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        <title>Real Estate &amp; Foreclosure Blog</title>
        <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Real estate blog providing valuable information on foreclosures, real estate investments, rehabs, renovations, market values, short sales, rehab financing, HUD foreclosures, market conditions and more. </description>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/recent-closing-in-lake-laurel-community-alpharetta-30004.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/recent-closing-in-lake-laurel-community-alpharetta-30004.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Recent Closing in Lake Laurel Community Alpharetta 30004</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Delightful Clients Close on a Perfect Home


Things just have a way of working out.&nbsp; That was the case with these clients.&nbsp; Originally desiring to stay around the Windward area in order to keep the kids in the same school, but nothing seemed to work.&nbsp; So the search was expanded a little to take in areas slightly south and west of Windward.&nbsp; 


Our search quickly gravitated to new construction.&nbsp; Unfortunately this occurred at a time when resale inventory was diminished, and although building permits were up, there still was not a lot to choose from.&nbsp; Builders knew this and were not willing to adjust their prices to where my clients wanted to be.&nbsp;&nbsp;


  


During the early stages of our search we had looked at a home west of 400, in the 30004 area of Alpharetta.&nbsp; Unfortunately we were early in our search and although one of the homes we viewed was perfect, my clients were just not at a point where they were ready to decide on a home.&nbsp; Shortly after we looked at it, it went under contract and it went off of our radar.





Then one morning I received a message form the listing agent indicating that the contract had terminated due to the buyers Contingency Property not being sold.&nbsp; I notified my clients and we planned on going back out later in the week after they returned from a business trip.&nbsp; Upon his return we revisited the home and as we were preparing to make and offer were notified that it had gone back under contract with the same buyer.&nbsp; They had received three offers on their home in the last two days.&nbsp; Can you say ROLLER COSASTER?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;


Needless to say we were all a little disappointed and just decided to rest a week before looking again.&nbsp; And wouldnt you know it, we received another call from the listing agent indication that the buyer for the home my clients were interested in could not qualify for a loan.&nbsp; We decided to act quickly, but we first wanted to get a copy of the Termination and Release from the current buyer.&nbsp; We received that the next day and since I had already done my analysis we were ready to make our offer.&nbsp; Once submitted we arrived at an agreement fairly quickly.&nbsp; The ROLLER COASTER ride was over.


From that time to the closing things went smoothly.&nbsp; Inspections, appraisal, and other contingencies were handled with ease.&nbsp; In the end our clients really got the home they wanted from the very beginning.&nbsp; 


I guess if 50% of Life was not IF it may have been different.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 


Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia.&nbsp; Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes.&nbsp; His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers.&nbsp; Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm.&nbsp; He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977.&nbsp; Van can be reached at 770-623-3313 or by email VanPurser@VanPurser.com&nbsp;
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            <pubDate>Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:20:54 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/real-estate-trends-for-alpharetta-johns-creek.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/real-estate-trends-for-alpharetta-johns-creek.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Real Estate Trends for Alpharetta &amp; Johns Creek</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
What a difference a year makes. Last year this time no one expected the reversal in housing that we are currently experiencing. A year ago investors and all cash transactions made up over 40% of home sales. We have seen that reduced to approximately half of that. Additionally the flow of foreclosures into the market has been significantly reduced by fewer mortgage defaults, and the presence of Private Equity Groups purchasing in volume. Add to this many would be sellers are still underwater on their loans and are choosing to stay put while prices continue to rise. The result is decreased supply, multiple offers on homes, and increasing prices. 


  


Normally we do not move so quickly from a Buyers Market to a Sellers Market, but the current conditions have brought this about very quickly. At the core of this has to be the role that Private Equity Groups are playing in the market. Blackstone currently owns approximately 20,000 homes that are being rented; anticipating a rise in prices from the prices they have paid over the last several years. Add to this what seems to a frenzy to buy, and not be left behind, and you have what we are experiencing today.


At no time in the last 32 years have I seen anything quite like this. However it seems that it may be here to stay; provided interest rates remain low, and the investors that have purchased heavily over the last several years do not default on their loans due to increased competition in the rental market.


As for sellers, lets just enjoy it while it last. As for buyers, buy an become a part of what sellers are currently enjoying, RAPID APPRECIATION. For who know what tomorrow may bring.


Below are Inventory Levels for Alpharetta and Johns Creek for the last six months, as well as Sales Price changes over the same time frame.








Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes. His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers. Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm. He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977. For follow up on this article you may email Van at VanPurser@VanPurser.com
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            <pubDate>Sat, 23 Mar 2013 08:32:36 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/just-closed-rivermont-country-club.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/just-closed-rivermont-country-club.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Just Closed - Rivermont  Country Club</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Beautiful Renovated Contemporary In Rivermont Country Club


This beautifully renovated home in Rivermont Country Club was recently purchased by one of our clients.&nbsp; She was referred to us by co-workers at the company she works with.&nbsp; At the time she had a house on Lake Lanier that she wanted to sell in order to down size and get closer to work.&nbsp; She was traveling an hour and a half each way in busy traffic.


  


The home on Lake Lanier sold in a predictable fashion once the correct value was determined.&nbsp; A previous broker had it over priced by more than $70,000, and no one even looked at it during the time it was on the market.&nbsp; Within weeks of our firm relisting it at the correct price we had identified a buyer and went under contract at what we had previously projected would be the sales price.&nbsp; Now the hard work of finding her that perfect home began.


&nbsp;





After much consideration and several failed attempts to purchase home from sellers that had their homes significantly over priced we arrive at this home in Rivermont Country Club in Alpharetta.&nbsp; Unfortunately by the time we had expanded our search to include this area the property had gone under contract.&nbsp; However it wasnt long afterwards that we learned the contract had fallen through.&nbsp; So we submitted and offer and after some effort arrived at a price that my client was comfortable with and that reflected an accurate view of value.


Once under contract the Due Diligence Period, appraisal and financing periods were address without issue.&nbsp; In the end my client purchased the home that was better suited for her that any of the homes that were previously pursued.&nbsp; Altogether it took about five months to complete the entire process.&nbsp; She recently moved into her new home in Rivermont Country Club and is very excited.&nbsp; 


Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia.&nbsp; Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes.&nbsp; His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers.&nbsp; Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm.&nbsp; He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977.&nbsp; Van can be reached at 770-623-3313 or by email VanPurser@VanPurser.com&nbsp; 
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            <pubDate>Fri, 22 Mar 2013 07:19:47 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling-trends.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling-trends.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Kitchen Remodeling Trends </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 



Making the Most of Your Investment


Whether you choose to buy, sell or stay in your current home, homeowners have to maintain their property the best they can to hopefully grow their investment.&nbsp; Homeowners are investing into kitchen remodeling to enjoy for themselves but also to invest for a future home sale.&nbsp; Here are 5 top trends when considering a kitchen remodel.


Will I Keep My Cabinets or Replace Them?


The budget for a kitchen remodel varies depending on what the homeowner wants to achieve.&nbsp; If your kitchen cabinets are in great condition, consider Refinishing your cabinets instead of opting for replacing them.&nbsp; Using a Cabinet Refinishing company will give you more long lasting and durable results instead of using a "Cabinet Refacing" company.&nbsp; Refacing companies use "veneers" which is plastic for your doors and drawers.&nbsp; Overtime its not durable, heat sensitive and will buckle and bubble.&nbsp; In most cases refacing the inside cabinet doors and drawers are left in its original state.&nbsp; A proper Refinishing process will be used on the inside and outside of cabinets and drawers.&nbsp; Make sure that doors and drawers are removed, thoroughly sanded along with the cabinet boxes, primed, refinished and sealed with a proper top coat.&nbsp; Many painters will use oil or latex paint and not use proper refinishing techniques causing cabinets to peel, crack and fade within a year or two.


Updating Can Be Done For a Fraction of the Cost


If your cabinets are in good condition refinishing them will cost less than replacing them.&nbsp; Adding new doors and drawers will make the kitchen updated instantly.&nbsp; Metro-Atlanta homeowners tend to have traditional style homes.&nbsp; Mitered doors and drawers with a flat front are the trending style of kitchen cabinetry.&nbsp; Decide if you want to include some glass front cabinets that light up to display cherished accessories or dishes. Remember the details such as adding side panels to end caps of cabinets and on the back side of peninsulas and islands to provide a clean, finished look.&nbsp; Adding trim work such as crown molding with a rope trim, light rail trim under your cabinet doors, decorative legs around islands or stoves is like jewelry for your kitchen.&nbsp; These provide a final touch that will make your kitchen standout. &nbsp;Adding some embellishments to refinished cabinets can still be affordable.


Trends in Countertops


If you have laminate or solid surface countertops such as Corian, consider updating them to Granite or another type of stone.&nbsp; Granite prices have dramatically reduced in price, making this a cost-effective investment for your kitchen.&nbsp; Homeowners looking to purchase a home are looking for Granite.&nbsp; Make sure to use a reputable countertop company that hides seams well, and provides superior service long with a great selection of stone to choose from.&nbsp;


Storage Features Trend Big in Todays Kitchens


Homeowners can never have enough storage especially in the kitchen.&nbsp; Todays remodels are including storage features such as:&nbsp; pull out drawers in a built in pantry, spice cabinets, pull out trash bins, pot and pan drawers, and small appliance drawers.&nbsp; Adding deep drawers under your countertops allow for better organization and can store a lot more than many cabinets.&nbsp; Its important to use all space available and include ample storage.


Updated Appliances are Key


Stainless steel appliances are still the hot trend for kitchens.&nbsp; The clean look of stainless steel is "transitional" and works with almost any cabinet refinish color, and countertop selection.&nbsp; It is important to remember to purchase appliances that fit within your budget but also fit the price point of your home.&nbsp; Another trend is to install a microwave drawer under your countertops or in an island.&nbsp; Wall ovens and cooktops are still big for a traditional home instead of a standalone range.&nbsp; Stainless steel appliances are easy to clean and provide additional shine to brighten kitchens.


Jenna Hill is the owner of Creative Cabinets and Faux Finishes, LLC located in Woodstock, GA.&nbsp; Since 2005 she has successfully helped homeowners design, and refinish kitchens, bathrooms, bookcases and fireplaces.&nbsp; Jenna knows the art of cabinet refinishing and provides design and consultation for clients with a variety of budgets.&nbsp; Creative Cabinets and Faux Finishes, LLC is a women owned and operated company.&nbsp; We are an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau and a winner of "Best of Houzz 2013" for Atlanta kitchen and design.&nbsp; Follow us on Facebook, Houzz and Pinterest for more inspiration. Call us for an appointment today at 770-693-1896.


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            <pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2013 10:19:13 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/qualifying-for-a-mortgage-today.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/qualifying-for-a-mortgage-today.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Qualifying For a Mortgage Today</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
4 Things You Need to Know When Qualifying For a Mortgage 


Unfortunately, many so-called experts have led the public to believe that qualifying for a mortgage in todays environment is extremely difficult.&nbsp; In reality, although the documentation for mortgages is as extensive as ever, qualifying for a mortgage isnt really any more difficult than in past years. &nbsp;


During the housing boom of the early 2000s, many firms rolled out all kinds of creative financing options for prospective homebuyers.&nbsp; Stated income loans, sub-prime loans, etc. were just a few ways homebuyers could finance with minimal paperwork or qualifications. These niche products played a role in the mortgage meltdown and as a result, are no longer available in the marketplace.


Debt to-Income RatiosTodays environment consists of a much more standard product offering with qualifying guidelines that are still fairly lenient.&nbsp; Currently, your new housing payment-- plus your monthly installment and revolving debt can go as high as 45-50% of your gross income and you could still qualify to purchase.&nbsp; Coming soon, the government will enact a part of the "Dodd-Frank" bill that will cap a "Qualified" mortgage at 43% of ones gross monthly income.


CreditCredit scores for mortgage purposes range anywhere from 640 up to 800+. The "body" of your credit is just as important as the actual scores and by no means does it have to be "perfect."&nbsp; FHA loans are much more forgiving when it comes to credit requirements than are conventional loans and only require a 3.5% down payment. One of the main factors that lenders like to see is for your credit to be clean for at least 1 year.


IncomeBasic, Hourly or Salaried employees incomes are usable, assuming there are no large gaps in employment.&nbsp; For 1099 or self-employed applicants, most of the time there is a 2 year history of tax returns required in order to get qualified.&nbsp; In certain situations, a self-employed applicant can get qualified with just 1 year on the job. Be careful with bonus income, car allowances, overtime, etc. as all of these have specific guidelines relating to their usability.


FundsFHA loans require a 3.5% down payment and also allow "gift" money from relatives for the down payment.&nbsp; Conventional loans require a minimum of 5% down all of which must be your own funds.&nbsp; Applicants may borrow against assets, cash out investments and use liquid funds for the down payment.&nbsp; Once you reach the 20% down level, mortgage insurance (PMI) is no longer a factor on the loan.


To summarize, qualifying to purchase in todays mortgage market is not that difficult although it has become a much more tedious process with respect to documentation.&nbsp; So, dont be skeptical of the process, just come prepared!&nbsp;


Jeff Morris Vice PresidentMortgage SalesNMLS# 658970jeff.morris@mycsbonline.com&nbsp; 4800 Ashford Dunwoody RoadSuite 120Dunwoody, GA&nbsp; 30338678-293-1406 Office770-842-3480 Cellwww.mycsbonline.com


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            <pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2013 09:21:06 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/current-mortgage-trends.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/current-mortgage-trends.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Current Mortgage Trends</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The Trends In Mortgage Rates


Mortgage interest rates have been trending upward for the last few months and every data point suggests that the historic lows of 2012 will not be seen again.&nbsp; 


Consumer confidence has been on the rise since the end of the recession, with a dip in 2012 and another dip in January of this year.&nbsp; What has not yet happened is a slight correction for interest rates and stock prices that almost all analysts agree will happen before interest rates continue their upward run.&nbsp; Predicting when that will happen is anybodys guess.&nbsp; If you are considering purchasing or refinancing, now is the time to act.&nbsp; 


According to Fannie Maes 3rd Quarter Financial Report, only 21% of their portfolio was originated in 2012.&nbsp; That means that 79% of the loans on their books have interest rates above current market rates.&nbsp; Even more amazing is that 37% of the portfolio was originated before 2009.&nbsp; If you fit this profile, you should at least explore the opportunity to refinance to a market rate that is still lower than almost any time in history.


The downward trend in mortgage interest rates started after the financial crisis with the announcement of the first round of Quantitative Easing (QE) in December of 2008.&nbsp; Interest rates fell immediately and continued to decline as the economy struggled to gain footing.&nbsp; Since that time, rates fell to all-time lows in 2012 and have begun to rise off of the artificially low bottom created by unprecedented monetary policy and slow job growth.&nbsp; For a detailed timeline and understandable explanation of QE1 through QE3, please follow this link: http://english.cntv.cn/program/newsupdate/20121213/104606.shtml


As the economy has begun its recovery, stock prices have moved back to pre-crisis levels and as of Mar 5th, 2013&nbsp;have reached an all-time high.&nbsp; At the same time, interest rates remain low (yes, they are still incredibly low).&nbsp; The Federal Reserve continues to undergird the financial markets and has committed to continue QE3 until unemployment reaches 6.5% (most recently reported at 7.9%).&nbsp; Even with the Fed buying $40 billion of mortgage backed securities per month, interest rates have risen steadily over the last couple of months.&nbsp; This rise will continue as the economy continues to very slowly gain traction.&nbsp; The current combination of low interest rates, low housing prices, low housing inventory, increasing consumer confidence and a recovering economy has produced an environment that has never been seen before.&nbsp; There has never been a better time to buy and finance a home.&nbsp; 


J.D. CroweSenior Vice PresidentNMLS# 200373&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; GA MLO#28592Office:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(770) 279-0222 ext. 225&nbsp;&nbsp; Toll Free: (800) 344-8788 ext. 225 Cell:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (404) 964-3709 Fax:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (770) 279-9141 Email:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; JDCrowe@SoutheastMortgage.com Website:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;www.SoutheastMortgage.com&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 


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            <pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2013 08:53:19 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/5-keys-to-investing-in-rental-property.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/5-keys-to-investing-in-rental-property.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>5 Keys to Investing in Rental Property</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
With the opportunities that exist today to purchase a home at a price that is significantly under market, many people are starting to consider investing in real estate. Whether an experienced investor or first timer, adhering to certain guidelines will increase the likelihood that your investment objectives are achieved. Here are several guidelines which, if utilized, will help you in making the right decisions.


Determine Your Purpose for BuyingThis seems so simple, but with the number of good values out there it is possible to allow the value of a purchase to outweigh the purpose associated with buying it. For example suppose that you have funds available in your 401K or IRA and want to increase the return you are currently getting, but are not overly concerned about appreciation (a good idea). You may want to filter your decision based on which type of property would provide the best monthly cash flow. Also make sure that the broker you use is equipped to assist you in evaluating your criteria.


Determine The Role You Want to Play in the InvestmentIn the case above where rental property is being purchased you would want to consider who would be responsible for getting the property ready for rent, how will you go about attracting a tenant, what role will you play in evaluating the credit worthiness of a tenant, and what role will you play in the month to month management of the property. If you decide to play a limited role in the fix up, rental and management of your investment property, make sure you select a broker that will represent your best interest.


Understand What the Rental Market Demands for Your AreaContained within each area of the city are numerous rental properties. They may range in size from one to more than ten bedrooms, and from one bath to ten or more. Some may have garages or carports and others may not. Additionally some may come furnished and others may not. Understanding the role that these as well as other features play in the rental property selection by a tenant will have a direct affect on the quality of tenant you may get as well as the length of time a tenant may remain in the property. This is a $20,000 per month rental. WOW!


Put the Right Financing in PlaceAlthough many of the no or low down payment loans for investors have evaporated, we still have the lowest interest rates we have seen in years. This combined with low prices will usually result in returns which can not otherwise be matched. For example, suppose an investor purchased a home for $75,000 in Lawrenceville and secured an 80% loan at 5%. The down payment would be $15,000, add to this $10,000 for the cost of painting, carpet and miscellaneous repairs and you would have $25,000 cash in the transaction. The resulting cash flow would look like this; monthly PITI payment of approximately $525 and rental income of approximately $900 with a total monthly cash flow of $373 per month. The resulting annualized return, prior to depreciation and income taxes would be 18%. NOT BAD. 


Put the Right Tenants in the HouseThis should go without saying, but it is often overlooked. To insure that you get the right tenant make sure that they provide you a copy of their credit report as well as bank statements for the last six months, and the last 4-6 months of pay check stubs. Additionally check their references and verify their employment. A call to their last landlord will also reveal a lot about them. Good luck and let us know if we can be of assistance. Finally please check with your CPA or tax advisor before making any investment decision.Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes. His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers. Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm. He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977. Van can be reached at 770-623-3313 or by email VanPurser@VanPurser.com 
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            <pubDate>Fri, 01 Mar 2013 10:22:03 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/recent-closing-in-hamilton-mill.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/recent-closing-in-hamilton-mill.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Recent Closing in Hamilton Mill</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
From St. Louis to Hamilton Mill in 40 Days 


This recent closing came from a long line of former clients that we had assisted in finding their dream homes here in the Atlanta area. This client like several of the others was being relocated to the area with his current employer. 


The couple had always lived in St Louis and this was the wifes first trip to the area. So it was important to not only look for a home, but to do so in a way that would help them better understand the various communities in their geographic search area. We realized that it must be very scary to move the family to a place that you have never been before.


  


I bet they thought it happened so quickly. They arrived on a Thursday. We met early that morning to discuss their wish list, and spent the better part of the next three days looking at homes that might meet their needs. By the third day we had not only narrowed down the area, but had also narrowed down the homes that they were interested in. In the end they were attracted to the Hamilton Mill area. One of the attractions of the Hamilton Mill area was the feeling of community, and another attraction of the Hamilton Mill area were the amenities that were available. 


The home they selected was a recently constructed two story with an open floor plan and full unfinished basement. One of the most appealing features was that it had a moderate size pond in the rear which always had geese and ducks when we were there. 





They are very excited about the home. They moved in over the week end. The transaction was very enjoyable. The listing agent we worked with was always engaged in finding solutions to the issues that were faced. All of this contributed to a very successful transaction. 


Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia. Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes. His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers. Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm. He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977. Van can be reached at 770-623-3313 or by email VanPurser@VanPurser.com 
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            <pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2013 10:47:52 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/alpharetta-listing-sold-for-25000-below-market.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/alpharetta-listing-sold-for-25000-below-market.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Alpharetta listing sold for $25,000 Below Market</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Appraised for $304k - Purchased for $279,500Another Great Value for Our Client


This recent closing was for a retired doctor client of ours.&nbsp; He and his wife were relocating to Alpharetta from Florida to be near family and grandchildren.&nbsp; The process started several years ago and was put on hold due to the declining real estate values where they lived.





This Alpharetta Listing in Forsyth County featured a master on the main with two additional bedrooms upstairs along with a loft and full bath.&nbsp; It also had a full finished basement. 


Van Purser is a licensed real estate broker in Georgia.&nbsp; Since1981 he has successfully purchased and renovated over 400 homes.&nbsp; His expertise is in the area of foreclosures, rehabs and fixer uppers.&nbsp; Additionally, he has represented hundreds of clients over the years as a broker with Metro Brokers, RE/Max and now with his own firm.&nbsp; He and his wife, Jeanne, who is also a broker, have been married since 1977.&nbsp; Van can be reached at 770-623-3313 or by email VanPurser@VanPurser.com&nbsp; 
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            <pubDate>Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:42:01 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://vanpurser.com/blog/filing-for-homestead-exemption.html</guid>
            <link>http://vanpurser.com/blog/filing-for-homestead-exemption.html</link>
            <author>VanPurser@VanPurser.com (Van Purser)</author>
            <title>Filing For Homestead Exemption</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
FILING FOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION IN 2013 


Homeowners may need to provide their Warranty Deed book and page, proof of residence, social security numbers, drivers license and car tag info. In most counties, to be eligible for the current year, you must have owned and occupied the property as of January 1st.&nbsp; If the property is located within city limits, the homeowner may be required to file with the city as well.&nbsp;


Gwinnett County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-822-8800 http://gwinnetttaxcommissioner.manatron.com/Tabs/Property/HomesteadExemption.aspx 


Fulton County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 404-612-6440 http://www.qpublic.net/ga/fulton/basic_homestead.html 


DeKalb County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 404-298-4000&nbsp;&nbsp; http://web.co.dekalb.ga.us/taxcommissioner/homesteadgen.html#applications 


Cobb County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-528-8600 http://www.cobbtax.org/Forms/HtmlFrame.aspx?mode=content/Exemptions.htm&amp;LMparent=189 


Clayton County - deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-477-3311 http://www.claytoncountyga.gov/departments/tax-assessor/residential-property.aspx 


Cherokee County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 678-493-6120 http://www.cherokeega.com/departments/department.cfm?displaySection=Homestead%20Exemptions.txt&amp;departmentid=30 


Henry County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-288-8180&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://www.co.henry.ga.us/taxcommissioner/PropertyTaxExemptions.shtml 


Forsyth County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-781-2106 http://www.qpublic.net/ga/forsyth/homestead.html 


Douglas County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-920-7272 http://www.douglastaxcommissioner.com/ 


Fayette County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-461-3652 http://www.fayettecountyga.gov/tax_commissioner/index.htm 


Paulding County  deadline is April 1, 2013&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 770-443-7606 http://www.paulding.gov/index.aspx?NID=210&nbsp; 


Homestead Exemption 


Generally, a homeowner is entitled to a homestead exemption on their home and land underneath provided the home&nbsp;was owned by the homeowner and was their legal residence as of January 1 of the taxable year. (O.C.G.A. &sect; 48-5-40) 


Application for Homestead Exemption 


To be granted a homestead exemption, a person must actually occupy the home, and the home is considered their legal residence for all purposes.&nbsp; Persons that are away from their home because of health reasons will not be denied homestead exemption.&nbsp; A family member or friend can notify the tax receiver or tax commissioner and the homestead exemption will be granted. (O.C.G.A. &sect; 48-5-40) 


Failure to apply by the deadline will result in loss of the exemption for that year.&nbsp; (O.C.G.A. &sect; 48-5-45) 


Exemptions Offered by the State and Counties:&nbsp; The State of Georgia offers homestead exemptions to all qualifying homeowners.&nbsp; In some counties they have increased the amounts of their homestead exemptions by local legislation above the amounts offered by the State.&nbsp; As a general rule the exemptions offered by the county are more beneficial to the homeowner.&nbsp;&nbsp; https://etax.dor.ga.gov/ptd/adm/taxguide/exempt/homestead.aspx 


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            <pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:14:28 -0600</pubDate>
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