GuildQuality Announces the 2009 Guildmaster Awards Call for Entries

GuildQuality is pleased to announce the call for entries for the 2009 Guildmaster Awards. This competition recognizes builders and real estate companies in the United States and Canada with a proven history of superior customer service. The 2009 awards will be open to non-members for the first time in the competition’s history.

Guildmaster Award winners have demonstrated their ability to consistently deliver an exceptional customer experience. Those eligible to apply include builders, remodelers, specialty contractors and developers.

Geoff Graham, President of GuildQuality comments on the selection process, “The Guildmaster awards are our opportunity to celebrate exceptional service in the building and real estate profession. To identify the winners, we interview thousands of customers about their building, remodeling, or home purchasing experience. The award winners are the most accomplished leaders in our industry. In past several years, fewer than 20 percent of eligible candidates have received an award.”

Past Guildmaster winners include: Betenbough Homes, Classic Remodeling, Strite design + remodel, Blackdog Design Build Remodel, Menold Construction, Waterford Homes, Windsong Properties, Sabal Homes and many others. All previous Guildmaster Award Winners are listed at http://www.guildquality.com/guildmaster/.

To enter, visit www.guildquality.com/guildmaster/2009/register/. The deadline to enter the Guildmaster Awards is Dec. 15, 2008. The entry fee is $250 and should be submitted along with the online application. If you have questions about the Guildmaster Awards, please contact GuildQuality at 888-355-9223.

Join GuildQuality to celebrate the most exceptional companies in the real estate industry through the 2009 Guildmaster Awards. Award recipients will be notified the end of February via email.

GuildQuality provides customer satisfaction surveying and performance reporting for quality-minded building and real estate companies throughout North America. More than 500 Guildmembers rely on GuildQuality to help them deliver an exceptional customer experience. For more information on GuildQuality call 888-355-9223 or visit www.guildquality.com.
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Isakson Barnhart Properties joins the U.S. Green Building Council

Isakson Barnhart Properties, LLC is proud to announce their membership in the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The USGBC is a non-profit organization committed to expanding sustainable building practices.

The mission of the USGBC is to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life.

“Isakson Barnhart strives to improve the quality of life in each of our communities, and membership in the USGBC is a way to demonstrate this commitment,” said E. Andrew Isakson, Managing Partner of Isakson Barnhart. “By embracing the educational opportunities offered by the Council, we can continue to ensure that we remain at the forefront of designing, building and maintaining superior communities.”

The USGBC is composed of more than 15,000 organizations from across the building industry that are working to advance structures that are environmentally responsible, profitable, and healthy places to live and work. Members includes building owners and end-users, real estate developers, facility managers, architects, designers, engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, product and building system manufacturers, government agencies, and nonprofits.

Isakson Barnhart Properties developed the Site Smart program, a four-hour certification program to use in training construction superintendents and equipment operators on the role of trees in the environment and best practices for tree preservation, in partnership with the Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC) and the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC). Peachtree Hills Place, an upscale residential community in Buckhead for people ages 55 and older seeking a secure, independent lifestyle, was the pilot development for the program. The program included training superintendents and equipment operators on ecology issues, focusing on water quality, the role of trees in protecting the environment and best practices in tree preservation. Isakson Barnhart/Peachtree Hills Place hopes to extend the program to the state’s development community as well.

The membership is also a fit because of the conservation-centered decisions made throughout the development process at Peachtree Hills, including the preservation of 50 percent of the trees on its 23-acre site in the middle of Buckhead. Five acres of the property will be deeded over to the City of Atlanta, maintained as green space and include a nature trail. Additional park space and green areas will be established to maximize the open space on the site. In order to maintain the aesthetics of the existing neighborhood, the developers have worked with the Peachtree Hills Civic Association, and all parking for the development will be located underground. Energy-efficient HVAC systems will be utilized and compact fluorescent lighting will be installed. Much of the existing structure on the site that has been demolished will remain on site as fill material, diverting it from local landfills. The community is also highly walkable, located on a MARTA bus line, employees will be encouraged to use public transportation and walk to nearby restaurants, shops and parks.

When completed, Peachtree Hills Place, located in Buckhead in the heart of metro Atlanta, will include 274 independent residences – consisting of 266 villas and eight single-family homes – and 36 skilled nursing and memory care suites. Assisted living care will also be offered on site. All Peachtree Hills Place members will enjoy a full slate of amenities, on-site retail establishments, dining, full service spa, and fitness center.

Isakson Barnhart is Georgia’s developer of nationally recognized, award-winning residential communities for those age 55 and over. The company’s vision to provide amenity-rich, independent living for discerning adults was born out of the personal experiences of the family of Ed and Julia Isakson after their difficult search for a community that would provide an active lifestyle combined with on-site health care. This mission manifested itself in Park Springs, the company’s flagship property in Stone Mountain. Park Springs was nationally recognized by the 50+ Housing Council of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as the recipient of the 2005 Platinum Award for best large CCRC as well as the Gold Award for interior design. Now, Isakson Barnhart introduces another award-winning residential community in Peachtree Hills Place, named the best “On the Boards” large CCRC by the same group in 2006. Isakson Barnhart has carefully selected Life Care Services, LLC, the leading management company of senior communities in the nation, to partner in the planning and management of Peachtree Hills Place and Park Springs. For more information, visit www.peachtreehillsplace.com or call 404-467-4900.
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Construction Underway on First Model Home at The Park at Heritage Ridge

PEC Development is pleased to announce that construction has begun on the first model home at The Park at Heritage Ridge. Located in historic Newnan, the 241-home community is the final neighborhood located in the successful Heritage Ridge master-planned community. Upon completion, the community will feature two model homes showcasing the Willow and Juniper floorplans. Drywall is currently going up in the Willow model home and the home is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Homes at The Park at Heritage Ridge are affordably priced from the mid $100,000s.

The two-story Willow model will consist of four bedrooms with two and one-half bathrooms, and will offer approximately 2,217 square feet of living space. The spacious interiors include a gourmet kitchen, master suite with sitting area and large walk-in-closet and a two-story foyer. Additional features include a two-car garage and a large covered front porch.

At The Park at Heritage Ridge residents enjoy the outdoors as much as the indoors with an array of amazing amenities. The extensive amenity package is already complete and includes a 9,500-square-foot clubhouse with large game room and billiards, exercise and fitness room, a large swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, bocce ball court and a large playground. In keeping with its name, The Park at Heritage Ridge also offers several beautifully landscaped parks.

The Park at Heritage Ridge is centrally located to employment centers, shopping and entertainment venues, educational and recreational resources and offers easy access to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

To visit The Park at Heritage Ridge, take I-85 South to Exit 47 (Newnan). Go left (east) on Ga. Hwy. 34 for one mile. Turn right onto Shenandoah Boulevard and go approximately one and a half miles. Turn left onto Lower Fayetteville Road and go approximately one mile, Heritage Ridge is on the left. The sales gallery is located at 6 Bayview Drive in Newnan. The sales office hours are Monday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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Presales Begin at Lakeview at Bryant Lake LaGrange

Nineteen home sites are now available in the Lakeview neighborhood at Bryant Lake LaGrange. For those looking for lakefront property, nine home sites have been released on the lake, and 10 non-lakefront properties are also now available in the neighborhood. Upon completion, the Lakeview neighborhood will consist of 72 home sites, 40 of which will be lake home sites. Homes in Lakeview range in price from the mid $200,000s to the low $300,000s.

Home buyers will have six floorplans to choose from in the Lakeview neighborhood: The Lanier, The Salem, The Westpoint, The Regency, The Chatsworth and The Weston. These floorplans include four to five bathrooms with two and a half to three bathrooms. Spacious interiors include optional children’s retreats, bonus rooms, library options, beautiful crown molding and two-car garages. The Salem floorplan also offers a dressing area and coffee bar option in the owner’s suite.

“Homes in the Lakeview neighborhood offer broad views of Bryant Lake and every home provides easy access to the activities and beauty that the lake has to offer,” said Charmaine Courville, the sales agent for the neighborhood. “The 23-acre lake is the core of Bryant Lake LaGrange. Residents of Bryant Lake LaGrange will not only enjoy the beauty of the lake, but also the outdoor activities made possible by the lake, including fishing and non-motorized boating.”

Bryant Lake LaGrange will offer residents an abundance of natural luxuries. Overlooking Bryant Lake, Pinewood Pavilion will be perfect for intimate social gatherings and large events. The pavilion will offer a comfortable place to enjoy a book or quiet conversation and amazing views of sparkling Bryant Lake. The amenity area will also include a relaxing outdoor gathering place with an outdoor fireplace. During the warmer months, children and adults alike will spend hours at the aquatic center. Unlike any other in the area, the aquatic center at Bryant Lake LaGrange will include Doozy’s Adventure for the kids, a mushroom water feature and water slide and a large zero entry pool. Homeowners will also enjoy playing tennis at one of the two lighted tennis courts; walking or running on the fitness trails that weave along the banks of Bryant Lake and include "wellness stations" for activities like stretching, pull-ups, etc., or
picnicking on one of the many rich green spaces at Acorn Park, Longleaf Park or along the lake shore.

PEC Development Group has partnered with Edward Andrews Homes to build beautiful homes for residents of Bryant Lake LaGrange. Edward Andrews Homes specializes in creating neighborhoods noted for remarkable quality of life, design excellence and authentic craftsmanship within an environment of natural beauty.

To visit Bryant Lake LaGrange, take I-85 South to Exit 14 (LaGrange). Turn left off the exit ramp and travel approximately one-eighth of a mile. Turn left into the community and travel down the parkway. The Sales Center will be on the left at 519 Bryant Lake Blvd, LaGrange, Ga., 30240.
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Sold! Homes Are Selling in the Current Real Estate Market

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Navigating the complexities of today’s housing market is as challenging for consumers as it is for real estate agents. Citing the many obstacles those in the market are facing, The Real Estate Book is launching a new program, JUST SOLD 2008, designed to help those looking to buy or sell a home find a leading agent, and at the same time, help real estate professionals market their listings affordably and effectively, as well as share their successes.

“No question, the real estate market is choppy, but today more than ever, it’s important to stay focused and remain upbeat,” says Scott Dixon, President of The Real Estate Book. “It’s also vitally important to spread the news about who is transacting. We’ve got an active and powerful channel of millions of consumers and thousands of real estate agents who are surviving and thriving, and we can help anyone in this market – consumers and agents alike – connect with each other. In fact, those that advertise with us, are selling homes right now.”

The JUST SOLD 2008 program works like this: The Real Estate Book will contribute (at no cost to advertisers or consumers) 20% of its print book pages to its advertisers to promote the homes they sold in 2008.

Todd Walker, Senior Vice President of Sales and Operations at The Real Estate Book adds, “we want to do our part to help hard-working real estate professionals achieve continued success, and provide a way for those who are struggling by providing them with an affordable media solution that works in any market, even on a tight budget. We also want to let consumers looking to buy or sell know that agents who advertise in The Real Estate Book are the top in the business and sell more homes, quicker.”

Simply put, The Real Estate Book, available in print and online, generates more advertising exposure than anyone else in the industry, and the company plans to use the power of its 8 million magazines along with its network of nearly 30 online partners delivering millions of unique users, and its direct mail channel to provide massive reach to more than 50 million consumers, as well as spread the good news in this market.

In fact, The Real Estate Book has been helping real estate professionals connect with buyers and sellers for over 30 years, delivering credible, proven results in over 500 markets across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Dixon adds, “in this business it’s important to work with a media partner you trust, one who knows how to reach your best prospects – locally, nationally, and globally. It’s hard to muster up the confidence and know where to steer the boat when the market is in a downturn. But for our customers, we do all the legwork for them, and they benefit from getting the best leads. And for consumers, they can rest easy knowing that they are going to find an agent who is experienced and actively engaged in helping them find or sell a home faster and better than anyone else.”

That’s the magic of The Real Estate Book, and it is the one thing you can turn to and trust despite the shifts of the market.

For more information on how The Real Estate Book can help you “survive and thrive” in today’s housing market, go to: www.RealEstateBookMediaKit.com/confidence.

To request a book or search online for a property to buy in your market, go to www.RealEstateBook.com or call 1-800-643-1174.

The Real Estate Book is published by Network Communications, Inc.

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Now is a Great Time To Buy At Talley Street Lofts

Talley Street Lofts is now approved for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans, in addition to offering no property taxes until 2009 and $7,500 federal tax credit to first-time homebuyers. Only 18 homes remain in this community located in historic downtown Decatur. Talley Street Lofts, an intimate community of just 90 lofts, combines unique architecture with brick, stucco and appealing corrugated metal exteriors, offers the convenience of big city living in an village atmosphere and is affordably priced from the mid $100,000s to the low $200,000s.

“There is no better time to buy and Talley Street Lofts is the perfect place for first-time home buyers,” said Mona Lisa Belcher, on-site sales manager at Talley Street Lofts. “Not many condominium or townhome communities are FHA approved. In order to obtain approval the community must be 51 percent sold.”

“FHA loans offer several benefits to first-time homebuyers,” said Shawna Jackson, loan officer at Flagstar Bank. “Only a small down payment is required, just 3 percent of the sales price, and that down payment can come from an acceptable gift source, including non-occupying co-borrowers to assist with purchase. Very little credit history is required. There are no income limits and the guidelines are more flexible with FHA loans. And finally the up front and monthly mortgage insurance is reasonably priced.”

The one- and two-bedroom floorplans at Talley Street Lofts range in size from 700 to 1,200 square feet. To balance the feel of the homes, traditional loft features and updated amenities have been incorporated in to the open floorplans. Features include hardwood floors, granite kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances including a side-by-side refrigerator, 10-foot ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, brushed chrome hardware throughout, covered balconies and bike racks. In addition, all homes come standard with a full size washer and dryer. Allowing homeowners to stay connected, high speed WiFi Internet is available in all units as well as all common areas.

Unlike many other loft communities, Talley Street Lofts offers a wide array of amenities for homeowners to enjoy, including a swimming pool, fountain, sun deck, fitness center, conference room and clubroom. The community is also gated. In addition to the great amenities, Talley Street Lofts offers grand views of Midtown Atlanta, which homeowners can enjoy from their covered balconies, and the lush landscaping throughout lends to the feel of Talley Street Lofts. In addition to the superb amenities at the community, Talley Street Lofts offers quick access to PATH bike trail all the way to Stone Mountain.

Talley Street Lofts reflects the neighborhood ambience of comfort and convenience in historic Downtown Decatur with shopping, dining, biking and MARTA all within walking distance. Tree-lined streets and outdoor dining tables add small-town charm to the area. Decatur is perfect for young families, empty nesters and young urbanities looking for an alternative to the big city. The city is also centrally located to the exciting nightlife of downtown Atlanta, while family entertainment is only minutes away at Decatur Square.

Exclusive sales and marketing is being handled by Morris and Raper. Interested homebuyers are encouraged to call Mona Lisa Belcher at 404-373-6463 or visit the www.talleystreetlofts.com for more information.
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Existing-Home Sales Rise on Improved Affordability

PRNewswire/ -- Existing-home sales increased last month as buyers responded to improved housing affordability conditions, according to the National Association of Realtors(R).

Existing-home sales -- including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops -- rose 5.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate(1) of 5.18 million units in September from a level of 4.91 million in August, and are 1.4 percent higher than the 5.11 million-unit pace in September 2007.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said more markets are seeing year-over-year gains. "The sales turnaround which began in California several months ago is broadening now to Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri and Rhode Island," he said. "The South was hampered by much lower home sales in Houston in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike."

NAR President Richard F. Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif., said low home prices and low interest rates have been attracting buyers. "This is the first time since November 2005 that home sales have been above year-ago levels," he said. "Credit tightened at the end of September, but the improvement demonstrates that buyers who've been on the sidelines want to get into the market to make a long-term investment in their future."

According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 6.04 percent in September from 6.48 percent in August; the rate was 6.38 percent in September 2007.

Yun said there may be market disruptions. "The credit markets are not settled yet, although the mortgage market stabilized with the government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Inventory remains high, and price declines are pressuring owners," he said. "Additional housing stimulus would stabilize prices more quickly, which in turn would bring faster stability to Wall Street. Removing the repayment feature on the first-time buyer tax credit and permanently raising loan limits would bring more buyers into the market and further reduce inventory."

Total housing inventory at the end of September fell 1.6 percent to 4.27 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 9.9-month supply(2) at the current sales pace, down from a 10.6-month supply in August. This marks two consecutive monthly declines since inventories peaked in July.

The national median existing-home price(3) for all housing types was $191,600 in September, down 9.0 percent from a year ago when the median was $210,500. "Compared to a fairly small share of foreclosures or short sales a year ago, distressed sales are currently 35 to 40 percent of transactions. These are pulling the median price down because many are being sold at discounted prices," Yun explained. "The current market is not being dominated by speculative investors. Rather, 80 percent of current buyers are purchasing a primary residence, which is a bit higher than historic norms."

Single-family home sales increased 6.2 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.62 million in September from a pace of 4.35 million in August, and are 3.8 percent above the 4.45 million-unit level a year ago. The median existing single-family home price was $190,600 in September, which is 8.6 percent below September 2007.

Existing condominium and co-op sales were unchanged at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 560,000 units in September, but are 15.7 percent below the 664,000-unit pace in September 2007. The median existing condo price(4) was $199,400 in September, down 10.2 percent from a year ago.

Regionally, existing-home sales in the West jumped 16.8 percent to an annual rate of 1.25 million in September, and are 34.4 percent higher than September 2007. The median price in the West was $253,600, down 18.5 percent from a year ago.

In the Midwest, existing-home sales increased 4.4 percent to an annual pace of 1.19 million in September, but are 2.5 percent below a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $152,500, which is 7.9 percent lower than September 2007.

Existing-home sales in the South rose 2.2 percent in September to a pace of 1.90 million but remain 7.8 percent below September 2007. The median price in the South was $167,200, down 4.1 percent from a year ago.

In the Northeast, existing-home sales slipped 1.2 percent to an annual pace of 840,000 in September, and are 7.7 percent lower than a year ago. The median price in the Northeast was $246,800, down 5.4 percent from September 2007.

The National Association of Realtors(R), "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1.2 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

NOTE: References to performance in states or metro areas are from unpublished raw data used to analyze regional trends; please contact your local association of Realtors(R) for more information.

(1) The annual rate for a particular month represents what the total number of actual sales for a year would be if the relative pace for that month were maintained for 12 consecutive months. Seasonally adjusted annual rates are used in reporting monthly data to factor out seasonal variations in resale activity. For example, home sales volume is normally higher in the summer than in the winter, primarily because of differences in the weather and family buying patterns. However, seasonal factors cannot compensate for abnormal weather patterns.

Existing-home sales, which include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, are based on transaction closings. This differs from the U.S. Census Bureau's series on new single-family home sales, which are based on contracts or the acceptance of a deposit. Because of these differences, it is not uncommon for each series to move in different directions in the same month. In addition, existing-home sales, which generally account for 85 percent of total home sales, are based on a much larger sample -- more than 40 percent of multiple listing service data each month -- and typically are not subject to large prior-month revisions.

(2) Total inventory and month's supply data are available back through 1999, while single-family inventory and month's supply are available back to 1982. Condos were tracked quarterly prior to 1999 when single-family homes accounted for more than nine out of 10 purchases.

(3) The only valid comparisons for median prices are with the same period a year earlier due to the seasonality in buying patterns. Month-to-month comparisons do not compensate for seasonal changes, especially for the timing of family buying patterns. Changes in the composition of sales can distort median price data. Year-ago median and mean prices sometimes are revised in an automated process if more data is received than was originally reported.

(4) Because there is a concentration of condos in high-cost metro areas, the national median condo price can be higher than the median single-family price. In a given market area, condos typically cost less than single-family homes.

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The “Not-So-Obvious” Benefits of Buying New

Prospective home buyers have the choice of two types of houses on the market: resale or new.

Home buyers planning to buy a brand-new house or condominium often cite energy-efficiency, open layout, a warranty, and being able to select appliances, flooring, paint colors and other design elements as factors driving their choice.

But builders say that buyers can be drawn to a new house for reasons that aren’t so obvious. Below are a few more benefits of a brand-new home that you may not see in the sales brochure.

Building a Community Together

A brand-new community is one of the built-in benefits of many new homes. When families move in to a subdivision at the same time, often lasting bonds of friendship and neighborliness are formed right away. Nobody is the “new kid on the block,” and many home builders host community block parties in new developments to help owners meet and connect. Popular amenities like pools, walking trails and courts for tennis and basketball offer additional opportunities for interaction among neighbors of all ages.

Often new communities are comprised of home owners in the same stage of life, such as young families or active retirees, so neighbors can get to know each other through carpools, PTA meetings, tennis matches or golf games.

Entertaining

Throwing a party in an older home can be a challenge because smaller, distinct rooms make it difficult to entertain guests in one large space. Builders are responding to today’s homebuyer preferences with layouts featuring more open spaces and rooms that flow into each other more easily, like the popular great room. While you are in the kitchen preparing dinner, you can still interact with guests enjoying conversation in the family room without feeling closed off. The feeling of spaciousness in today’s new-home layouts often is enhanced the higher ceilings and additional windows that bringing in more light than you would find in an older home.

A Clean Slate

For some buyers, parking the car in a sparkling-clean garage or being the first to cook a dinner in a brand-new kitchen is part of the appeal of new construction. In addition, you won’t have to spend time stripping dated wallpaper or repainting to suit your own sense of style. You can create your own home décor from the get-go!

The advantages of being the first owner of a home extend to the outdoors. Instead of inheriting inconveniently or precariously placed trees, or having to tear up overgrown shrubs, you can design and plant the lawn and garden you want.

Outlets, Outlets Everywhere!

Homes built in the 1960’s and earlier were wired much differently than houses today. Builders had no way of anticipating the invention of high-definition televisions, DVDs and computers that we enjoy today—and the very different electrical requirements they would introduce. New homes can accommodate advanced technologies like structured wiring, security systems and sophisticated lighting plans, and can be tailored to meet the individual home owner’s needs.

Anyone who has ever lived in an older home can also attest to the fact that there are never enough outlets, inside or out! New-home builders plan for the increased number and type of electronics and appliances used by today’s families. Also, today’s newer wiring systems allow you to operate a wine cooler, Christmas lights or your computer safely and effectively versus ones from years past.

Your Health

Healthy living and green living have never been more important to modern day families. In contrast, asbestos and lead were commonly used in the construction of homes in the past. Today, they have completely eliminated such materials in new home construction.

Formaldehyde emissions from products such as particleboard and plywood have also been substantially reduced. New homes can also have better control systems for areas where radon could be a potential problem.

Southside Living

Buying a new home in the still predominately “rural” areas within the Southern Crescent is still a good deal and often the homeowner will get much more bang for the buck than in other metro Atlanta areas.

The Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport is one of the strongest economic activity generators in the entire southeastern United States. The 2000 Urban Land Institue (ULI) study of Atlanta’s “Southern Crescent” area includes a recommendation for the establishment of a major commercial center immediately to the south of the airport which would be recognized as an International Business Center with Class A office space, hotels, related retail/services and transit accessibility. Other examples of areas like this are in Washington D.C., Dallas/Fort Worth, Hong Kong and South Korea.

Experts in the field predict that one of the greatest development trends of this century will be the concentration of commercial activity in clusters adjacent to major gateway airports. Future new home owners are sure to benefit as more communities are built offering a slew of incredible amenities to their residents all situated in the predominately still rural, “small town” atmospheres of the Southside.

For more helpful hints, contact Sandy Boda, Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Midwest Georgia at (770) 716-7109. The HBA of Midwest Georgia serves over 700 businesses in the building industry in Fayette, Coweta, Spalding, Meriwether, Heard, Pike, Upson, Lamar, Butts and Jasper Counties.

By Sandy Boda
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Triumph Lofts—Emerge from Several Storms

On March 14, 2008 a tornado caused widespread damage across downtown Atlanta, and in the midst of storm an emerging development was also hit. Triumph Lofts located at 890 Memorial Drive is proud to announce its grand opening. These contemporary two bedroom two bath lofts priced from the mid $200s weathered other storms as well including changes in the development team along the way to emerge as an oasis of distinctive features surrounded by Atlanta’s hippest neighborhoods. Triumph is also successfully weathering the economic storms that the real estate industry is facing.

“Throughout the storms we stayed focused on our goal to create a dynamic, contemporary residential loft community to contribute lasting value to this area of downtown Atlanta,” said Sean Flood of Triumph Development Partners. “The name of this community, Triumph Lofts, really says it all. After all we faced we truly believe that the result is a triumph, as evidenced by the fact that in the short time we have been opened, we have already sold three homes.”
These homes start at a spacious 1200 square feet and go up to 1456 square feet and include oak hardwood floors throughout, floor to ceiling windows and individual balconies. In the kitchen homeowners will enjoy solid wood cabinets, granite countertops as well as Frigidaire Professional Series stainless steel appliances. The bathrooms feature unique custom glass tile and seamless glass showers with jetted tubs.

Homeownership will also provide access to amazing amenities. The brilliant reinvention of this historic building is crowned with a rooftop deck with stunning skyline views. Residents will also enjoy a state of the art fitness center, a spa pool with immersion sun deck, South Beach style cabana and grill area, and an infinity edge hot tub. Homeowners can also take advantage of private parking, as well as optional individual on-site storage units.

Exclusive sales and marketing is provided by Morris & Raper Intown. Interested homebuyers may contact Veronica Jones veronica@morrisandraper.com, call the sales center at 404-589-0211 or visit www.triumphlofts.com for more information.
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TerraSol Partners with Gwin Oaks Elementary to Expand Environmental Educational Opportunities by Beginning Construction on Outdoor Classroom

On November 15, 2008, parents of students at Gwin Oaks Elementary will be bringing their tools, rolling up their sleeves and continuing the work that Vesmont, LC, developer of the new, eco-friendly lifestyle community TerraSol in Gwinnett County, and Highlight Homes, one of the builders for that subdivision, began on the Gwin Oaks outdoor classroom. Establishing roots in the community by entering into a professional learning partnership with Gwin Oaks Elementary School, Vesmont and Highlight Homes pledged funds and labor to restore the Gwin Oaks Nature Preserve and outdoor classroom.

“We plan to do all of the clearing, grading, paving and other heavy lifting in advance and help to coordinate the efforts of the parents that are going to volunteer to bring this project to fruition,” said Lawrence Kasmen, a principal of Vesmont, LC and Highlight Homes, LLC. “This partnership was a natural fit for our companies, and we are committed to being a vital part of the community here in Gwinnett County. Through our eco-friendly development, TerraSol, we want to promote the value of our environment through education just as Gwin Oaks Elementary’s outdoor classroom will do.”

Gwin Oaks Elementary is one of the schools in the Brookwood Cluster that was approached by Vesmont as a voluntary effort to help enrich the schools in the local area. The scope of this project is to clear away debris from the existing nature trail and then to expand the trail to begin at the new outdoor play area and make it handicap accessible. In addition, the plan calls for a 100 seat outdoor classroom, a 30 seat gathering area, an extension and widening of the existing trail and a picnic area. Parents that volunteer to help will contribute to this effort by planting shrubs and ground cover, building the benches in the outdoor auditorium, clearing away debris such as leaves and sticks, marking the trail by laying down gravel and installing posts connected by ropes, and adding signs to denote the various points of interest along the trail.

“With Vesmont’s and Highlight Homes’ help, we will add a new 100 student outdoor auditorium for outdoor presentations. We look forward to sharing the new and improved Nature Trail with the community,” said parent and volunteer Anna Fallen. “This project will expand the outdoor learning space for our students. We also hope that it will encourage parent and student involvement.”

Vesmont, LC regularly visits the local schools in areas in which they are constructing new subdivisions to see what they can do to improve the learning environment at the schools. The focus of the new Terra Sol subdivision is on sustainable construction and preserving the natural environment so it is fitting that they will be renovating the Gwin Oaks Nature Preserve, which has fallen into disrepair, so that the students can enjoy an enriched outdoor education next to the Yellow River.

TerraSol, a distinctive eco-friendly community developed by Vesmont, LC, is located in Gwinnett County along the scenic Yellow River. The name TerraSol, derived from the Latin terms for “earth” and "sun,” suits this pristine community perfectly as more than 40 percent of the land at TerraSol remains in an untouched, natural state. Residents are given the opportunity to discover natural wonders on a nearly two mile long, all-natural mulch walking trail winding throughout the property and to explore history in a three acre archaeological site, also located within the community. TerraSol will offer 128 single-family homes on generously sized lots priced from the $500,000s.

Consistent with its mission to be an environmentally friendly development company, Vesmont will incorporate sustainable design principles, recycled materials and EarthCraft building methods into the construction of the amenity area and community activity center. Children attend Gwin Oaks Elementary, Five Forks Middle and the highly acclaimed Brookwood High School.

To visit TerraSol, take I-85 North to Indian Trail/Lilburn Exit 101. Turn right onto Indian Trail/Lilburn Road (which becomes Killian Hill Road) and travel approximately 6.6 miles. Turn left onto Five Forks Trickum Road. The entrance to the community will be one mile ahead on the right. For more information on TerraSol, call 678 344-4878 or log on to the Web site at www.terrasolga.com.

Vesmont. Vested in the future. Today. For more information, visit www.vesmont.com
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Realtors Rave About Bowen Family Homes’ McGinnis Reserve Community

Bowen Family Homes held at Realtor luncheon on September 30th and had an amazing turnout. Eighty-two Realtors enjoyed a delicious catered lunch and had the opportunity to tour the newly opened Gloucester model as well as the extremely popular Callaway model home at McGinnis Reserve. This single-family home community is located in the City of Suwanee and offers an array of home designs priced from the $340s to the $500s.

“We were excited to welcome so many Realtors to this amazing community. It is one of our fastest selling, and with a new model and fabulous amenities to showcase all that homeowners will enjoy, the Realtors in attendance left the luncheon anxious to share McGinnis Reserve with their buyers,” said Mike Phelps, one of the owners of Bowen Family Homes. ”We enjoy hosting Realtor luncheons. We understand and appreciate all of the work that they do to support us.”

After lunch a drawing was held and Ann Sheffield with Prudential Georgia Realty won a $500 gas card and Walter Biel with Coldwell Banker won a gas card worth $250. Realtors then enjoyed a self-guided tour through the Gloucester and Callaway models. On-site sales agents David Kunis and Michelle Hewell were on hand to answer questions.

The Gloucester model is loaded with extras. Its 4,465 square feet highlight all the best McGinnis Reserve has to offer. On top of the additional bedrooms and bathrooms, it features granite countertops in the kitchen and baths; stainless steel appliances; site finished hardwood floors; upgraded cabinetry in the kitchen; a built-in closet system in the master closet; and gorgeous lighting throughout. The exterior of the home features a two-car garage and three sides brick.
The Callaway model highlights one of the most popular ranch home designs in the community.

The Callaway model is a four-bedroom, three-bath ranch home with 2,880 square feet of living space. The home features hardwood floors in the foyer, kitchen, family room and living room and beautiful tile floors in the baths. The spacious kitchen is complete with diamonite countertops and black Whirlpool© appliances. The family room includes a marble surround fireplace with built-in bookcases on both sides, and all light fixtures in the home have been upgraded.

All homes at McGinnis Reserve showcase exteriors with brick, stone and shingles, as well as traditional exterior options. The community offers all new single-family home designs in both ranch and two-story options, ranging in size from 2,490 to 4,500 square feet of living space. Homeowners may choose three- to seven-bedroom plans, with owner’s suite on the main level as an option.

Homeowners can also now enjoy the newly opened neighborhood clubhouse as well as a 20-acre lake, neighborhood parks, sparkling swimming pool with mushroom fountain, lighted tennis courts, and a walking trial with direct access to the Suwanee Creek Greenway Trail System, which connects to Suwanee Creek Park.

To visit McGinnis Reserve, travel I-285 to Peachtree Industrial North. Turn right onto McGinnis Ferry Road. McGinnis Reserve will be on the left before Satellite Boulevard. Or you may travel I-85 North to Old Peachtree Road and turn left onto Old Peachtree Road. Turn right onto Satellite Boulevard and left onto McGinnis Ferry Road. McGinnis Reserve will be on the right.

Children who live in McGinnis Reserve will attend Parsons Elementary, Richard Hull Middle and Peachtree Ridge High schools. For more information about McGinnis Reserve, call 1-877 MY BOWEN or visit www.bowenfamilyhomes.com.

Since 1969 the Bowen name has stood for excellence in new home construction and community development. Recognized as the 25th largest privately owned builder in the country by Builder Magazine for 2005, Bowen Family Homes is a dynamic homebuilder with operations in Georgia, Florida and Texas. The Atlanta Business Chronicle ranked Bowen Family Homes 4th among metro Atlanta builders in 2006 and 30th among Atlanta’s Top 100 Private Companies for 2006.

Additionally, Builder Magazine named Bowen Family Homes the nation’s 43rd largest homebuilder in 2007. These successes have been achieved by simply offering the best new home value in all price ranges. For more information about Bowen Family Homes, please call their Atlanta region headquarters at 678.325.4554 or 1-877- MY BOWEN or visit online at www.bowenfamilyhomes.com.
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Sharp Residential Recognized as One of Atlanta's Top 25 Home Builders

Sharp Residential is pleased to announce that it has been recognized by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Home Builders and as one of Atlanta’s Top 100 Private Companies. Sharp Residential was acknowledged on both lists, which are included in the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Annual Book of Lists publication.

“At Sharp Residential, we take pride in our hard work and quality homes,” said Tom Sharp, president of Sharp Residential. “As we continue to strive to be recognized as a top home builder and company in Atlanta, it is definitely an honor to be included on both of these lists.”

Ranked by the number of homes closed in 2007, Sharp Residential was recognized as number 16 on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s list of the Top 25 Home Builders. Sharp has been ranked among the top 25 since 2003. Since 2004 Sharp has been recognized among the top 100 on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s list of private companies in Atlanta. This year Increasing its ranking from 79 in 2007 to 64 in 2008. This list is based on company revenue.

To be included on the list, a company's headquarters must be in the 20-county metro Atlanta area, and it must not be a subsidiary or a joint-venture partnership. Some exceptions include companies that have significant autonomy and presence in Atlanta or that operate independently but are listed as subsidiaries to holding companies in name only.

For 17 years, Sharp Residential, headed by Tom Sharp, has offered exceptional homes with a wealth of luxurious features in neighborhoods throughout metro Atlanta. Designing homes for the way people want to live, Sharp Residential has established a reputation of integrity – earning recognition on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s annual list of the Top 25 Homebuilders in 2004 and ranking in the top 200 on Professional Builder magazine’s list of the Top 400 Homebuilders in the country. Priced from the high $100’s to $500’s, the quality and features of the homes set them apart from the rest.

Customers come first at Sharp Residential, where an emphasis is placed on the home buyer’s individual desires. The experienced team of builders and the support staff take pride in designing homes for the way people want to live, customizing each home with individual characteristics. Building homes and neighborhoods to suit any lifestyle, Sharp Residential has quickly grown to become one of Atlanta’s leading developers and builders, building in Paulding, Cobb, Forsyth, Cherokee and Gwinnett counties. To find out why “You Deserve a Sharp Home,” call 770-518-4896 or visit the Web site at www.Sharp-Residential.com.
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Kingston on Lake Oconee Welcome Center Now Open

Kingston on Lake Oconee announces the opening of its welcome center. Located on the west side of Lake Oconee just minutes from I-20 and less than a 90-minute drive to Atlanta, the welcome center at this lake living community gives buyers an overview of life at Kingston on Lake Oconee including all of the fabulous amenities while allowing them to make a reservation to select their perfect home site.

"Kingston on Lake Oconee is moving through the initial stages of development. While we have made tremendous progress adding roads, and clearing the way for the town center, the new welcome center will help potential property owners get the full picture of how amazing lake living will be in this community,” said Don Davis, COO of the project.

The welcome center offers the opportunity to preview the community through vivid photography, as well as through a scale model of the site plan. In addition, potential property owners will get a personal consultation about their needs and expectations, and go on a property tour including a boat tour allowing them to see the progress made on the town center and other amazing amenities.

Lake Oconee provides the area with more than 19,000 acres of recreation, and the amenities at Kingston on Lake Oconee center around the magical effect that water has on bringing people together. Once complete, Kinston on Lake Oconee will offer relaxed lakefront living and fabulous residential amenities including a town center, Lake Club, tennis pavilion, marina, golf clubhouse, an 18-Hole Player Designed golf course by Gary Player Design, private dining facilities and concierge services

“We want to meet with each interested buyer individually to determine their needs and show them what sets us apart from other lake communities,” said Ken MacAfee, director of sales at Kingston on Lake Oconee. “We give them the opportunity to make a reservation that gives them priority to pick their ideal home site within the community. We are currently putting together our builder team from which reservation holders will be able to hand pick the builder that best suits their needs or bring in their own builder.”

The community offers flexible options for property owners seeking a primary residence or a place to call home on the weekend. Home sites at Kingston on Lake Oconee include lakefront, golf course and wooded views. Soon a variety of product types will allow homebuyers to choose from single-family residences, townhomes and lakeside villas.

Kingston on Lake Oconee is now taking home site reservations. Home sites are priced from $80,000. Be among the first to call this spectacular lake community home. For more information on Kingston on Lake Oconee, visit the newly opened welcome center, call 877-343-1231 or visit www.KingstonOnLakeOconee.com.

GIM Synergy Lake Oconee Venture, LLC a partnership between Grosvenor Investment Management US Inc. (GIM) and Synergy Realty Services, is the developer of Kingston on Lake Oconee. The members of the partnership team have developed and sold more than 10,000 residential lots and multi-family units in metro Atlanta in the last 15 years. For more information visit www.synergyrs.com.

GIM is part of Grosvenor Fund Management, which manages or has interests in approximately $25.7 billion of real estate. GIM, based in Philadelphia, is Grosvenor’s real estate investment management arm in North America and at year-end 2007, had total funds under management of more than $6.17 billion. For more information, visit www.grosvenor.com.
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Million Dollar Lifestyle from the Low $300,000s Townhomes Now Available At Turnbury Gates

Viewpoint Homes is proud to announce the grand opening of Turnbury Gates, a new resort-style townhome community in Brookhaven. Turnbury Gates is a private enclave of 88 residences priced from the low $300,000s offering three-story, two, and three bedroom residences with two-car garages, and close proximity to cultural, recreational and business centers.

“You will feel like you are at the Ritz Carlton when you see the pool at Turnbury Gates,” said Michael Szatmary, on-site sales agent. “The finishing touches have just been added, and between the waterfalls, private showers in the bath house, stone pavillion with a huge bar and grilling area, I’m not sure that I could choose one feature that is my favorite. You have to come see it for yourself.”

Located on Johnson Ferry Road in Chamblee this intimate community is packed with amenities. The clubhouse and pool are centrally located and encircled by professionally landscaped pet-friendly walking trails. The exteriors of the homes are architecturally appealing and distinctive featuring a variety of materials including board and batten siding, cedar shingle and brick that highlight the beautiful covered porches.

“This amazing community offers a resort lifestyle at fabulous price. By focusing on a highly sought after Brookhaven location and exquisit attention to detail, we are able to deliver a lifestyle and convenience to homeowners that is second to none,” said Eddie Branch, partner at Viewpoint Homes. “This community surpasses expectations and is surprisingly affordable. Stunning, upscale features are included in every home, as well as a variety of optional designer customizations.”

The interiors feature hardwoods throughout with tile in the bathrooms, 10-foot ceilings, and custom cabinetry throughout. The open kitchens include granite countertops and a stainless steel appliance package with undermount sinks and under cabinet custom lighting. The large master suite includes a spacious walk-in closet and spa-inspired master bath with a soaking tub and walk-in shower.

Perfectly placed in Brookhaven, homes in this exclusive community are sure to go fast. The sales center now open seven days a week, prospective buyers visit at their convenience. Hours are 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Exclusive sales and marketing is provided by Morris and Raper Realtors. Interested homebuyers may contact Michael Szatmary, at 770-451-3055, or visit the website at www.TurnburyGates.com.
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Bowen Family Homes Announces the Addition of Four New Floorplans At The Preserve at Johns Creek

Bowen Family Homes is pleased to announce the opening of four new floorplans—the Gloucester, Havilland, Castleton and Foxcroft at The Preserve at Johns Creek, a master-planned community in North Fulton priced from the high $300s. The Preserve at Johns Creek offers two-story home designs featuring three sided brick exteriors ranging in size from 2,915 to 4,500 square feet.

“The addition of these plans offers home buyers nine plans to choose from in this amazing community,” said Tip Cape, owner of Bowen Family Homes. “Not to mention that it is in the sought after Northview High School district, and no where else in North Fulton can you buy a new home in the $380s.”

Home plans range from four to six bedrooms with three to three and one-half baths to five and a half baths, and offer large family rooms, spacious dining rooms and study or sunroom options in most plans. Elegant interior features include nine-foot ceilings, open rod iron staircase, two-piece crown molding, tile backsplash, 36-inch custom Maple cabinets and granite countertops in the kitchen, and beautiful hardwood floors throughout the main living areas.

Bowen Family Homes has already sold six homes in The Preserve at Johns Creek and is planning to build an intimate total of 24 two-story single-family homes in the community. There are several different home elevations for homebuyers to choose from, which will create a community of complementary but varied home styles with two-car garages.

In addition to the new plans Bowen Family Homes offers the Glenhaven, showcased with a home that is currently move-in ready. Two of the most popular home plans—the Fairwood and Huntington, as well as the Essex and the Courtland round out the plans available at the Preserve at Johns Creek. Each of these plans offers new and innovative features. One of the most desirable features of these plans is the direct exhaust line from the kitchen to the outside of the house. All plans include an optional butler’s closet and homeowners have the option of adding extra laundry sinks per plan.

Children at The Preserve at Johns Creek attend Findley Oaks Elementary School, River Trail Middle School and Northview High School.

With easy access to 400 and 141/Peachtree Parkway for a rapid commute to work, restaurants and shopping, this community is sure to sell quickly. To visit the community, travel North on Hwy. 141/Peachtree Parkway. Go through the Abbotts Bridge/Hwy. 120 intersection and travel approximately 1.2 miles and turn left onto Findely Road. The Preserve at Johns Creek will be on the right directly across from Findley Oaks Elementary.

Since 1969 the Bowen name has stood for excellence in new home construction and community development. Recognized as the 25th largest privately owned builder in the country by Builder Magazine for 2005, Bowen Family Homes is a dynamic homebuilder with operations in Georgia, Florida and Texas. The Atlanta Business Chronicle ranked Bowen Family Homes 6th among metro Atlanta builders in 2006 and 30th among Atlanta’s Top 100 Private Companies for 2006.

Additionally, Georgia Trend and the Cox Family Enterprise Center at Kennesaw State University named Bowen Family Homes the Georgia Family Business of the Year for medium sized companies in 2006. Bowen Family Homes was ranked 83rd on the 2007 Professional Builder Giant 400 largest homebuilders in the United States list. These successes have been achieved by simply offering the best new home value in all price ranges. For more information about Bowen Family Homes, please call their Atlanta region headquarters at 678-325-4554 or 1-877- MY BOWEN or visit online at www.bowenfamilyhomes.com
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