Wrap yourself in romance in this exquisitely renovated and expanded 3-bedroom, 3-bath 1920 Craftsman with period architectural details throughout. This home is nestled on a quaint Candler Park street, just steps to parks, numerous boutiques, shops and eateries. It features 10-foot ceilings, flawless designer finishes, moulding and millwork and gleaming hardwood floors. The oversized living room leads to a formal dining room and chef's kitchen. A screened porch and an enchanting, professionally landscaped private backyard and brick patio offer a great urban escape.
Open Saturday, April 28, from 2-4 p.m. and Sunday, April 29, noon-2 p.m.

New record-low mortgage rates are helping  keep homebuyer affordability high,
according to a Freddie Mac survey.
 The average for the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has been below 4.00 percent
for six consecutive weeks, according to the recently released Primary Mortgage
Market Survey®.
 The survey concluded that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage
averaged 3.89 percent, with an average 0.7 point for the week ending January 12,
2012.  Last year at this time, the average 30-year fixed was 4.71 percent.


For more information, please visit www.FreddieMac.com 

One of the many ways real estate transactions have changed significantly is in the number of properties being auctioned.  I'm not referring to the auctions on the courthouse steps, but the numerous for-profit auction companies that are helping unload a massive housing inventory across the country.

This particular method is definitely not for the faint of heart, as the risks, pitfalls and fine print is nothing short of astounding.  But for those willing to take the risk, there can be -- and should be -- a significant reward.

For me, my mind really started turning when a client of mine decided not to pursue a property that was set for auction Nov. 14th.  And after considerable research, there I was wielding a bright yellow auction card in the driveway of a Dekalb County home.  About twenty others were there, and an unknown number did their bidding online. 

After all, it's hard to resist the lure of a $1,000 opening bid.  But the reality is that unless you devote massive amounts of time and energy and have access to discounted repair services, you probably won't be going home a winner.  Six properties found new owners that chilly morning (subject to seller approval).  I do wonder how many walked away thinking they won, only to be told later that they didn't.  I did bid -- just not enough.  But that's OK.  I offered what the property was worth to me and left with my head high.  And I'm really glad to have experienced this side of real estate.  If you're curious, the winning bids ranged from $17,000 - $166,000 + auction fees.

Come see this FANTASTIC opportunity.  Open Nov. 13th from 2-5 p.m. - 2947 Westminster Circle 30327. Beautiful brick ranch on a finished, full daylight basement.  Three beds and 2.5 baths on the main level with one bed and one bath on the lower level that offers interior and exterior entry to the house.  It would make a great In-law or au paire suite.  Quiet neighborhood surrounded by lush landscaping and million dollar homes. 678-595-4448.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret.  It's called East Lake.  It's the perfect neighborhood for those who enjoy what the City of Decatur has to offer as far as walkability and great restaurants and shops without the taxes.  Take a drive through Oakhurst Village.  If you're hungry, stop and have what I think are the best bugers in town at the Universal Joint.  Head east on E. Lake Road and turn left on Pharr Road.  Funny thing is that the houses on the left side are paying City of Decatur taxes, while those on the right pay a lot less because that is where the border between the City of Atlanta and City of Decatur was drawn.  I call it the BEST of BOTH WORLDS.  I also have called it home since 1999.

You simply must Google the Drew Charter School, which is about to expand to include preschool and high school.

You simply must park your car, walk around and talk to the people who live here and absolutely love it.

You simply must envision yourself not sitting in Atlanta rush hour traffic.  East Lake is 15 minutes from Downtown Atlanta and it has free parking at the MARTA train station at the corner of College Ave. and East Lake Road.

You simply must get out and enjoy all the surrounding neighborhoods: Decatur Square, Candler Park, Inman Park, Cabbagetown, Little 5 Points and Avondale Estates.

You simply must check out the local farmer's markets as well as the Dekalb Farmer's Market on E. Ponce de Leon.

Following these steps could be a game-changer . . . a life changer.  It was for me, and I couldn't be happier.

In the mood for something different? Tired of Cookie-Cutter Homes?  Check out this MUST SEE renovation nestled among the trees on a double lot.  Four bedrooms, three and a half baths with attached 2-car garage and the kitchen of your dreams.