Alpharetta Cumming Lake Lanier Real Estate Blog: September 2008

If your hectic schedule has ever kept you from going to the polls on Election Day, Georgia law offers you a great solution - In Office Early Voting - designed to meet the needs of today's busy Georgians. With In Office Early Voting, you may choose to vote in person before Election Day simply as a matter of convenience. In Office Early Voting allows any Forsyth County registered voter to cast a ballot in person for up to 45 days prior to an election.

Early voting is available at the Forsyth County Administration Building. Once you arrive, you must complete an application and provide photo identification. You will then be issued a ballot card to be voted and cast while you are in the office.

Forsyth County In Office Early Voting Dates and Location
Who: Any Forsyth County registered voter
What: In Office Early Voting
When: September 19 through October 31
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Where: Voter Registration and Elections Office:
Forsyth County Administration Building
110 E. Main Street, Suite 200, Cumming, GA 30040
Why: Convenience and flexibility
How: Come to the Forsyth County Administration building during the set days and times with your photo ID to vote early

Please note that you cannot vote on the Monday immediately preceding the Tuesday election. Traditional polling places will be open on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. In Office Early Voting is a form of absentee voting; so remember, if you choose to vote early you cannot cast another ballot at your precinct on Election Day. Advance Voting will still take place the Monday through Friday before Election Day.

To receive more information, call 770.781.2118 ext. 3.

Labels: advance voting, forsyth county

The new Market Place Boulevard Extension in Forsyth County opened to motorists on Friday, September 26th. Market Place Boulevard which runs by Wal Mart, Home Depot & Lowe's in Cumming, now extends north from Buford Dam Road to Bald Ridge Marina Road. This project was funded by SPLOST V.

Labels: bald ridge marina, buford dam, cumming, forsyth county, market place blvd, splost V

On Sunday, Oct. 5th at Forsyth County Central Park, more than 1,000 walkers are expected to participate in the Georgia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) 4th annual Walk to Cure Diabetes. Registration begins at 2:30 p.m., followed by the walk at 3:30 p.m.

The Georgia Chapter hopes to raise more than $250,000 for research to find a cure for diabetes and its complications.

At the Cumming Walk, there will be music, food, bounce houses and clowns. On-site registration begins at 2:30pm. The entire walk will be approximately 3 miles long, starting at Central Park.

"It's great to be partnering with JDRF and working together on such an important goal – curing a disease that kills one American every three minutes. The recent statistics are staggering and reveal that health care expenditures surrounding diabetes cost our nation more than $132 billion," says Natalie Bailey. These are the reasons we are committed to raising money for the cutting-edge research that JDRF funds. By working together, we can make a difference."

In addition to wide-spread corporate support, entire families from kids to grandparents take part in the fundraising efforts of the Walk to Cure Diabetes – many affected, but even those who are not among the 14 million Americans with a personal connection to type-1 diabetes.

JDRF Walks are held in more than 200 cities worldwide. Nearly 500,000 people nationally walked last year and raised $94 million to cure diabetes.

For more information on how to participate or make a contribution visit www.jdrf.org.

Labels: central park, forsyth county, jdrf, juvenile diabetes, october 5, walk to cure diabetes

Check out this weekend's mortgage rates provided by Covenant Mortgage Corporation:

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under
30 Yr Fixed - 5.875%
30 Yr Fixed NO MI -
6.50% @ 95% LTV
6.375% @ 90% LTV
15 Yr Fixed - 5.50%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Yr Fixed - 7.375%
5/1 Arm - 5.625

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 5.875% - 6.50%

If you would like help with your next real estate transaction, please contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today. We can be your bridge to success!

Labels: 30 year fixed, covenant mortgage, FHA, vanderhoff real estate

The 25th annual fall Atlanta Home Show is going on now through Sunday, Sept. 28th at the Cobb Galleria Centre. This is a one-stop shop for all of your home needs — indoor and out. Get great ideas for remodeling projects, decor, design and more. Best of all you might be eligible to take advantage of one of these special admission offers:

• Buy One Adult Ticket, Get One Free (with ID) to all Military (active and retired) and First Responders

• To help stimulate the Atlanta housing industry and educate members of affiliated associations, complimentary weekday admission is available to all members of these organizations: Georgia Professional Real Estate Agents, the Home Builders Association (HBA), National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and Georgia Real Estate Investors Association (GaREIA) by simply providing your business card on Thursday and Friday!

For more information on the show, visit www.AtlantaHomeShow.com.

Some of the many categories on display at the show include:

* appliances
* brick and stone
* closet organizers
* concrete repair and resurfacing
* decks and underdecking
* decorator items
* doors and windows
* elevators
* energy efficency
* environmental products
* exercise equipment
* fireplaces
* flooring including hardwoods, carpet and tile
* garage doors
* outdoor cooking, kitchens and grills
* heating and air conditioning
* home remodelers
* kitchen design, cabinetry and more
* landscape design and installation
* lighting - indoor and outdoor
* marble and granite countertops
* pest control
* plumbing fixtures
* pools
* real estate
* roofing
* spas and hot tubs
* security systems
* siding
* stained and leaded glass
* sunrooms and patios
* vacuums
* waterproofing
* water and air purification

and much more! See you there!

Labels: atlanta home show, cobb galleria, fall, home remodeling, real estate

Just Reduced! 2750 Fairlane Dr., Cumming, GA 30041. This charming ranch style home with covered front porch has 3 Bedrooms and 2 Full Baths. It is a great starter home and has new flooring in the kitchen. The backyard is level and fenced. Easy access to GA 400 at Exit 16/Pilgrim Mill Rd. Close to Lake Lanier and located in the highly sought after Chattahoochee Elementary school district. The home has just been reduced to only $144,000 and the seller is motivated.

Click on the property address above to view more information and photos of this property. If you would like to see this property, or any other properties in the area, please contact us today. Our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate would like to help you find your next home at a great price.

Also check out the "Foreclosure" link on our website which will show you all available foreclosures in the area.

Labels: chattahoochee elementary, cumming, forsyth county, homes for sale, lake lanier, pilgrim mill, ranch, vanderhoff real estate

The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department will host the sixth annual Play at the Park Family Fun Festival this Saturday, September 27th. The festival will be held at Central Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The festival features a variety of activities and entertainment, including a carnival area, petting zoo, hay rides, train rides, tree climbing and face painting. A shopping area and food vendors will also be at the festival.

"The Play at the Park Family Fun Festival provides an opportunity for families to enjoy the park and festivities with no admission fee," said Director of Parks and Recreation Jerry Kinsey.

Central Park is located at 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming. Admission to the event is free. To receive additional information, call 770.781.2215.

Labels: central park, festival, forsyth county, play at the park

Regular - $8,000 Homestead: The regular homestead exemption reduces the gross assessment, which is applied to certain homestead portions of the millage rate by $8,000. The regular homestead grants an $8,000 reduction to your assessed value against the County M & O and local exemption. The school and state portion of the millage rate will be reduced by $2,000, per the state allowed homestead exemption.

Floating Homestead: Forsyth County homestead claimants are now eligible for the county floating homestead exemption, in addition to any other exemption for which they may be eligible. In the absence of a millage rate increase, the value offset exemption holds constant on the county M & O and the fire portion of your taxes when there is a property value increase. Taxpayers who file for this exemption in the current year establish their base year and value at the prior years level. Thus, your county taxes will be calculated according to your base year, which is established at the time of application. School and state taxes will continue to be calculated on the current year's value. Please note that you will receive the exemption savings only if your property experiences an increase in assessed value.

Labels: floating homestead, forsyth county, homestead exemption, property tax

The Forsyth County Voter Registration and Elections Department will hold a countywide voter registration drive at Central Park, Midway Park and Sharon Springs Park on Saturday, September 27th and Sunday, September 28th. The two-day drive will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at each location.

The three locations will provide convenience for citizens needing to register to vote in the upcoming elections. Monday, October 6th is the last day to register to vote in the November or December elections.

Central Park is located at 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming. Midway Park is located at 5100 Post Road in Cumming. Sharon Springs Park is located at 1950 Sharon Road in Cumming.

To receive additional information, call the Voter Registration and Elections Department at 770.781.2118.

Labels: forsyth county, voter registration

That's right! Next Saturday is National Hunting and Fishing day. To celebrate this, a free fishing day is offered to all Georgia residents on Saturday, Sept. 27th. On this day, Georgia residents do not need a fishing license or a trout license to fish on any public waters in the state including lakes, streams, ponds and public fishing areas (PFA). In addition, residents do not need to obtain a wildlife management area (WMA) license to fish on a PFA, WMA or on Waters Creek on this day.

On this day, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resource Division (WRD) and its partners invite parents to bring their children to a Kid’s Fishing Event (KFE) at the Buford Dam Lower Pool Park on the Chattahoochee River. This special event will take place from 9 am – 2 pm and is a great way to introduce the fun of fishing to kids. Buford Trout Hatchery will stock 3,000 rainbow trout in the river for the event, and the Optimist and Kiwanis Clubs will provide hot dogs and drinks to participants.

This event is for children 15 and under. Participants are asked to bring their own fishing poles, as only a limited number of loaner poles will be available. Sponsors will provide the bait but participants can bring their own bait or lures if desired. Parents must accompany children throughout the event and WRD recommends that everyone, especially young children, bring and wear life jackets. There will be some fishing demonstrations and volunteers available to assist participants with tasks such as baiting hooks and removing fish from hooks.

This event is part of a statewide celebration in honor of the 37th National Hunting and Fishing (NHF) Day. For information about other NHF Day events taking place across the State, visit the WRD website at www.georgiawildlife.com .

Labels: buford dam, buford trout hacthery, chattahoochee river, free fishing event, georgia department of natural resources, kids fishing event, national hunting and fishing day, wildlife resource division

The Forsyth County Schools Redistricting Draft #5 for the 2009-10 school year is now available for review through October 3rd at 5:00pm. Make sure to review the maps for all three levels since changes have been made.

Maps can be viewed at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us. To provide input to the Forsyth County Board of Education, click here.

PLEASE NOTE: The following was approved by the Forsyth County Board of Education on 9/18, effective for the 2009-10 school year:

Any student who is enrolled in an existing high school in 2008 and is redistricted to another existing high school in 2009 will be approved to remain at their current school for their high school career. The following high schools are affected:

*Forsyth Central HS students redistricted to South Forsyth HS
*South Forsyth HS and West Forsyth HS students redistricted to Forsyth Central HS

Parents will be required to complete an out-of-district form if they choose to remain at their current high school and will provide their own transportation.

Students redistricted to Lambert HS will not have the option to remain at their current high school unless there is a program need and the out of district is approved by the high school principals. If approved, they would provide their own transportation.

Labels: board of education, draft 5, forsyth county, redistricting

Check out this weekend's mortgage rates provided by Covenant Mortgage Corporation:

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under
30 Yr Fixed - 5.75%
30 Yr Fixed NO MI -
6.50% @ 95% LTV
6.25% @ 90% LTV
15 Yr Fixed - 5.50%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Year Fixed - 7.25%

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 5.75% - 6.50%

If you would like help with your next real estate transaction, please contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today. We can be your bridge to success!

Labels: 30 year fixed, covenant mortgage, FHA, mortgage rates, vanderhoff real estate

The 7th annual Alpharetta Rotary FunFest, set for this Saturday, Sept. 20, is a free family event with a Kid's Fun Zone, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors and even a car show. The event is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at North Point Center East in Alpharetta. www.alpharettafunfest.com

The 2nd annual Grass in the Grove Bluegrass Festival will be held Saturday, September 20, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Shady Grove Campground on Lake Lanier in Cumming. The festival will feature traditional bluegrass bands and contemporary bluegrass bands. The entry fee will be $10 per vehicle. To receive more information, call the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department at 770.781.2217.

Alpharetta Farmers Market has taken root under an old oak tree in Historic Downtown Alpharetta. The market is open to the public each Saturday through October from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Admission is Free. You will find farmers with fruits and vegetables, gardeners with fresh flowers and plants, and makers of all sorts of edible home goods from yummy desserts to local raw honey and homemade sauces and jellies. Visit www.alpharettafarmersmarket.com for more information.

Visit Lakewood 400 Antiques Market this weekend for free! Just print the coupon at www.cumminghome.com and bring it with you....a $3 instant savings! Dates the market is open are September 19-21. Visit www.lakewoodantiques.com for more information.

The Cumming First United Methodist Church Annual Mission Yard Sale will be held Friday, September 19th and Saturday, September 20th. The proceeds will help fund their One Great Day of Service projects next Spring. The Hours of Sale are Friday, September 19th: 9:00 am – 12 noon; 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm and Saturday, September 20th: 8:00 am – 12 noon.

Labels: Alpharetta, cumming first united methodisty, farmers market, FunFest, Grass in the Grove Bluegrass Festival, lakewwod 400 antiques market, mission yard sale

The Rivers Alive Annual Stream Clean Up Event will take place this Saturday, September 20th from 9:00am till 12:00 noon. It will take place at Orr Creek at the Cumming Fairgrounds.
A Light lunch will be provided, and everyone that participates will receive a “Rivers Alive” t-shirt as well as a ticket to the Cumming Country Fair & Festival. For details please call the Department of Utilities at (770) 781-2020 & speak with Jodia Hobgood or Franklin Wagner. Make sure to wear your water shoes!!

Labels: cumming, cumming country fair and festival, Cumming Fairgrounds, forsyth county, orr creek, Rivers Alive, stream clean up

Homestead Exemption is one way to reduce the amount of property tax you pay on your residential property. In Forsyth County, if you own the property, reside on that property, and are a legal resident of the County, all as of January 1st of the tax year, you may qualify for homestead exemption. Legal resident means that you are registered to vote and/or register your vehicles in Forsyth County. You cannot be claiming homestead in any other location.

You must apply for any of the following exemptions. Only one owner needs to meet the requirements to qualify for the full exemption. These exemptions are automatically renewed each year unless there is a change in ownership or you no longer meet the eligibility requirments. You do not need to reapply for exemptions if you refinance your home, unless ownership changes. For all exemptions, the property must be in the name of the applicant. To legally change ownership into your name a new deed must be recorded in Forsyth County records. The amount exempted is deducted from the 40% assessed value of the property in the applicable tax categories.

If a change of ownership occurs due to death or divorce, the new owner must file the change with the Tax Assessor's Office and reapply for any exemption granted in the previous owner's name.

Available Exemptions are:
Regular - $8,000 Homestead
Floating Homestead
Total School Tax Homestead Exemption
Other School Tax Homestead Exemptions
Double Homestead
State Tax Exemption
Disability Homestead
Disabled Veterans
Surviving Spouse Homestead
Surviving Spouse of Firefighter or Police Officer Killed in Line of Duty

Stay tuned to our blog for more details on each of these exemptions.

Labels: exemptions, forsyth county, homestead, property tax

The 7th annual Alpharetta Rotary FunFest is set for this Saturday, September 20th. It is a free family event with a Kid's Fun Zone, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors and even a car show. The event is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at North Point Center East in Alpharetta.

The Kid's Fun Zone will include a petting zoo, pony rides, train rides, giant slides, rock climbing wall, karate exhibitions, and more.

Car buffs can explore automobiles of every model and make on display at Saturday's car show. For a $25 charitable donation, enthusiasts are invited to exhibit their vehicle. Prizes will be awarded.

The Alpharetta Rotary Club is also selling up to 1000 raffle tickets at $50 each for a 2008 Ford Mustang Convertible. The drawing will be held at FunFest on September 20, 2008. Contact any Club member to purchase tickets for a chance to own an American Legend.

Other activities include: music and shows featuring live entertainment throughout the day; dozens of restaurants offering a variety of food options; a Business Boulevard that resembles a one-day outdoor shopping mall; and, an arts and crafts area with exhibitors.

For more information visit www.alpharettarotary.org.

Labels: Alpharetta, FunFest, rotary

Forsyth County Residents: Here are the basics to property taxes in your county.

Property is assessed and billed to the owner as of January 1st of each year. The Board of Tax Assessors is responsible for determining what real and personal property is subject to taxation in Forsyth County, and estimating the market value. They compile the tax digest and administer the various types of homestead exemptions. The Tax Commissioner is then responsible for the billing and collection of taxes.

Each taxpayer may file a property tax return between January 1st and April 1st of each year. This gives you an opportunity to state, to the Board of Tax Assessors, your opinion of value, and to inform them of any changes or factors you consider relevant to the valuation of your property. Tax returns and appeals must be filed in writing. Filing a return does not grant an appeal. It will begin the process of review by the Board of Tax Assessors.

If you are a new property owner, file a tax return or make a change in your property, you will receive a change of assessment notice around May of each year. If you disagree with the valuation on the notice you will have 45 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal.

Once you receive your tax bill it is too late to appeal the value, and there is no legal process to appeal the amount of taxes.

While valuation of your property is a part of the formula for calculating taxes, the Board of Tax Assessors doe not determine the amount of taxes you pay. This is determined by the millage rate that is set by the Board of Commissioners and the School Board.

Check back for more information on Forsyth County Property Taxes as we look into the different exemptions you may be eligible for.

Labels: board of commissioners, Board of tax assessors, exemption, forsyth county, property tax, school board, tax commissioner

The CFUMC Annual Mission Yard Sale will be held Friday, September 19th and Saturday, September 20th. The proceeds will help fund their One Great Day of Service projects next Spring. The Hours of Sale are as follows:

Friday, September 19th: 9:00 am – 12 noon; 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Saturday, September 20th: 8:00 am – 12 noon

So, take a moment to clean out your closets and donate your gently used items. You may bring these items to the Family Life Center Tuesday, September 16th through Thursday, September 18 from 8:30 am – 8:00 pm. If you need items picked up, or would like to volunteer, please contact Janet Walden @ 770.887.2900 x236 or jwalden@cfumcga.com. Volunteers are needed from Saturday, September 13th – Saturday, September 20th

Labels: cumming first united methodist church, missions, one great day of service, yard sale

Check out this weekend's mortgage rates provided by Covenant Mortgage Corporation:

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under

30 Year Fixed - 5.625%
30 Year Fixed NO MI - 6.25% @ 95% LTV, 6.00% @ 90% LTV
5/1 ARM - 5.25%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Year Fixed - 7.00%

SPECIAL JUMBO OFFERING: 7/1 ARM - 6.00%

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 5.75% - 6.50%

If you would like help with your next real estate transaction, please contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today. We can be your bridge to success!

Labels: 30 year fixed, covenant mortgage, FHA, mortgage rates, vanderhoff real estate

Forsyth County tax bills are being mailed out during the week of September 8. In accordance with Georgia State Law, tax bills are mailed to both the owner of record as of January 1 of the tax year being billed, and the owner as of the date the tax digest is submitted to the Tax Commissioner from the Board of Assessors (if different). Please note that failure to receive a bill does not relieve responsibility of paying taxes due.

Taxes are due by November 15. Please note that since the due date falls on a Saturday, payments will be accepted through the close of business on Monday, November 17 with no penalty. For additional information, please call the Tax Commissioner’s Office at 770.781.2110.

Labels: forsyth county, property tax, tax commissioner

If you are struggling to save for a down payment, there are two government-run programs that are designed to help. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers mortgage insurance that allows qualified buyers to purchase a home with a 3% down payment, and that down payment may be entirely a gift. Also, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has a home-loan guarantee program that will help military veterans buy a home with no down payment. You may also be able to find a down payment program that offer grants and low-interest deferred-payment loans and are run by state or local housing authorities.

There are also down payment assistance programs offered by private organizations, such as Nehemiah Corp. and AmeriDream, two of the largest. These organizations convert money contributed by the seller into the buyer’s down payment and assist with seller concessions. They use the seller’s equity to fund a grant which allows the buyer to buy with no money down.

The FHA has tried, unsuccessfully so far, to ban using private down payment assistance programs in conjunction with FHA loans, since FHA-insured loans that used these programs had a higher rate of default and foreclosure than loans that didn’t use private assistance, according to an FHA study. “FHA loans made to borrowers relying on ‘seller-funded down payment assistance’ go to foreclosure at three times the rate of loans made to borrowers who make their own down payments,” stated FHA Commissioner Brian Montgomery in a May 2008 speech. Alternatively, the private down payment assistance industry believes strongly that the government shouldn’t restrict access to home ownership.

Talk to your bank or lender today to find out which programs or loans are right for you. You may be surprised at what you can do. There are some great homes at great prices on the market today, and we'd love to help you start looking for the right home today!

Labels: ameridream, assistance programs, down payment, FHA, nehemiah, VA

The Alpharetta Lions Club, Alpharetta Historical Society and the City of Alpharetta will offer up some foot-stompin’, good old-fashioned family fun at the OLD MILTON COUNTRY FAIR, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat and Sun, September 13 - 14.

Southern barbecue, live bluegrass, country music and demonstrations will highlight the fair, which will take place at the Historic Log Cabin on the old Milton High School grounds (Milton Center) at 86 School Drive in Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Admission and parking are free to the public.

A two-day long entertainment schedule features local and regional music groups including southern rock, classic country western, gospel, and bluegrass bands. A classic car show and period woodworking show will take place within the fair as well.

Family activities at the OLD MILTON COUNTRY FAIR will include historical craft demonstrations, an antique car demonstration, old-time carnival games, pony carousel, quilting, horse and buggy rides, Native American Indian crafts, trackless train rides, old-time dress-up portraits, clowns, face painting, storytelling, and a petting zoo. For the more competitive fair-goers, there will be a horseshoes tournament as well as watermelon, pickle and pie eating contests.

To commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Alpharetta, the City of Alpharetta and Old Milton History & Genealogy Group are excited to announce the publication of Alpharetta, Milton County-the Early Years. The 160 page, 8.5” x 11” hardcover pictorial history book will be available for purchase at the Fair. The front cover of the book shows a historic photo of Addie Mayfield DeVore displaying her contest entries at the original Milton County Fair, circa 1910. Stop by and meet the author and historians Sat and Sun from 10:30 am to 2 pm. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore our community’s rich history in this limited-edition volume.
“We look forward to celebrating our local heritage at the upcoming fair,” said Mayor Arthur Letchas. “With Alpharetta’s sesquicentennial birthday in 2008, we are proud to remember and preserve our history for future generations.”

A select number of crafters and artisans, antique dealers, produce and country store vendors will also participate in the fair, with items like mountain chairs, gourd art, vintage jewelry, antique trunks, quilts, wood carvings and Indian jewelry for purchase.

“I’m excited at the opportunity to work with the Alpharetta Historical Society and the City of Alpharetta to continue the annual tradition,” says Garner Andrews, chairman for this year’s Old Milton Country Fair. “The fair is a great place for families and individuals alike to come, relax and enjoy a weekend in Alpharetta.”

“Stars ‘N’ Stitches” quilt show is a celebration of the history and art of our ancestors in their design, production and use of quilts. This show is presented by the Chattahoochee Evening Stars Quilt Guild and will be held in conjunction with the Old Milton Country Fair and the City of Alpharetta’s 150th anniversary celebration. The show will take place in the Main Gym of The Connected Academy at the Milton Center (old Milton High School) Saturday and Sunday, September 13-14. Hours for the show are 9:00 - 6:00 Saturday and noon to 5:00 Sunday. Admission is $5 and children under 11 are free.

There will be approximately 300 quilts displayed in categories of piecing, appliqué, mixed techniques, hand pieced and hand quilted as well as Treasured Memories and Kids Quilts.
Attendees may purchase a ticket for a chance to win a quilt created by CES Guild members. The proceeds from the show and quilt giveaway will go to benefit community charities.
Highlighted by barbecue pork and chicken from Smoke Jack, A Southern Grill in Historic Downtown Alpharetta, food concessions at the OLD MILTON COUNTRY FAIR will include burgers, brauts, corndogs, funnel cakes, old-fashioned ice cream, lemonade, cotton candy and of course, boiled peanuts. The Alpharetta Lions Club will also present a special “nostalgic” snack booth, offering such combinations as: an RC and a Moon Pie, bottled Coke and peanuts, Nehi Grape and Orange sodas, and much more.

The OLD MILTON COUNTRY FAIR, formerly the ten-year old Alpharetta Heritage Festival, is presented by the Alpharetta Lions Club in partnership with the City of Alpharetta and the Alpharetta Historical Society. For more information, phone 770-783-2314 or visit www.oldmiltoncountryfair.com. For more information about the “Stars ‘N’ Stitches” Quilt Show, visit www.quiltsites.com.

Labels: Alpharetta, alpharetta heritage festival, alpharetta historical society, alpharetta lions club, city of alpharetta, old milton county fair, quilt show, stars n stitches

In recent years, no-down payment loans were extremely popular, especially with first-time buyers. However, with the recent lending crisis, lenders have tightened their standards and almost always expect buyers to come to the table with some money upfront. The advantage of having a down payment today is that you will be able to qualify for a loan, since there are very few “zero-down” loan programs still in existence. Down payments also have other benefits:

Benefits of a down payment include:

• Borrowing less money to buy the same-priced home
• Increased choice when shopping among lenders, loan originators and loan products
• Getting a better interest rate
• Paying less for mortgage insurance
• Avoiding mortgage insurance, if your down payment is at least 20% of the purchase price
• Lower Monthly payments
• Instant Equity
  

Many homebuyers struggle to come up with a down payment, as it can be a significant chunk of money. Consider that if you put 20% down on a $200,000 house, that is $20,000! Even a 10% down payment is $10,000. Here are a dozen ways to get a down payment if you are ready to buy a home:

1. Set up an automatic saving plan.
2. Sell a car, a boat, collectibles or other assets.
3. Get a gift from a relative or friend.
4. Liquidate stocks, savings bonds, mutual funds or other investments.
5. Allocate your income tax refund to go toward your down payment.
6. Take a loan from your 401(k) retirement plan, but pay yourself back with interest.
7. Withdraw funds from your 401(k), but remember they are subject to taxes & penalties.
8. Collect on a loan you made to someone else.
9. Get a bonus or raise from your employer.
10. Explore homebuyer programs for public servants, if you qualify.
11. Apply for a state or local government homebuyer down payment assistance program.
12. Use a private down payment assistance program.

You can also work on small ways to save money, such as cutting out your morning gourmet coffee stop, bringing your lunch and eating out less. Just make sure you contribute the money to your down payment fund; create a separate account if you have to.

Bottom line: The more you can put down on your home the better. But don't forget to keep a little in your cash reserves for home maintenance and other homeownership costs. Especially if you are a first time home buyer, you need to be prepared for that first year, and then adjust your budget accordingly as you see what your monthly expenses look like.

Watch our next post for information about Government backed & private down payment assistance programs.

Labels: down payment, down payment assistance programs

Starting at 8:00am with breakfast this Friday, September 12th, United Way of Forsyth County will be having their Annual Day of Caring. If you or your company are interested in volunteering contact Michelle Prater at michelle@unitedwayforsyth.com to sign up.

Or, if you can't get away for the morning, join them for their Kick Off Celebration luncheon. It will start at 11:30am on September 12th at First Baptist Cumming. The cost is only $10 per person and the proceeds benefit United Way of Forsyth County. But, don't delay, the deadline to RSVP for this luncheon is fast approaching.

This year they will have a special performance from the Forsyth Central High School's Drumline! Also, Norman's Landing will be providing the BBQ lunch and they will be unveiling United Way's campaign goal for 2009! Don't forget if you can't make it to the luncheon, they also make deliveries!!

Please RSVP to michelle@unitedwayforsyth.com no later than September 5th to save your spot or to schedule your lunch delivery!

Labels: cumming, Day of Caring, First Baptist, Forsyth Central High School, forsyth county, Norman's Landing, United Way

The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department will host the sixth annual Play at the Park Family Fun Festival on Saturday, September 27. The festival will be held at Central Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The festival features a variety of activities and entertainment, including a carnival area, petting zoo, hay rides, train rides, tree climbing and face painting. A shopping area and food vendors will also be at the festival.

"The Play at the Park Family Fun Festival provides an opportunity for families to enjoy the park and festivities with no admission fee," said Director of Parks and Recreation Jerry Kinsey.

Central Park is located at 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming. Admission to the event is free. To receive additional information, call 770.781.2215.

Labels: central park, forsyth county, parks and recreation, play at the park, september festivals

Check out this weekend's mortgage rates provided by Covenant Mortgage Corporation:

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under
30 Year Fixed - 6.00%
30 Year Fixed NO MI - 6.50% @ 95% LTV , 6.375% @ 90% LTV
15 Year Fixed - 5.625%
5/1 ARM - 5.625%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Year Fixed - 7.50%

SPECIAL JUMBO OFFERING: 7/1 ARM - 6.125%

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 6.00% - 6.875%

If you would like help with your next real estate transaction, please contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today. We can be your bridge to success!

Labels: 30 year fixed, arm, covenant mortgage, FHA, mortgage rates, vanderhoff real estate

1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.

2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.

3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.

4. Start saving.Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don’t forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs — including taxes, attorney’s fee, and transfer fees — average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price.

5. Get your credit in order.Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provides a history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.

6. Determine your mortgage qualifications.How large of mortgage do you qualify for? Also, explore different loan options — such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMs — and decide what’s best for you.

7. Get preapproved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.

8. Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for any special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you’ve saved to buy your fist home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal.

9. Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.

10. Contact a real estate agent. Find an experienced real estate agent who can help guide you through the process.

Labels: down payment, homeownership, mortgage

Keep Forsyth County Beautiful (KFCB) invites all citizens to attend the seventh annual Liberty Garden Ceremony to remember the lives lost September 11, 2001. The ceremony will be held Thursday, September 11 at 11:15 a.m. at Forsyth County's Liberty Garden.

The ceremony honors all local public safety personnel and those lost September 11, 2001.

Forsyth County's Liberty Garden is located at the Central Park Recreation Center at 2300 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming. To receive additional information regarding the ceremony, contact KFCB at 770.205.4573 or kfcb@forsythco.com.

Labels: central park, keep forsyth county beautiful, liberty garden ceremony, september 11

This Thursday, September 4th through Sunday, September 7th, Stone Mountain Park celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the Yellow Daisy Festival.

More than 500 artists and crafters from 38 States and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Daily live entertainment, Children's Corner activities, clogging and crafter demonstrations throughout the event as well as fabulous festival foods.

The festival is FREE to attend after paying the $10.00 vehicle entry fee into Stone Mountain Park.

Hours for the festival are:

Thur, Sept 4: 10am - 6pm
Fri, Sept 5: 10am - 6pm
Sat, Sept 6: 10am - 7:30pm
Sun, Sept 8: 10am - 6pm

The Yellow Daisy Festival was voted the Nation's #1 Arts & Crafts Show FIVE YEARS IN A ROW by Sunshine Artist Magazine, a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event and winner of multiple awards by the Georgia Festival and Events Association.

Labels: Stone Mountain Park, Yellow Daisy Festival

1. Research before you look. Decide what features you most want to have in a home, what neighborhoods you prefer, and how much you’d be willing to spend each month for housing.

2. Be realistic. It’s OK to be picky, but don’t be unrealistic with your expectations. There’s no such thing as a perfect home. Use your list of priorities as a guide to evaluate each property.

3. Get your finances in order. Review your credit report and be sure you have enough money to cover your down payment and closing costs. Then, talk to a lender and get pre-qualified for a mortgage. This will save you the heartache later of falling in love with a house you can’t afford.

4. Don’t ask too many people for opinions. It will drive you crazy. Select one or two people to turn to if you feel you need a second opinion, but be ready to make the final decision on your own.

5. Decide your moving timeline. When is your lease up? Are you allowed to sublet? How tight is the rental market in your area? All of these factors will help you determine when you should move.

6. Think long term. Are you looking for a starter house with plans to move up in a few years, or do you hope to stay in this home for a longer period? This decision may dictate what type of home you’ll buy as well as the type of mortgage terms that will best suit you.

7. Insist on a home inspection. If possible, get a warranty from the seller to cover defects for one year.

8. Get help from a real estate agent. Hire a real estate professional who specializes in buyer representation. Unlike a listing agent, whose first duty is to the seller, a buyer’s representative is working only for you. Buyer’s reps are usually paid out of the seller’s commission payment.

Contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today. We want you to feel good about the entire home buying process, and we are here to help!

Labels: buying a home, home search, tips, vanderhoff real estate