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Have the best of both worlds! Live in the city but feel like you are in the countryside! A one-of-a-kind home in the city of Atlanta! Winner of Atlanta Urban Design Commission Award of Excellence. Originally, 2 1900 farm hand homes that were moved from Kennesaw and made into one home to make this amazing piece of property. The project took two and a half years to complete! Every part of the two homes that could be, was salvaged. 

The home sits back from the street with multiple indigenous plantings that bloom from early spring to late fall. Southern hospitality meets you with Hydrangeas, Magnolias, Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Camellias all blooming at different times. Entering the home, you will see original 1900 shiplap and the heart pine flooring that you simply can’t find today. To the left you will greet your guests in the parlor with an original wood burning fireplace. To the right you will find the large dining room containing built-in bookshelves and gas fireplace. In total there are 6 working fireplaces throughout the home. 

Moving to the rear of the main home, you enter the brick floored kitchen and art gallery. The kitchen boasts an 8×6 foot Carrera marble island, 48-inch ILVE Italian range with griddle and hidden 48-inch Subzero fridge. Truly this is a Chef’s kitchen that is built for entertaining! To the other side of home is a bedroom and bath on the main floor with soaring ceiling, original 1900 siding and original doors. 

Arriving upstairs you will see the gorgeous 12-inch heart pine flooring that leads out to your second story covered porch which is perfect for morning coffees. To the back is the office with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the beautiful brick courtyard. Upstairs is an additional secondary bedroom with working fireplace and full ensuite bath. Across from this is the owner’s suite with 2-sided fireplace, heart pine floors, custom California closets and beautiful Soaking tub. 

Once outside thru the brick courtyard you will see the oversized 2 car garage with tons of attic storage. Keep strolling to see the original 1930s home that now serves as an Au Pair or guest house. Approximately 800 square feet, this beautiful dwelling can serve as additional income, an in-law suite, or an office suite with its 1 bedroom, newly renovated kitchen, and great over all space. Recently added covered parking allows parking for 5 cars. 

2806 Alston Drive Atlanta GA 30317

To the right of the guest house, you will see the 14X28 heated Saltwater pool and Cabana with electrical, fan and tv. For those evening parties, the pool is surrounded by ground can lights that guide the way from the main home to the pool. Just past the pool is the pool house with bath, shower, and kitchenette. 

A fence separates the main property from the back property with perennials, peach trees, pear trees and blueberry bushes. Walk further and you will see a small garden and an additional grassy area perfect for Tennis courts, pickleball courts or a bocce ball court. New roofs, New HVAC, etc…The location cannot be beat overlooking the 1st green of East Lake Golf Club. Just a short stroll to Poor Hendrix, La Fonda, Perc Coffee, and Oakhurst. And just minutes to I-20, I75/85, The Airport, Drew Charter, and all of Decatur!

Interested in touring 2806 Alston Dr for yourself? Visit the listing page, here, and request a tour! We can’t wait to show you around! 

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Why Sage & Cedar may not be the listing team for you

01. Negotiating with other agents and their buyers – Who needs a skilled negotiator to navigate the treacherous waters of real estate deals? Certainly not you! Forget about those pesky negotiations and just let the buyers have their way. After all, it’s not like money is at stake or anything. Let’s leave your hard-earned dollars up to chance!

02. Communicating with lenders, other agents, closing attorneys, inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and so many others – Ah, the joy of juggling multiple phone calls, emails, and appointments. Who needs a real estate agent to handle all those pesky details? You’re a master multitasker, right? So what if you’re in a meeting and the deal is falling apart, you’ll get back to them tomorrow, if they haven’t terminated the contract by then…

03. Covering the cost of professional photography and marketing – Why bother spending money on professional photography and marketing when you can just snap a few iPhone pictures and post them on your favorite social media platform? Who cares about making a great first impression or attracting serious buyers? The blurry, poorly lit photos of your house will surely do the trick!

Why Sage & Cedar may not be the listing team for you

04. Attending appointments, making phone calls, answering emails, hosting open houses, etc – What fun spending hours on end attending appointments, making endless phone calls, answering countless emails, and hosting open houses. Why would you want to delegate these soul-crushing tasks to a real estate agent when you can do it all yourself? After all, who needs a social life or any semblance of sanity anyway? You were looking for a challenge, right?

05. Knowing the market in the neighborhood you are selling in. Knowing how to read and use current market data – Who needs market knowledge when you can rely on your gut feeling? Forget about understanding the trends, analyzing market data, and pricing your home competitively. It’s all just a wild guessing game, and you, my friend, are a natural-born guesser!

So there you have it, folks—a foolproof guide to sabotaging your home sale. Hiring a real estate agent is for amateurs! Why would you want someone with experience, expertise, and a proven track record to help you navigate the complicated world of real estate when you can stumble around in the dark like a blindfolded toddler?

JUST KIDDING – We are full of jokes here at Sage & Cedar. Listing your home for sale is a full time job, and an agent with experience is necessary for success. Want to learn more about working with a Sage & Cedar agent? Visit us here!

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Home Warranty:

A home warranty is a service contract that provides coverage for repairs or replacements of major household systems and appliances. It acts as a form of protection against unexpected breakdowns due to normal wear and tear. Home warranties are typically purchased for a specific period, usually one year, and can be renewed annually.

Home warranties typically cover a range of systems and appliances, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, electrical systems, water heaters, kitchen appliances, and more. When a covered item malfunctions or breaks down, the homeowner can contact the warranty provider, who will arrange for a qualified technician to repair or replace the item, usually for a small service fee

Benefits:

01. Financial Protection: Home warranties provide homeowners with peace of mind by offering financial protection against unexpected repair costs, which can be a significant relief, especially for older homes or appliances.

02. Convenience: With a home warranty, homeowners can rely on a network of pre-screened service providers, saving time and effort in finding reputable technicians. The warranty company handles the coordination of repairs, simplifying the process for the homeowner.

Limitations:

01. Limited Coverage: Home warranties have specific coverage limits and exclusions. Pre-existing conditions, improper maintenance, or neglect may not be covered. It is important to read the contract carefully to understand the terms and conditions.

02. Service Fees: While the warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacements, homeowners often have to pay a service fee or deductible for each service call, which can vary depending on the warranty provider.

Homeowners Insurance:

Homeowners insurance, on the other hand, is a type of insurance policy designed to protect the structure of your home and your personal belongings from covered perils, such as fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. It is typically required by mortgage lenders and provides coverage for unexpected events that cause damage or loss to your property.

Homeowners insurance covers the physical structure of your home, including walls, roofs, and other attached structures, as well as personal belongings such as furniture, appliances, and electronics. It also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property and you are legally responsible for their injuries.

Benefits:

01. Dwelling Protection: Homeowners insurance provides coverage for repairing or rebuilding your home in the event of covered perils, ensuring financial protection against significant damage or destruction.

02. Personal Property Coverage: In case of theft, fire, or other covered events, homeowners insurance can help replace damaged or stolen personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, or electronics.

Limitations:

01. Specific Perils: Homeowners insurance typically covers specific perils mentioned in the policy. It may not cover damage caused by floods, earthquakes, or routine wear and tear. Additional coverage or separate policies may be required for such events.

02. Deductibles and Premiums: Homeowners insurance policies usually have deductibles, which means homeowners are responsible for paying a certain amount out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Premiums can also vary depending on factors like location, coverage limits, and the homeowner’s claims history.

A home warranty primarily covers the repair or replacement of major systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear, while homeowners insurance protects against specific perils that can cause damage to the structure of the home and personal belongings. It is essential for homeowners to evaluate their needs and consider both options to ensure comprehensive coverage for their valuable assets. Ready to take the next step into homeownership? Visit us here to connect with a S&C agent!

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5 ways to increase your homes value

01. Make a Larger Down Payment – Building equity starts right from the moment you purchase your home. By putting down a substantial amount upfront, you reduce the loan amount and decrease the interest you’ll pay over time. A higher down payment also means starting with a lower loan-to-value ratio, which can help you avoid PMI and reduce your monthly expenses.

02. Home Renovations and Improvements – One of the most effective ways to increase your home’s value and build equity is through renovations and improvements. Focus on upgrades that offer a high ROI. This could include kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding a deck or patio, updating flooring, or enhancing curb appeal with landscaping.

03. Regular Maintenance and Repairs – Maintaining your home in good condition is not only essential for your comfort and safety but also for preserving and increasing its value. Conduct regular inspections and address any necessary repairs promptly. Simple tasks can go a long way in maintaining and enhancing your home’s equity.

5 ways to help build equity

04. Pay Down Your Mortgage Faster – If your property has additional space or a separate unit, consider renting it out. Another effective strategy for building equity is to accelerate your mortgage payments. Consider making bi-weekly or additional monthly payments to reduce the principal amount faster. Before making additional payments, confirm with your lender if there are any prepayment penalties or restrictions.

05. Take Advantage of Appreciation – In a growing real estate market, property values tend to appreciate over time. By keeping an eye on market trends, you can capitalize on the natural appreciation of your home’s value. By monitoring market trends, you can choose the right time to sell or refinance, maximizing your equity gains.

Building equity in your home requires a combination of strategic planning and consistent effort. By making a larger down payment, undertaking smart renovations, maintaining your property, paying down your mortgage faster, and taking advantage of market appreciation, you can steadily increase your home’s value and your equity position. Ready to connect with a S&C agent, stay informed about local market trends, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial goals? Connect with us here!

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7 must have items for realtors to have in their car

01. Vankor Car Trash Can: As a Realtor, we are constantly on the go. A car trash can is a MUST, especially if you plan to drive any of your clients to showings! This trash can is the perfect size to keep your car tidy of snack wrappers, straws paper, paperwork, and any other things you accumulate on the road. You can attach it to a head rest, your gear shift, your console, or in your back seat. 

02. Starument Handheld Portable Vacuum: Since we are already on the topic of keeping your car clean, let’s talk about this portable vacuum. The size and shape are the best things about this device. It is small enough to fit into a cup holder. It’s perfect for a quick clean up of your seat or floorboards before scooping up your next client! 

03. Drive Auto Car Organizer: This… I can not live without. This auto car organizer clips to the trunk to keep from moving around. It is waterproofed and has removable sections. Great for extra lockboxes, directionals, waters, cleaning supplies, etc. It also has handles! Fill it with your open house needs and it’s all in one place. 

04. Enrich Up Steering Wheel Tray: As a Realtor, our car is our office sometimes. This tray is a great way to turn your drivers seat and steering wheel into a desk and chair. This tray clicks onto your steering wheel and has 2 sizes of silicone rings to protect from scuffs and scratches. Have a tight offer deadline? Click this tray onto your wheel and write the offer in the driveway! 

Must have items for realtors to have in their car

05. Viaviat Car Seat Organizer: Realtors need to be able to go from showing, to meeting, to closing in a matter of minutes. This car organizer helps me do that. With all of the sections and pockets, whatever I need is in arms reach. The top section is great for extra keys, garage door openers, and fobs, while the zipper pocket at the bottom holds lint rollers, tide pens, hair brushes, and dry shampoo. 

06. Source One Business Card Holder: Business cards are one way we make sure a potential client leaves a meeting with our information. This business card holder keeps the cards organized, easy to get to, and clean. You can put it in your console, stick it to your dash, and even bring it in with you to an open house. 

07. MightyDuty Car Oil Diffuser: Ok, ok, this may not be necessary, but it’s a great way to make sure your car smells fresh and clean after a quick stop at the QT hot bar. Smelling like a taquito is no way to make an impression (or maybe it is.. depending on the client ?). 

Being a successful real estate agent requires excellent organization, preparedness, and adaptability. By keeping these essential items in your car, you’ll be equipped to handle various scenarios that may arise during your daily activities. So, pack your car with these essentials and hit the road with confidence as you navigate the dynamic world of real estate. Want to learn more about Sage & Cedar? Visit us here.

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Learn about Mortgages for Teachers and Educators

What is down payment assistance? – Down payment assistance is a type of financial assistance that can help qualified buyers cover the upfront costs associated with purchasing a home. This assistance can come in the form of grants, loans, or other types of financial aid.

Who qualifies for down payment assistance? – Qualifications for down payment assistance programs vary depending on the specific program. However, many programs are targeted toward low- to moderate-income homebuyers, first-time homebuyers, and those who work in certain professions, such as education.

What types of down payment assistance are available for teachers? – There are a few different types of down payment assistance programs that are available specifically for teachers depending on your state. In Georgia, one of the programs is PEN with GA Dream! The Georgia Dream program was created to make homeownership possible for eligible low and moderate income Georgians by providing affordable financing options, down payment assistance, and homebuyer education. Potential homebuyers apply with participating lenders for Georgia Dream loans. The loans are secured or guaranteed by FHA, VA, USDA-RD or conventional uninsured loans. Borrowers must attend and complete either a homebuyer education workshop, individual housing counseling sessions, or an online homebuyer education course through E-Home America. As of February 23, 2023, the standard amount was increased to $10,000, and for PEN (Protectors, Educators, and Nurses) that amount has been increased to $12,500!⁠

More about Mortgages for Teachers and Educators

How do I apply for down payment assistance? – To apply for down payment assistance, you’ll need to research the specific programs that are available in your area and determine which ones you may qualify for. You’ll then need to fill out an application and provide documentation to support your eligibility. It’s important to note that down payment assistance programs often have limited funds available, so it’s best to apply as early as possible. Best place to start is with your local Realtor. They can point you towards the right lenders that offer assistance! 

Ready to start your home buying journey? Click here to connect with a Sage & Cedar agent!

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Taxes for Real Estate Agents

Keep accurate records: As a real estate agent, you likely have a lot of expenses that you can deduct on your taxes, such as marketing materials, office supplies, and travel expenses. Make sure to keep detailed records of all your expenses throughout the year so you can accurately claim them on your tax return.

Understand your deductions: Real estate agents are eligible for a number of deductions, including home office expenses, mileage, and marketing costs. Make sure you understand which deductions you’re eligible for and how to claim them on your tax return.

As a real estate agent, it’s important to stay on top of your finances, especially when it comes to tax season

Hire a professional: If you’re not comfortable doing your taxes on your own, consider hiring a professional to help you. A tax professional who specializes in working with real estate agents will be able to help you maximize your deductions and ensure you’re filing your taxes correctly.

Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute to start thinking about your taxes. Throughout the year, set aside money for your tax payments and keep track of your expenses so you’re not scrambling to pull everything together at the last minute.

By following these tips, you can make the process of doing your taxes as a real estate agent a little bit easier and hopefully even save some money on your tax bill. Happy filing! Interested in joining the Sage & Cedar team? Visit us here! 

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Contract to Closing

01. Inspection Period – Before putting your home on the market, it’s essential to address any necessary repairs. A little bit of prep work can go a long way in making sure your home inspection goes smoothly and helps you sell your home with ease. 

02. Appraisal – If a buyer is getting financing, it’s inevitable that the home will be appraised. Don’t let your home appraisal take a hit! Your listing agent should prepare you with a CMA and, if it’s an option, make sure you request an appraisal gap stipulation from the buyer.

Selling made Easy

03. Buyers Mortgage Loan Approval – Typically a buyer has 35-45 days for loan approval, but this does depend on the terms accepted on an offer from the buyer. A good tip is to make sure the lender has already taken the buyer through underwriting before accepting the offer.  

04. Closing – Embrace the bittersweet nature of closing day. Celebrate the accomplishment, reflect on your memories, and look forward to what’s next. Selling your home can be an easy process if you’re prepared and willing to put in the time and effort. With the right preparation and approach, you’ll be able to find a buyer quickly and move on to your next adventure.

Looking to start the selling process? Visit us here for a free home valuation and to find out your next steps!

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A few reasons you should hire Sage & Cedar Real Estate!

01. We have specialized knowledge of the real estate market and can help you find the best deal on a property – The agents with Sage & Cedar are well-connected in the industry and can access resources that you may not have access to, such as market insights, off-market listings, and more. 

02. We can also help you navigate the legal and financial aspects of a real estate transaction – Real Estate contracts are wordy! Sage & Cedar is all about education when it comes to working with our clients. Making sure you understand these legally binding contracts is so important. 

03. We have experience negotiating the best price for buyers and sellers and can help you determine a fair market value for a property – There are so many things that go into pricing a home for the market AND pricing a home when making an offer. Making sure we price your home right the first time and we help you make the most informed offer we can isn’t luck. It’s skill and know how!

More reasons you should hire Sage & Cedar Real Estate

04. We can provide valuable advice on everything from staging your home for sale to making sure the paperwork is in order – We cover everything from a to z. Listing your home and managing the sale is a full time job. A few examples include listing your home on the mls, managing showings, negotiating contracts, keeping up with timelines, etc.

Whether you are a buyer or seller, Sage & Cedar is the right call for you. Interested in starting your home buying journey? Click here. Getting ready to list your home? Chat with us here!

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3 Reasons to Sell your Home Now!

01. The Buyer Pool is Expanding – Interest rates have gone back down, which means the buyer pool has opened back up! Buyers are entering the market again after a slow fall and winter market. Spring is usually a great time to list, even more so in 2023.

02. More Buyer Competition means a Quicker Sale – More buyers in the market usually means more competition between buyers. More competition between buyers creates better terms for sellers! These terms include higher prices, shorter contingencies, and quicker home sales. 

Experts say the Atlanta home market is one of the strongest in the county

03.  Taking advantage of your equity – Experts say the Atlanta home market is one of the strongest in the county! Home owners are slated to collect on 5-10% more equity in 2023! With the small amount of inventory pushing home prices north over the next year, your home could fly off the market over list price if you’re working with the right agent!

If you’re considering a sale, make sure to consult with a real estate agent and other professionals to ensure you get the best possible outcome. Our Sage & Cedar agents will take you through the process, give you price suggestions, and connect you with the appropriate vendors! Click here to start your home selling journey! 

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