In this lively and informative episode of Georgia Living, Chris and Céline Evans explore major topics impacting Metro Atlanta, with a special focus on community development, sustainable living, and family updates. Here’s what we covered:

Highlights

• Family DIY Projects

  • Updates on home improvement adventures, including painting, stair banister upgrades, and energy-saving window films.
  • Discussion about the charm of older homes and balancing sustainability with preservation.

• Greenhouse Development in Marietta

  • Beazer Homes’ groundbreaking 591-home community featuring townhomes, ranch-style homes, and zero-energy-ready houses.
  • The preservation of unique site features like a historic cemetery and a lake, along with pocket parks and trails.

• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

  • A hot local debate about adding secondary housing units in Cobb County.
  • Pros: Housing affordability and multi-generational living solutions.
  • Cons: Potential impact on neighborhood character, parking, and infrastructure.

• Cobb County Stormwater Projects

  • $3 million allocated to stormwater system improvements, using federal COVID relief funds.
  • The significance of upgrading aging infrastructure after the floods of 2021.

• Affordable Housing Challenges in Atlanta

  • Centennial Yards’ decision to pay fees instead of building affordable units sparks criticism.
  • Discussion on whether inclusionary zoning policies need reform to better serve community needs.

• Mixed-Use Districts & Campus 244 in Dunwoody

  • How projects like Campus 244 are reshaping suburban landscapes with live-work-play models.
  • Pros and cons of urbanization in traditionally suburban areas.

• HGTV Smart Home in Marietta

  • Chris’ tour of the HGTV Smart Home, a tech-forward renovation blending charm with modern convenience.
  • Features like remote-controlled curtains, vertically adjustable wardrobes, and Samsung Frame TVs.

• Would you live in a zero-energy-ready community like Greenhouse?
• What’s your stance on ADUs in suburban neighborhoods?
• Should developers be allowed to pay fees instead of providing affordable housing?
• How do you feel about mixed-use developments in the suburbs?

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We’ll dive into the holiday season with local events, home decorating tips, and a special guest from the East Cobb community.

Thank you for joining Georgia Living! Don’t forget to leave us a review and share the podcast with your network. Until next time, stay connected, stay curious, and always stay Georgia.

Chris and Céline return with updates on local events, election news, and essential home maintenance tasks to prepare for the winter season. From Veterans Day preparations in Roswell and Marietta to practical advice for maintaining your home’s warmth and efficiency, this episode dives into community events and tips to get ready for the colder months.

Highlights:

1. Veterans Day in Roswell and Marietta:
   • Chris and Céline share their involvement in local Veterans Day events, including a flag sponsorship at Roswell City Hall and their plans to join the Daughters of the American Revolution float in Marietta Square.
2. Election Day in Georgia:
   • Chris and Celine discuss the latest absentee ballot updates and high voter turnout in Cobb County, emphasizing the importance of making informed voting decisions.
3. Local Wildlife Conservation:
   • Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources recently downgraded the red-cockaded woodpecker from endangered to threatened, marking a major win for conservation efforts in Georgia.
4. Winter Home Maintenance Tips:
   • Essential seasonal tips to prepare for winter, including:
     • Regular HVAC filter changes
     • Weather-stripping doors and windows to reduce drafts
     • Reversing ceiling fans for winter mode
     • Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
     • Cleaning gutters and dryer lint traps
     • Scheduling chimney and fireplace cleanings for safe winter use.
5. Atlanta Real Estate Market Update:
   • Chris provides insights on inventory trends, including a 50% increase in available homes compared to last year and potential benefits for buyers due to slower market activity in the winter months.
   • Discusses home pricing stability and the impact of winter holidays on real estate transactions, noting how buyers can find favorable deals during the season.
6. Planning for a Move:
   • Advice on timing a sale or purchase with the market's seasonal trends, including how sellers and buyers can leverage lower January prices.

Mentioned Resources:

• From the Ground Up: How Two Millennial High School Sweethearts Created a Multi-million Dollar Real Estate Investment Portfolio from Scratch, and You Can, Too - Chris and Celine's book on real estate investment, available on Amazon and Audible.
• FTGU Guides - Annual Maintenance Checklist

Join Chris and Céline as they bring an exciting Town Hall episode. This week, they’re joined by special guests Reid Moore, a commercial real estate expert with TOA Commercial, and Rob Doerr, a trusted lender with E Home Loan Advisors. They dive into everything from local happenings and community updates to sharing some of the most spine-tingling "real estate nightmares" just in time for Halloween!

00:00 – Introduction & Life Recap
Chris and Céline recap their past week, which was full of seasonal events: pumpkin picking, chaperoning school events, and attending Pope High School’s homecoming game. They share their appreciation for the vibrant community spirit and local activities leading up to Halloween.

05:00 – Spotlight on Canton, GA with Reid Moore
Chris and Céline introduce Reid Moore, who talks about his journey growing up in Georgia, his commercial real estate career, and his passion for outdoor life in Canton. Reid shares insights into Canton’s growth, the local real estate market trends, and his love for community-centered green spaces and small businesses.

15:00 – The Mortgage Minute with Rob Doerr
Rob provides an update on current mortgage rates, some practical advice on refinancing strategies, and how recent trends impact homebuyers. He also discusses rate locks and how adjusting homeowners' insurance could offer savings. Plus, tips on whether to pay points on a loan if refinancing in the near future.

20:00 – Real Estate Nightmares
Just in time for Halloween, Chris, Céline, Reid, and Rob share eerie and unsettling real estate experiences:

• Haunted Houses: Reid recalls chilling encounters with a haunted rental property and other strange happenings.
• Strange Discoveries: Chris recounts a shocking story of a property linked to a notorious news event.
• Buyer Blunders: Rob shares a cautionary tale of a buyer who spent their down payment right before closing.

35:00 – Commercial Real Estate Insights
Reid explains some challenges in commercial real estate, such as properties with “dark leases” and the difficulties of leasing to specific tenant types. He discusses how these situations differ from residential real estate and the importance of matching the right tenant with the property.

45:00 – Natural Disasters and Real Estate Recovery
Reid shares his recent volunteer work in North Carolina, where he helped rebuild communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. He discusses the importance of resilience and support in times of crisis and how natural disasters can significantly impact real estate and local economies.

• Céline’s Event Recap: A busy week in the Evans household as they engage with community events and fall festivities.
• Haunted House Stories: From strange puddles to items mysteriously moving, spooky tales abound in Georgia real estate.
• Real Estate Nightmares: Laughs and lessons about the challenges that both buyers and agents face in unusual situations.
• Community & Giving Back: Reid’s commitment to helping hurricane-stricken communities highlights the importance of neighbors helping neighbors.

Tune in for details on upcoming community events in Canton, Woodstock, and Marietta. Whether it’s live music, food festivals, or family-friendly outdoor events, there’s something for everyone this season!

Listen and Subscribe:
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Explore more about Canton, Georgia, and the North Metro Atlanta area with every episode, covering local events, community highlights, and real estate trends tailored for you. Visit SellectRealty.com for additional resources and guest information.

🎙 Welcome to the Georgia Living Podcast!
In this cozy fall episode, Chris and Céline are excited to chat about Georgia's unpredictable weather, the joys of seasonal changes, and the upcoming fall festivities 🎃🍂. They also share tips on surviving asynchronous school days and provide helpful real estate advice as the winter market approaches 🏡.

Seasonal Changes and Local Events

• The first 45-degree day is here, and Chris breaks out his Cape Cod hoodie 🧥—but is it "fake fall"?
• Georgia’s weather can be tricky! Enjoy the cooler days now, as warm temperatures are coming back next week ☀️.
• Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss:
  • 🕯️ Life in the Cemetery (Kennesaw City Cemetery), October 25-27
  • 🎃 Acworth’s "Safer Win" Halloween Event, October 31
  • 🌽 Scarecrows on Main (Downtown Woodstock), all of October
  • 🍁 Marietta Harvest Fest and Scarecrows in the Square, October 19

Family Time and Asynchronous School Days

• Balancing work and family during Cobb County's half days and asynchronous learning is no small feat! Céline shares her meditation techniques for staying calm in the chaos 🧘‍♀️.
• Funny family moments, like playing music loud to cover up sibling squabbles 🎶, add some light to the hectic days. Parents, you're not alone—hang in there! 💪

🏡 Real Estate Updates and Tips

• Winter Market Insights: While the real estate market typically slows down during the winter, there are still opportunities for sellers and buyers alike. Chris shares key strategies for pricing homes during the colder months ❄️.
• Seller Tips: Make sure your home is clean, smells fresh, and has cozy vibes when showing it to potential buyers! Especially if you have pets 🐾—presentation is everything.
• Avoid "Chasing the Bottom": Chris explains how to avoid pricing mistakes in a declining market and the importance of staying ahead of the curve 📉.

Community Vibes

• Georgia's small-town charm comes alive in October! From historical tours to community scarecrow contests, there's something for everyone this fall 👻🍂.
• Enjoy events like Acworth's Halloween Jamboree or the local tradition of Scarecrows on Main. Céline reflects on how lucky we are to be in such a tight-knit community 🏘️.

• 🕯️ Life in the Cemetery (Kennesaw City Cemetery) – October 25-27
• 🎃 Acworth’s Safer Win Event – October 31
• 🍂 Marietta Harvest Fest – October 19

Chris and Céline discuss exciting real estate opportunities, including a potential investment portfolio coming to market in early 2025. Thinking about buying or selling? Reach out to Sellect Realty for guidance! 💼📞

Ready to find your dream home or need help selling your property? Visit SellectRealty.com for all your home search needs, or give us a call at 770-509-0265 to speak directly with our team. We're here to guide you every step of the way! 🏡🔑

Thanks for Tuning In!
We hope you enjoyed this week's episode! 🎧 Join us next week for more local events and real estate tips to help you make the most of living in Georgia. Stay connected with us through social media or visit our website for updates. Until next time! 👋

🍂 Welcome to fall in Georgia! In this episode of Georgia Living, Chris and Celine are diving into the season with a lineup of exciting fall festivals and a community spotlight on the charming town of Blue Ridge. From apple picking to cozy cabins, there’s so much to explore this October!

We kick off by chatting about some amazing upcoming events, including the Ellijay Apple Festival, Helen’s Oktoberfest, and Gold Rush Days in Dahlonega. Whether you’re craving cider donuts or want to experience Georgia’s autumn magic, we’ve got you covered.

Plus, Celine shares her experience of making homemade apple pies 🍏🥧—if you're feeling inspired, you'll find a recipe linked below! Here's a link to a similar recipe. I couldn't convince her to share her secret ingredient.

🌲 In our community spotlight, we highlight Blue Ridge, Georgia, a perfect getaway for leaf-peeping, scenic railway rides, and sipping local wines 🍷. Blue Ridge is a treasure trove of outdoor activities, charming shops, and peaceful trails. Looking for a guide to make the most of your visit? Check out our guide here!

🏡 Real Estate Corner: If you're thinking about selling your home this fall, Chris offers some super helpful home staging tips—from virtual staging tricks to simple ways to freshen up your space using what you already have. Making your home feel cozy and inviting this season can make all the difference!

✨ Show Notes:

• Ellijay Apple Festival (Oct 12-13 & 19-20): 🍎 Apple picking, arts & crafts, and tasty treats. More info...
• Helen’s Oktoberfest (Sept 5-Oct 27): 🇩🇪 Enjoy pretzels, polka, and beer in this long-running German celebration! More info...
• Gold Rush Days Festival (Oct 19-20): Celebrate Dahlonega’s 1828 gold discovery with over 200 vendors and live entertainment. 🎨🎶 More info...
• Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (Oct 11-13 & 17-19): Country music, carnival rides, and family fun at the Blue Ridge Fairgrounds. 🎡🎶 More info...
• Spotlight on Blue Ridge: 🍁 Hike, sip, and relax—find your perfect fall adventure in Blue Ridge! See our guide here...
• Real Estate Tips: Get your home fall-ready with expert staging tips from Chris 🏡✨, whether you’re using virtual staging or keeping it simple with DIY touches.

🙏 Special Thanks:
Our hearts are with those affected by Hurricane Helene. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, FEMA is accepting applications for emergency relief. FEMA Disaster Assistance

Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to subscribe to Georgia Living on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 🎧

In this episode of Georgia Living, Chris Evans takes the mic solo as Céline is away 🤗. He dives into several key topics relevant to homeowners 🏡, real estate agents, and the Metro Atlanta community. The main focus is on the growing issue of land fraud, with tips on how to protect your property 🛡️. Chris also shares a September market update, reviewing the latest data for Cobb County and surrounding areas 📈.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Local Community Events 🎉:

• Acworth Farmers Market: October 4, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., at 4405 Cherokee St., Acworth, GA.
• Holy Trinity Lutheran Octoberfest: October 4, 2292 Sandy Plains Rd, Marietta, GA.
• Smith Gilbert Gardens Imagination Stations: Kennesaw, GA, ongoing through the week.
• Powers Ferry Corridor Alliance Cleanup: October 4, 1310 Powers Ferry Rd., Marietta, GA.
• First Friday Concert Series: October 4, downtown Kennesaw, GA.
• Movie in the Park - East Cobb Park: October 4, 7–9 p.m., featuring Kung Fu Panda 4 🐼🥋.
• Taste of Acworth: October 12, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., downtown Acworth, GA.

2. Land Fraud in Real Estate 🏠⚠️:

• Chris talks about the rise in fraudulent land sales in Metro Atlanta 🚨, explaining how scammers are pretending to be property owners to sell land without the real owner's knowledge.
• Helpful tips include setting up Google alerts for your property 🖥️🔔 and registering with GSCCCA to receive notifications if any legal documents are filed in your name 📝.

3. Disaster Relief for Georgia Real Estate Agents 🌀:

• Support for agents affected by Hurricane Helene. Chris highlights grants available through the Georgia Association of Realtors 🌟.

4. September Market Update 📊:

• New data for September 2024 shows a 3.5% increase in median home sales prices 🏡💰.
• Chris breaks down inventory levels 📦, marketing times ⏳, and the impact of interest rates 📉.
• Cobb County’s market is outperforming the rest of Metro Atlanta, with rising prices and more homes available 🚀.

5. Practical Advice for Homeowners & Buyers 💡:

• With fraud on the rise, Chris advises property owners, especially those with paid-off land, to take steps to protect their assets 🏞️🔐.
• He also talks about how the new compensation rules in real estate will affect both buyers and sellers, urging transparency and smart negotiations 🤝.

6. Shout-Outs & Community Support 🙌:

• Special shout-out to Ryan Swails from Country Financial for organizing a supply drive for hurricane-affected areas 🛒🌀.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Georgia is huge when it comes to real estate fraud. We are a fast-growing market, which means we are a target market 🎯."
• "If you're a seller thinking you can skip paying a commission, remember: everything is up for negotiation 💼."

Upcoming Events & Sneak Peek 👀:

• Tune in next week as Céline returns to the podcast 🎙️. Chris teases a fun segment where Céline shares her apple pie-making adventure 🍏🥧 after picking Granny Smith apples in Ellijay.

Links & Resources 🔗:

• GSCCCA (Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority) website: gsccca.org
• More about local events: sellectrealty.com
• NAR’s 2023 Vacant Land Scams Tips for Real Estate Agents: Link (PDF available in show notes)

Be sure to subscribe ✨, share 📢, and stay tuned for more real estate insights and community updates here on Georgia Living! 😊