Georgia License for Builders and Remodelers
As of July first of this year all builders and remodelers in the state of Georgia are to be licensed by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. There are three types of contractors that must obtain a license by July 1, 2008.
* Residential-Basic Contractor (Contractor work relative to detached one-family and two-family residences and one-family townhouses not over three stories in height).
* Residential-Light Commercial Contractor (Contractor work or activity related to multifamily and multiuse light commercial buildings and structures).
* General Contractor (Contractor work or activity that is unlimited in scope regarding any residential or commercial projects).
A fourth classification of contractor is the specialty contractor who is not required to be licensensed. This classification would include painters and roofers for example and they are not allowed to hire subcontractors.
I would think that the purpose of this law would be to help protect innocent homeowners and home buyers from unscrupulous contractors. We have all heard horror stories about homes and projects that have not worked out as originally planned. One big advantage of this law is the requirement for contractors to meet minimum standards for education, financial stability and workers compensation.
So what will the down side of this law be? Since Atlanta is so close to Florida, some of what happens there makes its way to our news programs. When a major event such as a hurricane hits Florida, it can sometimes take additional time to even get bids on getting work done much less getting the work itself performed.
Chasing The Market
The real estate market is quite unique at this particular point in time. History tells us that even though we have seen ups and downs, we just have not experienced a market like this. Increases and decreases in property values occur all the time just like the stock market. Generally speaking, over the long haul the value goes up. So what makes this market so unique?
What Happened To the Mortgages?
Up until several months ago there was a mortgage program for just about everyone. Then came the sub-prime market shake up and loan programs were reduced to some of the most basic. On top of that, investors tightened up the qualification parameters for applicants. Many first time buyers utilized 100% financing programs which went away. That breathed new life into the down payment assistance programs, which congress may soon do away with. The number of buyers who can qualify for a mortgage in today’s market has declined which therefore creates a negative impact.
Price Your Home Right
Pricing a home correctly when it first goes on the market is more important now than ever. In the past sellers market, when the market was appreciating and mortgage programs followed freely, it was an accepted practice to price your home slightly above value to allow some negotiating room. In today’s buyer’s market this just is not the case. As a seller you don’t want to put yourself in the position of “Chasing the Market”. So how do you avoid this pitfall? The easiest and most comprehensive way is to have your home appraised by an independent third party who is a licensed appraiser.
Help Buyers Buy Your Home
What other factors influence a buyer’s decision of whether or not to make an offer on your home? The main ones are appearance, appearance and appearance. Make sure that the exterior is inviting, remember you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Removing clutter and having clean carpets along with fresh paint will help tremendously. If your home is not in show ready condition and properly priced it is almost certain that you will be chasing the market instead of having the market chase you!
2806 Storybook Court
Located in the highly acclaimed Grayson School District, 2806 Storybook Court in the Hawthorn Glen subdivision is a lovely 2 story traditional home with many features found in much more expensive properties. The entire main level of this very open floor plan has hardwood flooring. The kitchen features cherry stained cabinetry along with a gas stove/oven and built-in microwave/vent fan along with a breakfast area. The over sized Great Room is wired for a flat screen TV above the fireplace with glass doors and gas starter. Also on the main level is a Dining Room and a Powder Room. As you head upstairs you notice the wrought iron balusters on the stairway hand rail.
On the upper level the spacious Master Suite has a separate tub/shower along with a large walk-in closet. Also upstairs is the laundry room and 2 additional large bedrooms along with an additional full bath.
The level cul-de-sac setting provides low traffic near the home and the fenced backyard is ideal for pets, children and entertaining. This home is also just a short walk from the community swim and tennis amenities. The annual Home Owner Association dues cover your privileges for these facilities.
