My New Blog

It doesn't take a vast amount of insight to realize 2009 is "THE" year of change. 

A big indicator was initiated in 2008. Whatever your political affiliation, to have a US Presidential Candidate run and win on a platform of change tells us that Americans are ready to drop old habits and traditions for innovation and a positive attitude filled with hope.

Isn't that what we fill each New Year Celebration with? HOPE.  Yes indeed - that is what our resolutions are filled with...hope that we can change our outlook, habits, routine, etc.  Hope that we can make a difference.  And here we are in January 2009 and in Atlanta, we literally have the winds of change upon us.  We have experienced a warm, mild winter, and just before it usually warms up in February we have been hit with lower temperatures and some strong gusts.  This is happening before the Jan 20th Inaguaration and before the traditional selling season.  I do not believe in mere coincidence.

So what does that mean to us, especially in Real Estate?  For those of us with strong instincts, I say "follow your instincts" and for those who have been living in the status quo, I recommend taking stock of who you truly are, what your goals in life are and how they break down into the here and now, and take action in your work, personal life, and home life.  If this means relocating, renovating, clearing out, or investing in a new home...now is the time to do it!  Rates are low, inventory is high, pricing is reasonable, plus the Realtors that have remained in the business are truly dedicated professionals.

If you have questions, feel free to call or email me, as I am always happy to assist you.

Please know this post is not just about real estate.  It is about each of us, so in closing, I provide a quote from Mahatma Gandhi

     Perhaps the press is ready to turn the gloom and doom around.  If not, the actual sales figures for Atlanta speak for themselves.  In December of 2008, there were 117 new sales pending and 100 closed home sales in just 3 areas of the city of Atlanta, according to FMLS search results.

     First, let me notate the fmls areas I compiled information from:   

• Area 21 includes Buckhead, Brookhaven, etc.
• Area 23 includes Old Fourth Ward, Morningside, Virginia Highlands, and in some cases East Atlanta
• Area 24 includes East Atlanta, Edgewood, Kirkwood, East Lake, Candler Park, Lake Claire, etc.

     During the month of December, area 21 had 18 new contracts become pending sales on single family residences.  These homes were listed at prices ranging from $166,300 to $1,650,000.  Most of these will close in January of this year, but some were among the 38 closed sales in the month of December.  The closed, or sold, prices ranged from $335,000 to $4,750,000.

     Area 23 experienced a higher number of pending contracts on single family homes, with a total of 20 ranging in list price from $9,900-1,349,000.  Most of the sales were in the $300,000-$700,000 range, which means a healthy number of owner occupants.  This fmls area also experienced 26 closed/sold homes ranging in price from $23,600 to $1,600,000, with the bulk of the prices being in the $400,000 range.

     Lastly, area 24 came in with 19 new sales pending priced from $47,900 to $799,000 and 36 closed sales in December priced $23,500 - $878,000.  Most of the sold homes were priced between $200,000 and $300,000.

I am certain each reader can and will draw his/her own conclusions.  Regardless, homes are selling.  Not just foreclosed homes.  And if you want information specific to your neighborhood, please feel free to ask me.  info@intownfocus.com. I am not here just to report information.  I am available to represent you on your home purchase or sale.  Get in touch with me to find out how your home can sell or how I can help you make your purchasing decision and transaction.  I am Joan Macaluso - Intown Focus at Bo Bridgeport Brokers.  678 508 6811.