Highland Manor Home Available Now in Milton, Georgia

Highland Manor Home Available Now in Milton, Georgia

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team just listed a luxury home located in Highland Manor of Milton, Georgia. An Open House will be held this Sunday, January 17th, from 2pm-4pm at 15810 Milton Point, Milton, Georgia. 

This glorious entertainers home on one plus acres comes complete with a private pool, relaxation pond, outdoor grill/kitchen and a short stroll to a river. The home, with a three car garage, shines with hardwood floors, walls of windows and six large bedrooms. The dining room seats 12 comfortably. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with double ovens, a walk-in pantry, breakfast area and fabulous keeping room. Three fireplaces keep the home warm and cozy and the finished terrace level provides a media room, wine cellar and enough room for a game of billiards.

The Highland Manor Home Available Now in Milton, Georgia 30004. This is just a short drive off Georgia 400 on Birmingham Highway.

Homeowners in Highland Manor enjoy a Club House, swimming pool and tennis courts. The yearly Homeowners Association Fees are $1,350.00.  Most homes sit on one plus acres with two to three garages and multiple fireplaces. 

Children who live in Highland Manor attend the following schools: Birmingham Falls Elementary, Hopewell Middle School and Cambridge High School.

Established in 2006, Milton estimates its area to be about 23,000 acres. From Great schools to Equestrian Estates, Milton offers convenience to all the major nearby cities of Cumming, Canton, Atlanta, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and more. Convenient to the GA 400 and the West side of North Atlanta traveling towards Cobb and Cherokee County as well.  

Highland Manor Home Available Now in Milton, Georgia is presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta. For a private showing of this property contact us today - www.northatlantaluxury.com  678.929.6529.

PHOTO TOUR HERE

Highland Manor Home Available Now in Milton, Georgia

Alpharetta Georgia Homes With Pools

Alpharetta Georgia Homes With Pools

Alpharetta Georgia Homes With Pools by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta.

Alpharetta, Georgia provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence.

Alpharetta is what it claims itself to be: Awesome! Alpharetta offers its residents a thriving culinary scene, luxury accommodations, exciting recreation, trendy entertainment and endless shopping opportunities. The schools are top rated - both public and private. Homes are stunning! With golf communities, swim/tennis communities and communities with their own private lake, you will find a variety to choose from. 

Residents who love Alpharetta, find Alpharetta Georgia homes with pools are a wonderful benefit to living in the area. Besides offering the best low impact form of exercise, swimming is a great activity to involve family and friends rather than just eating food, like at most barbecues. In this way, owning an Alphreatta Georgia home with a pool can help you achieve your fitness goals without sacrificing your social life.

Find your favorite Alpharetta Georgia Homes With Pools HERE!

Once you find your perfect pool home here are some other great things you will find in the Alpharetta Georgia area:

Alpharetta's Favorite Entertainment Spot

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre is one of Alpharetta's favorite entertainment spots.  The Amphitheatre is a contemporary 12,000-capacity outdoor concert venue that serves as the summer home to the Grammy Award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and hosts by popular music artists, and comedians. It truely is one of the most unique setting for both music lovers and first-time concertgoers.

Schools in Alpharetta, Georgia

There are many K-12 schools in Alpharetta, GA, including both public schools and private schools. Alpharetta public schools belong to two districts, Forsyth County School District and Fulton County School District.  

Alpharetta Elementary Schools
Alpharetta
Creek View
Lake Windward
Manning Oaks
Midway
New Prospect
  
Alpharetta Middle Schools
Haynes Bridge
Holcomb Bridge
Webb Bridge
   
Alpharetta High Schools
Alpharetta
Independence

Private Schools in Alpharetta Georgia

Private schools in Alpharetta, Georgia are also known as independent schools. They are not administered by local, state or national governments. They have the right to select their students and are funded in whole or in part by charging their students tuition. Some private schools students may be able to get a scholarship, which makes the cost cheaper.

Fulton Science Academy
McGinnis Woods Country Day School
Kings Ridge 
Alpharetta International Academy

Popular Shopping in Alpharetta

Alpharetta, Georgia and the surrounding area offers a variety of shopping experiences. Here are just two of the more popular venues:

Avalon is an 86-acre development with over 500,000 square feet of retail, a 12-screen premium theater, a full-service hotel (coming soon), office space, single-family residences and luxury rental homes. The walkable community is connected to shopping, dining, entertainment, living and working space.  It’s the place to be with local art and activity that delivers the luxury of the modern South. Avalon is truly the ultimate shopping and dining spot!

Downtown Alpharetta is located in the center of Alpharetta at the cross roads of North Main Street, South Main Street, Milton Avenue, and Academy Street. Around this area are several historic buildings dating from the late 19th century and older. The downtown area has been restored, replacing more modern buildings with period structures, and includes dining, shopping, and widened brick sidewalks.

Popular Neighborhoods 

Alpharetta, Georgia offers a variety of homes and communities for both singles and families. Here are three of our favorites.

Country Club of the South is located in Alpharetta off of Old Alabama Road, is one of the most desirable communities in North Atlanta. With nearly 900 acres of luxury homes, amenities, golf course property, and lakes and wetlands, the Country Club of the South provides something for the whole family. The Country Club of The South is a members-only club and provides its homeowners an exclusive, limited access, country club environment with superior schools and easy access to Atlanta's major employment offices, cultural centers and entertainment facilities. The Country Club has a breathtaking golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and community club house. The club offers special events, sports teams, and dining facilities. The club features an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus-designed par 72 golf course.

The Manor Golf and Country Club sets among the rolling hills of Alpharetta, Georgia and 40 minutes north of Atlanta. This luxury, high-end gated community offers homes in classic American and European designs, ranging in price from the $800's to over $4 million. The community amenities include 16 tennis courts, an outdoor Jr. Olympic competition pool, a children’s pool, and an amazing 7,200 yard 18-Hole Championship Golf Course designed by Major Champion Tom Watson.  Overlooking the property is the stunning 32,000 square-foot clubhouse that includes family and fine dining areas, men’s and women’s locker rooms, and a sports center with an indoor heated pool and jacuzzi.

Windward in Alpharetta Georgia is a gorgeous! Imagine living in a private lake community with fantastic tennis that produces club level fun and competition. Windward has one of the top golf courses in Georgia along with swimming and diving pools. The community also offers a sports park for basketball, volleyball, softball and more. Windward is set in a 3,400 acre community among rolling, wooded hills in North Fulton County. Conveniently located near Georgia 400 in Alpharetta, Windward is just 15 miles north of I-285 and 26 miles from downtown Atlanta.   The area is home to some of the best public and private schools in North Atlanta. 

As of December 2015, the number of homes for sale in Alpharetta is 867. This is a decrease of 6% from November. The average price of homes is $571,845. This is an increase of 2% from November. For a complete Alpharetta Home Report click on picture below:

Take a tour of Alpharetta, Georgia:

For more information on Alpharetta Georgia Homes With Pools contact The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team today at 678.929.6529 or visit us at northmetroatlantahomesearch.com

Increase Your Milton, Georgia Homes Value

Learn how to increase the value of your Milton, Georgia Home the most for the least!

Are you looking to sell your Milton, Georgia home, but want to increase its value? One suggestion is a fresh coat of paint. A fresh coat of paint will make a room look new and clean and new carpets will make your Milton, Georgia home shine that much more. Be sure to pick a paint color that is neutral as that will appeal to the most people. I have seen many buyers walk into a home with rooms painted the seller's favorite color and just walk out because they hated it!

Buyers also will always look down at the floor when they walk into a room. So be sure that the carpets are clean, and if they are worn, consider getting them replaced. Worn or dirty carpets and badly painted or dirty walls will make a buyer think that there are other issues with your home even if there is not.

If you would like an up-to-date valuation of your Milton Georgia home, click on the image below or:

or Call 678.820.6889 to receive your custom property valuation.

What's your Milton Georgia home worth NOW?

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

Safety Solutions for the Holidays!

‘Tis the Season for Extra Home Security

Posted on November 13, 2015 by Keller Williams Realty International

 

Protecting your home is always an important topic, but it’s especially so with the holidays approaching. Burglaries and break-ins peak at this otherwise festive time of year. More time is spent away from home and more packages are delivered, leaving your house and belongings more vulnerable than ever. Help keep your home safe by following these  security solutions.

Tips to Avoid Vacation Violators When You Are Away

 

1. Let your trustworthy neighbor know you are going to be away and ask them to help you with your trash collection and removing any packages or solicitor materials left at your door.

2. Automatic light timers with battery backup (in case of power failure) can create the simulation of someone being at home. Setting at various times throughout the house can create the illusion of movement and activity in different areas of your home.

3. Turn home phone ringers down, and if you utilize a voice message machine, silence it.

4. Stop delivery of newspapers and mail.

5. If you are gone for a long period of time, maintain any landscaping care (lawn, snow removal) to give the illusion that you are home.

6. If you have a garage, keep your vehicle parked in it. If you keep your vehicle in the driveway, make sure there are no spare keys or garage door openers left inside.

7. Be proactive! Record a video of each room to document proof of your belongings should you need to make an insurance claim.

8. Check with your local police station to see if they employ and neighborhood patrol, or a “vacant house list.” Criminals will be leery to enter a home if they know it’s being watched, especially by authorities.

Download Our Free 10 Security Solutions to Share With Your Family & Friends

Protecting Your Holiday Packages from Porch Pirates

Who doesn’t love holiday packages? Deliveries left in open areas are easy targets for burglars and can spoil your holiday cheer. It’s been reported that this time of year thieves will even trail delivery trucks stalking prime targets. Thieves are looking for anything that can be converted to cash, so be mindful when purchasing high-value items in boxes that may clue to what is inside. Additionally, break down and immediately trash any boxes that reveal high-priced purchases. A few other considerations for protecting your holiday packages this holiday season include:

 

1. Thieves commonly strike during work hours when many homes are empty. Consider having packages delivered to your office, not your house.
2. Request a signature for all packages to be delivered.
3. Check with delivery providers to see if they offer additional security features. UPS has a program called UPS My Choice which allows a customer to receive an email or text message before a package arrives and reroute it if no one is going to be home.
4. Take advantage of tracking and delivery alerts so you know exactly when the package is delivered.

Whether you are traveling or staying home this holiday season, the threat of thievery remains. Knowing these helpful tips may help prevent your season from being soured.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team
Keller Williams Realty - North Atlanta
5780 Windward Parkway Suite 100
Alpharetta, GA 30005

Learn More About Me!

First Week of December Holiday Events & Lights Around Atlanta

First Week of December Holiday Events & Lights Around Atlanta

2015 Holiday  Events Around Town

The Holidays bring great joy and fun for both adults and children. This weekend there are some great events around town that will provide a little holiday magic for young and old alike. 

2015 Holiday Events Around Town - MAP

A Christmas Movie - Dad's Garage Theater
Friday Nights in December
It's the classic Christmas story: A host narrates a made up Christmas movie, while improvisers act it out. And in the end everyone learns the true meaning of Christmas . . . or falls in love . . . or gets eaten by zombie puppies. Honestly, we have no idea since it's improvised. See what crazy holiday story we come up with this weekend at "A Christmas Movie."   This show is inappropriate for anyone not old enough to experience adult humor... or anyone that doesn't like it.
Friday nights @ 10:30pm in December
Just Seats (General Admission):$14.50 online, $16.50 phone & door
Fancy Pants Seats (Reserved VIP): $19.50 online, $21.50 phone (not available at door)
More details click HERE

Reindog Parade - Atlanta Botanical Garden 
Saturday, December 5th

Join the once-a-year fun of dogs in the Garden. Dress your pooch in holiday finery to compete for prizes with celebrity judges or to just show off. Enjoy photos with Saint Nick and connect with local canine enthusiasts and businesses in the Doggie Expo. The first 100 pre-registered participants to arrive receive a special Wag-Bag of gifts. Don't have a dog? Come enjoy the show!
More details click HERE reindog@atlantabg.org

Holiday Market & Festival - Chattahoochee Nature Center 
Saturday, December 5th
Free public admission to CNA. Over 40 Fine Arts Artisans, Artisans of the Farm & Kitchen & Instrumental Artisans - all while supporting local crafts-person and Fair Trade. The market contains local vendors selling their hand-made, eco-friendly goods for your holiday gift giving. More details click HERE

Atlanta Beltline's Eastside 10K - Stoveworks
Saturday, December 5th
10am-12pm. This run/walk winds through Inman Park, Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, Virginia Highland and Poncey Highland. Last day to register is FRIDAY DECEMBER 4TH! For more details click HERE

Annual Childrens's Christmas Parade - Midtown Atlanta
Presented by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Parade begins at 10:30am along Peachtree Street from 16th Street to 5th Street in Midtown. Floats, giant balloons, bands and of course Santa! For more details click HERE. 

Hanukkah Family Day & Lego Menorah Building - Chabad Jewish Center
Sunday, December 6th
Crafts, refreshments, games, prizes, Judaica and more. For more details click HERE

For some great evening fun around town, why not load up the car with the kids or neighbors and enjoy some holiday light spectacular! 

Best Christmas Light Displays in Atlanta Area

The Christmas season is here and homeowners across the state of Georgia are putting up sensational Christmas light displays. Atlanta and it's northern communities is home to some of the most impressive light displays. If you live in the metro Atlanta area or plan to visit soon, here are some of the best Christmas light displays in the area - both residential and commercial -  that you should take the time to visit during the holiday season.

2015 Holiday Christmas Lights Map

RESIDENTIAL LIGHT LOCATIONS

There are many talented individual homes deck for the holidays. Here are just two of our favorites. 

Alpharetta:

The Christmas in Castille display at 4220 Tivoli Way has thousands of lights synchronized to music. Their website states "Weather permitting, the show runs from Dec 4th - Dec 27th between 6pm - 9pm on Thursday - Saturday. The neighborhood is gated so when the gates close for the night, the show ends. When you drive up, tune your radio to 89.9FM."  Click here for more info: Castille

Cumming:

Blink Midwinter is a synchronized light display located at 7020 Cole Ct. Cumming, GA. Weather permitting, the show hours are: 5:30pm to 10:00pm Sunday through Thursday and 5:30pm to 11:00pm Friday and Saturday. Their website states "Christmas has always been our favorite time of year. Even with a century of Christmas’s between us, it’s still a magical time if we make the effort to occasionally turn our backs on the cares of adult life. For me, this hobby is the perfect fusion of many lifelong interests, from the romance of the Christmas season itself, to blinking lights, music, electronics and computers." Visit their website for more information: Blink Midwinter 

COMMERCIAL LIGHT LOCATIONS:

ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY - Gift of Lights. Visitors will get to experience some breathtaking decorations while also getting the rare chance to drive on the AMS oval.  Dates run Nov. 27 through Dec. 30. 6-9 p.m. Sundays-Wednesdays, 6-10 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and holidays, open 6-10p.m. starting 12/17 through 12/30. $15 per car Mondays-Wednesdays, $20 Thursdays-Sundays and holidays, $20 12/17 through 12/30. 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. 770-946-4211 Details: www.holidaylightspectacular.info.

BOTANICAL GARDEN - Holiday Nights. The Garden has over 1.5 million LED lights that are spread through out the 30-acre garden. Children and adults will love the tunnel of light,  Glittering Galaxy, and the Radiant Rainforest.  Lights are on display beginning Nov. 14, 2015 through Jan. 9, 2016. 5-10p.m.  Peak admission costs Thursdays-Sundays, Thanksgiving and all nights from Dec. 17-Jan. 9: $26 (member discounts available for peak and non-peak); $20 ages 3-12; free under 3. Non-peak nights: Mondays-Wednesdays: $23; $17 ages 3-12. Night Light Special, 9-10:00 p.m. peak nights (advance booking online only): $15; regular admission for children. Advance tickets recommended. Parking: $10 ($5 for vehicles with four or more) 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 1-855-454-6849, Details: atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

CALLAWAY GARDENS - Fantasy in Lights.  Wow!! The Gardens offer over eight million lights! Callaway Gardens is in Pine Mountain, just 70 miles south of Atlanta. The spectacular light display features Christmas Tree Lane, Enchanted Rainbow Forest and Snowflake Valley, plus 10-minute light and music shows at Robin Lake Beach.  Fees include: Adults $19-$28, kids 6-12 $9.50-$14. 5 and under free, ask for "free child" tickets when ordering in advance.  Details: www.callawaygardens.com.

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK - Holiday in Lights. The park allows guests to walk through thousands of lights in the 21-acre park. Dates are Nov. 21 through Jan. 10. Open 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Free. Ice skating rink, also opening Nov. 21, is $12 per person (includes skate rental) for 90 minutes. 4:30-10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays (until 11 p.m. Fridays), 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays. 404-223-4412 Details: centennialpark.com.

LAKE LANIER ISLAND - Christmas. It't not just a place to swim or boat! The island offers thousands of lights. Your family can stroll down the beach and boardwalk to enjoy an extended tour of the light show. 5-10 p.m. nightly, Nov. 27-Jan. 3. Adults, $17-$28, children (5-12), $10-$17. Live Nativity starts Dec. 4; plus other activities and attractions. Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. 770-945-8787 Details:  lakelanierislands.com.  NOTE: All active, veteran and retired Military/Law Enforcement/Firefighter personnel will receive FREE admission for themselves and up to three other family members at Magical Nights of Lights all season long, courtesy of Lanier Islands.

LIFE UNIVERSITY - Lights of Life. An annual favorite light display, Life University provides millions of light bulbs in more than 100 displays along the 1.5-mile drive through Life University’s campus. Nov. 26 through Dec. 31. 6-10 p.m. Cars: $10 Fridays-Sundays and Nov. 26-29, Dec. 18-31; $5 all other nights. Vans, buses: $20 nightly.  For some added fun you will be charge additional fees for petting zoo, train and pony rides, photos with Santa. 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta. 678-331-4334 Details: life.edu.

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA - Holiday in the Park. Hold on to your hat, the amusement park will be decorated with some unique displays to include more than 1 million lights. Select rides will be running. Guests will be amazed how sections of the park will have distinct themes Ride the North Pole Express for extra fun! Times and dates include: 4-10 p.m. most nights, Nov. 21 through Jan. 3. Closed Thanksgiving day and Dec. 24-25. Open 2-10p.m. Dec. 26-Jan. 3. Day passes at the gate or online: $43.99-$48.99; $20 parking fee per car. 275 Riverside Parkway S.W., Austell. 770-739-3400 Details: www.sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

STONE MOUNTAIN - Christmas. A family favorite at Stone Mountain! Admission includes live holiday shows, film “Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 4-D,” Singalong Train ride around the mountain), holiday parade winding through the village, with Snow Angel flying over Crossroads for the finale just before a fireworks display. Nov. 27-Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 25). $24.95-$29.95; children 3-11, $19.95-$24.95. Parking pass, $15. Various combo packages, including Snow Mountain, available, see ticket page. 770-498-5690 Details: stonemountainpark.com.

Happy Holidays from, 

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team 
Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta
5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100
Alpharetta, Georgia 30005
http://northatlantaluxury.com/

Best Christmas Light Displays in Atlanta Area

Best Christmas Light Displays in Atlanta Area

The Christmas season is here and homeowners across the state of Georgia are putting up sensational Christmas light displays. Atlanta and it's northern communities is home to some of the most impressive light displays. If you live in the metro Atlanta area or plan to visit soon, here are some of the best Christmas light displays in the area - both residential and commercial -  that you should take the time to visit during the holiday season.

RESIDENTIAL LIGHT LOCATIONS

There are many talented individual homes deck for the holidays. Here are just two of our favorites. 

Alpharetta:

The Christmas in Castille display at 4220 Tivoli Way has thousands of lights synchronized to music. Their website states "Weather permitting, the show runs from Dec 4th - Dec 27th between 6pm - 9pm on Thursday - Saturday. The neighborhood is gated so when the gates close for the night, the show ends. When you drive up, tune your radio to 89.9FM."  Click here for more info: Castille

Cumming:

Blink Midwinter is a synchronized light display located at 7020 Cole Ct. Cumming, GA. Weather permitting, the show hours are: 5:30pm to 10:00pm Sunday through Thursday and 5:30pm to 11:00pm Friday and Saturday. Their website states "Christmas has always been our favorite time of year. Even with a century of Christmas’s between us, it’s still a magical time if we make the effort to occasionally turn our backs on the cares of adult life. For me, this hobby is the perfect fusion of many lifelong interests, from the romance of the Christmas season itself, to blinking lights, music, electronics and computers." Visit their website for more information: Blink Midwinter 

COMMERCIAL LIGHT LOCATIONS:

ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY - Gift of Lights. Visitors will get to experience some breathtaking decorations while also getting the rare chance to drive on the AMS oval.  Dates run Nov. 27 through Dec. 30. 6-9 p.m. Sundays-Wednesdays, 6-10 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and holidays, open 6-10p.m. starting 12/17 through 12/30. $15 per car Mondays-Wednesdays, $20 Thursdays-Sundays and holidays, $20 12/17 through 12/30. 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. 770-946-4211 Details: www.holidaylightspectacular.info.

BOTANICAL GARDEN - Holiday Nights. The Garden has over 1.5 million LED lights that are spread through out the 30-acre garden. Children and adults will love the tunnel of light,  Glittering Galaxy, and the Radiant Rainforest.  Lights are on display beginning Nov. 14, 2015 through Jan. 9, 2016. 5-10p.m.  Peak admission costs Thursdays-Sundays, Thanksgiving and all nights from Dec. 17-Jan. 9: $26 (member discounts available for peak and non-peak); $20 ages 3-12; free under 3. Non-peak nights: Mondays-Wednesdays: $23; $17 ages 3-12. Night Light Special, 9-10:00 p.m. peak nights (advance booking online only): $15; regular admission for children. Advance tickets recommended. Parking: $10 ($5 for vehicles with four or more) 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 1-855-454-6849, Details: atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

CALLAWAY GARDENS - Fantasy in Lights.  Wow!! The Gardens offer over eight million lights! Callaway Gardens is in Pine Mountain, just 70 miles south of Atlanta. The spectacular light display features Christmas Tree Lane, Enchanted Rainbow Forest and Snowflake Valley, plus 10-minute light and music shows at Robin Lake Beach.  Fees include: Adults $19-$28, kids 6-12 $9.50-$14. 5 and under free, ask for "free child" tickets when ordering in advance.  Details: www.callawaygardens.com.

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK - Holiday in Lights. The park allows guests to walk through thousands of lights in the 21-acre park. Dates are Nov. 21 through Jan. 10. Open 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Free. Ice skating rink, also opening Nov. 21, is $12 per person (includes skate rental) for 90 minutes. 4:30-10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays (until 11 p.m. Fridays), 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays. 404-223-4412 Details: centennialpark.com.

LAKE LANIER ISLAND - Christmas. It't not just a place to swim or boat! The island offers thousands of lights. Your family can stroll down the beach and boardwalk to enjoy an extended tour of the light show. 5-10 p.m. nightly, Nov. 27-Jan. 3. Adults, $17-$28, children (5-12), $10-$17. Live Nativity starts Dec. 4; plus other activities and attractions. Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. 770-945-8787 Details:  lakelanierislands.com.  NOTE: All active, veteran and retired Military/Law Enforcement/Firefighter personnel will receive FREE admission for themselves and up to three other family members at Magical Nights of Lights all season long, courtesy of Lanier Islands.

LIFE UNIVERSITY - Lights of Life. An annual favorite light display, Life University provides millions of light bulbs in more than 100 displays along the 1.5-mile drive through Life University’s campus. Nov. 26 through Dec. 31. 6-10 p.m. Cars: $10 Fridays-Sundays and Nov. 26-29, Dec. 18-31; $5 all other nights. Vans, buses: $20 nightly.  For some added fun you will be charge additional fees for petting zoo, train and pony rides, photos with Santa. 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta. 678-331-4334 Details: life.edu.

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA - Holiday in the Park. Hold on to your hat, the amusement park will be decorated with some unique displays to include more than 1 million lights. Select rides will be running. Guests will be amazed how sections of the park will have distinct themes Ride the North Pole Express for extra fun! Times and dates include: 4-10 p.m. most nights, Nov. 21 through Jan. 3. Closed Thanksgiving day and Dec. 24-25. Open 2-10p.m. Dec. 26-Jan. 3. Day passes at the gate or online: $43.99-$48.99; $20 parking fee per car. 275 Riverside Parkway S.W., Austell. 770-739-3400 Details: www.sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

STONE MOUNTAIN - Christmas. A family favorite at Stone Mountain! Admission includes live holiday shows, film “Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 4-D,” Singalong Train ride around the mountain), holiday parade winding through the village, with Snow Angel flying over Crossroads for the finale just before a fireworks display. Nov. 27-Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 25). $24.95-$29.95; children 3-11, $19.95-$24.95. Parking pass, $15. Various combo packages, including Snow Mountain, available, see ticket page. 770-498-5690 Details: stonemountainpark.com.

Need to Sell Your Home During the Holidays? Here's 11 Reasons Why You Should! 

In the housing market, the assumption is that this is NOT the time to sell your home until after the new year. Right? WRONG!!!

1.   You'll have fewer showings. THIS IS GOOD because....people that are looking for houses to purchase during the holidays are much MORE SERIOUS BUYERS!! They’ve put aside time to pursue their home search during one of the busiest times of the year. Do not ignore these buyers!

2.  Unmotivated sellers- some sellers are going to believe the hype about the Spring market being the best and only time to sell your house. These are unmotivated sellers and they are going to pull their listings off the market and wait for March next year when everyone else is on the market too. That’s ok. They’re making it easier for you to sell your house right now!

3.  There will be less demand for your particular house since the supply of houses dramatically increases in January.  Less inventory means a better price for your home!!

 4.  Decorated houses for the holidays show better.

 5.  Buyers may be more emotionally excited during the holidays therefore are more likely to pay your asking price.

 6.  Buyers have an increased time to look for a house during the holidays than they typically do during the work week with the added holidays breaks.

 7.  There are buyers that need to purchase before the end of the year due to tax reasons.

 8.  January BIG time for relocating- most companies that have to move or relocate employees target January for those moves. That means housing decisions are being made in November-December, during the holidays. Again, these are motivated buyers with a hard deadline. Don’t ignore them.

 9.  You can still restrict showings of your house during the six or seven days around the holidays. 

10. Sell now for more money and delay the closing until early next year if possible!

11.  You may have a greater opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the spring and will put you in a better spot to purchase a home for less money.

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