Brookhaven and Beyond

Whether you’re super pumped for Sunday’s big game, or you’re like me, and aren’t even completely sure who’s playing, you’re probably still going to a Super Bowl Party.   This article has some great tips on how to host a game day party for FREE!

Enjoy!

It’s been a crazy busy fall this year, work-wise and otherwise!  Some new openings have happened in the Brookhaven area-Costco finally opened their doors, along with Egg’s nest boutique at Village Place Brookhaven.   Add Kaleidoscope Bistro and Pub’s upcoming opening, and Brookhaven is finally getting the buzz it deserves!

There’s never been a better time to invest in real estate in the Brookhaven/Chamblee areas! Prices are low, interest rates are low, and a ton of new development is on it’s way….let me know how I can help you find that perfect new home.

If you’re thinking about making some improvements to your home, read this article first!   I have definitely found this list to be true in working with buyers and sellers.

What do you think?

1.   Basically in Buckhead without the traffic.

2.  Perfect location for anywhere you want to go-midtown, downtown, or even out of town.

4.   Village Place & Village Park, home to fantastic restaurants like Haven, Verde, Valenza, and J.Christopher.

5.   Shops like Cocktails and Canvas, Davonshire, and the Mercantile

6.   Our own local  coffee shop, Library Coffee!

7.   Walk to Yoforia for an afternoon treat.

8.   Ashford Park itself.   Large, kid-friendly, tennis courts, and a clubhouse.  

9.   Movie nights in the park.

10.  Fun local events like the Chamblee Farmer’s Market!

Per Scott Meldrum and Kim Nehiley of Brayden Capital Home Loans:

FHA will INCREASE their monthly MORTGAGE INSURANCE PREMIUM on October 4th!  What does this mean, exactly?

HIGHER monthly mortgage insurance means increased payments “ which will lessen the amount of home a borrower will qualify for and feel comfortable with the payment.

Get off the fence before the FHA changes on October 4th!   You have just over 30 days to target a home and be under contract, and I am just the realtor to make it happen!

It’s getting so busy out there, and I have two great new listings to prove it!

746 N Highland, Atlanta Priced at $235,000 This meticulously maintained unit is in an amazing Virginia Highland location!   This 2 bedroom, 1 bath home boasts an updated kitchen and bath, granite countertops, travertine tile & original heart pine flooring, French doors, private patio, and deeded parking.   It shows impeccably, and there is tons of period detail, sure to charm even the most discerning buyer!   Just steps away from shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.   Don’t miss this fantastic buy in Atlanta’s most walkable neighborhood!

2587 Paul Avenue, Atlanta 30318 Priced at $175,000 Updated newer construction home in popular Riverside location!   Spacious and open, this home boasts upgraded baths  and kitchen with cherry cabinetry.   Hardwood floors downstairs, and carpet in the bedrooms for a cozy feel. Fabulous deck for entertaining, plus garage parking and a laundry room.   Priced to sell!

Last Saturday, I went to the Chamblee Farmer’s Market for the first time!   Although it’s still on the small side, it had some fabulous options!   There was a chef’s demo at 9am, which seemed really popular with everyone there.   If you love fresh produce and a fun environment on a Saturday morning, I highly suggest hitting it up this Saturday.   You’ll be glad you did!

For directions, hours, and a vendor list, visit the website.

Courtesy of Kim Nehiley & Scott Meldrum of Brayden Capital Home Loans

1.             What is the difference between a regular 203K and a streamline 203K?

Streamline “ between 5K and 35K with no structural changes to the property  

Regular “ greater than 35K and / or structural changes to the property

2.             Is the borrower allowed to perform the work to the home?

Yes but very difficult to get approved and must be minor work or work that the borrower has a license to perform if it is major work.

3.             Is the house appraised œAs is or with work completed?

The house is appraised taking repairs / rehab into consideration of the value.

4.             How long do you have to complete the work?

Up to 6 months.

5.             It the rate higher on a 203K than a regular FHA loan?

Yes.   Anywhere from  .5% to 1% higher in rates.

6.             Is it harder to qualify for a 203K than a regular FHA loan?

It can be.   But that can be compensated by the borrower™s income, credit & assets.  

7.             Are the 203K limited to single family residences?

No.   The program can be used for owner occupied 1-4 unit dwellings and condos.

8.             How does the contractor get paid?

The contractor gets paid through Brayden Capital™s escrow department.   They are allowed 2 to 5 draws depending on the cost of the rehab.

9.             What type of out-of-pocket expenses should the buyer be prepared to pay?

There is a home inspection or an FHA consultant fee to determine the scope of the work.   The cost varies from $300 to $1,000.  

10.        How long does it take to close and receive the first draw?

We need 30 days to close and it will take up to one to two weeks after closing to receive the first draw.

This month, Village Place Brookhaven has celebrated the openings of Cocktails & Canvas AND Yoforia!   I recently went up to Cocktails & Canvas for a girls night, and it was a blast!   The idea is to paint a canvas, while receiving instruction from a teacher.   Not being particularly artistic, I was excited that my painting turned out reasonably close to the instructor’s version!

I highly recommend grabbing some friends and checking it out!   While you’re at it,  make a quick stop for dessert at Yoforia!   This fabulous self-serve  frozen yogurt spot is THE place to be in Brookhaven….I haven’t been there when I haven’t seen at least 5 people  I know!  

Finally, I hear that Noche  is opening at Town Brookhaven next March!   For those of us (and by “us,” I mean “me”), who LOVE tapas, Noche  will be a fabulous addition to the area!   If you haven’t tried it before, go check out their  Virginia Highland or Vinings  locations.   You won’t regret it!   For more info, click here.  

Cocktails &  Canvas joins a host of other merchants in the Village Place Brookhaven development. This mixed-use development only continues to grow in popularity, and Cocktails & Canvas is a fabulous addition to the area!   Bring your friends, your favorite drinks and snacks, and  take a painting class  for 2-3 hours.   Check out their website for more details and FAQs.