listing In Lilburn - Swim Tennis Community

2008-06-24T09:22:00.005-04:00

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2-Car Garage. Offered at $154,900

Spotlessly clean and meticulously maintained by the original owner, this house is an exceptional value in this price range! It has been recently painted inside and out, and all kitchen appliances are included.

Huntington is an older John Wieland swim-tennis community in Lilburn, convenient to I-85, Gwinnett Place Mall, shopping and restaurants. Optional membership to the swim and racquet club is available at a modest annual cost and includes pool, tennis and playground.

This lovely home features a rocking chair front porch, long windows, entry foyer, formal living room, formal dining room, eat in kitchen, and large family room with huge stone fireplace with gas logs.

All bedrooms are very spacious with good closet space. The master bedroom has two closets!

NEW LISTING PARKVIEW HIGH SCHOOL!

2008-05-19T11:56:00.005-04:00

1493 Baron Court, Stone Mountain, Gwinnett County, GA 30087

4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths, Full Daylight Basement, Private Level Back Yard on Cul-de-Sac. $285,000. WOW! This gracious home in the Mountain Park area has totally renovated kitchen and baths with granite counter tops, upgraded plumbing and light fixtures, new hardware, and whirlpool garden tub!

There's a huge bedroom with full bath on the main level that could be a second master bedroom. The master bedroom on the second level is bright and spacious with two walk-in closets and a FABULOUS all new bath!

All the rooms in this lovely traditional home are filled with natural light. The formal living and dining rooms are very large and perfect for entertaining. The vaulted family room features a brick fireplace with gas logs, built in bookshelves, and hardwood floor. The full sized laundry room leads to a private home office, sewing or craft room. The full daylight basement offers tons or storage or future rec room or exercise room.

Minutes from Mountain Park Park and Aquatic Centers, Mountain Park Library, Stone Mountain Park, Yellow River Park and Bike Trail, shopping, and restaurants. Gwinnett's sought after Parkview High School cluster! Multi media tour coming soon. Click on the title above!

New Listing! Walk to the Lake! Grayson Area

2008-05-02T09:52:00.007-04:00

THIS ONE'S SOLD...BUT I HAVE OTHER GREAT HOMES!

330 Lake Valley Drive, Loganville, Gwinnett County, Georgia 30052

at Grayson Manor Subdivision

I'm so excited about this super clean and meticulously maintained home that I have the pleasure of offering for only $163,900. What a great value! It's built of low maintenance stacked stone with vinyl siding. It is beautifully landscaped and has a private, level, wooded back yard. Walk right down the street to the Grayson Manor swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, and lake.

Every room is spacious and filled with natural light. Some of the special features are surround sound, upgraded light fixtures, and 2" plantation blinds. All kitchen appliances are included: Side-by-side refrigerator, electric range, dishwasher, and built-in microwave.

The owner's bedroom features a HUGE divided walk-in closet, and a bath with double sink vanity, garden tub, and separate shower.

Grayson Manor is directly across from Vines Gardens, and is convenient to historic Grayson, Bay Creek Park, Tribble Mill Park, shopping and restaurants.

PARKVIEW HIGH SCHOOL UNDER $200K!

2008-04-23T16:52:00.005-04:00

I have been so fortunate to get listings this year in great condition and in super nice areas. This latest listing is a 4 bedroom, 3 bath home on a .48 acre lot in the Mountain Park-Trickum-Parkview school cluster in Gwinnett County. It has a bedroom and full bath on the main level. It's a slab foundation but has tons of space in the large 2-car garage with separate storage room.

The back yard is HUGE and level, surrounded by azaleas and shade trees. Really a slice of Heaven! The large brick paito is perfect for afternoon iced tea or a big cook out. Priced at $189,500, this is the best value for a 2-story home in this school district. Be sure to take the virtual tour linked above at http://www.patsabin.com/4671.html.

New Oldies Radio Station in Atlanta!

2008-04-14T16:28:00.005-04:00

I know this doesn't have much to do with Gwinnett County and real estate, but I was so excited to find out today that Oldies Radio in Atlanta is back on 106.7 FM. I'm sure the country radio fans were disappointed to loose their station, and I know just how they feel. It's been over a year without oldies in Atlanta!

As a child of the 1950's and 60's, the old rock and roll music still makes me roll the windows down and dance in my car at stop lights! My older sister and I attended almost every concert that came through Atlanta in the 1960's, and our parents would drop us off at the old Municipal Auditorium and pick us up after the concert (even on school nights, which is amazing). Most concert seating was not reserved, so as soon as the doors opened, hundreds of teenagers would run down the aisles to get the best seats. Between 1964 and 1966 alone we saw the Beatles, Peter and Gordon (twice), Chad and Jeremy, Stevie Wonder, Tom Jones, Billy Joe Royal, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, Paul Revere and The Raiders (6 times!), Herman's Hermits, The Animals, Mamas & Papas, The Turtles, and Iron Butterfly.

I continued to attend great concerts throughout college and after moving back to Atlanta. Many years later, we attended the Oldies concerts at the old Fulton County stadium (before it was moved to the Omni (?) - but the acoustics were terrible there). Over the years, we attended smaller free outdoor summer concerts sponsored by Fox 97 (my favorite was Johnny Rivers, who is better than ever).

If you are an oldies fan, tune in to 106.7 FM http://www.trueoldies1067fm.com/uc/.

If you were a big fan of Fox 97 and Randy and Spiff in the morning, check out Spiff's blog:
http://spiffhappens.blogspot.com/ I'm hoping that we'll get some of the old Fox 97 gang back together on oldies radio in Atlanta.

Happily Stuck in 1968.

The Power Of A Household Budget

2008-04-11T10:53:00.007-04:00

I've become a Budget Geek.

Like so many people who grew up during the boom years after WWII, I never learned to do much financial planning. I managed to save for two years to purchase my first home at age 30, but beyond the down payment and closing costs, there never was a budget. If I had money in the bank, I spent it. If I didn't, I charged it or postponed vacations or purchases. It never occurred to me not to give myself everything I desired if I could swing it. Sound familiar?

In working with home buyers for the last twenty+ years, I've encountered the same attitude in first time home buyers as well as seasoned buyers. The lender tells us we can qualify for $XXX,XXX, and instills in us the confidence that the loan and monthly mortgage payment will be a piece of cake!

The lender really doesn't know (or care) anything about our real lives, our personal interests and obligations - not the kind that show up as debts on the credit report, but things like tithing to church, contributions to charity, children's extracurricular activities, hobbies, vacations, out of pocket health expenses, etc., etc.

Other things the lender doesn't consider are daily costs of living and maintaining a home. It's not just the rising cost of adjustable rate mortgages that have strapped homeowners, it's the rising cost of everything else, like utilities, food, insurance, and gasoline. The costs to maintain a home are unavoidable. When it's time to paint, or replace a water heater or roof, it must be done.

This is why it is important to create a realistic budget before planning your home purchase. That way, no matter what your lender tells you you can afford, you'll know what is realistic for you for a long term commitment to a home.

If you haven't already done so, take the time to track your expenses over the last 12 months. To come up with averages, add all the expenses for one category and divide by 12 for a monthly average. For annual, semi-annual, or quarterly expenses like car insurance or dues, take the 12 month total and divide by 12. That's the amount that you should budget every month so that the money will be available in reserve when the bill comes due. If you haven't kept a record of clothing purchases, "fun money" like movies, DVDs and eating out, you may need to estimate your monthly expenses just to get started.

Next, create a monthly budget using your real numbers from the last 12 months and your estimates of unrecorded purchases. Don't worry about any money that comes out of your check before you get it, like IRA contributions, health insurance, income tax. Just budget your "take home" money.

My strongest advice is BE HONEST. This is your budget, and it won't do you any good to lie to yourself. If you have a partner, you need to create this budget together. There are several great software programs that are an enormous help in planning and in tracking expenses. Just search Budget Software on the Internet. I use YNAB.

Your budget may include categories like Mortgage/Rent, Home Maintenance, Utilities, Phone and Internet, Cell Phones, Groceries, Pet Care, Cleaning and Paper Products, Health Care, Car Payment(s), Car Insurance, Car Maintenance, Gasoline and Car Washes, Car Tag, Credit Card Payments, Restaurants, Clothes, Cosmetics & Hair Care, Church, Charities, Vacation, Short Term Savings, Fun Money.

Don't ignore the "small change" items, because they add up. Most people are surprised at how much they spend on fast food and incidental items each month. That's money that can go toward paying off debts and into emergency savings.

Budgets always need tweaking after the first month or two, but you should have a realistic idea of how you've been spending your money. If you are buying your first home, or are moving up to a larger home, your budget will increase. Suze Orman recommends saving that estimated increase for six months before making a home purchase. In other words, if your new monthly payment will increase by about $300, and you'll need $200 more for utilities, and another $200 a month for maintenance, make sure these extra expenses will fit into your current budget. If not, is there something else that you are willing and able to give up?

I believe that home ownership can mean great personal satisfaction and the best investment you'll ever make. If you get started with a budget based on your real life and priorities, you'll be able to move forward with confidence in your decision to buy your first or your next home.

Cheers!

New Listing in Brookwood High School Cluster

2008-04-10T08:37:00.007-04:00

I'm pleased to present this stunning home in the Brookwood High School cluster in Lilburn, GA. Built in 1999, it is located on a quiet cul-de-sac street in Brookwood Corners, convenient to schools, shopping, and Ronald Reagan Park and Dog Park.

Some of the special features include a 2-story foyer, banquet size dining room, formal living room, 2-story family room, spacious kitchen with center island, hardwood floors, and all kitchen appliances included. Also on the main level is a home office which could also be an exercise room, playroom, library, or extra guest space.

Upstairs is a HUGE master bedroom suite with sitting room and luxurious bath, three secondary bedrooms, and a large hall bath.

The back yard is private and wooded. NEW PRICE, July 22nd: $238,900! Take the tour by clicking on the title above or going to http://www.patsabin.com/1080.html !

Photos of Lilburn, GA March 2008

2008-03-31T15:06:00.007-04:00

I thought I'd show a few pictures of the spiffy renovations of Old Town Lilburn. I took these on Easter Sunday, a beautiful sunny early spring day. The photos above are views of Lilburn Park, the Main Street shops and restaurants with the new sidewalks and brick paving, and City Hall with the new plaza in the foreground.

Lilburn is one of the quaint small towns in Gwinnett County that has done a great job of promoting its history, charm, and convenient location to attract visitors and new residents.

A House Finch's Housing Market

2008-03-26T14:46:00.005-04:00

It's a buyer's market for sure.

The very day that my hanging baskets were put out on the front porch, a very nice looking House Finch couple showed up. At first I was apprehensive. I know that I put the baskets out there, but am I really committed to this process? What if it's a big hassle? What if they kill my plants? However, this really is a much better looking couple than the sparrows I had last year. Mr. F. has a bright red head.

A week went by with my prospective "buyers" visiting the basket every day. They would spend the longest time in conversation about the house and the neighborhood while I anxiously peered out the window. Finally, they seem to have made a decision, but the slightest thing made them so skittish. Sometimes it was the cat sunning on the porch right under the basket. Or, possibly they had second thoughts about a home just outside my kitchen window. I wondered, "Will they get buyer's remorse?"

The yard man came yesterday to cut the grass, and made a lot of racket. I felt that I needed to go out and apologize to Mrs. Finch. What if I loose this sale? After all, there are so many other baskets out there, and it's possible that they are still looking at other locations on weekends.

Mrs. F. absolutely hates for me walk through my kitchen, never mind peering around the corner of my foyer, hoping that she won't spot me. I can't seem to do anything to please her. Her husband is very aloof. Sometimes, he just studies the situation from a nearby branch. I can't read him. Until the eggs are laid and the babies are hatched (the CLOSING DATE), I don't think I'll be able to relax.

Updates to come....

Master on Main 4 Sides Brick Gwinnett $229,900

2008-03-01T13:39:00.009-05:00

THIS ONE IS SOLD, BUT I HAVE OTHER GREAT LISTINGS!

If you know anyone who is looking for mostly one level living and an almost new 4-sides brick home in Gwinnett County, tell them about this new listing in Lawrenceville, Georgia! Located on a quiet cul-de-sac street in Courtyards of Sugarloaf off Sugarloaf Parkway and Five Forks Trickum Road, it is close to everything!

Built in 2005, this home includes all the latest features and quality materials. Construction is low maintenance brick on all four sides. It has covered front and back porches, and a level driveway and level, fenced back yard.

New Listing - Mill Creek High School $334,900

2008-02-21T19:39:00.007-05:00

I'm so excited about my new listing in Turtle Creek Lakes! This is a stunning professionally decorated 5 bedroom, 4 bath home with a full daylight basement in Lawrenceville, Gwinnett County, Georgia. It was built in 2002. There is a guest room and full bath on the main level. Among the many amazing features are the luxurious master suite with double trey ceiling, full sized sitting room, gorgeous trim, his and her closets, and huge bath with whirlpool tub. There is a charming screened porch which overlooks the spacious fenced back yard (with in-ground irrigation system). The gourmet kitchen is ideal for large gatherings.

Be sure to take the Virtual Tour! http://www.patsabin.com/2115.html

Early Spring in Atlanta!

2008-02-12T12:43:00.000-05:00

Among the many things I love about Atlanta are the changing seasons. We had a lovely one-day snowfall in January with little effect on our roads. I just looked out my back windows yesterday and saw daffodils beginning to bloom in the woods. Spring is here!