Hank Miller Team Real Estate Blog - Hank Miller

Is it Wise to Waive the Appraisal Contingency?

Is 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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Historic Marietta homes at Christmas

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.  

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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The Problems with Stucco Homes

The problems with stucco homes couldn't be better demonstrated than with this real world listing. This is "hardcoat" stucco; not EFIS (synthetic) which has the universal bad rap. As with any siding, but especially stucco; moisture, mold and termites are just waiting for a chance; and that is evidenced here. Many agents have no idea about the potential disaster behind those walls, every stucco home should have a dedicated stucco inspection

It starts where is almost always does - control of surface water. Water MUST be moved out and away from every home, having a downspout empty onto a slab under the deck that sags toward the stucco home...not good. Being in a bowl and the low point of the lot or community, not good. Water always wins and water is…

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Inspiring Homes and Facades - Part 1

Selling real estate gives us the opportunity to view quite a few inspiring homes and facades. Always with her camera/phone in hand, Mary Millerr, documents much of what she sees and keeps our Instagram account filled with breathtaking glimpses of architecture, homes and travel. Here is Part 1 of what inspired us in 2018!

Talk about inspiring homes! This traditional home is perfection - we can only imagine the fabulous holidays and special occasions celebrated here.

Yes, we are in the south! Grand Oaks, a 1900's Greek Revival mansion. is a wedding and special occasion venue. This Christmas guests were delighted with 21 themed trees, and over 15,000 decorations! Everyone needs a Christmas tree on top of their roof, don't you think!???

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Inspiring Homes and Facades - Part 2

Here is part 2 of Inspiring Homes and Facades from our Instagram Account, Glimpses of the South. We continue with architecture, homes and beautiful facades that captured our attention in 2018! Images included are from Charleston, Vickery, Downtown Woodstock, Historic Marietta, Madison Georgia, and the fabulous Swan House in Atlanta! 

Charleston homes - photo via Glimpses of the South - Mary Miller

Charleston, South Carolina is packed full of inspiring homes. Homes in Charleston seem to have that special magic with their colorful histories and enchanting facades. The blue-green exterior coupled with the gas lantern, Charleston Green shutters, iron gate, and lush window boxes make us swoon!

Inspiring Homes and Facades -  Glimpses of the…

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Southern Living Idea House - Part 2 Interiors

Welcome to the Southern Living Idea House 2019 - Part 2.  In this post we highlight the interiors of this new-old home situated on Crane Island, Florida. This coastal property was built by Riverside Custom Homes, architects were Jim Strickland and Clay Rokicki from Historical Concepts, and design and decor by Heather Chadduck Hillegas.  All photos were taken by Laurey W. Glenn and styled by Liz Strong for Southern Living. We have included as many Sherwin Williams paint colors and designsources as possible - so when something catches your eye for your own home, you will know where to look!

 Separated by columns, the Southern Living Idea House Living Room is open to the entry - allowing ambient light to filter in. It boasts the same blue and white…

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Exceptional Milton GA Equestrian Property - Southern Living

14830 East Bluff Road - The Hank Miller Team has just listed this exceptional equestrian property in the heart of Milton GA. Situated on 8.7 pictures acres, this beautifully appointed  home embraces both the equestrian and luxury lifestyle – a rare find.

Southern Living at its best!  Designed by Tim Bryan and beautifully renovated by the current owners, this sprawling farmhouse boasts quality workmanship and attention to detail throughout. Renovations reflect a traditional style that blends graciously with modern living. 

 Extensive millwork can be found throughout and include custom built ins, detailed moldings, arched entries and coffered ceilings. Library features custom bookshelves and two sets of doors, each leading to separate…

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Southeastern Designer Showhouse - Buckhead

This past spring Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles produced the Southeastern Designer Showhouse in the heart of Buckhead. A James Means designed home benefitting the Atlanta History Center, the showhouse united top designers from the Southeast. Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Magazine is currently spotlighting this fabulous home in their September magazine issue and website. Their informative article describes the history of the home, room descriptions, designers resources, and beautiful interior and exterior shots. Several months ago the Hank Miller Team along with fellow Harry Norman Luxury Associates were treated to a private event at the home. With the Southeastern Designer Showhouse featured in the September issue of AH&L, we thought this was a good time to…

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When a Buyer or Seller Defaults on a Real Estate Contract

What happens when a buyer or seller defaults on a real estate contract? Well in Georgia as of 8/1/2018, the earnest money (good faith money, deposit...) will be of great interest as the ability for the parties to sue is limited. Our friends at Campbell and Brannon, Attorneys at Law provide this concise overview.

When a Buyer Defaults on a Real Estate Contract

In the event this Agreement fails to close due to the default of Buyer, Seller’s sole remedy shall be to retain the earnest money as full liquidated damages. Seller expressly waives any right to assert a claim for specific performance. The parties expressly agree that the earnest money is a reasonable pre-estimate of Seller’s actual damages, which damages the parties agree are difficult to…

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Should You Buy a Stucco Home?

Should you buy a stucco home in Atlanta? A better question might be should you buy a home clad with synthetic stucco or EIFS (Exterior Insulated Finish System)?  This cladding was very popular around Atlanta during the 80’s to early 00’s because of the ease and low cost to install. The foam board installed behind the stucco provides added insulation and the product is very easy for architects to use in design.  Synthetic stucco was meant to be a barrier system that kept water out, but poor installation (mainly flashing issues) can allow water to penetrate and remain unable to escape. Over time, the trapped moisture will eventually eat away sheathing, structural framing, and even interior finishes. Mold, fungal growth and rot are common. Termites are a…

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