One yellow rubber duck surrounded by colorless ducks

Learning how to win a bidding war when buying a home usually comes from losing; as others win you learn. There are fundamental techniques and steps to take that will make your offer shine when multiple offers are received. Working with an experienced buyer’s agent is key; one that can dissect data, honestly guide you, write an effective offer and respond rapidly during the process. Many strong offers are lost because buyer agents fail to respond in a timely manner. In situations where "highest and best" offers are called for, remember; highest is not always best. A cash offer with no appraisal contingency and a few days of due diligence can be more appealing than a 97% FHA offer. 

Don’t Overpay

The very first step in winning is not overpaying;

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for-sale-by-owner

Should you sell your home by owner? Should you sell your home without an agent? Valid questions, especially during times of limited inventory when buyers are pounding everything. The internet offers sites, videos, programs and testimonials on how to save thousands selling by owner. For sellers with buyers already lined up, save the money and hire a lawyer to close it. But that’s not everyone. By owners in the open market fail for two main reasons; an inability to remove personal bias from the equation and a lack of understanding about how complicated this process is. Consider just a few of the other major reasons:

The FSBO Stigma

Homes for sale by owner are not common, but there tend to be common threads. Some sellers have a vehement distaste…

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Despite a crazy year, the greater North Fulton and Cobb County housing market flourished in 2020. Here we examine and compare the Cobb County markets of Acworth, Kennesaw, Marietta and Smyrna. Next we look at the North Fulton County markets of Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell and Sandy Springs. Three key indicators; median sale price, months of inventory and days on market. 

These charts summarize what buyers and sellers around the north Atlanta housing market experienced; rising price, few homes for sale and a lightening fast market. Scroll the charts for details... 

Acworth / Marietta / Kennesaw / Smyrna 

Each of these markets is enjoying robust appreciation

0-3 is a seller's market, 3-6 balanced, 6+ a buyer's market 

It's…

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Knowing how to resolve home inspection issues can save a deal. This is one of the most emotional parts of a transaction, understand how to navigate it is critical to success. No home, including a new build, will be perfect. Many defects can be spotted by an experienced agent, others need the eye of a skilled inspector. The trick is for both buyer and seller to be reasonable.home inspection issues

Home sellers are not required to complete a seller's disclosure, some homes are sold "as is". If a disclosure is available, buyers will review this along with inspectors as often this document notes issues or problems within the home. However, a seller should not place too much faith in these as there are things about the property the seller does not need to (and in some cases is…

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In the midst of a real estate transaction, the last thing that anyone wants to consider is what happens if the appraisal comes in low. That discussion usually starts with a low appraisal reportcommon expression involving excrement and then “now what happens”? The buyer’s loan amount is based upon the lower number between the contract price and appraised value. Experienced agents usually understand how to limit real estate appraisal issues, but it sometimes happens. The argument “the market dictates value” may be true, but appraisers write reports for underwriters and there are strict protocols that they must follow.

The “low appraisal” fuse is lit by the mortgage lender. Usually an email follows a call giving notice that the appraisal has been completed and is attached.…

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what is due diligenceWhat is the due diligence period? It's arguably the single most important part of a home sale. Of course everything matters but the due diligence period is essentially an “option period” for the buyer, the time where all of the critical research is to be completed. The buyer has virtually total control during this period. Emotions run especially high; buyers are presented with reports that often scare the hoohah out of them, sellers usually see inspection amendments as a money grab and their backs immediately rise.

Most drama and legal issues are tied to due diligence, seller disclosures and repair amendments. Seller's disclosures are not required in GA, many buyer's fail to understand this. On amendments that address inspection issues, everything has…

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 Murder, violent crime, natural death, neighborhood sex offenders, meth labs... would these be things the average home buyer might be interested in learning about if they liked a particular home? If so, don't expect any help from a seller. These and a long list of other things, are not required to be disclosed in Georgia. Things required to be disclosed by home sellers in Georgia are puzzling, right down to the "must be disclosed only if asked" rule. This often surprises home buyers in Georgia. Those using an inexperienced or no agent rarely understand the importance of making good use of the due diligence period.

homesellers never lieMeth labs are scattered all across the country, including throughout metro Atlanta. Yet there is NO requirement to disclose that a home has…

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The 2019 Southern Living Idea House has done it again! Located on Amelia Island, this fabulous beach house delights us with its' classic design and details.  Designed by architects from Historical Concepts and built by Riverside Homes, this pristine white and blue victorian style home reminds us of the old south. Benefiting the Amelia Island Museum of History, the home will be open to visitors until December 8th. The stunning and well thought out interiors were brought to life by Heather Chadduck Hillegas.  The use of white, blue and green brings a fresh, yet traditional look to this timeless home - a perfect combination of old and new.  Are you ready to be inspired?  Take a look at the 2019 Southern Living Idea House - Part 1

White coastal home with upper and lower front porch, blue door and lantern light

via Southern Living,…

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waive the appraisalIs it wise for buyers to waive the appraisal contingency? Appraisals continue to cause agita among many in the home buying process. Is the answer to eliminate it? Current offers reflect the “current” market (listings/pendings) while appraisals reflect the “past” market (solds). This is an inherent conflict especially in a transitional market. When inventory is tight and seller markets exist, the "cleanest" contracts get the most attention. Cash buyers can obviously waive the appraisal contingency completely. Buyers with mortgages must have an appraisal, but there are ways to ease a seller's mind even when an appraisal is required.

Waiving the appraisal contingency is done to present a more streamlined and competitive offer. Completely eliminating the…

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Oh, the charm of the Historic Marietta homes at Christmas! Homeowners use their creative talents and mix traditional and modern styles to showcase their beautiful historic homes. Many of these homes were open to the public at the annual Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour.  

Traditional white painted fireplace with red and apple green stockings and poinsettia plants

photo via Mary Miller Instagram @ Glimpses of the South

The Holland-Higginbotham House c. 1886 looks so merry and bright! We love the warm pops of red and green! The above photo was featured on the December issue of Marietta Magazine, which highlighted Historic Marietta Homes at Christmas.

Photo via Mary Miller - Instagram @ Glimpses of the South

The bright colors against the white walls give this traditional space modern and fresh feel.

photo via Mary…

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