Common Closing Costs in North Atlanta

Common Closing Costs in North Atlanta

Common Closing Costs in North Atlanta by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - North Atlanta

You’ll likely be responsible for a variety of fees and expenses that you and the seller will have to pay at the time of closing. Your lender must provide a good-faith estimate of all settlement costs. In our area of North Atlanta, a good rule of thumb for estimating closing costs is from 2% to 3% of the purchase price.

The title company conducting the closing will tell you the required amount for:
- Down payment
- Loan origination
- Points, or loan discount fees, which you pay to receive a lower interest rate
- Appraisal
- Credit report
- Private mortgage insurance premium
- Insurance escrow for homeowner’s insurance, if being paid as part of the mortgage
- Property tax escrow, if being paid as part of the mortgage. Lenders keep funds for taxes and insurance in escrow accounts as they are paid with the mortgage, then pay the insurance or taxes for you.
- Deed recording
- Title insurance policy premiums
- Land survey
- Notary fees
- Prorations for your share of costs, such as condo fees and property taxes

A NOTE ABOUT PRORATIONS: Because such costs are usually paid on either a monthly or yearly basis, you might have to pay a bill for “services” used by the sellers before they moved. Proration is a way for the sellers to pay you back or for you to pay them for bills they may have paid in advance. For example, property taxes are often paid in arrears. But assume you buy the home on the 3rd month of the six-month property tax period. You would owe the County for only the days from the 3rd through the 6th month. The seller would owe for the first three months. The property tax bill would be prorated for the number of days in the period, and then each person would be responsible for the days of his or her ownership. The seller would pay you at closing for their share which you would pay when the bill arrives.

For more information on purchasing a home in the North Atlanta area of Georgia, contact:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty - North Atlanta
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005
www.mevluxuryhomes.com


Common Closing Costs in North Atlanta

North Atlanta Home Inspections & Other Contingencies

North Atlanta Home Inspections & Other Contingencies

Typically there are 30 to 45 days between contract ratification and the closing. During this period we will address our open “contingencies.”

HOME INSPECTIONS & RADON TESTS
Very shortly after the contract is ratified (usually within two to five days) we will schedule the home inspection during a time you can attend. It will take between two and four hours, depending on the property. If you do not have a home inspector in mind, we are happy to recommend some excellent ones. Turnaround times are critical during this phase — often we have just a day or two to respond in writing to the seller with our requested repairs or response. You pay for inspections at the time of the inspection. You might also request a radon test. You can learn more about radon at http://www.epa.gov/radon.

APPRAISAL PROCESS
Your lender will require an appraisal to ensure the property is of sufficient value to act as collateral for your loan. The bank will schedule this but you will need to pay for it up front.

CONDO / HOA DOC REVIEW
If you’re buying in a condo community or a community with a homeowner’s association, you will receive the “resale package,” usually within a week or so of ratification. From the time of receipt, you will have three days to review this package, which contains the association’s rules, regulations, budget, and other information. ***You can void the contract for any reason within this 3 day review period.***

INSURANCE
You will have seven calendar days following ratification to make sure the property is insurable. You can obtain insurance from any carrier you wish. I usually recommend starting with your auto insurer to see whether you are eligible for any multi-policy discounts. (This is also an excellent time to consider life insurance.)

TITLE SEARCH
The settlement company will perform a detailed title examination to ensure there are no liens on the property or defects in title that would affect your ownership. If you do not have a settlement company in mind, we can recommend some excellent ones.

If you are purchasing a resale property, we highly recommend that you have a professional home inspector conduct a thorough inspection.

The inspection will include the following:
- Appliances
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Air Conditioning and Heating
- Ventilation
- Roof and Attic
- Foundation
- General Structure

The inspection is not designed to criticize every minor problem or defect in the home. It is intended to report on major damage or serious problems that require repair. Should serious problems be indicated, the inspector will recommend that a structural engineer or other professional inspect it as well. Your home cannot “pass” or “fail” an inspection, and your inspector will not tell you whether he or she thinks the home is worth the money you are offering.

The inspector’s job is to make you aware of repairs that are recommended or necessary.
The seller may be willing to negotiate completion of repairs or offer a credit for completion of repairs, or you may decide that the home will take too much work and money. A professional inspection will help you make a clear-headed decision. In addition to the overall inspection, you may wish to have separate tests conducted for termites or the presence of radon gas.

In choosing a home inspector, consider one that has been certified by a trade association as a qualified and experienced member.

I recommend being present at the inspection. This is to your advantage. You will be able to clearly understand the inspection report, and know exactly which areas need attention. Plus, you can get answers to many questions, tips for maintenance, and a lot of general information that will help you once you move into your new home. Most important, you will see the home through the eyes of an objective third party.

For information on North Atlanta Home Inspections & Other Contingencies and a list of our Recommended Home Inspectors contact:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta.
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005
www.mevhomes.com
678.929.6529

North Atlanta Home Inspections & Other Contingencies

Alpharetta, Ga Homes for Sale and Sold Report for May 2015

Alpharetta, Ga Homes for Sale and Sold Report for May 2015

Alpharetta, GA Homes for Sale have seen steady price improvement month to month as well as year to year as inventory levels remain at all-time lows. The Numbers Month to Month and Year to Year The median sales price for Alpharetta, GA Homes for Sale was $315,000 in May 2015 compared to $312,450 during April 2015 and $300,000 May 2014. The number of Alpharetta, GA Homes for Sale that sold was 264 in May 2015 vs. 246 in April 2015 and 184 that sold May 2014. A few highlights of the current Alpharetta, GA Homes for Sale are shown below and represent a nice cross section of properties available, in contract and that have sold. This Months Most Expensive The most expensive of all Alpharetta, GA Homes for sale this month is listed at $3,998,000 and includes 6 bedrooms, 8 bath and has 12,000 sqft. What impressed me the most was the breathtaking views of the lake from every room in the house. (schedule a showing). This Months Least Expensive The least expensive of all Alpharetta, GA homes for sale came in at $99,900 and would be a great home for a first time homebuyer or an investor looking for a rental property with positive cash flow. It is a brick ranch and has 2 bedrooms and 1 bath with 1,643 sqft and could use a little updating (schedule a showing). This Months Must See There were some great Alpharetta, GA Homes for Sale to consider for this months ‘Must See home tour. A home on Belvoir Lane listed at $619,450 is this months winner as it shows great interior design detail! This new home to be constructed is within walking distance to downtown Historic Alpharetta (3/4 mile) and Wills Park and 4 minutes ...

 Click to see the full report

Below are highlight properties for Alpharetta, Ga Homes for Sale and Sold Report for May 2015. See more at the full report:

Highlights

Photos

Maps & Local

Schools

	Status: Make an Offer 3850 Schooner Rdg, Alpharetta, GA 30005 $3,600,000 5 BEDROOMS 9 BATHROOMS [ 9 FULL ]
	Status: Active 3010 Compton Court, Alpharetta, GA $729900 6 BEDROOMS LISTING MLS ID: 5514143 Listing Courtesy of: kwls kwls
	Status: Active 2250 Lake Shore Landing, Alpharetta, GA $1375000 4 BEDROOMS 4 BATHROOMS [ 4 FULL ] LISTING MLS ID: 7465331 Listing Courtesy of: CENTURY 21 Results Realty Services
	Status: For Sale by Owner 13530 Lexington Plantation Ln, Alpharetta, GA 30004 $800,000 5 BEDROOMS 5 BATHROOMS [ 4 FULL, 1 HALF ]
	Status: Just Sold 315 Newport Bay Cv, Alpharetta, GA 30005 $1,300,000 6 BEDROOMS 7 BATHROOMS [ 7 FULL ]
	Status: Just Sold 10880 Carrissa Trl, Alpharetta, GA 30022 $612,500 4 BEDROOMS 4 BATHROOMS [ 3 FULL, 1 HALF ]

See the Full Alpharetta, Ga Homes for Sale and Sold Report for May 2015

Search All Homes For Sale Alpharetta, Ga Homes for Sale Milton Homes for Sale Roswell Homes for Sale Cumming Homes for Sale What is Your Home Worth? Homes Close to Where You Work Free List of Foreclosed Homes For Sale

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team KWLS 678-820-6889 mary@mevhomes.com

Information valid as of June 11, 2015. Please contact us for the most current information and status of these properties.

Laurel Springs Homes of Suwanee Georgia

 Laurel Springs Homes of Suwanee Georgia

Laurel Springs Homes of Suwanee Georgia is a gated, Golf-Club community with several distinct neighborhoods. The community features a range of luxury homes of various styles and prices to satisfy a variety of tastes and budgets. 

Located in the highly sought after Lambert High School district, Laurel Springs is located in Suwanee, Georgia. The highlight of the community is the 18 hole, Jack Nicklaus designed golf course. Set among beautiful rolling hills, lakes and creeks, the neighborhood features an English Manor styled Golf Clubhouse with both casual and fine dining facilities.

Laurel Springs Homes of Suwanee Georgia also offers a list of top rate amenities. The community features a residents Clubhouse that includes a fitness center and huge resort-like swimming pool, complete with a swim-up bar. You'll also find a Kids Pool with Waterslide, as well as the impressive Stan Smith Tennis facility. The Tennis Center is highlighted by both Hard and Clay courts and a Pavilion featuring a Pro Shop and Grand Stand seating.

Laurel Springs Amenities:

• 24 Hour Gated Community
• 18 - Hole Jack Nicklaus designed Semi -Private Membership Golf Course
• English Country Manor Styled Golf Clubhouse
• Fine and Casual Dining Facilities
• Golf Pro Shop
• Residents Clubhouse
• Fitness Center
• Stan Smith Pool and Tennis Center
• Large Free-form Swimming Pool with Swim-up Bar
• Kids Pool and Waterslide
• 8 Tennis Courts 6 (Hard) 2 (Clay)
• Tennis Pavilion with Grand Stand Seating
• Tennis Pro Shop
• Basketball Courts
• Kids Playground Area
• Walking & Biking Trails 

 Children living in Laurel Springs will attend the following schools:
 Elementary: Johns Creek or Sharon, Middle: Riverwatch or South Forsyth, High: Lambert

Find your Laurel Springs Home HERE

Laurel Springs Homes of Suwanee Georgia

Life is Good at Lake Lanier

Life is Good at Lake Lanier

Lake Sidney Lanier is located in the foothills of Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains and nurtured by the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers.  Lake Sidney Lanier is named for Sidney Lanier, whose love of the area’s scenic beauty inspired him to compose the famous “Song of the Chattahoochee”.

Lake Lanier is one of America’s favorite lakes with its stunning homes and weekend cottages. The lake is popular for boaters, fisherman, jetskiers and swimmers. Everyone loves this piece of paradise. With its proximity to the city of Atlanta, many families call Lake Lanier home. Here you will find a well-developed road network surrounding the lake with several highways crossing the main body. Cities in Lake Lanier include Cumming, Gainseville, and Dawsonville. Life is Good at Lake Lanier!

Lake Lanier Islands waterpark is a family favorite as well as resort hotel - Legacy Lodge. The rowing and sprint canoeing events were held at Lake Lanier during the 1996 Summer Olympics. It also hosted the canoe sprint World Championships in 2003 at the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club.

Holiday Marina has become synonymous with Lake Lanier. Holiday Marina in Buford, Georgia, and Aqualand Marina near the town of Flowery Branch, are two of the largest freshwater marinas in the world.

Every year from mid-November through January, Lake Lanier Islands are decorated with over 6 miles of holiday lights. Magical Nights of Lights is an animated drive-through display that ends with a Holiday village, carnival rides, bonfire, Santa Shop, live nativity, etc.

Life is Good at Lake Lanier. Living in a lake house feels like being on vacation every day of the year. Lake living offers the best of both worlds. Beautiful vistas and water views where neighbors are friends, and peace and tranquility are available every morning.  With easy access to swimming, fishing, boating, and other fun activities you can access from your lake house shore or dock.  

Find your Lake Lanier home HERE!



Life is Good at Lake Lanier

A North Atlanta Home Search Process

A North Atlanta Home Search Process

Now that you have your price range and your “Must Haves”, you need to get familiar with what’s out there…

DO DRIVE-BYS / SCOUT THE NEIGHBORHOODS:

It is important that you scout the neighborhood in person. You live in more than your house.

o Talk to people who live there.

o Drive through the entire area at different times of the day, during the week, and on weekends.

o Look carefully at how well the other homes in the area are being maintained. Are they painted? Are the yards well cared for? Are parked cars in good condition?

CONSIDER NEIGHBORHOOD FACTORS

o Look for things like access to major thoroughfares, highways, and shopping.

o Listen for noise created by commerce, roads, railways, public areas, schools, etc.

o Smell the air for adjacent commerce or agriculture.

o Check with local civic, police, fire, and school officials to find information about the area.

o Research things like soil and water.

o Look at traffic patterns around the area during different times of the day and drive from the area to work.

o Is the neighborhood near parks, churches, recreation centers, shopping, theaters, restaurants, public transportation, schools, etc.?

o Does the neighborhood belong to a Homeowner’s Association?

RESEARCH SCHOOLS & CRIME

There are so many factors to consider when researching schools.  You must decide what’s important to you and your child. Is it curriculum or test scores or diversity of student body?

Many sources of information are online, such as greatschools.net, the Georgia Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics. Of course, you should visit the school, if possible.

One of the things that frustrates both clients and REALTORS®  is that due to Fair Housing laws, we are prohibited from commenting on whether or not a neighborhood is “safe.”

The web, however, fills that void nicely with a variety of tools. One tool that’s very useful is CrimeReports.com. Just enter an address and the map populates with recent crime data, including police calls and arrests.

Another valuable tool as you narrow your search is the local police department. Your can give them a call or check online to get the rundown on crime.

GO ON HOME TOURS AND OPEN HOUSES WITH YOUR AGENT

For more tips on the North Atlanta Home Search Process, contact The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty - North Atlanta. 5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100 Alpharetta GA 30005
www.mevluxuryhomes.com 

A North Atlanta Home Search Process