N. Atlanta Real Estate Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Your North Atlanta, Georgia Real Estate Specialists focusing on the communities of Alpharetta, Cumming, Milton, Roswell, Johns Creek and more.

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ANOTHER #HOMESOLD!

Congratulations to our #Sellers and to our Listing Agent, Susan Jennings on the sale of this amazing home in #LakeAstoria.

The NEW #homeowners are thrilled with these features - wooded views + manicured grounds + fenced-in backyard w/heated Pool + Spa & Fire Pit + fireside Keeping Rm + 12 person Dining Rm + well-appointed gourmet Kitchen w/SS appliances & cream colored cabinets + Finished Terrace Level is an entertainers dream w/Theatre Rm., Rec Rms. & full Bar.

Learn how we got this home #SOLD in less than 2 months! -

http://bit.ly/SellMyCurrentHouse

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

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Amazing 4 bedroom home with wooded views and finished terrace level in the Cambridge HS District.

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Sought After Johns Creek Home Available NOW!

This perfect family home boasts one of the largest floor plans in the subdivision of the Reserve at Foxdale. 

Complete with four bedrooms and two and a half baths on a slab, the home sits on a private and wooded cul-de-sac lot. Stroll through the home and you will notice the glorious walnut colored hardwood floors and neutral and stylish painted walls.

Highlights include an open floor plan, dining room that seats 12 and an office/den with french doors.  Cook up family favorites in the Chefs kitchen featuring granite counter tops, stone back splash, stainless appliances, brand new stove/oven and dishwasher, island, desk/work station, and an abundance of cabinets. 

Children who live here will attend the following schools: Wilson Creek Elementary, River Trail Middle School and Northview High School. 

Located at 6550 Stapleford Lane in Johns Creek, Georgia is offered at $339,000.

The community of the Reserve at Roxdale is home to 252 homes that includes a Homeowners Association, sidewalks, Club House, Pool, and Tennis Courts. 

Just 30 minutes north of Atlanta, Johns Creek has an a lively town center and a vibrant business community. According to Money Magazine, Johns Creek is the 13th highest-earning city in the United States.  

Additional photos of Stapleford Lane - click HERE! 

This home is presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30005 - northatlantaluxury.com

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Historic Marietta Brick Home

This impressive home, located at 584 Cherokee Street, is minutes to the Marietta Square.

The property sits on a large level lot with shade trees and offers wonderful privacy. Light oak colored hardwood floors flow throughout the home. Highlights include three bedrooms, three and a half baths, sun room with gorgeous tile flooring, large family room with exposed beams, office, living room, master suite with cozy fireplace, and a peaceful screened porch for morning coffee. The terrace level provides great storage and garage space for four cars completes this home. Homeowners will find the location convenient to dining, shopping, Kennesaw Mountain & access to Highway 75.

Children who live in this home will attend the following schools: 

West Side Elementary, Marietta Middle and Marietta High School.

The home is offered at $414,900.

The Marietta Square is in the heart of Marietta. The area feels like a Victorian Square complete with colorful landscaping, unique shops, antiques, restaurants, museums and theatres. Kids love the playground or making wishes in the three-tier fountain. Here residents and visitors enjoy concerts, festivals, special events and more.

Marietta, Georgia is located 15 miles north of Atlanta and is one of Georgia's most popular cities.

The National Civic League judged Marietta as one of the 10 best communities in the nation as a 2006 All-America City, the oldest and most-respected community recognition award in the country. And CNN Money.com named Marietta one of the top 25 places in the United States to retire in 2011.

This home is presented by

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

[mevhomes]

Johns Creek Townhome For Sale

4647 Fountain Bleau Ct, Alpharetta, Georgia 30022 is a  former Model Home!  Offered at $351,000!

This brick Townhome sits in The Fountains at Kimball Bridge, a small prestigious community in Johns Creek, Georgia. The open floor plan encompasses upscale features, 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 1/2 bathrooms, and a bright and stylish kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances that overlooks the family room.

Hardwood floors flow throughout the main level of the home that includes a main level bedroom and access to a covered backyard patio with fenced in yard. Garage has potential of becoming additional room. Access to Ga. Hwy. 400, schools and shopping.

Johns Creek is a friendly, residential community that becomes the residents' hometown. Johns Creek residents have easy movement within the city and enjoy a range of choices for their leisure time. Johns Creek, just 30 minutes north of Atlanta,  has an alive town center and a vibrant business community. According to Money Magazine, Johns Creek is the 13th highest-earning city in the United States. Stroll through the community and the subdivisions and you will see why Johns Creek is called home to many families.

Take a TOUR TODAY OF THIS PROPERTY

Presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty, North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

[mevhomes]

Vanaken Team Assists Family with Sale & Purchase of Home

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Assists Private School Headmaster With Sale and Purchase of Home

The property on Dawn Valley Trail is located in the Cumming, Georgia, neighborhood of Thorngate. The homeowners were looking to sell quickly in order to move into a larger home in the South Forsyth County community of Long Lake. The family's desire was to shorten their commute to their children's private school where the husband is the schools Headmaster.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team listed the property for $324,900 and sold it for $317,000 to a young family who had been transferred to the area.

This charming, two story home with relaxing rocking chair front porch provides a generous open floor plan. Located close to the Greenway Trail, the home features four bedrooms,  two and a half baths, an inviting kitchen with granite countertops, a main level office, & stylish light fixtures throughout. The new homeowners love the private backyard views from the new, expanded deck. The home is complete with a spacious partially finished basement leading to a screened-in porch, large patio, & fenced-in backyard.

Children who live in Thorngate attend the following schools: Kelly Mill Elementary, Otwell Middle and Forsyth Central High School.

Thorngate amenities include a Homeowners Association, clubhouse, Playground, Swimming Pool, and lighted Tennis courts.

The community of Thorngate is located in Forsyth County Georgia at the cross roads of Bethelview and and Kelly Mill Roads.

The Thornate sellers purchased and moved to their new home in the popular community of Long Lake. 

Located off Peachtree Parkway, the location offers low Forsyth County taxes, wonderful schools and the convenience to great shopping, parks and Georgia Highway 400.  Long Lake homes are priced approximately between $350K to $469k with square footages from 2,000 to 4,000. Many of the homes have basements. Children who live in Long Lake attend the following public schools:

Shiloh Point Elementary, Piney Grove Middle and South Forsyth High.

Several private schools are within a short driving distance to the community including Pinecrest Academy.  Long Lake provides its residents six lighted tennis courts with cabana, clubhouse and Olympic pool, and a large lake.

Realtor and Team Leader, Mary Ellen Vanaken, states “The North Atlanta area of Cumming, Georgia is a hot location for home buyers. We are seeing more people moving here to raise their families or just to invest in real estate. Our team is excited about 2016 and the North Atlanta real estate market.” The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team specializes in the luxury home communities of Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs. The team also works with relocations, international buyers, investors, and first time buyers.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

[mevhomes]

Alpharetta GA DeerLake Home Perfection!

5530 Buck Hollow Drive, Alpharetta, GA Home Just Listed

Presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta.

This meticulously maintained brick, European custom home in the desirable Alpharetta, Georgia community of DeerLake is now available.   5530 Buck Hollow Drive, Alpharetta, GA is offered at $585,00 this home will not be on the market for very long.

Join us for an OPEN HOUSE ~ JULY 24 ~ 2:00-4:00PM 5530 BUCK HOLLOW DRIVE, ALPHARETTA, GA. 

The home is move-in ready with upscale details and features. Hardwood floors, plantation shutters, custom built-ins, plenty of natural light throughout open floorplan are included. Five spacious bedrooms are enhanced by a fully-updated gourmet kitchen with upscale appliances and breakfast nook that opens to tiered decks & a private, professionally-landscaped fenced yard. The premium-finished terrace level with in-law suite also offers a full kitchen, soundproof media room, wet bar, game room and more!

Other features include:

*22 Foot Foyer

*French doors leading to a spacious Library/Study with built in bookcases

*2 story Great Room with double mantle fireplace surrounded by built-ins

*Shade Tree Property

*Superior Trim and Moldings

*Abundant Storage

DeerLake is minutes from Georgia Highway 400, the popular Avalon Shopping Center and the nationally ranked Lambert High School. The community offers a park like atmosphere with sidewalks and a lake perfect for fishing. Six tennis courts and a full time tennis pro is available for the tennis enthusiast.  Additional amenities include swim, tennis, fitness trail, ball field, and Clubhouse. A great Alpharetta home with Forsyth County Taxes!

The city of Alpharetta provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence. Alpharetta is what it claims itself to be: Awesome! Alpharetta offers its residents a thriving culinary scene, luxury accommodations, exciting recreation, trendy entertainment and endless shopping opportunities.

This home is presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta. 5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30005 ~ www.northatlantaluxury.com

5530 Buck Hollow Drive, Alpharetta, GA Home Just Listed  

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2016 Firework Displays N. Atlanta

Fourth of July in North Atlanta offers a variety of activities through which one can celebrate the nation's birthday! Fireworks remain the main attraction on Independence Day. Below are some of our favorite firework displays.

ALPHARETTA/MILTON, GA - CLICK HERE

The Fourth of July is an exciting time to visit Alpharetta.  Spend time with friends and family. Pack a picnic and be prepared to have a blast while listening to some fabulous tunes in Alpharetta.

ROSWELL, GA - CLICK HERE

This year’s 4th of July Fireworks display will be held on the grounds at Sweet Apple Elementary school

CUMMING, GA - CLICK HERE

Fireworks are a blast at the Cumming Fair Grounds.

DULUTH/JOHNS CREEK, GA - CLICK HERE

Celebrate Independence Day on Duluth Town Green with a fabulous firework display, rockin' bands and activities for all to enjoy.

SANDY SPRINGS/DUNWOODY, GA - CLICK HERE

It’s become a much-anticipated tradition, and on Sunday, July 3, 2016, the Sandy Springs community will gather once again at the Concourse Corporate Center lawn to celebrate the nation’s birthday as part of the City’s Stars and Stripes Celebration.  The community is invited to pack a picnic and enjoy the afternoon and evening on the lawn, with fireworks beginning at 9:45 p.m.

LAKE LANIER - GEORGIA'S POPULAR LAKE - CLICK HERE

From Friday, July 1, 2016 to Monday, July 4, 2016

Celebrate our nation's birthday with us! It's the perfect weekend to come ride the water slides, dip your toes in the lake, build a sandcastle along our pristine beach, and soak up the sun at LanierWorld!

Looking to move to one of these SPECTACULAR communities? Contact us today:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

www.northatlantaluxury.com

5780 Windward, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30005

HOMES CURRENTLY FOR SALE NEAR THESE LOCATIONS:

Alpharetta Ga Homes for Sale

Milton Ga Homes for Sale

Roswell Ga Homes for Sale

Cumming GA Homes for Sale

Duluth/Johns Creek GA Homes for Sale

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CUMMING GA Luxury Home PRICE IMPROVEMENT

Jewel of Creekstone Estates 2425 Stone Wood Court, Cumming, Georgia - PRICE IMPROVEMENT - $1,249,000!

Meticulously maintained Jewel of Creekstone Estates 2425 Stone Wood Court, Cumming, Georgia, boasts wooded views, hidden meadow and level yard.

Nestled back on the cul de sac, the wooded filled 3+ acre estate features resort style two tier infinity pool with stone slide, large spa/hot tub, terrace backyard garden, and 3 large garages. Elegance, privacy and sophistication combine in this amazing home!

Fabulous layout with all the right spaces - entertain in the 12 person Dining Room, fireside formal Living Room, gourmet Kitchen or beneath the hand crafted barrel ceiling in the oversized Keeping Room.

Opulent master suite includes access to a covered porch that overlooks sweeping wooded views of the backyard and the pool. Upstairs each of the large bedrooms provide their own full baths. One of these upstairs bedrooms is a second master suite complete with custom built in closet, jacuzzi tub and more. 

The unfinished basement with 23 Ft. Ceilings waits to become the entertainment central area of the home. Imagine your kids entertaining their friends here. The home convenient to Georgia Highway 400,  shopping at The Collection Forsyth, public and private schools, Sharon Spring Park and the Greenway Trail. This exquisite home feels like a European Resort.

Children who live at Jewel of Creekstone Estates 2425 Stone Wood Court, Cumming, Georgia will attend the following award winning schools:

Shiloh Elementary, Piney Grove Middle, South Forsyth High School

~ Offered at: $1,249,000 - Sophisticated Estate Home with 3+ Acres ~ 

Take a VIDEO TOUR of the property HERE.

Creekstone Estates is a family friendly community with luxurious homes in a variety of sizes and styles.  Residents enjoy restort  style amenities including an 8,000 square foot Clubhouse, 11 lighted tennis courts with Tennis Pro and Pro Shop, an Activities & Tennis Director, a fresh water lake, Jr. Olympic pool, fitness center, play field, tot lot, and outdoor athletic court.

Creekstone Estates is located in Cumming in South Forsyth County, just off GA400 at exit #13.  The location is ideal with great shopping ("The Collection") and parks (Sharon Springs Park) close by.  The public South Forsyth County school district is highly rated. South Forsyth High schools was voted by Newsweek in 2012 as one of America's best schools. 

Cumming, Georgia provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence.

Cumming, Georgia is a part of Forsyth County, a county known to be a very affluent due to its closeness to downtown Atlanta and the commuter appeal for people working in Atlanta.

During the recent suburban expansion and rising housing prices of surrounding counties, a large amount of affluent professionals moved to Forsyth County and specifically Cumming, Georgia.

Cumming, Georgia's nearness to Atlanta and the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with bordering the 37,000 acre Lake Sidney Lanier makes the city a perfect place to live and do business. As the area remains one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, and with a School System that ranks among the highest, it is no wonder people love to live here.

2425 Stone Wood Court, Cumming, Georgia is presented by

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway

Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

678.929.6529

Jewel of Creekstone Estates 2425 Stone Wood Court Cumming Georgia

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Polo Golf & CC Home With Private Yard

Polo Fields Luxury - 6845 Woodspring Way, Cumming GA

Masterful design & modern luxury are uniquely embodied in updated 5 bedroom, 5 bath home with private backyard views.  Mahogany colored hardwood floors draw you into the foyer & flow through dining, kitchen & family rooms. Chef kitchen provides stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, tile backsplash & sun-filled breakfast room leading to expansive deck.

Master suite offers large walk-in closet, sophisticated bath with double sinks, spa tub & glass shower. Finished Terrace Level highlights Media & Rec Rooms, Wet Bar, Exercise Room, & Full Bath. Pristine living!

Polo Golf & Country Club offers a championship-style golf course and a family friendly community. Set in the Northern area of Atlanta, Polo Golf & Country Club is only 35 minutes north of I-285 and just a few miles west of Georgia 400. With over 1100 homes this wooded community offers a range of beautiful and stunning 2-story and ranch homes on outstanding landscaped home sites. Polo Golf & Country Club provides swim and tennis teams, social events, jogging trails, horseback riding and more.

Children who live at 6845 Woodspring Way in Polo Fields will attend the following schools:

Vickery Creek Elementary

Vickery Creek Middle School

West Forsyth High School

For more details and pictures

CLICK HERE.

Cumming, Georgia provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence.

Cumming, Georgia is a part of Forsyth County, a county known to be a very affluent due to its closeness to downtown Atlanta and the commuter appeal for people working in Atlanta.

During the recent suburban expansion and rising housing prices of surrounding counties, a large amount of professionals moved to Forsyth County and specifically Cumming, Georgia.

Cumming, Georgia's nearness to Atlanta and the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with bordering the 37,000 acre Lake Sidney Lanier makes the city a

perfect place to live

and do business. As the area remains one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, and with a School System that ranks among the highest, it is no wonder people love to live here.

Offered for $475,000

Polo Fields Luxury - 6845 Woodspring Way, Cumming GA

is presented by:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty - North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

678.929.6529

Polo Fields Luxury - 6845 Woodspring Way, Cumming GA

[mevhomes]

3304 Chipping Wood Court Alpharetta Georgia $599,999

Price Improvement!

Presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

This meticulously maintained jewel at 3304 Chipping Wood Court in Alpharetta, Georgia's desirable gated community of Crooked Creek, boasts golf & lake views.

Nestled back on the double cul de sac of a shade tree half acre lot, this elegant home features the most glorious views in the community. You will feel the day unwind as you relax on the back deck and take in the views of the community lake and the 17th hole of the golf course.

Gleaming hardwood floors, in the grand foyer, draw you into the home and flow through to the dining room and kitchen.  Family meals prepared in the newly painted kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances is a chefs dream. There are plenty of cabinets for storage and counter space to spread out your dishes. The kids will love watching meals being prepared while sitting at the breakfast bar. Experience gentle breezes from the kitchens bay window as you sip your morning coffee.

The carpeted family room with a warm fireplace with fabulous built in bookcases on either side. The triple arched windows overlook the best views of the neighborhood showcasing the 17th hole of the golf course and lake. Step out onto your back deck and summer grilling will be joy.

The homes 5 large bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths are just perfect for your large family and guests who come to visit. Children will find the bedrooms are perfect for resting, studying and playing. A 3 car side garage provides plenty of room for your cars, bikes and more.  

Imagine entertaining friends and family in your finished terrace level that is complete with a full bar with a pass through into the sitting area with a stone stacked fireplace and built-in bookcases. You will find there is plenty of additional space for watching TV, exercising or creating a home office. Access to private back yard is a bonus for those who love nature. 

Children who live here on Chipping Wood Court will attend the following schools:

Cogburn; Hopewell; Cambridge

Crooked Creek is one of the largest neighborhoods in the North Atlanta area and provides a wonderful southern lifestyle. The HOA fee is approximately $1,646 per household and residents enjoy amazing amenities including a Club House, Swimming Pool, Lighted Tennis Courts, Golf, and more. The pool activities offer fun for the whole family including holiday pool parties, music, birthday parties, special events, swim lessons and a swim team.  The lighted, hard tennis courts allow for both instruction and competitive teams.

Privacy & sophistication combine to make this home a stunner with a convenient drive from downtown Alpharetta, Verizon Amphitheatre, mutliple parks, athletic fields, parks, shopping, restaurants and Georgia Highway 400.

This home is offered at $599,999. Contact us today for more details and to schedule a showing:

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

678.929.6529

3304 Chipping Wood Court Alpharetta Georgia Now Available

[mevhomes]

Open House In Thorngate of Cumming GA

Charming Home At 1575 Dawn Valley Trail, Cumming Ga

You'll love this charming, two story home with a relaxing rocking chair front porch. 

This home will be able to view during an Open House - Sunday, May 22nd, 2:00-4:00PM

.

1575 Dawn Valley Trail The newly painted 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with a 2 car garage will give you a generous open floor plan. Light oak colored hard wood floors draw you into the home and continue into the family room, dining room and kitchen. Bedrooms are large and bright and provide space for your kids to relax, study and play.

NEW Screened-in Porch

Enjoy the new screened-in porch with views of a private, leveled and fenced-in backyard. The back yard is perfect for a game of Badminton, Cornhole or to build your dream pool. Access to the porch is from the partially finished basement that provides plenty of room to spread out, watch the big game, play a game of ping pong and entertain your kids. 

For a VIDEO TOUR of this Charming Home At 1575 Dawn Valley Trail, Cumming Ga CLICK HERE

Situated in the friendly community of THORNGATE with a sought after school system in Cumming, Georgia, the amenities include Swimming Pool, Lighted Tennis Courts, Playground, Basketball Court, Clubhouse and Homeowner's Association.

Thorngate Community Pool This home retains the value of peaceful living while being conveniently close to shops, schools and the Greenway Trail. Children who live in THORNGATE  will attend the following schools:

Cumming Elementary

Otwell Middle School

Central High School

Offered at $329,900,  this property is only available to the buyer who acts NOW! Stop ready and start calling - 678.929.6529. Or Contact us by clicking HERE!

Location of 1575 Dawn Valley Trail, Cumming, GA Cumming, Georgia provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence.

Cumming, Georgia is a part of Forsyth County, a county known to be a very affluent due to its closeness to downtown Atlanta and the commuter appeal for people working in Atlanta.

During the recent suburban expansion and rising housing prices of surrounding counties, a large amount of affluent professionals moved to Forsyth County and specifically Cumming, Georgia.

Cumming, Georgia's nearness to Atlanta and the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with bordering the 37,000 acre Lake Sidney Lanier makes the city a perfect place to live and do business. As the area remains one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, and with a School System that ranks among the highest, it is no wonder people love to live here.

This home is presented by

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

Keller Williams Realty - North Atlanta

5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100

Alpharetta, GA 30005

www.northatlantaluxury.com

678.929.6529

Charming Home At 1575 Dawn Valley Trail, Cumming Ga 

[mevhomes]

Sell Quick, Move Quick

Eight steps to selling your home

Define your needs. Write down all the reasons for selling your home. Ask yourself, "Why do I want to sell and what do I expect to accomplish with the sale?" For example, a growing family may prompt your need for a larger home, or a job opportunity in another city may necessitate a move. For your goals, write down if you'd like to sell your house within a certain time frame or make a particular profit margin. We will work with you to map out the best path to achieve your objectives and set a realistic time frame for the sale.

Name your price. Your next objective should be to determine the best possible selling price for your house. Setting a fair asking price from the outset will generate the most activity from other real estate agents and buyers. You will need to take into account the condition of your home, what comparable homes in your neighborhood are selling for, and state of the overall market in your area. It's often difficult to remain unbiased when putting a price on your home, so your real estate agent's expertise is invaluable at this step. We will know what comparable homes are selling for in your neighborhood and the average time those homes are sitting on the market. If you want a truly objective opinion about the price of your home, you could have an appraisal done. This typically costs a few hundred dollars. Remember: You're always better off setting a fair market value price than setting your price too high. Studies show that homes priced higher than 3 percent of their market value take longer to sell. If your home sits on the market for too long, potential buyers may think there is something wrong with the property. Often, when this happens, the seller has to drop the price below market value to compete with newer, reasonably priced listings.

Prepare your home. Most of us don't keep our homes in "showroom" condition. We tend to overlook piles of boxes in the garage, broken porch lights, and doors or windows that stick. It's time to break out of that owner's mindset and get your house in tip-top shape. The condition of your home will affect how quickly it sells and the price the buyer is willing to offer. First impressions are the most important. We can help you take a fresh look at your home and suggest ways to stage it and make it more appealing to buyers.  A home with too much "personality" is harder to sell. Removing family photos, mementos and personalized decor will help buyers visualize the home as theirs.  Make minor repairs and replacements. Small defects, such as a leaky faucet, a torn screen or a worn doormat, can ruin the buyer's first impression.* Clutter is a big no-no when showing your home to potential buyers. Make sure you have removed all knick-knacks from your shelves and cleared all your bathroom and kitchen counters to make every area seem as spacious as possible. Click here for TIPS ON STAGING YOUR HOME.

Get the word out. Now that you're ready to sell, we will set up a marketing strategy specifically for your home. There are many ways to get the word out, including: The Internet (follow us on Facebook), Yard signs, Open houses, Media advertising, Agent-to-agent referrals, Direct mail marketing campaigns in addition to listing your home on the MLS, we will use a combination of these tactics to bring the most qualified buyers to your home. We will structure the marketing plan so that the first three to six weeks are the busiest.

Receive an offer. When you receive a written offer from a potential buyer, we will first find out whether or not the individual is prequalified or preapproved to buy your home. If so, then you and your agent will review the proposed contract, taking care to understand what is required of both parties to execute the transaction. The contract, though not limited to this list, should include the following: * Legal description of the property * Offer price * Down payment * Financing arrangements * List of fees and who will pay them * Deposit amount * Inspection rights and possible repair allowances * Method of conveying the title and who will handle the closing * Appliances and furnishings that will stay with the home * Settlement date * Contingencies At this point, you have three options: accept the contract as is, accept it with changes (a counter offer), or reject it. Remember: Once both parties have signed a written offer, the document becomes legally binding. If you have any questions or concerns, be certain to address them with your real estate agent right away.

Negotiate to sell. Most offers to purchase your home will require some negotiating to come to a win-win agreement. We are well versed on the intricacies of the contracts used in your area and will protect your best interest throughout the bargaining. We also know what each contract clause means, what you will net from the sale and what areas are easiest to negotiate. Some negotiable items: * Price * Financing * Closing costs * Repairs * Appliances and fixtures * Landscaping * Painting * Move-in date. Once both parties have agreed on the terms of the sale, your agent will prepare a contract.

Prepare to close. Once you accept an offer to sell your house, you will need to make a list of all the things you and your buyer must do before closing. The property may need to be formally appraised, surveyed, inspected or repaired. We can spearhead the effort and serve as your advocate when dealing with the buyer's agent and service providers. Depending on the written contract, you may pay for all, some or none of these items. If each procedure returns acceptable results as defined by the contract, then the sale may continue. If there are problems with the home, the terms set forth in the contract will dictate your next step. You or the buyer may decide to walk away, open a new round of negotiations or proceed to closing.Important reminder: A few days before the closing, you will want to contact the entity that is closing the transaction and make sure the necessary documents will be ready to sign on the appropriate date. Also, begin to make arrangements for your upcoming move if you have not done so.

Close the deal. "Closing" refers to the meeting where ownership of the property is legally transferred to the buyer. Your agent will be present during the closing to guide you through the process and make sure everything goes as planned. By being present during the closing, he or she can mediate any last-minute issues that may arise. In some states, an attorney is required and you may wish to have one present. After the closing, you should make a "to do" list for turning the property over to the new owners. Here is a checklist to get you started.* Cancel electricity, gas, lawn care, cable and other routine services.* If the new owner is retaining any of the services, change the name on the account.* Gather owner's manuals and warranties for all conveying appliances. 

If you have a Luxury Home to sell, Mary Ellen Vanaken is a certified Luxury Home Specialist.

Recognized as the mark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world, the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence, and confidence they require.

Members of The Institute who hold the CLHMS designation have

documented performance in the TOP 10%

of their markets, and have successfully demonstrated their expertise in the luxury home and estate market. Watch our video below about the value of working with a Luxury Home Specialist:

Home Selling Tips That Will Get You Moving

[mevhomes]

Open House - Alpharetta GA Townhome May 7th

13271 Kemper Road, Alpharetta, Georgia - Open House

An OPEN HOUSE will be held Saturday, May 7th from 11AM - 2PM.  13271 Kemper Road, Alpharetta, Georgia. Contact Agent On Duty for entrance into the gated community - 678-468-5477. 

A place to relax and play, this townhouse sits in a gated community in prestigious Alpharetta, Georgia. The floor plan encompasses 5 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a bright and stylish kitchen that flows into the family room. Dark walnut colored hardwood floors flow throughout the main level of the home that includes a main level bedroom. A 2 car garage completes this impressive home. 

Deerfield Landing is a gated community of two and three story townhomes located off McGinnis Ferry Road and Windward Parkway in upscale Alpharetta and convenient to Georgia Highway 400! The home is minutes to local shopping, restaurants, public and private schools and recreation. Deerfield Landing provides swim and tennis for all residents. 

13271 Kemper Road, Alpharetta, Georgia

is offered at $289,000

Schools include Manning Oaks Elementary, Hopewell Middle School and Alpharetta High School.

Alpharetta High School is ranked 10th in the state of Georgia and is one of the most sought after school districts. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses. The student body makeup is 50 percent male and 50 percent female, and the total minority enrollment is 46 percent. Alpharetta High School is 1 of 19 high schools in Fulton County and The Atlanta Magazine named Alpharetta High School one of the metro Atlanta area's best all-around high schools. Competitive sports at Alpharetta High School include football, basketball, baseball, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, wrestling, tennis, track and field, cross country, volleyball, swimming, diving, cheerleading, and golf. Not officially recognized by Georgia High School Association, additional athletic activities however do include rugby, fencing, cricket, ice hockey, and ping pong.

Alpharetta, Georgia provides a growing business community, mixed with a small town ambiance within thirty minutes to the city of Atlanta. Here, businesses and residents alike, enjoy a friendly community complete with a thriving economy and a school system known for its excellence. Alpharetta is what it claims itself to be: Awesome! Alpharetta offers its residents a thriving culinary scene, luxury accommodations, exciting recreation, trendy entertainment and endless shopping opportunities. The schools are top rated - both public and private. Homes are stunning! With golf communities, swim/tennis communities and communities with their own private lake, you will find a variety to choose from. 

An OPEN HOUSE will be held Saturday, May 7th from 11AM - 2PM. 

13271 Kemper Road, Alpharetta, Georgia.

Contact Agent On Duty for entrance into the gated community - 678-468-5477. 

This home is presented by The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team - Keller Williams North Atlanta, 5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30005.

www.northatlantaluxury.com

13271 Kemper Road, Alpharetta, Georgia - Open House

[mevhomes]

Do You Know How Much Home You Can Afford?

Deciding how much house you can afford

Your lender decides what you can borrow but you decide what you can afford. Lenders are careful, but they make qualification decisions based on averages and formulas. They won't understand the nuances of your lifestyle and spending patterns quite as well as you do. So, leave a little room for the unexpected - for all the new opportunities your home will give you to spend money, from furnishings, to landscaping, to repairs.

Historically, banks use a ratio called 28/36 to decide how much borrowers could borrow. An approved housing payment couldn't be more than 28 percent of the buyer's gross monthly income, and his or her total debt load, including car payments, student loans, and credit card payments, couldn't be more than 36 percent. (In Canada lenders apply similar formulas to determine how much a buyer can afford. The Gross Debt Service ratio, or GDS, is not to exceed 32 percent of the buyer's gross monthly income, and the Total Debt Service ratio, or TDS, is not to exceed 40 percent of the buyer's total debt load.) As home prices have risen, some lenders have responded by stretching these ratios to as high as 50 percent. No matter how expensive your market though, we urge you to think carefully before stretching your budget quite so much.

Deciding how much you can afford should involve some careful attention to how your financial profile will change in the upcoming years. In the long run, your own peace of mind and security will matter most.

For more information on buying a home in North Atlanta, contact us today!

CLICK HERE.

Deciding How Much House You Can Afford

[mevhomes]

Commanday Joins Vanaken Team

Laura Commanday, a real estate professional has joined The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams Realtyof North Atlanta. Laura serves as a buyers agent for the team.

“We’re excited to welcome Laura Commanday to our team!” says Mary Ellen Vanaken, owner of The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team. “This company succeeds through its people, and having Laura as one of our newest buyer’s agents is a huge win for us.”

Laura was born in Chicago and raised in Atlanta and North Carolina. She spent 10 years as an Accountant and Trainer for Georgia-Pacific Corporation and earned a Master’s Degree from Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business. Laura, husband Jonathan, and their three sons have lived in the Alpharetta/Milton area for 16 years.  She has volunteered on local PTA boards, also serving as Co-President and on the Local School Advisory Counsel.  She received her real estate license in 2003 and has worked since in the real estate field both as an agent and an office staff accountant.

Laura’s financial and real estate background plus love of family and community activities such as golfing, tennis, and cycling, will be put to good use to help her clients find the perfect match for their new home purchase!

“I joined Keller Williams Realty because I wanted to be a part of something exciting.”

Commanday says. “I noticed many top-producing agents were a part of Keller Williams and also saw that The

MaryEllen Vanaken Team was well respected in our community and in the Keller Williams family. When I decided that I wanted to take my business to the next level, I knew joining The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team was the next logical step.”

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team of Keller Williams, located at 5780 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta, Georgia, was established in September 2004 and has seven associates. The team includes team leader Mary Ellen Vanaken, four buyer’s agents, a marketing coordinator and an executive assistant. The team’s primary focus is luxury homes in the North Atlanta communities of Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell, Duluth and Milton, Georgia.

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team 

Keller Williams Realty North Atlanta

www.northatlantaluxury.com

678.929.6529

North Atlanta Agent Joins The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team

[mevhomes]

Burris Joins Keller Williams Real Estate Team

The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Adds Young Agent To Team

Megan Burris, a real estate sales professional in Alpharetta, Georgia has joined the Keller Williams North Atlanta Market Center.

“We are ecstatic to have Megan join our team at Keller Williams North Atlanta,” said Mary Ellen Vanaken, leader of The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team. “Keller Williams offers its associates unparalleled career growth and lifelong learning opportunities in the real estate industry. We know that Megan will be a great fit and that it is our customers who will truly benefit from her joining our team”

Megan is a graduate of the University of Mississippi. Before making the decision to pursue a career in Real Estate, Megan held customer service and inside sales positions. These roles showcased her natural ability to build relationships and and taught her how to appreciate customers needs to ensure they are taken care of. Megan’s managers came to rely on her for building loyal customer relationships through her friendly and outgoing personality.  Having been raised in Alpharetta, Georgia, Megan and her husband have decided to make it their home. With an extensive first hand knowledge about the North Atlanta area, its schools, neighborhoods, and activities. She will not only be able to assist you in finding your new home but she will be able to answer questions about what the local area has to offer. Her skills will not only find you your next home but will bring you all the way through a smooth closing and move in.

Keller Williams has put its mark on the real estate industry by offering comprehensive educational resources and technological tools. In 2015 Training Magazine named the company as the No. 1 training organization across all industries in the world.

“I chose Keller Williams because of its reputation for integrity and its agent-centric business model,” says Megan Burris. “I want to grow my real estate business and be a part of a team. Keller Williams and The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team provides the training and technology that will help me reach my goals.” 

The North Atlanta Market Center is located at 5780 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005.  To learn more about Keller Williams, call

Mary Ellen Vanaken

at 678.212.5230  or visit

www.northatlantaluxury.com.

About Keller Williams Realty, Inc.

Austin-Texas based Keller Williams Realty, Inc. is the largest real estate franchise by agent count in the world with 700 offices and 125,000 associates across the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia. In 2015, Training Magazine named Keller Williams the No. 1 training organization across all industries in the world.

Since 1983, Keller Williams has grown exponentially and continues to cultivate an agent-centric, education-based, technology-driven culture that rewards agents as stakeholders. The company also provides specialized agents in luxury homes, commercial and farm and ranch properties.

For more information, visit www.kw.com

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The Mary Ellen Vanaken Team Adds Young Agent To Team