Do you want a home that looks and feels like a cottage, but need the space of a suburban home? Did you think that was impossible? Visit 170 High Bluff Court in Duluth and you will find your dream home.

Four bedrooms and four and a half baths take on a whole new dimension. Quality is easily found in the home that is a builder’s personal home, extra touches are what set it apart. The home was originally built in 1997 and has been well taken care of with lots of updates. All new windows have recently been added.

Inside on the main level you will find beautiful hardwoods in the dining and windows in two living areas with transoms or decorative moldings. A doorway framed by molding and glass separates a family room and dining room. Step back to the kitchen and breakfast room and you will be delighted. Diagonally laid black and white tiled floor, glass front cabinetry, plate racks and a center island painted in an accent color. It feels like you are in a English countryside cottage. Lots of storage and bright light from the windows in the breakfast area will make this one of your favorite places to be.

The master is on the main floor with a connecting bath. The bath has a split vanity with a sitting area between the two sinks. There is a window high above the vanity that allows natural light to flow in.

A separate tub, shower and water closet rounding out the space.

Outside the main level a paver patio and open yard will make you dream of far away places while you are relaxing with your friends and family. The backyard is a wonderful place for a flower or vegetable garden and already has a feel of an English garden.

The garage has a suite with a kitchenette area and private bath. What a great area for an au pair or guest suite. If you need other options, think of how much you could accomplish if this was your home office.

This home truly mixes cottage and suburbia. It has everything you want with in-town living and the space of a home in a larger community. The home is located in the gated community of Winfield on The River. It is being offered by Suzanne Close and co-listing agents Mary Jo Spence and Bonnie Majher of Atlanta Fine Homes for $995,000.

Four bedrooms, four full baths, and one half bath.

$995,000

170 High Bluff Court
Duluth, GA 30097

Suzanne Close
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
(770) 335-1880
(770) 442-7300

Mary Jo Spence

Mary Jo Spence
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
(678) 232-1641
(770) 442-7300

Bonnie Majher
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
(678) 575-4439
(770) 442-7300

Please click here to find out more about this luxury home for sale in Duluth.

Eve Whitaker

Submitted by Eve Whitaker, REALTOR

BY RUTH SIMON

Some mortgage insurers and lenders are beginning to relax their down-payment requirements, in a sign of increased confidence in the housing market.

The changes, which are being done on a market-by-market basis, mean buyers in some parts of the country can now borrow 95% instead of 90% of a property’s value. Until recently, mortgage companies had tighter standards for these markets because of falling home prices.

“We are feeling better about the economic condition of the marketplace,” said Michael Zimmerman, senior vice president of investor relations at mortgage insurer MGIC Insurance Corp.

Please click here for the entire article on WSJ.com.

Regent Partners shared its excitement over Sovereign’s super-successful leasing achievements with the Rooster the other day. Regent has leased close to 90-percent of its commercial real estate space at its luxury high-rise in Buckhead, and the success comes at a time when Buckhead faces historically high class A office vacancy rates.

With more than 500,000 square feet and 50 stories, the mixed-used tower on Peachtree Road in Atlanta’s Buckhead district recently welcomed tenants Asset Preservation Advisors, Crescent Wealth Management and the Law Firm of Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn, & Dial. Together, these tenants represent more than 80,000 square feet of new occupancy. This follows the very successful November opening of Bistro Niko, Buckhead Life Groups’ newest restaurant, located on Peachtree Road in the building’s retail area.

“We are extremely pleased that we are continuing to experience such strong success on both our commercial and residential sides,” said Regent Partners Principal, David Tennery. “When you look at the current realities of the overall Atlanta real estate market, we are truly blessed to be in the position we are in. We worked hard and took considerable risks in order to deliver a project that could make a long-term difference in the community and it would appear that the strategy, combined with significant determination have indeed been well received by the market.”

Sovereign is located at 3344 Peachtree Road in Atlanta’s prestigious Buckhead area. Homes are offered from $1 million and begin on the building’s 26th story affording penthouse-like views from all residences, and a sky terrace with private residential amenities. The exclusive condominium homes range in size from more than 1,700 square feet to more than 10,000 square feet. Several decorated models are open daily for showings.

For more information about Sovereign, please Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty sales associates Burma Weller or Kevin McBride in the onsite sales center at 404-266-3344 or visit sovereignbuckhead.com.

Andrea Cueny, REALTOR

Submitted by Andrea Cueny, REALTOR

Existing-home sales rose again in November as first-time buyers rushed to close sales before the original Nov. 30 deadline for the recently extended and expanded tax credit, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(r).

Existing-home sales – including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – rose 7.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.54 million units in November from 6.09 million in October, and are 44.1 percent higher than the 4.54 million-unit pace in November 2008. Current sales remain at the highest level since February 2007 when they hit 6.55 million.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the rise was expected. “This clearly is a rush of first-time buyers not wanting to miss out on the tax credit, but there are many more potential buyers who can enter the market in the months ahead,” he said. “We expect a temporary sales drop while buying activity ramps up for another surge in the spring when buyers take advantage of the expanded tax credit, which hopefully will take us into a self-sustaining market in the second half of 2010. In all, 4.4 million households are expected to claim the tax credit before it expires and balance should be restored to the housing sector with inventories continuing to decline.”

Inventories Fall
Total housing inventory at the end of November declined 1.3 percent to 3.52 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 6.5-month supply at the current sales pace, down from an 7.0-month supply in October. Raw unsold inventory figures are 15.5 percent below a year ago. The last time there was a lower supply of homes on the market was April 2006, when it was at a 6.1-month supply.

“Nearly all markets experienced a solid sales gain from one year ago,” Yun said. “The only markets with measurably lower sales were in San Diego, Riverside, and Sacramento (Calif.), where inventory shortages for lower-priced homes are limiting sales.”

Sales Rise Across the Board
For the second month in a row, sales have risen in all price classes from a year earlier. Prior to October, the only consistent gains were in the lower price ranges. The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $172,600 in November, which is 4.3 percent below November 2008. Distressed properties, which accounted for 33 percent of sales in November, continue to downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell at a discount relative to traditional homes in the same area.

Single-Family Homes
Single-family home sales jumped 8.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.77 million in November from a level of 5.32 million in October, and are 42.1 percent above the pace of 4.06 million in November 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $171,900 in November, down 4.4 percent from a year ago.

Condos
Existing condominium and co-op sales in November were unchanged from a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 770,000 in October, but are 60.1 percent above the 481,000-unit pace a year ago. The median existing condo price was $178,000 in November, which is 3.1 percent below November 2008.

By Region
Sales in the Northeast rose 6.6 percent to an annual level of 1.13 million in November, and are 52.7 percent higher than November 2008. The median price in the Northeast was $223,400, down 13.1 percent from a year ago.
Existing-home sales in the Midwest increased 8.4 percent in November to a pace of 1.55 million and are 53.5 percent above a year ago. The median price in the Midwest was $140,800, a decline of 0.4 percent from November 2008.
In the South, existing-home sales rose 4.8 percent to an annual level of 2.39 million in November and are 44.8 percent higher than a year ago. The median price in the South was $151,400, down 1.4 percent from November 2008.

Existing-home sales in the West increased 10.6 percent to an annual rate of 1.46 million in November and are 28.1 percent above November 2008. The median price in the West was $231,100, which is 4.1 percent below a year ago.

Please click here for the entire story from realtor.com on the gains in existing home sales.

6690 Riverside Drive is a sprawling home on six acres overlooking the Chattahoochee River. Built in 1967 and nicely renovated it is more than move-in ready.

All the rooms in this five bedroom, four and a half bath home are oversized. So much space and natural light to take advantage of here you will have room to grow. You will always welcome guests with this much space. Hardwood floors run throughout the majority of the house. The family room, breakfast area and kitchen are open and allow for easy conversation and wonderful outdoor views.

The master suite is on main floor and has so much to offer the owner. A large bedroom with fireplace lends itself to a spacious seating area. There are his and her baths with features such as Jacuzzi tub and frameless glass shower. It doesn’t end there though, there are extensive built-ins within the suite and a spacious office with built-in cabinetry. It may be possible to never leave your suite.

The remaining bedrooms are upstairs and many are large enough to double as bonus, play rooms or a spectacular guest suite. With all this space the options are only limited by what you can dream up.
Situated on such an awe-inspiring piece of land, outside living is almost as important here as inside living. There is a front patio that allows a great view down the drive, but the gem here is found on the back of the home. A large stone patio under a vaulted roofline looks down towards the river overlook. The stone chimney from the inside fireplace easily divides the space. There is ample room for a conversation and dining area. The space lends itself to outdoor entertaining.

Offered at $997,000

6690 Riverside Drive
Atlanta, GA 30328

Five bedrooms, four full and one half baths

Please click here for more photos of this home on six acres

Leslie and Bill Ransom
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Direct: 404.974.4481
Office: 404.835.9600
leslieransom@atlantafinehomes.com
billransom@atlantafinehomes.com

Thirty-two miles south of Atlanta in Palmetto, Georgia is a community only dreams are made of. Serenbe was founded on the principals of sustainability and it is a part of everything from development of the land to home construction. It will be evident the minute you enter the community and solidified when you see the house at 9146 Selborne Lane that was built in 2006.

Standing in front of this cottage you will find it hard to believe that it is five bedrooms and four baths. The outstanding floorplan is open and flows effortlessly from room to room. Dark hardwoods run throughout and add a rich contrast to the light gray and white tones throughout. A beautiful tile backsplash adds distinction to the kitchen that is home to a Viking 6 burner gas range and a breakfast bar. The living room is adjacent to the kitchen and will allow an easy flow of conversation. Focal points in the living room are a central iron chandelier and double stacked stone fireplace.

The master suite on the main will offer you a spa like retreat. Cool tones throughout the bedroom and connecting bath bring an instant sense of serenity as does the rest of the house.

This impeccable home is being offered fully furnished. A singular color palate throughout adds tranquility to daily life. Warm, natural wood and stone accents add depth and character throughout. Comfortable furniture and linen drapes will make you feel at home immediately.

The home is nestled perfectly in the midst of trees and natural landscaping. A screened-in porch across the back is a great place to enjoy your piece of nature.

Offered at $550,000

9146 Selborne Lane
Palmetto, GA

Five bedrooms, four full baths

Please click here for more photos of this country cottage

Sandra Storrar, REALTOR

Sandra Storrar
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Mobile: 404.310.3558
Office: 404.835.9600
sandra@atlantafinehomes.com

Nan Haverty
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Mobile: 404.328.8313
Office: 404.835.9600
nan@atlantafinehomes.com

The White Columns Golf community is the location of this wonderful home. The two story stone accented home sits slightly raised above White Columns Drive. Professional landscaping gives the home great curb appeal.

There are deep warm colors throughout the main living areas, immediately adding a sense of comfort to the open floorplan. Fireplaces are located in the living room, keeping room and master suite on the main floor, as well as one on the terrace level. There are built in tv cabinets above many of the fireplaces to make living easier. Custom bookcases and cabinets flank both sides of the fireplace in the keeping room. They are set apart by contrasting fauxed black paint and glass shelving.

The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and an island gas cook top. Double ovens will make it easy to prepare meals for any large gathering. You will easily be hosting all your friend and family get togethers with so much space and warmth. The in kitchen bar seats five, breakfast room and twelve person dining room will give you plenty of seating.

If a formal gathering is not what you are looking for make use of your finished terrace level with a built in custom eight person bar! This is a great place to host a party whether it be for friends, co-workers or family. The space downstairs also has two large finished rooms and a kitchenette. There are many uses for the bonus space.
The house has 5 bedrooms. Three of them are upstairs along with a bonus/media room that could be a possible 6th bedroom with the addition of a closet. The terrace level has a generous guest suite and full bath. The master suite is on the main level. It is spacious and will be an enjoyable place for a respite. Relax on a cool night with your fireplace to keep you warm. It’s a true retreat.

Outside you will have many options with a large, fenced backyard. A large patio or in-ground pool can easily be accommodated. Turn this into a wonderland and create years of memories.

The home is being marketed for $699,900 by Laura Warren of Atlanta Fine Homes.

Five bedrooms, five full baths and one half bath

$699,900

100 White Columns Drive
Alpharetta, GA 30004

Please click here to find out more about this luxury home for sale in Alpharetta.

Laura Warren

Laura Warren
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
404.731.7330
770.442.7300

Dreaming of high-rise living? Then this should be your first stop. The Phoenix is a magnificent building located conveniently in Buckhead. A spacious three bedroom, two and half bath condo is now available and has been reduced significantly from its original price! Now is the time to take advantage of a great opportunity.

The space is more than luxurious with hardwoods, upgraded finishes and details. There are stain grade cabinets in the kitchen and master suite. The master suite has an oversized closet with built-ins to make organizing everything easy. There is shelving, drawer space and pull-out baskets.

This layout is perfect for those desiring separate master bedrooms and/or roommates. There are unlimited possibilities. The neutral coloring throughout makes the condo move in ready and versatile.

To take in the view, the condo has glass doors and windows everywhere. There is a balcony that would be great to relax on any evening or Saturday afternoon. Relax with a cocktail and take in your surroundings.

The Phoenix offers many amenities such as executive business center, heated swimming pool, fitness center, parking under building, etc. There is also a grand salon and party room available for hosting a spectacular event.

Offered at $595,000

2881 Peachtree Road #1605
Atlanta, GA 30305

Two Bedrooms, two full and one half baths

Please click here for more photos of this gracious Buckhead condo.

Heery Brothers, Founding Partners

Heery Brothers
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Direct: 404.974.4319
Office: 404.835.9600
neal.heery@atlantafinehomes.com
george.heery@atlantafinehomes.com

In the distinguished community of Serenbe in Palmetto, Georgia, is what appears to be a quaint tiny cottage located at 500 Augusta Lane. Like so much of this community you will be pleasantly surprised and amazed by what you find inside.

Cross the threshold and find a four bedroom home with a separate artist studio! You will be delighted by all the home has to offer. A cottage with a rustic feel, but having all the modern amenities and then some. There are magnificent wood details throughout the home beginning with the recovered pine floors and continuing throughout with beamed eleven feet ceilings on the main level and paneled accent above the fireplace.

Beautiful cabinets are found in the kitchen and butler’s pantry, again drawing your eye to to the wood elements here. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and granite and marble countertops. The kitchen has a central breakfast bar with additional storage of glass front cabinets. It is a great place for cookbooks and linens to be displayed.

The kitchen, living room and breakfast room are open to one another. The space lends itself to comfortable living and easy entertaining. The master bedroom is also on the main floor and is oversized and very spacious; an attached master bath has a separate shower and whirlpool tub and heated floors. The paneled library invites quiet reading with custom shelves and reading lamps.

To take advantage of the great outdoor living in Serenbe the home is surrounded by mature trees and has a screened in porch along one half of the back of the house. The other half is a large open deck. Rain or shine you will be able to enjoy one of the elements that made you choose this community in the first place.

An added bonus is a separate artist studio that is connected to the house by a trellis covered walk. The space is relaxing and surrounded by windows. It would also be a great space for a private home office or work area.

Offered at $899,000.

Four bedrooms, three full baths and two half baths.

$899,000

500 Augusta Lane
Palmetto, GA 30268

Click here for more photos and information on this Serenbe home for sale.

Sandra Storrar
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
404.310.3558
404.835.9600

Nan Haverty
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
404.328.8313
404.835.9600

301 Lunceford Circle is a little piece of heaven in the North Georgia mountains. This 4.78 acre lot, located on the Chestatee River, has 268 feet frontage with the building site(s) elevated to offer gorgeous views overlooking the river.

Build your home nestled in the trees of the heavily wooded property and wake up to hear the river flowing every morning. This is a place to relax away from the hustle of city life.

The current owner will consider owner financing for 20 years at 6.5% with 20% down. Owner will also consider a 1031 exchange.

Offered at $395,000

301 Lunceford Circle
Dahlonega, GA 30533

Please click here for more photos of this acreage in the North Georgia Mountains

Cathy Talley
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Mobile: 770.298.6377
Office: 404.835.9600
cathy@atlantafinehomes.com