Alpharetta Cumming Lake Lanier Real Estate Blog: October 2008

Labels: daylight saving time, november 2, sunday

The public is invited to the groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. for the new elementary school opening in August 2009 on Birmingham Highway in Milton.

Although site work already has begun, the ceremony allows school system officials, civic leaders and community members to gather and celebrate its construction. The public is invited to view architectural designs and hear about the school's planned features. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes with low heels due to gravel and possibly some muddy areas on the construction site. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be postponed until Nov. 13 at 1 p.m.

Designed to house up to 850 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, the new school is part of the capital programs effort in the Fulton School System, all funded through the through the one-percent educational sales tax, SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax).

Redistricting meetings to determine attendance zones for the new elementary schools, as well as existing schools in the area impacted by the opening, begin this week. Final attendance zones will be approved by the school system in the spring.

Labels: birmingham highway, city of milton, elementary school, fulton county, groundbreaking, splost

The City of Milton has lifted the city-wide outdoor burn ban, effective immediately. Milton Fire Marshal Melissa Henderson said she is comfortable that environmental conditions are sufficiently improved to the point the ban can be lifted. All burning should take place in accordance with the regulation of Georgia laws. If you have any questions, contact the Fire Marshal at 678.242.2570.

Labels: ban, burn, city of milton

October is National Fire Prevention Month. Visit the U.S. Fire Administration's website to find out what you need to know about your smoke alarms. They are located in most homes, but are often taken for granted. They should be checked regularly & placed properly. Click on the following link to make sure your home is safe.

Labels: national fire prevention month, october, smoke alarm, USFA

Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector installed. They are easy to install and can save the lives of your family members. But, before you buy a carbon monoxide detector, there are a few things you should know.

What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a common by-product produced when fossil fuels are burned. Although most household equipment and appliances produce minimal carbon monoxide when they are installed and operate properly, they can be deadly when they are not. Something as simple as an opened door to the garage, a small hole in dryer ductwork, or a malfunctioning exhaust fan can cause carbon monoxide levels to quickly rise to dangerous levels.

Why You Need A Carbon Monoxide Detector
There are many ways in which carbon monoxide can be released into your home and cause respiratory damage to your lungs, or worse, death. The following is a list of items that may cause CO to enter your home:

• Fireplaces
• Heaters
• Hot Water Heaters
• Gas Stoves / Ovens
• Automobiles (Attached garages)
• Grills; propane, gas or charcoal
• Kerosene Heaters
• Dryers with clogged ductwork
• Nearby traffic

Types of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Metal Oxide Semi-Conductor (MOS) Carbon Monoxide Detectors use heated tin oxide. When CO is present, the heated tin oxide reacts with it and an alarm will sound.

Biomimetic Carbon Monoxide Detectors use a gel-coated disc. When CO is present, the gel-coated disc darkens, causing an alarm to sound.

Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide Detectors use a chemical reaction with CO to create an electrical current, which sounds the alarm.

Buying A Carbon Monoxide Detector
Although all tested and approved carbon monoxide detectors are sufficient for detecting carbon monoxide, there are some key elements you should look for when buying one. Some carbon monoxide detectors are more sensitive to CO than others, meaning they will detect lower levels of CO than other, less sensitive carbon monoxide detectors.

What to Look For When Buying A Carbon Monoxide Detector
Choose a carbon monoxide detector that has been tested and approved. If you want a carbon monoxide detector that monitors low levels of CO, look for one that has a memory. If you are not diligent about checking and replacing batteries, a battery operated carbon monoxide detector is not right for you. Although they allow for more flexible placement, a plug-in carbon monoxide detector may be best.

After Buying A Carbon Monoxide Detector

• Never plug a CO detector into an outlet that is controlled by a switch.
• Test your CO detector once a week by pushing the device's button.
• Replace your CO detector every 5 years, unless the manufacturer recommends sooner.
• If the alarm sounds, evacuate your home and call 911 for assistance. Leave it to the professionals to determine the source of the CO.

Labels: carbon monoxide, detectors, home safety

Even if you can not make it to your polling location on Election Day, you can still vote in person thanks to Advance Voting. Advance Voting is available at five convenient locations throughout Forsyth County from Monday, October 27 through Friday, October 31. The hours of Advance Voting have been extended at four of these locations, for added convenience for voters.

Advance Voting Satellite Locations and New Extended Voting Hours
A. Forsyth County Public Safety Complex, 3520 Settingdown Rd.
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

B. Cumming Public Library, 585 Dahlonega Hwy.
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

C. Sharon Forks Public Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Rd.
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

D. Midway Park, 5100 Post Rd.
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

E. Forsyth County Administration Building, 110 E. Main Street, Suite 200
*8 a.m. to 4:30 pm ONLY*

To confirm your voter registration status and your voting precinct or to view your sample ballot online, visit the Voter Registrations and Elections Department page on the county Web site at www.forsythco.com and click "Am I Registered to Vote?". Call 770.781.2118 to receive additional information.

Labels: advance voting, election, forsyth county, general election, voter registration

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

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 5.875%
15-yr Fixed = 5.375%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000*
30-yr Fixed = 7.50%
5/1 ARM = 5.875%
7/1 ARM =6.00%

FHA Loans*
30-yr Fixed = Range 5.875% - 6.625%

*based on pricing as of 10/17/08. Subject to errors and omissions.

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

The 41st Annual Mountain Moonshine Festival will be held this weekend, October 25th & 26th, in Downtown Dawsonville from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily.

The Moonshine Festival explores Dawson County's history during the prohibition era when liquor was illegal and the Great Depression of the 1930's when running moonshine through the foothills of the Northeast Georgia Mountains was a way of life. Thousands of tourists flock to the birthplace of NASCAR racing to hear about storied legends, Lloyd Seay, Roy Hall, Raymond Parks, and Gober Sosebee. These men loved the thrill of being chased through the ridges of Northeast Georgia Mountains. Bring the family and visit an old Moonshine still; listen to stories from both "Trippers" and Revenuers.

On Saturday, crafts, food and entertainment will begin at 8:00 a.m. on the square in Dawsonville. The parade will then begin at 9:00 a.m. See a huge car show lining the streets, including vintage racecars and their drivers.

On Sunday, activities continue with music, dancers, kid’s games and rides, exhibits, crafts, food and cars, cars and more cars! Fun for the entire family.

Free Admission. All proceeds of festival go to help the needy children in Dawson County. Call Kare for Kids, Inc. of Dawson County at 706-216-5273 for complete information or visit www.kareforkids.us.

Labels: antique car show, arts and crafts, dawson county, dawsonville, kare for kids, mountain moonshine festival, parade

The Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department's first Artist Harvest will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 pm. at the Alpharetta Arts Center at Crabapple located at 12624 Broadwell Road.

Free activities include hands-on arts and crafts, face painting, caricatures, artist demos, games and more. Artwork created by students and staff will also be on display, with some pieces available for purchase.

Labels: Alpharetta, crabapple, first artist harvest, recreation and Parks

• Keep moisture out of the basement: Make sure water flow is kept away from the home. Gutters & downspouts need to be in good working order and clear of any debris to keep rainwater away from the base of the home. Also, invest in a dehumidifier for the basement. Make sure it's the right size for the space you are trying to cover.
• Furnaces need to be maintained. Watch for leaks, and update the unit if necessary.
• Install a weatherproof door between the garage and the home to keep gasoline and other odors away.
• Gas ranges should have a hood fan that exhausts outdoor air. And, if you're like me and burn things in the kitchen, make sure to open some windows to "air out" the house on those special occasions.
• Fuel burning appliances should be inspected annually to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Safety Tip: Invest in Carbon Monoxide Detectors...They're worth it!
  
• Leave interior doors between rooms open for better air cirulation.
• Make your home a "smoke free" environment.
• Keep the clutter to a minimum. This prevents dust from accumulating.
• Replace carpet with hard floor (wood, laminate, tile, etc...) and use area rugs that can be washed easily.
• Exhaust fans in bathrooms are good to get rid of the fumes from those harsh chemicals we tend to use when cleaning bathrooms.
• Clean often, but try and use "green" cleaning products.
• Inspect and insulate duct work in your attic.

Labels: basement, bathrooms, garage, Home, indoor air quality, tips

The November 4th General Election is only two weeks away. Whether you're planning to vote in advance, or on Election Day, it's always good to go into the booth prepared. Click on the following counties to view your Sample Ballot:

Forsyth County
Fulton County
Dawson County
Lumpkin County
Cherokee County

Labels: advance voting, cherokee, county, dawson, forsyth, fulton, general election, lumpkin, november 4, sample ballots, voting

Forsyth County government’s biennial surplus auction will be held Saturday, November 1, at 843 Canton Highway in Cumming. A wide variety of items will be available for bid including cars, trucks, buses, electronics, furniture and office equipment.

“The live auction gives local taxpayers and other buyers an opportunity to purchase items such as office equipment or vehicles at very reasonable prices,” Forsyth County Director of Fleet Services Avery Gravitt said.

The auction site will be open for preview of items on Friday, October 31 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and again on the day of the auction at 8 a.m., with bidding to begin at 9 a.m. The event will take place rain or shine. Concessions will be available.

Potential buyers must obtain a bidder’s number in order to participate in the auction. Acceptable methods of payment are cash, credit card (a 3% processing fee will apply for credit card purchases), cashier’s check and personal or company check (with a current bank letter of guarantee). Full payment must be made on the day of the auction and items should be removed from the auction site the day of the event, unless other arrangements are made. Gates will close at 4 p.m. All items are sold as is, with no warranties or guarantees.

Labels: forsyth county, surplus auction

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

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 6.125%
15-yr Fixed = 5.875%
5/1 ARM = 5.625%
7/1 ARM = 5.875%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000*
30-yr Fixed = 7.875%
5/1 ARM = 5.875%
7/1 ARM =6.00%

FHA Loans*
30-yr Fixed = Range 6.375% - 6.875%

*based on pricing as of 10/17/08. Subject to errors and omissions.

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

With the upcoming elections almost here, it is important to understand the two candidate's positions on helping the Homeownership Issue:

Comparing McCain's Plan and Obama's Plan.


John McCain will direct his Treasury Secretary to implement an American Homeownership Resurgence Plan (McCain Resurgence Plan) to keep families in their homes, avoid foreclosures, save failing neighborhoods, stabilize the housing market and attack the roots of our financial crisis. America's families are bearing a heavy burden from falling housing prices, mortgage delinquencies, foreclosures, and a weak economy. It is important that those families who have worked hard enough to finance homeownership not have that dream crushed under the weight of the wrong mortgage. The existing debts are too large compared to the value of housing. For those that cannot make payments, mortgages must be re-structured to put losses on the books and put homeowners in manageable mortgages.

The McCain Resurgence Plan would purchase mortgages directly from homeowners and mortgage servicers, and replace them with manageable, fixed-rate mortgages that will keep families in their homes. By purchasing the existing, failing mortgages the McCain resurgence plan will eliminate uncertainty over defaults, support the value of mortgage-backed derivatives and alleviate risks that are freezing financial markets.

The McCain resurgence plan would be available to mortgage holders that: Live in the home (primary residence only)

Can prove their creditworthiness at the time of the original loan (no falsifications and provided a down payment).The new mortgage would be an FHA-guaranteed fixed-rate mortgage at terms manageable for the homeowner. The direct cost of this plan would be roughly $300 billion because the purchase of mortgages would relieve homeowners of "negative equity" in some homes. Funds provided by Congress in recent financial market stabilization bill can be used for this purpose; indeed by stabilizing mortgages it will likely be possible to avoid some purposes previously assumed needed in that bill.

The plan could be implemented quickly as a result of the authorities provided in the stabilization bill, the recent housing bill, and the U.S. government's conservatorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. It may be necessary for Congress to raise the overall borrowing limit.




Obama and Biden will crack down on fraudulent brokers and lenders. They will also make sure homebuyers have honest and complete information about their mortgage options, and they will give a tax credit to all middle-class homeowners.

Create a Universal Mortgage Credit: Obama and Biden will create a 10 percent universal mortgage credit to provide homeowners who do not itemize tax relief. This credit will provide an average of $500 to 10 million homeowners, the majority of whom earn less than $50,000 per year.

Ensure More Accountability in the Subprime Mortgage Industry: Obama has been closely monitoring the subprime mortgage situation for years, and introduced comprehensive legislation over a year ago to fight mortgage fraud and protect consumers against abusive lending practices. Obama's STOP FRAUD Act provides the first federal definition of mortgage fraud, increases funding for federal and state law enforcement programs, creates new criminal penalties for mortgage professionals found guilty of fraud, and requires industry insiders to report suspicious activity.

Mandate Accurate Loan Disclosure: Obama and Biden will create a Homeowner Obligation Made Explicit (HOME) score, which will provide potential borrowers with a simplified, standardized borrower metric (similar to APR) for home mortgages. The HOME score will allow individuals to easily compare various mortgage products and understand the full cost of the loan.

Close Bankruptcy Loophole for Mortgage Companies: Obama and Biden will work to eliminate the provision that prevents bankruptcy courts from modifying an individual's mortgage payments. They believe that the subprime mortgage industry, which has engaged in dangerous and sometimes unscrupulous business practices, should not be shielded by outdated federal law.

If you have questions about your existing or future mortage, contact Covenant Mortgage. For assistance with selling or buying a home, contact our team at Vanderhoff Real Estate today.

Labels: fannie mae, FHA, freddie mac, homeownership, mccain, mortgage fraud, obama, resurgence plan

One of the largest exhibition organizers in North America, Marketplace Events, is proud to debut its new three-day home show to inspire and enthuse Atlanta homeowners. The Home Show at the Georgia International Convention Center, October 17-19, 2008, will feature a wide array of attractions and exhibits to entertain visitors and showcase hot new trends in home remodeling, interior décor and landscaping.

With hundreds of exhibitors, attendees will gain access to an amazing assortment of home remodeling products and services, and hear useful tips from nationally-known home improvement experts. A broad array of exhibitors from Atlanta’s dynamic southern suburbs will be on-hand– giving homeowners convenient access to the metro areas’ leading providers of home improvement solutions and hot new products.

The Home Show at the GICC has something for everyone— from lively demonstrations from The Junkmarket Girls to the excitement of the Ultimate Air Dogs show— Atlantans will find it all in one convenient location.

The Better Homes and Gardens® & Green Works™ Living Green Tour will feature a 2,500 sq. ft. Living Green Home outfitted with four functional and eco-friendly rooms. This is a great opportunity to test new green products, and find practical, easy solutions to help conserve energy, live healthier, and save money.

Ultimate Air Dogs – one of the premier canine dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs, will put on a free event featuring the incredible athleticism of our four-legged friends as they fly through the air in a spectacular, family-friendly, entertaining show.

The Home Show will feature:

The JUNKMARKET Girls – Go green at home by recycling, reusing and repurposing! Yes, even home décor can be green and stylish! JUNKMARKET's Sue Whitney and Kimberly Melamed are a creative duo garnering national attention for their ability to transform flea market finds into original items with flair. The Girls will teach visitors what to buy, what to avoid and how to use "junk" to create fabulous décor and unique furnishings to reflect one's personal style and taste.

Chip Wade, from HGTV’s “Designed to Sell” – Atlanta native Chip Wade will discuss how to do a whole-home makeover, and other ways to improve the value of your home.

Steve Whittle, from HGTV’s “Bad Bad Bath” and “Save My Bath” will share tips and information with attendees on how to live green today, tomorrow and in the future.

Celebrity Bird House Auction – Check out fun and fanciful bird houses designed by local celebrities and attractions. Successfully bid on these one-of-a kind creations designed by hometown favorites and bring home a new addition to your nest. Auction proceeds to benefit the Georgia Heartland Humane Society.

Free Advice! ‘Ask The Pros’ Financial Experts – Stressed by today’s challenging economical environment and looking for answers? Gain free advice from the area’s leading experts in helpful one-on-one discussions addressing issues such as how to make the most out of the investment in your home and other timely topics.

Enter for a Chance to Win Free Gas for a Decade! Stop by the Georgia Heartland Humane Society booth #343 and see if your driver’s license numbers make you a winner! ONE person may win $26,000! Plus there may be THREE $5,000 winners and TEN $500 winners!

SCAD Photography Exhibit & Competition - View and vote for your favorite photographs created by students at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

OTHER INFORMATION:

Dates/Times:

Friday, October 17: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 18: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday, October 19: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

For more information, such as a complete schedule of speakers and other show highlights, please visit www.ATLhomeshow.com.

Location:

Georgia International Convention Center
200 Convention Center Concourse
College Park, GA 30337

Admission: Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $3 for children 6-12, and FREE for those 5 or younger. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or save $2 by purchasing online at www.ATLhomeshow.com.

Labels: ATL Home Show, atlanta home show, decor, georgia international Convention Center, green house, hgtv

Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge will be hosting a different artist each fall weekend through Nov. 9. The artistic talent ranges from painting to pottery, and from calligraphy to hand carved bowls, with artists selling their products and demonstrating their skills.

David Little will be the featured artist during the third weekend in October. Although he has had artistic success in multiple artistic techniques, he is currently producing amazing hand-carved wooden bowls.

Mr. Little uses carefully selected native wood, traditional methods, and “re-claimed” wood to make unique and useful pieces of art. He will be in the Amicalola Falls State Park Lodge on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 19th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Amicalola Falls State Park helps you stretch your budget with a low-cost parking pass and free programming. In addition to the Visiting Artist, park guests are encouraged to take advantage of regular weekend programming that includes a variety of educational and entertaining wildlife programs highlighting snakes, mammals, or birds of prey. Bring a picnic to one of the park's picnic tables and grills, or visit the Maple Restaurant, located in the Lodge, which serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The $3 parking pass allows you to enjoy a day of art and adventure with your family. All artist demonstrations and public programs are free of charge. For more information, call the Programming Department at 706-265-1969 or check out the State Parks website at www.gastateparks.org.

Labels: amicalola falls, dahlonega, dawsonville, georgia state parks, lodge, october

The Alpharetta Electronic Recycling Day will be held this Saturday, October 18th from 9am - 1pm. Items will be accepted at the WM Alpharetta Transfer Station located at 11465 Maxwell Road in Alpharetta.

ITEMS ACCEPTED AT NO CHARGE:
Computer Monitors, Microwave Ovens, Computer CPU's, Stereos, Laptops, Copiers, Toaster Ovens, Printers, Video Machines, Disk Drives, VCR's, Floppy Drives, Camcorders, Modems, Telephones, Test & Networking Equipment, Cameras, CB Radios, Mouses, Record Players, CD Players, Circuit Boards, Portable Radios, Typewriters, UPS, Battery Back-Up, CD Roms, Fax Machines, Cell Phones, Cables, Projectors, Keyboards, 8-Tracks (Reel to Reel Tapes) & Scanners.

ITEMS ACCEPTED WITH A FEE:
There will be a $10 charge for each television.*
*Roswell residents can take TV’s to Roswell Recycling center for no charge.

NOT ACCEPTED:
Consoles, Projection TV's, Refrigerators, Washers, Dryers, Ovens, Freezers, Humidifiers, De-Humidifiers, Power Equipment, Tires, Household Trash, Non-Electric Equipment and Vacuum Cleaners.

Not enough time to get things together for this weekend? The next electronics recycling opportunity for Cumming in Forsyth County will be November 15th 2008 which is also America Recycles Day. Mark your calendar now and start collecting your old electronic equipment.

Labels: Alpharetta, cumming, electronics, forsyth county, recycling, roswell

Surviving Spouse Homestead: This $50,000 exemption applies to the state, county, municipal and school tax categories as defined in O.C.G.A. section 48-5-52.1. Any citizen who is the unremarried surviving spouse of a member of the U.S. armed forces killed in any war or conflict and receiving spousal benefits from the U.S.Department of Veteran's Affairs is eligible. Legal documentation is required.

Surviving Spouse of Firefighter or Police Officer Killed In Line Of Duty: This is a total exemption of property tax for unremarried surviving spouse of a Firefighter or Police Officer killed in the line of duty.

Labels: exemption, forsyth county property tax, homestead, surviving spouse

Mountain Moonshine Festival - Dawsonville: October 25-26

Gold Rush Days - Dahlonega: October 18-19

Georgia Apple Festival - Ellijay: October 11-12 & October 18-19

Georgia Sorghum Festival - Blairsville: October 11-12 & October 18-19

Octoberfest - Helen: September 11 - November 2nd

Georgia Mountain Fair - Hiawassee: October 10 - 19

For more festival information, visit www.HelloNorthGeorgia.com.

Labels: dahlonega, dawsonville, fairs, gold rush days, mountain moonshine festival, north georgia, september festivals

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

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under
30 Yr Fixed - 6.00%
30 Yr Fixed NO MI -
6.50% @ 95% LTV
6.375% @ 90% LTV
15 Yr Fixed - 5.75%

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Year Fixed - 7.50%
5/1 Arm - 6.00%
7/1 Arm - 6.25%

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 6.25% - 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, covenant mortgage, FHA, loans, mortgage rates, vanderhoff real estate

The 2008 Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay is being held this weekend, October 11th & 12th and next weekend, October 18th & 19th. The Ellijay Lions Club, the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce, the cities of Ellijay and East Ellijay, and Gilmer County invite everyone to come and enjoy the 37th year of the Georgia Apple Festival. There are over 300 vendors with handmade, hand-crafted items, as well as many on-site demonstrations of how selected types of crafts are made. This year promises many new crafts as well as favorites from past festivals. There is a parade and antique car show each year. The antique car show is held at the Civic Center on October 11th. The parade is on the second Saturday, October 18th and begins at 10 A.M.

For more information visit www.georgiaapplefestival.org. We'll see you there!

Labels: antique car show, apple orchards, arts and crafts, ellijay, georgia apple festival, gilmer, mountains, north georgia

Featured Listing: Pilgrim Lake Townhome at 1611 Indian Way, Cumming, GA 30040. This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath, charming, bright and open townhome is a great value at only $128,000. New carpet throughout. Each bedroom has its own private bath. Blinds throughout and ready to move in. Great deck in back for entertaining or relaxing. One car garage, plus a basement that can be finished for additional room or storage. Convenient location close to GA 400.

For more information and additional photos, click on the property address above, or visit www.VanderhoffRealEstate.com and go to our Featured Listings. If you would like to see this great townhome, please contact Vanderhoff Real Estate today!

Labels: GA 400, indian way, pilgrim lake, pilgrim mill, townhome, vanderhoff real estate

The Fulton County Board of Education unanimously approved a redistricting plan for North Fulton high school students next year which allows rising sophomores to remain at their current school. Previously, only rising juniors and seniors were availed that option under school system policy.

As with all hardship exemptions, students who opt to remain at their current school will be expected to provide their own transportation.

The new attendance lines will go into effect in August 2009 to accommodate the opening of the new high school in Johns Creek. The changes impact Alpharetta, Chattahoochee and Northview high schools.

Allowing rising 10th graders to remain at their current school will not cause significant enrollment changes, according to statistics from school staff. Chattahoochee High and the new Johns Creek high school site are expected to see 75 and 72 fewer students, respectively, than projected, while Northview's population will jump by 98 students; and Alpharetta High's numbers will go up 49 students.

The move to allow three grades of students to remain at their current school should satisfy many parents who were upset with the new district lines. Because of the proximity of the three schools to one another, staff was challenged to fill the new high school, balance attendance at all four schools while keeping neighborhoods intact.

For drafts of the new districts, as well as a form to submit comments about the redistricting, please click here.

Labels: Alpharetta, chattahoochee, high schools, johns creek, north fulton, northview, redistricting

State Tax Exemption: Homeowners who are 65 years of age on or before January 1 are eligible for total state tax exemption on the .25 mill collected for the State of Georgia. This exemption applies to your home and up to 10 Acres.

Disability Homestead: Forsyth County offers two local exemptions to disabled taxpayers. One exempts your home and three acres from the school portion of the tax bill. Gross Income cannot exceed $16,000. The other grants a $16,000 exemption against the county and fire portion of the millage rate. Gross Income cannot exceed $40,000.

There are no age limitations on the disability exemptions. The applicant must provide two (2) letters from physicians stating that the applicant is totally and permanently disabled, or one (1) letter from a physician and a copy of their disability statement from Social Security.

Disabled Veterans:
This exemption applies to all tax categories. Homeowners who are disabled veterans as defined in O.C.G.A. 48-5-48 are entitled to a $50,000 exemption on school and state taxes, and an $88,000 exemption on county and fire taxes. You must provide legally required documentation. This exemption extends to the unremarried surviving spouse or minor children at the time of the applicant's death, provided they continue to occupy the home as a residence and homestead.

Labels: disability homestead, disabled veterans, forsyth county property tax, state tax exemption

The Cumming Country Fair & Festival kicked off on Thursday with Free Admission sponsored by Northside Forsyth. Great weather & great concerts continued through the weekend with performances by Aaron Tippin, Matt Daryl & Chase Mitchell. The week ahead is also set for such great acts as Need To Breathe on Wednesday which is also Fish Family Fun Day. For a complete list of specials, concerts, rides & exhibits now through closing day on Sunday, October 12th, visit www.cummingfair.net. See you there!

Labels: cumming country fair and festival, Cumming Fairgrounds

The 2008 Georgia Exemption for Specific Energy & Water Efficient Products ends tomorrow. The Sales Tax Holiday began Thursday, October 2nd and runs through Sunday, October 5th. This Fall Sales Tax Holiday provides for an exemption for specific energy efficient products purchased during the stated time period. The exemption is limited to products with a purchase price of $1,500 or less that have been designated as meeting requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy Energy Star programs.

For updates and additional information about the Georgia Summer and Fall Sales Tax Holidays, including details about tax exempt and taxable items, visit: the Georgia Department of Revenue Web Site.

Labels: energy efficient, energy star, EPA, sales tax holiday, water efficient

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 - 5.625%


Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000
30 Yr Fixed - 7.375%
5/1 Arm - 5.875

FHA Rates
30-yr Fixed = Range 6.00% - 6.75%

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

With fall quickly approaching, there are several things to look forward to: cooler weather, the change in the leaves and, of course, art festivals. Milton is excitedly gearing up for this year’s Crossroads at Crabapple Antique and Art Festival. Held on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 9:00 A.M. 'til 5:00 P.M., the festival will once again take place at Crabapple Crossroads in the historic downtown Crabapple.Mark your calendars for this annual event, which will feature more than 50 American country antique dealers from eight states, more than 50 juried artists, roaming musicians and much more. Parking and admission is free.

Make a day of it by visiting all the booths and grabbing some lunch. A variety of food will be available for purchase. You won’t want to miss this wonderful opportunity to spend time with family and friends and find unique treasures.

The Historic community of Crabapple is located 5 miles North of Roswell and 3 miles West of Alpharetta.

Labels: Alpharetta, Antiques, art festival, city of milton, crossroads at crabapple, roswell

Additonal Forsyth County Property Tax Exemptions:

Total School Tax Homestead Exemption: Homeowners who are 65 years of age on or before January 1 are entitled to a full exemption in the school general and school bond tax categories. You must furnish proof of age when you apply.

Other School Tax Homestead Exemptions: Homeowners who are 62 years of age on or before January 1 may be eligible for school tax exemptions that are based on income. Local legislation grants school tax exemption on your home and 3 acres, or $20,000, whichever is greater. Gross income from the entire household cannot exceed $16,000. State law grants a $10,000 school tax exemption against the school portion of the millage rate, provided that your Net Income is $10,000 or less.

Double Homestead: Homeowners who are 65 years of age on or before January 1 may be eligible for a double ($16,000) homestead exemption. To qualify, the Gross Income from all sources in the houselhold cannot exceed $40,000.

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