jwp buyer's guide- webc3155192.r92.cf0.rackcdn.com/.../67165/jwp_20buyers... · the atlanta...

Buyer’s ServicesExpertise | Trust | Integrity

P!pared Es%cially For:

THE ATLANTA PERIMETER OFFICEHARRY NORMAN, REALTORS®

JOHN W. PATRICK770-862-9427 Cell770-394-2131 O�[email protected]

4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta GA 30338770-394-2131 O�ce | 770-396-6695 Fax

www.harrynorman.com

My Client

THE ATLANTA PERIMETER OFFICE

Mi�ion Statement

The Atlanta Perimeter OfficeHarry Norman, Realtors®

We will assist our clients and customers in buying or

selling a home with undivided attention, unparalleled

professionalism and unsurpassed service. We will strive

to earn their loyalty by having a completely satis2ed

customer at the end of each transaction.

JOHN W. PATRICK770-862-9427 Cell770-394-2131 [email protected]

4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30338 www.harrynorman.com

Harry Norman REALTORS is an a!liate of HomeServices Lending. Please speak to your real estate agent for more information on this a!liation.

All "rst mortgage products are provided by HomeServices Lending, LLC. HomeServices Lending, LLC may not be available in your area. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Georgia Residential Mortgage License Number: 32253. Kansas Licensed Mort-gage Company, License Number: SL.0026321. 333 South 7th St. 27th Floor Minneapolis, MN 55402. Oregon Mortgage Broker License Number: 0381-001-C. ©2011 HomeServices Lending. All Rights Reserved. NMLSR ID 490683 AS 920184 11/11-02/12

LISA SANDERSHomeServices Lending

Home Mortgage Consultant404-918-6336

[email protected]

NMLSR ID 609105GRMA 32208

COLLIN GRAVITTCampbell & Brannon, LLC

Attorney at Law770-401-2567

[email protected]

JOHN W. PATRICKHarry Norman, Realtors®

Broker Associate770-862-9427

[email protected]

RHONDA POITEVENTAmerican Home Shield

Senior Account Executive800-735-4663

[email protected]

SHELBY HN Insurance Services

Personal Insurance Agent678-553-5281

[email protected]

Atlanta Perime�r’sFamily of Services


�e Ultimate Real Estate Ex�rienceAs your Buyer’s Agent, You Can Count on Me To...

Be an active, full-time agent, trained as a Buyer’s Representative

Representing your interest as the buyer and guiding you through the entire home buying process

Be ethical, honest and caring

Be a market expert

Knowledge of the current market including short sales, foreclosures and pricing

Information on schools, area taxes, amenities and other items of your interest

Be an active listener and good communicator

Listen carefully to your needs and tailor the search to find just the right home

Provide Client Gateway access which alerts you of all new listings that match your criteria

Have a network through our Family of Services that includes mortgage, title work, insurance,

inspectors and other vendors

Be well-organized with good follow-up skills to keep you up to date on pertinent information from

home search to final closing

Explain the intricacies of the Purchase and Sale Agreement when making your offer

Provide comparables and interpret them to understand proper pricing

Understand builders’ new construction contracts

To be an excellent negotiator

Structure the offer to get the best sales price

Ability to work with other agents, inspectors, lenders and closing attorneys


State of the Market


State of the Market

Real estate markets are sensitive to many things: supply of inventory, demand of inventory, economic conditions, employment

statistics, interest rates, availability of mortgages, media information and in general, the ability of buyers to buy and the motivation of

sellers to sell, and a positive outlook from the media.

A BUYERS’ MARKET is when available listings exceed the demand of prospective buyers. This type of market can

be great for buyers! Sellers are much more "exible when the competition is greater and if the Seller has a motivating need

to sell quickly. #ere are bargains to be had! REO’s (real estate owned by lenders), foreclosures, pre-foreclosures (short sales

typically) are opportunities to sell quickly but often times, these kinds of sales can be more labor intensive, take longer

for negotiating, much more complex and in the end, they do not always work out to everyone’s satisfaction. A buyers’

market is perfect for investors and for those people who know that whatever they buy in this environment is going to

enhance in value eventually. In a buyers’ market, many times appraisals are coming back de$cient because all of the distressed

sales that are being used by appraisers for comparables are being factored into the equation and this is causing a lowering

of appraisals. Also, in an effort to prevent mortgage fraud, appraisers are having to use comparables that are more recent

than in previous times, in an effort to reflect current and timely conditions.

A SELLERS’ MARKET is when available listings are in short supply, buyer demand is high, interest rates are favorable,

mortgages are plentiful and in general, economic conditions are positioned right for buyer con$dence. Typically, in a Sellers’

market, prices are escalating and values are going to appreciate. #is is the market we are accustomed to seeing and everyone

who wants to buy and sell real estate is able to do so without great di%culty in this type of market. Many homes are appraising

higher than selling prices and in general, many sellers are taking full advantage of the opportunity to sell their property and

get close to list price.

A BALANCED MARKET is neither a buyers’ market with huge numbers of homes available and escalating values, nor a

sellers’ market with frantic activity, but a market that is moving along at a moderate pace, houses are selling within a reasonable

period of time and appraisals are coming back very close to selling prices.

Metro Atlanta has in the past, enjoyed a favorable housing market with moderate appreciation and very good values. Buyers

who move to Atlanta from many other parts of the country have typically been pleasantly surprised with what their dollar

could buy in Atlanta and these newcomers have, for the most part, been delighted this has been the case.


�e Home Purchasing Process


�e Home Purchasing ProcessYour Harry Norman, Realtors® sales associate will guide you through each step of the purchase of your home. Below is an

example of the steps involved from "nding your home through closing the transaction.

SOLD


Why Should You Use a Realtor®?When purchasing a home, your Harry Norman, Realtors® sales associate can give you up-to-date information on what is

happening in the marketplace including price, "nancing and a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) of homes currently on

the market as well as comparative sold homes. #ese are key factors in successfully purchasing your dream home at the best

price in the least amount of time.

Only real estate licensees who are members of the National Association of Realtors® are properly called Realtors®. Realtors®

subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying

and selling real estate. They are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. Realtor® business practices are

monitored at local board levels. Arbitration and disciplinary systems are in place to address complaints from the public or

other board members.

Your Realtor® can help you write an appropriate legally binding purchase agreement. Between the initial sales agreement and

settlement/closing, questions may arise. For example, unexpected repairs may be required to obtain "nancing or a problem

with the title is discovered. Your Realtor® is the best person to help you resolve those issues and move the transaction to

settlement/closing.

The REALTOR® DifferenceExcellence in Production

REALTORS® have:

Did you know? Nearly 90%* of Metro-Atlanta�s top 100 real estate agents are REALTORS®.

Did you know? Exactly 90% of the top fifty real estate firms in Georgia are REALTORS®.

Did you know? REALTORS® are the only voice in Washington protecting your investment, preserving private property rights and defending the American Dream of Homeownership.

Any real estate licensee can help you buy or sell a home, but only a REALTOR® keeps working to protect

your investment long after the sale.

In most cases, the sale or purchase of a home is the largest and most complicated transaction in your life.

Don�t make a decision of this magnitude without proper guidance and leadership.

REALTORS® have made the decision to differentiate themselves by investing in their career and

supporting their profession. With less than 50% of the active real estate licensees in Georgia electing to

become REALTORS®, homebuyers and sellers need to interview prospective agents and ask the question,

�Are you a REALTOR®?�

Are you represented by a REALTOR®?

*Study conducted by Terry Swanson, REALTOR®, using RealValuator and REData Center

data from 2010 transactions.

REALTOR® - A Registered collective membership mark that identifies a real

estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®

and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Inquiries regarding the Code of Ethics

should be directed to the board in which a REALTOR® holds membership.


When purchasing a home customers can rely on HomeServices Lending’s extensive resources and capabilities to answer unique !nancing requirements. HomeServices Lending, LLC is focused on value as well as quality. "erefore, they o#er practical rate, term and closing options so customers can e#ectively optimize tax advantages and leverage their capital. For more information, visit www.harrynorman.com or https://www.homeloans.com/loans/hslga1/index.page

As an independent insurance agency, HN Insurance Services represents a carefully selected group of nationally known insurance companies. HN Insurance’s independence allows their professional insurance agents the flexibility to shop and compare a wide variety of insurance and financial products for customers. Existing solely to serve the needs of the Harry Norman, REALTORS® organization, HN Insurance Services is a part of their team of trusted advisers. For more information, call 404-943-1899.

Moving made easy. All connect is a free service that not only helps you find the best home services deals in your area; we also manage the process of getting them all connected. Allconnect provides you with a detailed list of plans available for your home address from over 200 nationally recognized partners. www.harrynorman.com/allconnect.

Get the peace of mind an American Home Shield Warranty provides. Harry Norman, REALTORS has partnered with American Home Shield Warranty to offer comprehensive and affordable home warranty coverage, with unmatched customer service. American Home Shield has over 35 years of experience. Whether you are buying or selling a home, an American Home Shield Warranty eliminates the uncertainty of unplanned expenses for repair or replacement of covered items and limits your exposure to a reasonable deductible. www.harrynorman.com/HomeWarranty

Township Title Services offers quality title services for buyers and sellers while providing a smooth closing experience. A strategic joint venture alliance between Harry Norman, REALTORS® and Campbell & Brannon LLC, Township Title Services was created to provide buyers and sellers with the vast knowledge, skills, and experience of the Township Title attorneys and staff. Campbell & Brannon LLC is a law firm at the forefront of the real estate law and litigation in metro Atlanta and Georgia. Township Title shares a customer service philosophy with Harry Norman, REALTORS® which supports serving the client first and foremost. For more information, call 404-504-8700 or visit www.campbellandbrannon.com.

One less thing to worry about

Our Family is He� to Serve Your Family "e Harry Norman, Realtors® Family of Services


Pre-approval vs. Pre-qualification

A pre-approval indicates that a lender has taken a detailed look into your !nancial background and has committed to lend

you a certain amount of money, pending speci!c property details. Because pre-approval entails a credit check and a review

of supporting documentation, it’s more powerful than a pre-quali!cation letter, which generally only estimates what you

can a"ord based on information you have provided.

Advantages of being pre-approved:

Pre-approval o"ers a number of advantages over waiting to apply for a mortgage until a#er you have found a home. It entitles you to:

1. Shop for a home with the con!dence of knowing you are approved for the price range in which you are looking.

2. Take advantage of the preference many home sellers have for pre-approved buyers. With a pre-approval, sellers know they

have a fully-approved buyer quali!ed to purchase their home. $is o#en will give you an advantage over an un-approved

buyer when more than one contract is presented.

3. Strengthen your negotiating position.

4. Allow your sales associate to structure the !nancing portion of the contract based on your !nancial needs.

5. Obtain a quick closing date.

6. Discover possible quali!cation issues early

in the home buying process, minimizing

last minute surprises.

When searching for a new home, the last thing

you want to be concerned with is the !nancing.

A pre-approval helps remove the stress and

anxiety during the home buying process by

giving you the con!dence that the !nancing

will be in place.

* Provided by HomeServices Lending


Where buyers !rst learned about the home they purchased (percentage distribution):

Real Estate Agent

38%

37%Internet

11%Yard Sign

6%Friend/Relative/Neighbor

4%Home Builder

2%NewspaperAdvertisement

2%Directly fromthe Seller

1%Home Bookor Magazine

Information sources used by buyers in their home search

(percent of respondents - NOTE: respondents could select more than one information source):

0 20 40 60 80 100

Internet 89%

Real Estate Agent 88%

Yard Sign

Open House

Newspaper Advertisement 36%

Home Book/Magazine 23%

Home Builder 16%

Television 7%

Billboard 5%

Relocation Company 3%

57%

45%

*Source: 2010 National Association of Realtors® Pro!le of Home Buyers and Sellers

Real Estate Agents are the Key Source for Buyers


www.HarryNorman.com

Harry Norman, Realtors® is committed to leading the way in providing you the technological resources you need. Harry Norman,

Realtors®’ website is THE online resource for all your real estate needs.

Advantages for buyers:Search more than 100,000 area listings of multiple listing services located throughout Georgia and North Carolina

Search nationally and globally through our a"liation with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World™

Apply online for a mortgage

Determine how much you can a$ord with our mortgage calculator

Search for Open Houses

Obtain step-by-step information on the buying process

(continue...)

1. Fail to get pre-approved with a loan o�cer before starting the home buying process – Your Realtor®

can best help you by narrowing your search to the homes that best suits your needs. If time is spent looking at homes that

are over your budget, it will only lead to frustration and disappointment when you change your criteria to a lesser priced

home. Additionally, if there are credit issues to be resolved, your loan o"cer can o#er ways to correct the situation while

the search begins instead of in the small time frame from writing an o#er and being expected to close on the property.

Make this step your number one priority.

2. Not setting a realistic budget – “Life” continues a$er home ownership and your budget should continue to re%ect

your other expenses including entertainment and an emergency fund along with the new ones that might now include the

need for additional furniture, maintenance of the new property, lawn equipment and higher utility costs perhaps. Don’t

become “House Poor.”

3. Must have the !rst house you see – Do not mistake speed for accuracy when making this important decision. While most

probably will not have the luxury of having a home wait on the market for you while you shops for weeks; your Realtor® knows

that you must see a variety of homes before you can feel truly comfortable with your &nal choice.

4. Looking at the home’s furnishings and missing the "oor plan – *e furniture will be gone when you close

on the home. Do not mistake gorgeous furnishings for a great %oor plan or a well maintained home. Likewise, an ugly

recliner located in an awkward location will also be gone and may be concealing a truly great home.

5. Not researching the surroundings completely – Look at more than just the home. You are also buying into the

neighborhood along with its amenities, schools and proximity to your work.

6. Buying the most expensive home in the community – While buying near the top of the homes in the area is not

the worst situation, it is most advisable to have a home priced similarly to all others in the community to avoid becoming

a di"cult resale later. *is might also signal that the home’s value might not be accurately portrayed with the list price.

7. Buying more home than you need – Buying too much house is costly. Buy enough to meet your family’s needs, but

buy the best quality you can a#ord, not the highest square footage. Extra space that is unused by your family is still costly

to heat & cool and taxes are still being assessed on the total area. It is better to sell your home and buy a more appropriate

sized home later as your family’s needs change/grow.

8. #inking that investing in a home is anything like the Stock Market – Buy a new home when your needs of

home ownership change, not to follow the rise and fall in any market phase. It is ALWAYS a “Buyer’s” Market as the home

purchase is based on what the buyer is willing to pay in an open market. Equity in a home rises in 3 ways: 1) *e appreciation of

the property; 2) *e payments that accrue during ownership; and 3) *e maintenance & care the home owners provide

during the term of ownership.

�e 15 Biggest Mistakes Home Buyers Make

�e 15 Biggest Mistakes Home Buyers Make

9. Believing Auctions and Foreclosures are the only way to make a “Good Deal” – !ere are many quality

homes on the market that are being o"ered at reasonable prices and with enticing terms. Let it be argued that a home

with appropriate maintenance and documented history my be a much better selection that one will no disclosures and no

known history. Seller’s o"er their homes for sale for a variety of reasons and o#en are very negotiable in price in order to

meet some deadline or situation you are not aware of.

10. Not thinking “Re-Sale” as you buy – Look at the situation that may currently make the home such a bargain. Is the home

going to be di$cult to resale in future markets because of an awkward %oor plan, a di$cult lot, a less than desirable location in

the community? !ose factors will all still be there in the future. Recognizing the home’s shortcomings is important so that you

also recognize the home will stay under the value of the rest of the community.

11. Trusting everything you read in marketing advertising, disclosures and seller’s representatives– “Buyer Beware” is a slogan because it is as true in real estate as everywhere. If there is tranquil acreage behind the

home, do your own research if it is important to you that it remains so. By the same token be certain you can find

support that the roof is one year new and there are no community assessments due.

12. Visiting the property only once before making an o!er – You will see a number of properties and details are

easily forgotten or missed. !is is a very expensive investment so make sure you are comfortable that you know what you

are buying.

13. Not getting a professional home inspection – Every home will have some flaws, so be realistic about your

expectations of perfection. But also be as informed about the property as possible and a quality inspection can assist

you in doing this. An inspector will check the mechanics of the home as well as the operation of doors & windows.

A thorough inspection will generally (nd the hidden potential problems and support the property disclosures statements.

Include in your home due diligence period a survey and an inspection of the HOA covenants and rules & regulations.

14. Not being pro-active through to the closing – Stay informed, ask questions and expect to review the HUD

statement before arriving at the closing table. Review to make certain the price, terms and incentives agreed upon

are so noted in the final statement.

15. Not hiring a competent and compatible REALTOR® – A truly worthy REALTOR® will assist you in each of

the steps above and they will support you at each step of the way. !ey will remind you of these important steps and assist

you in your research. !ey will also clarify questions on every document and make suggestions of possible solutions for

every challenge. But you must also respect and enjoy the relationship. A professional who is suspect or ill suited to you will

not be able to advocate in your best interest. Choose wisely.

I o�er this list to you, with the pledge to be a worthy advocate, a patient advisor, a knowledgeable guide and a strong negotiator.


�e Buyer Agency


Harry Norman, Realtors® and its sales associates appreciate the opportunity to assist you in your real estate needs. I am pleased to work with you in the agency relationship that best meets your needs and satis"es Georgia Agency Law.

My services to you are based on our desire to provide the highest quality of service possible. My mission is that you will be satis"ed before, during and a!er the sale or purchase of your property.

Brokerage in Georgia:Sales associates are licensed and are a$liated with a licensed broker, typically as independent contractors.

Buyers and sellers interact with sales associates who are supported by their Broker.

Licensed brokers and sales associates are required, by law, to be honest, truthful and to disclose materially adverse conditions relative to the purchase and sale of a property.

Georgia law de"nes working relationships between buyers, sellers and real estate brokers and how relationships are established.

Agency RelationshipsConsumers work with sales associates as “clients” or “customers.”

Clients:Clients are represented by real estate brokers and their sales associates.

Brokerage duties to the client are loyalty, con"dentiality and protection of the client’s interest in the transaction.

Georgia law requires that clients and Brokers sign a brokerage agency agreement for representation.

If the buyer and seller in a transaction are clients of the same brokerage and working with the same sales associate, Dual Agency occurs.

Dual agency requires the written consent of both buyer and seller.

Disclosure and consent to dual agency is provided in the seller’s listing agreement and in the buyer’s agency agreement.

In dual agency, neither party is exclusively represented. Con"dentiality is maintained for each party, unless information relevant to the transaction is false, unlawful, materially adverse or harmful to the position of either party.

If the buyer and the seller in a transaction are clients of the same brokerage but represented by di%erent sales associates, Designated Agency occurs. Designated agency is not dual agency in Georgia.

Customers:Customers are not represented by a broker in a legal or agency capacity.

If both the buyer and seller are customers, the Broker is a Transaction Broker. A transaction broker represents neither party in the transaction.

Services available to a customer are called “ministerial acts.” Ministerial acts include: locating property, providing information, preparing contracts and providing names of other professionals such as inspectors, attorneys, lenders, etc.

Brokerage Relationships in Real Estate Transactions Act (BRRETA)


New Construction


Do I Need a Buyer’s Agent if I’m Buying New Construction?

Most buyers of a newly constructed home think that there is no reason for them to enlist the services of a buyer’s agent, a!er

all, the builder usually has an agent or someone on site to tell you everything there is to know about the house, the "oor plans,

upgrades available and the community that is being developed. Why would you need an agent of your own?

Well, for the same reason you need your own agent when buying a resale home. #at agent in the builder’s o$ce or the model

home is working on behalf of the seller, or in this case, the builder!

Will I Have to Pay Extra to Have My Own Agent Involved?In most cases, NO. #e builder hires an agent to sell their new homes. Whether they are third party real estate agents or employees of

the builder, they are there to sell those homes. Just like with resale, these agents co-op with buyer’s agents and split their commission

with those buyer’s agents, which means that you do not owe your agent any money, the seller pays your agent and theirs.

So you should ask yourself, “If it doesn’t cost me anything extra, why wouldn’t I bring in my own agent to look out for my best

interests, to negotiate, coordinate the details, give me their expert advice on the builder and the homes themselves, and help

me "nd the perfect new home community?”

#e agents at a new home community are acting in the builder’s best interest, not yours, and don’t think that because you are not

using an agent, that you are saving yourself any money. #e builder’s agent will either share their commission with your agent or they

will get all the commission for themselves.

Do Builders Use Di!erent Contracts?Yes, in most cases, builders have their own contracts. !e standard state of Georgia Real Estate Purchase & Sale Agreement (the contract)

that licensed Realtors use is 7 pages long. Your Realtor will explain each part of the contract to you so that you understand what you are

signing. Builder’s contracts are commonly over 20 pages long and are rarely explained in detail to you by the builder. !is is when you really

need someone familiar with the real estate legal jargon to look out for your best interests. !at’s what a buyer’s agent is for. A good buyer’s

agent will ask to take the contract with them, study it with their broker and peers and then explain or amend pieces of it to protect the buyer.

Will the Builder Negotiate or is it “Take it or Leave it?”Builders do not usually negotiate a much on their sale price, especially if they are selling several of the same model at the same

time. !at’s not to say that they don’t negotiate though. Price is only one point of negotiation, though most buyers are not

aware of this. A good buyer’s agent will advise their client on negotiating for di+erent upgrades and/or contributions to closing that

the builder may be willing to be "exible on.

Bottom LineIt is just as important to have a buyer’s agent on your side, if not more important when you are buying new construction.


Do I Need a Buyer’s Agent if I’m Buying New Construction?

!e Agent who is on site represents the seller/builder.

A Buyer’s Agent will represent You, explaining Covenants and Restrictions, Plats, Easements, Zoning, etc.

!e Agent who is on site is knowledgeable about their neighborhood but may not be able to do a fair

comparison to other neighborhoods.

A Buyer’s Agent understands that a Builder needs to keep prices at a level that is the same whether one or two

agents are involved as the sales price includes the commission and can compare all similar neighborhoods in

other areas.

!e Agent on site will explain all the future amenities; Clubhouse, Swim and Tennis, Golf, Walking Trails.

The Buyer’s Agent will explain whether the Association Fees cover the Amenities and ensure what

assessments you may be subjected to such as for private streets if the Neighborhood is gated.

!e Agent on site may explain everything on the Builder’s contract which is to protect the builder.

!e Buyer’s Agent will explain the Contract and ensure that you are protected for unforeseen events;

"ood, delayed closing, #re, loss of job, death, return of earnest monies or builder deposits, etc.

!e Agent on site may explain the Warranty Manual for this Builder.

!e Buyer’s Agent will be able to explain if this is an all encompassing document to better protect you.

!e Agent on site may not be able to negotiate the sales price.

!e Buyer’s Agent will be able to recognize what the price does not include and negotiate many extras into the

contract price for you.

The Bottom Line...A Buyer’s Agent in New Construction will represent you in the single largest investment of your life. You are

entitled by Georgia Law to have fair representation under Buyer’s Agency. Harry Norman Realtors® is a full

service company with Lawyers, Mortgage O%cers, and Agents to give you the best opportunity to buy the

home that meets your criteria, at the best price, in the best neighborhoods, with the best schools, with the

best chance for resale when the time comes.


�e Search

What is the Client Gateway? "e Client Gateway is a unique personalized website that your Real Estate Agent has created especially for you. You and your agent can enter the

website at anytime to view new or changed listings that meet you search criteria. You will be able to easily manage the properties on your website

by !ling them into categories such as likes, possibilities, and dislikes. You will be able to share notes on any property with your agent, and in

turn your agent will also have the ability to add notes, �ags, or recommend additional listings.

The properties on your gateway will be updated as there are changes in availability or price. Think of your Client Gateway website

as your own personal digital filing drawer where you can house and review all of the information related to your property search.

Be sure to take advantage of this easy to use and time saving tool!

How Do I Access the Client Gateway?Accessing the Client Gateway for the $rst time…

When your agent creates your Client Gateway, he or she will send you an email to notify you that it has been created. In the email you will see a

note that tells you to click on the ‘Client Gateway’ link to access the gateway. #e link will be blue/purple and underlined. Mouse over the link

and le" click. As a result a new window will open in your web browser (you will need to be connected to the internet to view the link).

TIP: To save your Client Gateway webpage as a ‘Favorite’ right-click on the Client Gateway web page and choose

‘Add to Favorites’.

Returning to the Client Gateway…

Anytime additional properties are added to your Client Gateway, you will receive a noti#cation message via email from your agent. Each

email will contain a link that you can click on to return to your Client Gateway webpage. Additionally, you can always access your gate-

way by clicking the link in the original email that you received.

How do I use the Client Gateway?From the Home/Welcome page:

To view your property list click the link near the center of your screen. (�e name your agent assigned to your property

search will be the link. Examples, Roswell Search, Lake Homes, Bob Jones.)

* Result: Your Property List will open.

To view properties that you have categorized as a Like, Dislike or Possibilities, click on either the Like, Dislike, or

Possibility tab.

From the Property List:

Sort the properties by choosing sort criteria from the ‘Sort By’ drop down menu.

To view all the properties on a map, click on ‘Map �ese Properties’.

To view next page of properties, click on ‘Next’. (10 properties display per page.)

Return to the Home/Welcome page by clicking on ‘Home’.

To view details about a property on your list, click on ‘View Details’.

From the Property Detail:

Click on the property photo to view additional photos.

Click on ‘Save’ or ‘Make Notes’ to categorize this property as a Like, Dislike, Possibility or to make notes.

To email the property to a friend, click on ‘Email to a Friend’.

Return to the property list by clicking on ‘Back to list’.

*To email your agent, click on their email address from any page.

Client Gateway


Harry Norman, Realtors® VoicePad® Audio Search puts you in the driver’s seat in your home search!

While you are driving around town, get up-to-date information on any property for sale, no matter the listing broker!

Simply call the search system (404-874-4663), enter a house number, listen to the updated presentation in English or

Spanish and receive an e-mail with additional information on each property of interest.

Ask Your Harry Norman, Realtors® Agent to Register You with VoicePad Buyer 411

Just some of the bene"ts of Buyers 411:

Allows you to search the local inventory on your own

Works on your existing mobile phone – no need for any additional equipment

Ability to connect to your buyers agent immediately if you "nd a property you wish to view

Receive an e-mail on each property presentation you hear automatically

Receive a text message within minutes containing abbreviated property information on your search

Your agent is noti"ed of your property searches so that they may better assist you

Avoid multiple callbacks by other agents as property information is supplied to your own phone and your identity

is protected.

Your agent simply needs your name, cell phone

number(s) and e-mail address to begin the registration

process. Once submitted, you will receive a welcome

e-mail explaining how to use the system.

Ask your agent to put the power of VoicePad to work for you today!

�e Power of VoicePad® Mobile Audio Search!


If You See...

Call me - as your agent, I will always look out for your best interest and I will provide you with all the information you want about any home.

A For Sale By Owner

740 SAN ANTONIO DRIVE

Morningside. $1,150,000. Modern

design 3BR/3.5b + studio has deck off

every rm, rooftop terr & skyline views.

740sanantonio.com (3246756) Chase

Jordan 404-888-0602/897-5558.

3561 STONE DRIVE

East Cobb. $1,100,000. Incredible

2.9+/- ac setting. Shimmering lake, priv

dock + charming front porch views 2nd

lake. 5BR/4+b/fin terr lvl, 1st fl mstr BR,

updated kit, charming screened porch views

gardens/nature. Lassiter HS dist. (3251641)

Julie Altenbach 770-977-9500 x712.

3172 FARMINGTON DR

Vinings. $1,195,000. 4BR/4.5b.

Fabulous Vinings renovation w/ new

everything. Master on main, great fam-

ily neighborhood. (3260210) Sandra

Bennett 404-240-2768/261-2700.

210 BERNSIDE COURT

Alpharetta. $1,329,000. European

estate w/ majestic golf views, formal

parlor/library, grand rm w/ French door

to entertainment priv deck, gourmet kit,

keeping rm w/ views of pool, waterfall

and cabana, fin terr lvl. (3229771)

Jackie Spota 770-442-3838/416-4464.

4620 LUKE DRIVE

Forsyth. $339,500. A Southern Living home!

Decorator designed new colors. White cabs

in gourmet kit o’looking great room w/ fplc.

Separate LR, large formal DR, and sun-

room/study. Full basement, cul-de-sac lot. A

perfect 10! (3232208) Call Barbara Directly

at 404-695-5554 / 770-993-7906.

1386 VALLEY RESERVE

Kennesaw. $739,725. Entertainers dream.

Great flow & mix of formal & casual.

Gourmet kit open to FR & sun rm.

Mstr on main. Terr lvl w/ full kit, game,

media, exer & bar. (3259711) Hicks

Malonson 678-486-2123/445-0050.

4085 FLINTLOCK ROAD

Buckhead. $669,000. 5BR/3b brick

ranch on +/- acre lot. B’ful landscaping,

renovated int, pool, open & bright.

(3235513) Stacey Kessler 404-814-

5494/233-1492.

2950 RIDGEWOOD RD

Buckhead. $1,995,000. 4BR/4b. B’fully

updated home on approx 2.7 gorgeous

ac w/ pool. Fabulous kit & hdwds

throughout. Fenced bkyd w/ play and

entertainment areas. (3256229) Julene

Hodges 404-240-2795/261-2700.

549 RIVERCLIFF TRACE

East Cobb. $1,349,900. Wonderful brick

trad w/ mstr on main w/ magnificent

bath, kit w/ cherry cabs/granite/stainless,

cozy keeping rm w/ stone fplc, banquet

DR, LR, study, 2 laundry rms, back

porch w/ breathtaking views. (3262421)

Sharon Oxman 770-977-9500/856-8537.

180 GINGERCAKE TRAIL

Fayette County. $264,900. Welcome

home to this b’ful 3BR/2.5b full brick

Ed Johnson built home in move-in

condition! Features include DR, LR,

FR, bsmt & all new stainless steel appli-

ances in kit! (01898288). Call MaryAnn

770-632-1298.

HIGHLANDS, NC

Newly remodeled and priced to sell

at $599,000 with million-dollar view.

(57816) Contact Vicki Montet 828-

526-8300 or 704-609-2551. 1808 TOBEY ROAD

Ashford Park. $569,000. W’ful 5BR/3b

home w/ tons of upgrades. Kit w/ maple

cabs, granite & S/S. True 5BR+ bonus/

media rm. GR w/ fplc. (3249393) Katie

Belew 678-575-5339/770-394-2131.

46 PEACHTREE HILLS AVE

Buckhead. $446,000. 3BR/2b brick

bungalow, LR w/ fplc & built-ins,

big sep DR, eat-in kit, deck over-

looks fenced yd, walk to everything.

(3225452) Margaret Harman 404-814-

5409/233-1492.

3180 MATHIESON DR #1105

Buckhead. $439,900. Fabulous loft w/

skyline views from 2 balconies. 2BR/2b

+ office area. Corner unit with 13’

ceilings. (3244104) Jackie Brantley 404-

814-5480/233-1492.

104 JEFFERSON CIRCLE

Sandy Springs. $339,900. English

country cottage t’home w/ priv gated

patio/garden off solarium. 3BR/2.5b.

LR French doors lead to front balcony.

Circle staircase. FR w/ fplc. (3258188)

Kathy Austin 770-206-3117/394-2131

1923 ENCHANTED WOODS TR

Marietta. $365,000. Great NE Cobb

location. 4BR/3.5b, plus study, sep

LR/DR, GR w/ fplc opens to kit/b’fast.

Huge master BR w/ sitting rm.

(3249907) Mary Ellen Macke 404-310-

5933/770-622-3081.

7 RABBIT RIDGE

Fannin County. $399,000. Fantastic

mountain log cabin, great for entertain-

ing. 2 mstr suites, tile showers/flrs,

GR w/ 12’. Kick out dining area, loft,

outside fplc. (114644) Dana Chastain

706-632-7211.

5235 ALDEBURGH COURT

Suwanee. $799,900. Magnificent home on

#1 hole of Bear’s Best golf course. Gourmet

kit. Hdwds on main. Mstr suite w/ sitting

rm w/ fplc & wetbar. Spectacular FR. O/S

rooms. Upgraded details. (3255851) Lisa

Hughes 770-217-7689/678-318-5100.

2525 PEACHTREE RD #27

Buckhead. $769,000. 3BR/2.5b. Priv quiet

gated community in the heart of Buckhead.

Trad t’home w/ generously-sized rms, wide

foyer, spacious LR w/ fplc opens to sunny solar-

ium, sep DR, comfortably sized den. Elevator

to 4 lvls. Terr lvl rec rm. Walk to Peachtree

Battle shopping center or serene duck pond.

Under the market at $769,000. (3231262)

Beth Wallace 404-784-2523/261-2700.

542 HEYWARD CIRCLE

Cobb. $739,000. Classic trad brick

home on almost 2+/- acres in sought

after Oakton. 5BR/2 mstrs (1 on main).

2 fplcs, pool, hot tub, updated kit. Fin

bsmt. (3262565) Greg Briscoe 770-422-

6005/633-2849.

4100 PACES WALK #4406

Cobb. $399,900. 4BR/2.5b.

Unsurpassed view, top flr corner unit.

Upgrades, granite/stainless kit. New

price. (3215194) Jim Smith 678-662-

1859/261-2700.

5301 KANAWHA COURT

Stone Mountain. $417,000. Prime home

on quiet cul-de-sac in Smoke Rise Golf &

Country Club area. Ranch w/ fin d’light

terr lvl. Catheral ceiling, lots of glass,

cheery, happy setting amid lg trees. Huge

bsmt w/ workshop area. (3235293) Lou

McGuff 770-938-8881/413-4500.

592 VININGS ESTATES DR

Vinings. $329,000. Beautiful end unit

3BR/3.5b townhome in prestigious

Vinings Estates. Immaculate. Spacious.

Large luxurious master suite. Superb

kitchen. Private/wooded views. A+

ammenities. A+ Warranty/builder.

(3257648) Roberta Foley 404-317-

3982/404-233-4142.

560 HIGHBROOK

Sandy Springs. $519,000. 4 BR/3b w/

huge lot. 1¾+/- lvls w/ a bkyd to die

for. 2-car gar. Immaculate ranch with

stunning yd. (3262295) Pick Cotten

404-310-0541/233-4142.

1072 NORTHCLIFFE DRIVE

Buckhead/Wildwood. $469,000. 3BR/3b,

lg screened porch, office, playrm, new kit.

Morris Brandon school dist. Cul-de-sac.

(3251185) Beth Kempe 404-814-4885/233-

1492.

5165 MATTHEW MEADOWS CT

Forsyth. $498,800. Magnificent executive

home on nearly 2+/- ac priv wooded cul-de-

sac. Enjoy nature lover’s yd from o’sized deck

& patio. Full fin walk out bsmt. Immaculate,

bright, spacious. Too many extras to list.

4BR/4fb/2hb. (3254120) contact Carmelina

at 678-699-3953/770-993-7906.

WATERS EDGE CAPITAL

$335,000+. Waters Edge @ Capital is

a premier estate setting of eleven 2+ ac

gated home sites, many b’ful sites are

lake front. Golf amenities. Minutes to

Crabapple, Alpharetta, Roswell. Terri

Coulston 678-486-2163/445-0050.

690 CONCORD RD, SW

Cobb/Smyrna. $324,900. Lovely crafts-

man-style home in historic covered

bridge area. Lg fenced bkyd. Lg mstr w/

sitting rm. Lot of upgrades and storage.

(3262985) Karen 770-422-6005/678-

787-8433.

617 MICHAEL CIRCLE

Walton County. $169,900. Largest flr

plan on largest lot in n’hood. 4BR/2.5b,

formal LR & DR, eat-in kit, FR, & lg

bonus rm. Priv fenced wooded rear yd

w/ lg custom deck. Owner’s ste has sep

shower and garden tub. (1894429) Call

Tripp 770-632-4812.

Career Services Center at

741 SIMON PARK CIRCLE

Lawrenceville. $176,900. Spacious 4BR

located close to d’town Lawrenceville.

Large eat-in kit, mstr suite w/ sit-

ting area, full unfin bsmt and more.

(3246178) Patty Mazzei 678-957-

3874/770-622-3081.

3966 OAKWOOD COURT

Douglasville. $229,900. 4BR/3.5b, Mstr

on main + 2BR/bonus. Loft upstairs. Lg

sunrm, fin bsmt w/ FR, pool rm, BR/b.

Lg lvl lot. Outbuilding. New paint.

(3232479) Velma 770-422-6005/678-

923-2226.

1125 MORNINGSIDE PLACE

Morningside. $279,900. 2BR/2.5b, gar,

unfin bsmt, brick t’home in fav com-

plex. Patio, wildwood nature preserve.

(3244695) Sylvia Mallarino cell 404-

786-3944/897-5558.

32 PEACHTREE ST #1602

Downtown. $114,900. A tranquil &

quaint William Oliver corner studio

unit, complete w/ all kit appls, incl.

refrigerator. Includes storage unit.

(3244379) Stefanie Allen 404-897-5558.

4328 VICARS CHASE

Austell. $117,000. 2BR/1b stepless

ranch. Great for a starter home or for

retirement in super cluster home located

near Silver Comet Trail. Lvl priv bkyd.

(3256719) Debra Baird 404-495-

8397/233-4142.

Equal Housing Opportunity

1003 NOTTINGHAM LANE

$799,900. Walk to Lenox Square. Like

new all brick home in Lenox Park w/ mstr

on main. Private wooded backyard. Lovely

screened porch. Full fin terr lvl w/ FR/workout

rm/BR & full bath. Great location! Great

rice!! (3247774) Jana Kreisberg 404-250-

8568/252-7222.

805 KELLERMAN KREEK

East Cobb. $985,000. Elegant classic trad

w/ 4BR/3fb/2hb, sunrm, library, media

rm, keeping rm kit, spectacular bkyd

w/ pool, waterfall, spa etc. Wonderful

home for entertaining. Dickerson/Walton

school dist. Fabulous! (3224698) Clare

Tyers 770-977-9500 x648.

14200 BIRMINGHAM HWY

Alpharetta. $799,900. Elite 4-sides brick,

6BR/6.5b, 3-car gar w/ mstr ste & guest rm

on main. 1.5+/- grassy, lvl priv lot. Granite

kit. Screened porch adjoins mstr. All BR’s

have own baths. Tons of upgrades. (3255285)

Mary Blanchard 770-518-5550 x3048.

1021 WESTBROOKE WAY

Sandy Springs/Dunwoody. $600,000.

Just listed! European beauty on quiet

cul-de-sac w/ great privacy. Wonderful

open flr plan w/ cathedral ceiling in den

o’looking impressive 20’ waterfall. Hdwds

on main. Gourmet kit w/ granite island.

Great entertaining flow. (3260913) Cindy

Edwards 404-441-4077/252-7222.

1439 N HIGHLAND

Morningside. $599,000. *OPEN SUN

3-5* Lovely 5BR/2b home, 2-car gar.

English tudor. Lovely landscaped yd,

walk to shops, galleries. (3257587) M.

Peake 404-822-8176/897-5558. 4672 GILHAMS ROAD

East Cobb. $534,900. Mstr on main.

New carpet just installed. 4BR/3.5b.

BR’s could easily be stes. Full daylight

bsmt stubbed for bath. Maintenance-free

home. Princeton Cove SD. Lassiter HS

dist. (3240225) Mary Ann Bishop 770-

518-5550 x3011.

Equal Housing Opportunity

8191 BALLGROUND ROAD

Cumming. $899,000. Horse farm

& boarding/tack shop

on 5.5+/- ac. You can

have it al

l–ring, paddocks, pastu

re.

3BR ranch & 3BR apt over

18-stall barn. Succes

sful,

establish

ed tack business.

Sep buildings. (3239724)

Becky Hughes 770-926-4685/518-5550 x3045.

14200 BIRMINGHAM HIGHWAY

Alpharetta. $

799,900. Elite 4-sid

es brick

, 6BR/6.5b,

3-car gar w

/ mstr s

te & guest

rm on main. 1.5+/-

grassy, lv

l priv lot. Gran

ite kit. S

creened porch adjoins

mstr. All B

R’s have own baths. T

ons of upgrades.

(3255285) Mary Blanchard 770-518-5550 x3048.

6020 TANGLETREE DRIVE

Roswell. $580,000. *O

PEN SUN 3-5* Elegant execu

tive

4BR/3.5b home. Mstr o

n main. Open & bright flr

plan

w/ wall-of-w

indows. Granite,

hdwds on main. Full bsmt.

Lg BR’s up. Office

. Priv lvl lot w/ huge deck. Top sch

ools.

(3266978) Isabelle

Gibson 770-518-5550 x3059.

1795 WINDSOR W

OOD DRIVE

Roswell/Hadfield

. $575,000. Rare find. 3-sid

es brick

Savannah-style 6

BR/4b beauty. G

ourmet kit o

pens to

3-tier English

garden w/ waterfall.

Incredible in

-law

ste w/ fu

ll kit, laundry, b

ath, 2 BR’s. Top sch

ools.

(3261935) Laura Hipp 770-518-5550 x3025.

1708 HOLCOMB LAKE ROAD

East Cobb. $479,900. Bette

r than new. Unbelie

vable

space. 6BR/5b. Full fin

terr lvl. Fenced

lvl yd o’looks

tranquil la

ke. Chef ’s

kit. Open, sp

acious home w

/ lots

of windows. Hdwds m

ain & terr lvl. G

reat sch

ools.

(3263371) Iliana Ic

en 770-235-0092/518-5550 x3044.

4350 MIKANDY DRIVE

North Cobb. $252,900. Vacation at

home. Relax

in your hot tub & heate

d pool. Brick

front 4BR/3b

home ideal

for family living & entert

aining. Huge

bonus for m

edia/2nd FR plus o’size

d rms m

ake this

home perfect 1

0. (3263723) Elain

e McCarth

y 770-

518-5550 x3034.

123 CHURCHCLIFF DRIVE

Woodstock. $249,900. Absolutely b’ful. M

eticulously

maintained 2BR/2b cottag

e-style ra

nch. Custom

paint. Hdwd flrs

. Tiled bathrooms. C

ustom shutters.

Screened porch. Profess

ionally lan

dscaped. (3

266066)

Sheila Vaughn 770-518-5550 x3035.

4672 GILHAMS ROAD

East Cobb. $534,900. M

str on main. New car

pet

just instal

led. 4BR/ 3.5b. BR’s could eas

ily be stes.

Full daylight bsmt stubbed for bath. M

aintenance-

free home. P

rinceton Cove SD. Lassi

ter HS dist.

(3240225) Mary Ann Bishop 770-518-5550 x3011.

1045 SPRING BROOK DRIVE

Lawrenceville. $209,000. Complete

ly redone. C

ollins

Hill HS dist.

4BR/2.5b. LR w/ bay window. Formal

DR. Huge kit. FR w/ fp

lc. Lg mstr w

/ sitting are

a &

balcony/porch. Bonus rm

. Slate patio

. Lvl, fenced bkyd.

(3266660) Stephanie Miskin 770-518-5550 x3023.

2478 RIDGEWAY DRIVE

Doraville. $189,900. 3BR/2b brick

ranch. H

dwds

main lvl. New interi

or paint. New bsmt flo

oring.

Bsmt rec rm

w/ fplc &

extra rm for 4th BR or office

.

Lvl lot. D

unwoody HS dist. (3266635) Sheryl

Stuckey 770-518-5550 x3036.

504 E LAKE COURT

Woodstock. $174,900. New constru

ction, pick your

colors. 3BR/2b ran

ch. Fireside G

R. Formal DR.

Wonderful kit w

/ lots o

f work area. G

ood location,

just over t

he Cobb city

line. (3

238533) Cheri C

hellino

770-518-5550 x3026.

3995 WOLCOTT CIRCLE

Doraville. $119,000. M

ove-in cond. 2BR/2.5b

t’home. Open plan. 2 mstrs

. Spacious kit, D

R, FR.

W/D remain. Alarm

system. N

eutral paint. N

ew

roof & A/C. Swim comm. Lakesid

e HS dist.

Min

to I-85/ I-

285. (3261144) Isa

belle Gibson 770-518-

5550 x3059.

1705 JOHN WARD ROAD

Cobb, Marie

tta. $559,900. *O

PEN SUN 2-5*

Custom built 6BR/4b, 1+/- a

cre lot, lg

gourmet

kit, full in

-law ste

, mstr &

guest on main. Below

appraisal! N

EW Hillgrove HS & Lovinggood MS dist.

(3220933) Kimberly

770-422-6005/770-355-2203.

5241 HAYDEN FARMS DRIVE

West Cobb. $345,000. *O

PEN SUN 2-5* ¾+/- a

cre

wooded lot w/ garden spot. A b’ful hardiplank

ranch, scr

eened porch, fu

ll bsmt. B

anquet sized

DR.

(3253368) Vickie S

hepherd 770-422-6005/404-

513-2330.

781 HARDAGE FARM DR

Cobb/ Marie

tta. $429,900. *O

PEN SUN 2-5*

5BR/3fb/2hb. New custom built, 4-sid

es brick

. Lots

of upgrades. Stain

ed cabs, C

orian ctr

s, hdwds. L

g mstr

bath. 2 fplc. Lots o

f built-ins. F

in bsmt w/ BR and

bath. (3245796) Karen

770-422-6005/678-787-8433.

1391 BULLARD ROAD

Cobb/Powder Springs. $

399,000. Histo

ric 1868 far

m

home on 1.8+/- acres

. Mstr o

n main w/ fplc. S

tudy w/

built-ins. H

eart of pine flr

s. Scree

ned porch log cabin

on property. (3

176918) Hurry and cal

l Jeff 770-422-

6005/404-626-1744.

608 BERANDA CIRCLE

Paulding. $191,500. *OPEN SUN 2-5* A

dorable

3BR/2b fin bsmt w/ re

c rm, m

edia rm, bonus rm

,

laundry connections upstai

rs/downstai

rs. Profess

ional

landscaped yd. (3

262631) Gloria 7

70-422-6005/404-

797-2465.

690 CONCORD

Cobb/Smyrna. $324,900. *O

PEN SUN 2-5* Lovely

craftsm

an style h

ome, histo

ric covered

bridge area.

Wrap around porch, lg fen

ced bkyd. Kit co

mplete w/

granite c

ountertops an

d natural wood cab

s. Hdwds.

jacuzzi

tub, lg mstr closet.

(3262985) Lawrence/Karen

404-406-5009/678-787-8433.

1159 BOWERIE CHASE

Cobb/Powder Springs. $

349,900. Great buy in this

5BR/4.5b, 3-sides b

rick home in

Oakleigh SD.

Dramatic

2-story FR, open to sunny gourmet k

it.

Hillgrove high dist. (3252415) Ellen

Barnes 7

70-422-

6005/404-993-9970.

1053 CHARLTON TRACE

Cobb/Marietta.

$429,000. 4BR/3.5b brick home,

marble foyer, g

ourmet kit, F

R w/ FP & judges panel-

ing, formal L

R, sep DR, lg mstr s

te on main. Full

in-law ste

. Gorgeous home. (3

268808) Jim Glover

770-422-6005 x162.

317 NIBLEWILL PLACE

Cobb, Marie

tta. $197,700. Fabulous Barre

tt Creek

end unit w/ all

Ashton Woods upgrade options, plus

privacy fence o

n patio. W

indow treatm

ents remain.

(3264622) Linda 770-422-6005/678-231-6968.

5470 AMITY COVE

Cobb, Powder Springs. *O

PEN SUN 2-5* $354,900.

Best Value in

SD. Hdwds th

roughout. Huge m

str

retreat

on main. Sep in-law ste

in bsmt w/ its own

garage an

d entrance.

Big back yard. (3

242687) Tammy

770-422-6005/770-655-3459.

2996 LEXINGTON TRACE DR

Cobb/Smyrna. $174,900. G

reat Smyrna lo

cation. End

unit. 2BR/2.5b. LR w/ fp

lc. Sep DR. Sunrm. H

uge

deck. Lg fen

ced yd. N

ew carpet/a

ppliances.

(3176521)

Dempsey 770-422-6005/846-7651.

2450 CAJUN DRIVE

Marietta.

$166,500. 4-sides b

rick home in

fantast

ic

I-575 & Town Center mall l

ocation. W

ell maintain

ed

3BR/2b home w/ bsmt. L

g lot w/ privacy fence.

(3233615) Evelyn Stetson 770-653-9386/678-

445-0050.

790 COLSTON ROAD

Marietta.

$309,900. Immacu

late 3-sid

es brick

.

4BR/2.5b convenient to histo

ric Marie

tta Sq. Featu

res

kit w/ C

orian, fo

rmal LR & DR, sp

acious sc

reened

porch o’looking priv bkyd w/ fenced

garden area.

(3246771) B J Marti

n 770-977-9500 x717.

3958 HAZELHURST LAKE DRIVE

East Cobb. $839,900. *O

PEN SUN 2-5* An enclave of 8

new homes rich in detail

& character f

eaturing m

str on the

main & mstr up plans, lg

custom gourmet kit w

/ granite

counters, hdwd flrs

, comfortable p

orches, lg lo

ts, full te

rr

lvls & 3-car

gar. Great

location. Lassit

er HS dist. (

3161846)

Altenbach/Nestle

r/Watte

rs 770-977-9500 x712.

LOT 20 HEYWARD SQUARE PLACE

East Cobb. $1,195,000. *O

PEN 1-5* New dynamic

brick home w

/ mstr o

n main w/ sitting rm

, grand rm,

gourmet kit &

keeping rm

w/ custom cab

s & sto

ne fplc,

cov porch, 5BR/5b, banquet size D

R, 3-car sid

e ent gar,

full d’light terr lvl. M

t. Bethel/D

ickerson/Walto

n dist.

(341767) Altenbach

/Nestler/W

atters 7

70-977-9500.

4372 IVYWOOD DRIVE

East Cobb. $324,900. A 2005 brick

renovatio

n w/

4BR/2.5b & a bsmt in

Walton HS dist.

New hdwd

flrs, new kit ap

pliances,

new roof & gutter

s, new dual

HVACs, new intr &

extra paint, p

riv, wooded bkyd.

(3224105) Nancy Papp 770-977-9500 x713.

805 KELLERMAN KREEK

East Cobb. $985,000. Elegant cla

ssic trad

w/ 4BR/3fb/

2hb, sunrm, library

, media rm, keeping rm

kit, specta

cular

bkyd w/ pool, water

fall, spa et

c. Wonderfu

l home for

entertaining. Dickerso

n/Walton sch

ool dist. Fabulous.

(3224698) Clare Tyers

770-977-9500 x648.

549 RIVERCLIFF TRACE

East Cobb. $1,349,900. W

’ful brick trad

w/ mstr o

n main

w/ magnifice

nt bath, kit w/ ch

erry cab

s/granite/stain

-

less, cozy k

eeping rm w/ sto

ne fplc, b

anquet DR, LR,

study, 2 lau

ndry rms, back porch w/ breat

htaking views.

(3262421) Sharon Oxman 770-977-9500/856-8537.

804 SADDLE HILL

East Cobb. $249,000. Largest

flr plan in Mulberry

Farms. 3

BR/3.5b t’home, g

reat flr

plan, spacio

us &

clean throughout, fu

ll fin bsmt w/ re

c rm. Pool, te

nnis

& clubhouse. W

alton HS dist.

Great buy. (3

234706)

Page/Carl H

enry 770-977-9500/404-444-1112.

4140 THUNDERBIRD DRIVE

East Cobb. $849,000. *O

PEN SUN 2-5* Unique 1 lvl

home on the 11th Fairway o

f Atlanta C

ountry Club. Just

renovated. Specta

cular views. 4BR/3.5b, Koi pond and

waterfall

on 3/4+ ac lot. H

ighly motiva

ted seller. (

3216757)

Edward Leader/John Versp

oor 770-977-9500 x746/x650.

532 VALLEY RD

Buckhead. $2,599,900. N

ew brick tra

d. B Harrison

design. M

str on main w/ fp

lc. 4 BRs up w/ 4 baths +

loft. Hdwd flrs

on main. Desig

n Galleria

kit. Lg priv

lvl bkyd w/ rm for pool. 3

-car gar w

/ ready to fin

apt.

Full d’light bsmt. (3

065705) Hagit B

eecham 770-

977-9500/617-8377.

2717 HAMPTON TRAIL

Woodstock. $339,000. B’ful hardcoat stucco

European desig

n w/ mstr &

add’l BR on main. H

dwd

flrs, 2 fplcs,

storage galore w/ 3 add’l w

alk-in closets

,

spacious bkyd. (3

095749) Edward Leader 7

70-977-

9500/678-296-3530.

5060 MAGNOLIA WALK

Roswell. $379,900. 5BR/3.5b in histo

ric Roswell.

Great n’hood off C

oleman Rd. N

ew hdwds on main,

full fin d’light bsmt, g

orgeous lvl lo

t, gunite h

eated

pool. Many extras

. Great sch

ools. (3242743) Page/

Carl Henry 770-977-9500/404-444-1112.

4530 FIRESTONE DRIVE

East Cobb. $869,900. Pristi

ne Atl Country C

lub classic.

5BR/4b ranch w/ fin

terr lvl,

only steps fro

m club on

cul-de-sac str

eet. Updated

décor, granite kit, s

tainless

appl,

lvl, fenced yd w/ potential

pool site. W

alton HS dist.

(3266790) Rita McGregor 770-977-9500/404-558-7167.

East Cobb Office

David London, Broker

Cobb Roswell Office

Scott Simpson, Broker

Cobb Marietta

Office

Patty Kendrick

, Broker

Towne Lake Office

Cheryl Marti

n, Broker

Any Advertisements, Internet Listings, Etc.

For

Sale By

Owner

555-123-4567

AcmeRealty

555-123-4567

A Competitor’s Sign


�e Offer


Letter of Loan Pre-Approval

Condition of the Home & Property

Days on Market - how long the home has been for sale

Recent Comperables for the Neighborhood - active or sold homes

Short Sale, Foreclosure, Normal Sale – are these an issue?

Upgrades in the Home

Location and Setting in the Neighborhood

Review Seller’s Disclosure

!e Sales Price and any Costs Paid by Seller

Earnest Money – at time of writing contract – how much

Closing and Possession Date

Due Diligence period

All appropriate exhibits

Special Stipualtions (home warranty, termite letter and bond, items to

remain with property)

Time Limit of O"er

Legal Names of Parties Signing the Contract

!ings to Consider with your Buyer’s Agent when Determining Your Offer


�e Loan


* All items listed may not be necessary, but additional documentation may be required based on underwriting guidelines.

IncomeW-2 forms from the last two years

Federal tax returns, all pages, for the past two years for self-employed or commissioned income sources

A copy of the lease agreement(s) for rental property

A complete copy of the divorce settlement agreement (if using income to qualify)

Year-to-date pay stub

Pension/Social Security: Current year award letter. Copy of most recent check or, if direct deposit, a copy of the most

recent bank statement showing receipt of funds

Self-employed: Year-to-date Pro!t & Loss Statement

Self-employed: Corporate/Partnership Tax returns for the past two years

Assets"e two most recent bank/brokerage statements, all pages, for all accounts

LiabilitiesCredit card account numbers, lender’s name, balances and minimum payments

Car loan: Lender’s name, account number, payment and balance

Mortgage loans: Lender’s name, account number, payment and balance for each loan

Landlord’s name, address and telephone number dating back two years

Complete copy of divorce/settlement agreement

Other ItemsApplication fee

A copy of the fully executed contract on your home

A copy of the relocation agreement (if applicable)

Alimony/Child Support/Note Income. Copy of note receivable or divorce decree/paternity award. Six months cancelled

checks or deposit slips showing receipt** (to use income to qualify, it must continue for a minimum of three years)

* Provided by HomeServices Lending** Alimony, child support, or separate maintenance income need not be revealed if the borrower or co-borrower does not choose to have it considered for repaying the loan.

Documents Required for Loan Application*


Choosing a Loan

Selecting the right mortgage is central to the home buying process. You need to consider two things at the outset: which loan type best meets your home buying needs and which loan term o!ers the ideal repayment schedule. Your HomeServices Lending representative can assist you in the process, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

Loan TypesMost home loans fall into one of two general categories: "xed rate mortgages and adjustable rate mortgages. You’ll also encounter other basic loan types such as government loans and #exible qualifying programs.

Fixed Rate Mortgages have interest rates that stay the same for the entire life of the loan. (monthly payments can change is taxes or insurance change)

You will have predictable monthly payments throughout the life of the loan.You will be protected from rising rates, so your principal and interest payments can never increase.

Adjustable Rate Mortgages have interest rates that adjust periodically based on market conditions.$e initial rate is "xed for an introductory period (usually one to ten years) and is typically lower than for a "xed-rate mortgage. A%er that, the rate adjusts annually based on a market index, but can’t go above a predetermined adjustment cap.Because of the lower initial rate, some borrowers may be eligible for a larger loan amount with an ARM than with a "xed rate mortgage.

Government Loans are o!ered by conventional lenders like HomeServices Lending, but insured by the federal government. $ey come in two types: FHA and VA.

FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration, and are designed to assist low-to-moderate income homebuyers by o!ering low down payment requirements and #exible qualifying guidelines.VA loans are backed by the Department of Veterans A!airs (formerly the Veterans Administration), and are available to quali"ed veterans and active-duty military personnel and their spouses. $ey o!er many of the same features as FHA loans.

Flexible Qualifying Programs are designed for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit histories, excessive debt or previous bankruptcy, foreclosure or tax delinquency.

Loan Terms$e “term” of a loan is the period of time for repayment. $e most common loan term is thirty years, but other terms are available, ranging from 10 years all the way up to 40 year terms. Whether you’d be better o! with a longer or shorter loan term depends on a number of factors, most notably your monthly income and long-term "nancial goals.

Longer Mortgage Terms o!er lower monthly payments and are a good option if you’re on a tight budget or would prefer to direct your monthly cash #ow toward other investments or expenses.Shorter Mortgage Terms mean higher monthly payments, but allow you to repay the loan faster and save money on interest.



Mortgage BasicsAlthough each individual home $nancing package has its own variety of features, the concept of a mortgage is really quite

simple: a mortgage is a loan to help you $nance a home. Your lender advances you a certain amount of money, which you repay

over a speci$ed period of time.

Rates, Points and Loan Fees!e total cost of your mortgage is determined by a number of di"erent factors, most notably the interest rate, discount points and

loan fees. !e expenses that contribute to the cost of your loan can be expressed as the annual percentage rate (APR).

Interest Rate refers to the percentage of your outstanding loan balance that you pay the lender each month as part of

the cost of borrowing money. Your interest rate will be based on the current overall rate environment, as well as your

$nancial pro$le and the speci$c features of your loan.

Discount Points allow you to “buy down” your interest rate at closing. One point equals 1% of your loan amount.

The more points you pay, the lower your interest rate will be and the less you will have to pay each month.

Loan Fees are up-front charges to cover the cost of originating, processing and closing your loan, among other things.

An origination point is a loan fee that equals 1% of your loan amount.

When considering a loan, keep in mind that rates, points and fees should be considered together. !e interest rate alone only

tells part of the story.

Your Monthly Mortgage PaymentMortgage payments can generally be divided into four parts: principal, interest, taxes and insurance.

Principal refers to the amount of money you borrow to buy a home, and to the outstanding loan balance at any point

during the mortgage term.

Interest is the cost of borrowing money. As noted above, the amount of interest you pay each month is determined by

your interest rate.

Taxes assessed by your local government will likely be collected by your lender as part of your monthly payments and then

paid annually or semiannually on your behalf. !is process is known as an escrow.

Insurance, like property taxes, is normally collected by the lender in an escrow account. Insurance o"ers $nancial

protection and has two major components:

Homeowner’s Insurance, also called hazard insurance, protects you against damage to your property caused by $re, wind

or other hazards.

Mortgage Insurance provides partial protection to your lender in the event that you fail to repay your mortgage.

Whether you must pay mortgage insurance usually depends on the loan and the size of your down payment.



Home Mortgage Consultant:Works with you to gain an understanding of your needs and determine the product and program that best suit your

!nancial needs

Gathers data and documents to pre-underwrite your loan and when possible issue a pre-approval commitment

Discusses purchase price ranges, mortgage payments and closing cost expectations

Sets expectations from application to closing

Mortgage Specialist:Accepts your loan file from the Home Mortgage Consultant and collects any additional documents needed for

loan approval

Follows up on appraisal report and title orders with the closing attorney

May make the underwriting decision if certain criteria are met, otherwise refers the !le to underwriting

Underwriting:Reviews the loan !le and makes the underwriting decision

May request additional documentation from you

Communicates with the Home Mortgage Consultant and Mortgage Specialist and in turn, contact you

Closing Department:Prepares instructions for the closing attorney based on your approval

Assembles the package for your closing and sends it to the closing attorney’s o"ce

Reviews and veri!es !nal closing !gures and authorizes funding

Closing Attorney:Obtains payo"s

Reviews title examination and survey on your property and clears any survey and title problems found

Prepares settlement statement and faxes a copy to the closing department and Mortgage Consultant

Conducts closing and executes all lender documents


Behind the Scenes of Your Mortgage Application


Mortgage Principal & Interest Payments Over 30 yrs


Suggested Lenders

LISA SANDERSHomeServices LendingHome Mortgage [email protected] ID 609105GRMA 32208

MICHAEL H. FRANKAmerican United 770-518-2438 x1994 O!ce404-797-3500 [email protected]

HUD Sample

A. Settlement Statement (HUD-1)

OMB No. 2502-0265

B. Type of Loan1. FHA 2. RHS 3. Conv Unins

4. VA 5. Conv Ins. 6. Seller Fin

7. Cash Sale.

6. File Number

2010 TEST DRL2

7. Loan Number 8. Mortgage Ins Case Number

C. Note: This form is furnished to give you a statement of actual settlement costs. Amounts paid to and by the settlement agent are shown. Items marked

"(p.o.c.)" were paid outside the closing; they are shown here for informational purposes and are not included in the totals.

D. Name & Address of Borrower

Perfect Buyer

1234 Oak Street

Somewhere, GA 00000

E. Name & Address of Seller

Excellent Seller

9876 Maple Street

Anywhere, GA 99999

F. Name & Address of Lender

Homeservices Lending, LLC Series A dba

Homeservices Lending

3875 Mansell Road., Ste 150

Alpharetta, GA 30022

G. Property Location

LL 123 , Dist. 16

1234 Fake Street

Somewhere, GA 00000

H. Settlement Agent Name

Dickenson Gilroy LLC

3780 Mansell Road, Suite 140


770-518-5515

Underwritten By: Fidelity

I. Settlement Date

3/15/2009

Fund:

Place of Settlement

Dickenson Gilroy LLC

3780 Mansell Rd., Ste. 140


J. Summary of Borrower's Transaction K. Summary of Seller's Transaction

100. Gross Amount Due from Borrower 400. Gross Amount Due to Seller

101. Contract sales price $200,000.00 401. Contract sales price $200,000.00

102. Personal property 402. Personal property

103. Settlement charges to borrower $6,981.02 403.

104. 404.

105. 405.

Adjustments for items paid by seller in advance Adjustments for items paid by seller in advance

106. City Taxes 406. City Taxes

107. County Taxes 407. County Taxes

108. 408.

109. 409.

110. 410.

111. 411.

112. 412.

113. 413.

114. 414.

115. 415.

116. 416.

120. Gross Amount Due From Borrower $206,981.02 420. Gross Amount Due to Seller $200,000.00

200. Amounts Paid By Or in Behalf Of Borrower 500. Reductions in Amount Due to Seller

201. Deposit or earnest money $2,000.00 501. Excess deposit (see instructions)

202. Principal amount of new loan(s) $160,000.00 502. Settlement charges to seller (line 1400) $10,010.00

203. Existing loan(s) taken subject to 503. Existing loan(s) taken subject to

204. Lender Credit-Credit Report $45.00 504. Payoff of first mortgage loan

205. Appraisal Credit $250.00 505. Payoff of second mortgage loan $125,000.00

206. 506. Earnest Money Retained by Realtor $2,000.00

207. 507. Special Handling Payoff

208. 508.

209. 509.

Adjustments for items unpaid by seller Adjustments for items unpaid by seller

210. City Taxes 510. City Taxes

211. County Taxes 01/01/09 thru 03/15/09 $486.58 511. County Taxes 01/01/09 thru 03/15/09 $486.58

212. Seller paid closing $5,000.00 512. Seller paid closing $5,000.00

213. 513.

214. 514.

215. 515.

216. 516.

217. 517.

218. 518.

219. 519.

220. Total Paid By/For Borrower $167,781.58 520. Total Reduction Amount Due Seller $142,496.58

300. Cash At Settlement From/To Borrower 600. Cash At Settlement To/From Seller

301. Gross Amount due from borrower (line 120) $206,981.02 601. Gross Amount due to seller (line 420) $200,000.00

302. Less amounts paid by/for borrower (line 220) $167,781.58 602. Less reductions in amt. due seller (line 520) $142,496.58

303. Cash From Borrower $39,199.44 603. Cash To Seller $57,503.42

The Public Reporting Burden for this collection of information is estimated at 35 minutes per response for collecting, reviewing, and reporting the data. This agency may

not collect this information, and you are not required to complete this form, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. No confidentiality is assured; this

disclosure is mandatory. This is designed to provide the parties to a RESPA covered transaction with information during the settlement process.

Previous editions are obsolete Page 1 of 4 HUD-1

(continue...)

HUD SampleL. Settlement Charges

700. Total Real Estate Broker Fees Paid From Paid From

Division of Commission (line 700) as follows: Borrower's Seller's

701. $6,000.00 to Harry Norman Realtors - Atlanta Perimeter (HNBH02) Funds at Funds at

702. $6,000.00 to Harry Norman Realtors - Atlanta Perimeter (HNBH02) Settlement Settlement

703. Commission Paid at Settlement $0.00 $10,000.00

704.(EMD $2,000 to Harry Norman Realtors -

Atlanta Perimeter (HNBH02) P.O.C.)to

800. Items Payable in Connection with Loan

801. Our origination charge $2,406.50 (from GFE #1)

802. Your credit or charge (points) for the specific interest rate chosen $-800.00 (from GFE #2)

803. Your adjusted origination charges to

Homeservices Lending, LLC

Series A dba Homeservices

Lending

(from GFE A) $1,606.50

804. Appraisal Fee to

Homeservices Lending, LLC

Series A dba Homeservices

Lending

POC (B)$250.00

(from GFE #3) $250.00

805. Credit report to Credco (from GFE #3) $45.00

806. Tax service to WF Tax Service (from GFE #3) $75.00

807. Flood certification to WFFS (from GFE #3) $15.00

900. Items Required by Lender To Be Paid in Advance

901. Daily interest charges from 3/15/2009 to 3/31/2009 @ $22.22 /day (from GFE #10) $355.52

902. Mortgage Insurance Premium for months to (from GFE #3)

903. Homeowner's insurance for 1 years to Burn Down (from GFE #11) $240.00

1000. Reserves Deposited With Lender

1001. Initial Deposit for your escrow account (from GFE #9) $1,540.00

1002. Homeowner's insurance 2 months @ $20.00 per month $40.00

1003. Mortgage insurance months @ $0.00 per month $0.00

1004. City Taxes months @ per month

1005. County Taxes 8 months @ $200.00 per month $1,600.00

1006. months @ per month

1007. months @ per month

1008. Other Taxes months @ per month

1009. 0 months @

1011. Aggregate Adjustment $-100.00

1100. Title Charges

1101. Title services and lender's title insurance to Dickenson Gilroy LLC (from GFE #4) $861.00

1102. Settlement or closing fee to

1103. Owner's title insurance to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company (from GFE #5) $780.00

1104. Lender's title insurance to $100.00

1105. Lender's title policy limit $ $160,000.00/$100.00 .

1106. Owner's title policy limit $ $200,000.00/$780.00

1107. Agent's portion of the total title insurance premium to Dickenson Gilroy LLC $704.00

1108. Underwriter's portion of the total title insurance premium to Fidelity National Title $176.00

1109. Title Exam/Commitment toLegacy Title Services,

LLC$200.00 (from GFE #4) $0.00

1200. Government Recording and Transfer Charges

1201. Government recording charges (from GFE #7) $58.00

1202. Deed $12.00 ; Mortgage $46.00 , Release $10.00 $10.00

1203. Transfer taxes (from GFE #8) $680.00

1204. City/County tax/stamps Deed ; Mortgage $480.00to Clerk of Superior

Court

1205. State tax/stampsDeed $200.00 ; Mortgage

$0.00

to Clerk of Superior

Court

1300. Additional Settlement Charges

1301. Required services you can shop for (from GFE #6)

1302. Survey to Busbee Surveying Co., Inc. $350.00

1303. Termite to Terminex $125.00

1400. Total Settlement Charges (enter on lines 103, Section J and 502, Section K) $6,981.02 $10,010.00

I have carefully reviewed the HUD-1 Settlement Statement and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is a true and accurate statement of all receipts and

disbursements made on my account or by me in this transaction. I further certify that I have received a completed copy of pages 1, 2 and 3 of this HUD-1 Settlement

Statement.


(continue...)

HUD Sample

Comparison of Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and HUD-1 Charges Good Faith Estimate HUD-1

Charges That Cannot Increase HUD-1 Line Number

Our origination charge # 801 $2,406.50 $2,406.50

Your credit or charge (points) for the specific interest rate chosen # 802 $-800.00 $-800.00

Your adjusted origination charges # 803 $1,606.50 $1,606.50

Transfer taxes # 1203 $680.00 $680.00

Charges That in Total Cannot Increase More Than 10% Good Faith Estimate HUD-1

Government recording charges # 1201 $58.00 $58.00

Title services and lender's title insurance # 1101 $861.00 $861.00

Appraisal Fee # 804 $250.00 $500.00

Credit report # 805 $45.00 $45.00

Tax service # 806 $75.00 $75.00

Owner's title insurance # 1103 $700.00 $780.00

Flood certification # 807 $15.00 $15.00

Total $2,004.00 $2,004.00

Increase between GFE and HUD-1 Charges $0.00 or 0%

Charges That Can Change Good Faith Estimate HUD-1

Initial deposit for your escrow account # 1001 $1,640.00 $1,540.00

Daily interest charges # 901 $22.22/day $355.52 $355.52

Homeowner's insurance # 903 $240.00 $240.00

Survey # 1302 $350.00

Termite # 1303 $125.00

Loan Terms

Your initial loan amount is $160,000.00

Your loan term is 30 years

Your initial interest rate is 5%

Your initial monthly amount owed for principal, interest, and any mortgage insurance is

$858.91 includes Principal Interest Mortgage Insurance

Can your interest rate rise? No. Yes, it can rise to a maximum of 0%. The first change will be onand can change again every after . Every change date, your interest rate can increase or decrease by 0%. Over the life of the loan, your interest rate is guaranteed to never be lower than 0% or higher than 0%.

Even if you make payments on time, can your loan balance rise? No. Yes, it can rise to a maximum of $0.00

Even if you make payments on time, can your monthlyamount owed for principal, interest, and mortgage insurance rise?

No. Yes, the first increase can be on and the monthly amount owed can rise to $0.00 The maximum it can ever rise to is $0.00

Does your loan have a prepayment penalty? No. Yes, your maximum prepayment penalty is $0.00

Does your loan have a balloon payment? No. Yes, you have a balloon payment of $0.00 due in 0 years on

Total monthly amount owed including escrow account payments You do not have a monthly escrow payment for items, such as property taxes and homeowner�s insurance. You must pay these items directly yourself.

You have an additional monthly escrow payment of $220.00that results in a total initial monthly amount owed of $0.00. This includes principal, interest, any mortgage insurance and any items checked below:

Property taxes Homeowner's Insurance Flood insurance

Note: If you have any questions about the Settlement Charges and Loan Terms listed on this form, please contact your lender.


(continue...)

HUD SampleFile No. 2010 TEST DRL2

Perfect Buyer

_________________________

By

SETTLEMENT AGENT CERTIFICATION

The HUD-1 Settlement Statement which I have prepared is a true and accurate

account of this transaction. I have caused the funds to be disbursed in

accordance with this statement.

____________________________________ ___________________

Settlement Agent Date

Warning: It is a crime to knowingly make false statements to the United States

on this or any other similar form. Penalties upon conviction can include a fine

and imprisonment. For details see: Title 18 U.S. Code Section 1001 and

Section 1010.

Excellent Seller

_________________________

By



Survey Sample


�e Inspection


Having the Home Inspected

AccessA!er you choose an inspector, I will arrange for the inspection appointment with the listing agent.

DurationOn-site inspections range from 1.5 hours for a condominium to 6 hours for a multi-million dollar estate with multiple outbuildings.

Properties with di"cult access to crawl spaces and attics, and/or numerous defects require more time. Properties built on concrete

slabs and with few defects require less time. On average, most homes require 2 to 3 hours on site.

PaymentUsually, payment is expected at the time of inspection in the form of personal check, cash, or credit card.

AttendingYou are encouraged to attend the inspection, but if necessary, telephone consultation is also available to discuss the inspection

and you will have a written report with photographs.

Additional InspectionsSome inspectors can provide environmental testing for mold, radon and asbestos upon request. Other inspections that you

may want to arrange are HVAC, swimming pool, septic tank or plumbing from the house to the sewer connection at the street,

and stucco (both hardcoat and synthetic).

Report DeliveryMost reports are sent via email within 24 hours and usually include the report along with color digital photos.



Suggested Inspectors


JOHN MILLERHome & Stucco Inspections

770-246-9448


�e Closing


Residential real estate closings are handled in several di!erent ways among the various states. In some states title companies

handle the process, escrow companies predominate in other states, while in Georgia, most closings occur with the assistance

of an attorney who specializes in real estate transactions.

Most closings are attended by both, the buyer and seller, their agents, the buyer’s/borrower’s loan o"cer and the closing attorney.

!e typical closing will take approximately 1 to 2 hours depending on the complexity of the transaction.

RepresentationIf a lender is $nancing the acquisition, the lender will usually have a designated list of attorneys from which the borrower is

allowed to choose. Some lenders have only one designated attorney to handle their closings. Regardless of whether a choice

is permitted, the attorney represents only the lender. Because of ethical considerations due to a possible con%ict of interest

among the various parties to a closing, an attorney representing the lender should not represent any other party to the closing.

!erefore, if representation is desired by the borrower with respect to the closing or contract of sale, independent counsel

should be obtained. Of course, if a lender is not involved in $nancing the transaction, the buyer will select an attorney to

represent his or her interest.

FunctionsThe attorney selected to handle the closing will customarily examine the title to the property, prepare the sale and

loan closing documents, conduct the closing, arrange for the recording of the closing documents, issue the lender’s and

owner’s title insurance, and disburse the lender’s and or borrower’s funds. As opposed to some states in which an escrow

company conducts a closing from which proceeds are not disbursed until later, at most Georgia closings, the closing

documents are recorded, disbursement of funds occurs immediately after all closing documents are signed and other

lender and or contract conditions are satis$ed. !erefore, most closing attorneys require a cashier’s check or similar instrument

for the buyer’s net purchase proceeds. As of July 1, 1990 settlement agents may not accept from buyer personal checks in excess of

$5,000 for deposit into an escrow account.

Closing CostsInitially, payment of and limitations on the amount of closing costs are determined by the contract of sale. If a lender $nances

the transaction, the buyer will be responsible for negotiating the precise amount of the closing costs.

!e Closing

(continue...)


!e Closing

Nearly all lenders will be subject to certain federal regulations governing disclosure of a “good faith estimate” of settlement charges to

be given to the borrower within three business days following loan application. In order to prevent unpleasant surprises at closing, the

buyer should become familiar with and understand the limitations of such an estimate. If more certainty than an estimate is required

by a buyer, it should be requested at the time of loan application since the good faith estimate is the limit of federal requirements.

Closing costs are collected at the time of closing, usually by payment of a net purchase "gure which includes the buyer’s equity,

the closing cost, proration and other adjustments. Payment of discount points by separate check for tax purposes must usually

be approved in advance by the lender.

Closing costs and their individual components will vary among lenders and closing attorneys. For example, certain items

included in a lump-sum quote by one lender may not be included in another’s quote. !us, a buyer should at least inquire

whether the initial quote includes all of those costs which can reasonably be expected to be paid at closing. Closing costs do

not include escrows for property taxes and insurance. Furthermore, closing costs quoted by a lender usually do not include the

cost of an owner’s title insurance policy.

Property TaxesProperty taxes are based upon 40% of the county’s assessment of the fair market value of your property as of January 1 of each

year minus exemptions and multiplied by a millage rate per thousand established by the county each year.

Owner’s Title InsuranceTitle Insurance is an additional protection on the title to real property that is backed by the "nancial stability of a title insurance

company. Although attorneys check the titles and make corrections, title insurance o"ers protection that may outlast the life of

the attorney or the statue of limitations on title claims. Additionally, title insurance covers defects that an attorney may not be

able to discover, i.e. the insanity of a grantor, the minority of a grantor, or the identity of heirs to an estate.

What does Title Insurance Cover?!ere are generally two types of title policies: Mortgage Policies which protect the lender and Owners Policies which protect

the buyerer (owner).

(continue...)


!e Closing

!e standard owner’s policy insures against loss or damages for the purchase price of the property. !e policy covers defects, liens

or encumbrances on the title existing at the date of the policy and lack of a right of access (no road frontage). Title insurance will

protect the insured from undiscovered defects in title, such as insanity of a grantor, minority status of a grantor, identity of heirs

to an estate, and defective recording or indexing by the Superior Court Clerk’s o"ce.

Some examples of typical items covered:

Someone else owns an interest in title

Defective execution or recording of the title documents (the builder’s corporate seal is not stamped onto the

Warranty Deed)

Undisclosed liens – i.e. Prior owner’s security deed is still open

Mechanic’s lien coverage

Unrecorded easements

Homeowner’s or condominium association liens

Post policy – a neighbor builds a structure on your property

Post policy – forgery (someone forges a deed out of your name)

Owner’s policies are not transferable from one owner to another because the transfer of the property adds a new risk to the

title of the land.

Why is Title Insurance Important?!e purchase of a home or real estate is usually the largest purchase a person makes during their lifetime. Title Insurance protects

the Owner’s investment and insures that the Owner will be able to sell the investment later or recover their investment.

Title policies will pay damages in the di"erence between the value of the property if the defect did not exist and the value of

the property with the defect. !e title insurance policy will also protect the buyer a$er he/she sells the property, if a claim

is made against him/her at a later date. Your title insurance company will bear the full cost of defending you against covered

claims and will make a monetary settlement with the Owner when appropriate.


!e Closing Process can seem overwhelming at times. Numerous documents are prepared and presented for review and signature.

!e most fundamental real estate transaction is a “cash closing”, which can be consummated by executing a handful of documents,

such as, a Settlement Statement, Seller’s and Purchaser’s A"davits and Transfer Tax Form. A transaction involving a mortgage

loan can require execution of #$y or more documents. Some of these will be prepared by the closing attorney’s o"ce, but most

will be prepared by the lender. !e documents furnished by the lender will include Federal and State forms, as well as, a host of

others ranging from various a"davits to taxes.

Following is a list of typical documents found in a closing package. !e list is not conclusive as each loan is unique and may

vary according to the type of loan.

Documents Pertaining to Purchaser

HUD – 1 Settlement Statement:

Developed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this document itemizes the services provided and

fees and charges associated with closing the loan.

GRMA Disclosure:

Required by the state of Georgia as a disclosure to the borrower(s) that failure to comply with terms and conditions of the loan

could result in foreclosure against the subject property.

Representation Disclosure:

Informs the borrower(s) that the Closing Attorney’s O"ce represents the Lender/Investor and not the buyer or seller.

Truth-In-Lending Disclosure:

Discloses the “annual percentage rate” (APR) re%ecting the cost of the mortgage loan as a yearly rate. !is rate will probably be

higher than the rate stated on the Note because the APR includes, in addition to interest, loan discount points, fees and other

credit costs. Additional information is also provided, such as, #nance charges, schedule of payments, late payment charges, and

whether or not there is a prepayment penalty.

Closing Documentation

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Promissory Note:

!e instrument the borrower(s) sign which contains an unconditional promise to pay, on demand or at a "xed or determined

future time, a particular sum of money to the Lender, a speci"ed person, or the bearer of the Promissory Note. !is document will

outline the basic terms of the loan including names of borrower and lender, interest rate, loan amount and period of repayment.

Security Deed:

(With Appropriate Riders) !e instrument through which the borrower(s) convey the subject property to the lender as collateral

(or security) for the mortgage loan. !is document will outline the terms and conditions of the mortgage loan.

Riders:

Attached to the Security Deed, in certain circumstances. For example: A Planned Unit Development Rider where the subject

is located in an area with covenants providing for mandatory assessments (e.g. Homeowner Association Fee) or an Adjustable

Rate Rider for Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan.

Waiver of Borrower’s Right:

Acknowledges the borrower’s understanding that failure to meet the terms and conditions of the mortgage loan could result

in foreclosure upon the collateral property and that this procedure is non-judicial in Georgia.

Survey/Termite Waivers or Hold Harmless Forms

What is a survey?

A survey is a drawing, map or diagram which accurately depicts the lines and boundaries of a property. Surveys are produced

when a surveyor visits a property and measures the boundaries and obtains the distances and directional headings (bearings) of

a property’s boundaries. Surveys are great tools for examining the title to a property as a survey may reveal the existence of fences

which do not follow boundary lines, the existence of cemeteries, the existence of roadways and easements crossing the property

which were not dedicated or deeded by instruments in the recorded chain of title and the location of the improvements on the

property or adjoining properties which may create encroachments and give rise to adverse possession claims. Additionally, surveys

o#en contain notes and various comments from the surveyor which can prove useful in determining matters of title which may

not appear in the recorded chain of title.(continue...)



What is a Termite Letter and why should I obtain one?

A termite letter is a written report which details the !ndings of a termite company’s inspection of a property detailing current

points of termite infestation, if any, and previous points of infestation, if any. In the past, lenders would require all buyers to obtain

a clear termite letter before lending funds to a buyer for the purchase of a home. However, with Georgia deemed a “caveat emptor”

state or “let the buyer beware” lenders have relaxed such requirements in favor of relying upon representations from buyers that

the lender will not be held responsible for not requiring the buyer to obtain a termite letter, if the property is later determined to

be infested with termites.

"e cost of a termite letter is generally minimal. In addition to a termite letter, termite companies may also provide, at additional

cost, a bond on the property. "e bond, depending of which type is purchased, may provide for the retreatment of any part of a

property where a termite infestation is found and/or provide for the retreatment of such infestation. A retreatment and repair

bond provides the homeowner with the peace of mind in knowing that if their property is ever infested with termites, the termite

company will treat the infestation and cover the costs to repair the damage done by the termites.

"ese are included based on the requirements of the given transaction. In some instances, mostly Re!nances and Second Mortgages,

Surveys and Termite Inspections are not required and thereby “waived”. In cases where Surveys and Termite Inspections are required,

the closing package will include a “hold harmless” agreement which serves as notice to the borrower(s) that such services were

provided by an independent contractor.

Escrow Account Statement:

Federally required disclosure on every residential mortgage loan with escrow accounts for payment of future taxes and insurance,

re#ects anticipated receipt and disbursement of escrow funds over the next twelve months.

IRS Form W-9:

Used by the lender as veri!cation of borrower’s Social Security Number and for reporting interest deduction by the lender to the IRS.

IRS Forms 4506/8821:

Authorizes the lender to request a copy of borrower(s) income tax directly from the IRS.(continue...)



Occupancy/Employment A�davits:

Certify that the Borrower(s) intend to occupy the subject property as a principal residence and that employment status has

not changed since loan application.

Flood Insurance:

!e Flood Protection Act of 1973 (Public Law 93-234) requires the purchase of "ood insurance in certain "ood prone areas as

designated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Accordingly, borrower(s) must purchase such insurance

if the property is located in an area where "ood insurance is required.

Corrections/Errors and Omissions/Compliance Agreement:

Borrower’s Agreement to cooperate with lender and Settlement Agent in correcting typographical or clerical errors in any

mortgage documents.

Borrower’s Certi!cation and Authorization:

Borrower’s certi#cation that all information provided to the lender in association with the mortgage loan was true and correct

and authorizing lender to re-verify credit information.

First Payment/Coupon Letter:

Most lenders provide a temporary coupon for the borrower(s) to make their initial mortgage payment in case the coupon payment

booklet is not received in time for such payment.

Notice of Right of Rescission:

Used in case of Re#nance and Second Mortgages, not when property is subject of a sale. Gives the borrower(s) the right under

Federal Law to cancel the transaction without cost, within three business days.

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What Buyers Need to Provide Prior to ClosingCopy of good faith estimate provided by lender

Homeowner’s hazard insurance information (name of the insurance company, the premium and when it’s due)

Social Security Numbers for buyers

Copy of the executed Power of Attorney (bring the original to closing), if applicable

What Buyers Need to Bring to ClosingPhoto ID

Certi!ed funds, if the amount due is more than $5,000. "e funds can be made payable to you and can be endorsed at closing

Personal checkbook, in case the amount needed at closing changes from the amount given to you by the lender or

Closing Attorney

Homeowner’s hazard insurance with paid receipt of invoice showing the amount due to be paid at closing

Any document required by lender as conditions of closing (ex. copies of tax returns, pro!t sharing, etc.)

Original executed Power of Attorney (if one party is unable to attend the closing), if applicable

Documents Pertaining to the SellerSeller’s A�davit of Residence:

Veri!es the seller(s) is not subject to Sate of Georgia Capital Gains Tax withholding requirements

Seller’s Certi!cate of Exemption:

Used in conjunction with above a�davit if seller is not a resident of the State of Georgia. Veri!es seller’s exemption from

State of Georgia Capital Gains Tax withholding

Warranty Deed:

Instrument conveying title to real property from seller(s) to buyer(s)

Owner’s A!davit:

A�davit of seller(s) certifying that the property is conveyed “free and clear” of any liens, claims or judgments



Glossary of Real Estate Terms


What is an Addendum?An addendum is a document or writing which is added to a contract, book, or other documents which adds, supplements, or

further explains something that is already contained or described in a contract, book, or other document.

Why is an Addendum important to a Buyer?O!en times parties to a contract, the buyer and seller, will use form contracts which are intentionally dra!ed for general and

broad use. As these forms are for general use, sometimes the form will not address all the concerns of a potential buyer or seller.

"e use of an addendum to the contract allows parties to add additional terms and provisions as they deem necessary and

which are important to their particular transaction.

What is an Amendment?An amendment is a document or writing which formally revises a previous document or writing. "e term is also used to

describe the process of making such a revision to a previous document or writing. "e amendment may change the original

document by making a correction, an addition, or a deletion, as the case may be.

Why is an Amendment important to a Buyer?"ere are times throughout the purchase process where a change of facts and circumstances may necessitate a change, revision,

or deletion in the terms of a purchase and sale agreement. For example, if the parties to a purchase and sale agreement need

to extend the closing date beyond the date provided originally, the parties would execute an amendment which revises and

changes the original closing date to another date more suitable to the parties.

What is an Exhibit?An Exhibit is a document attached to and made part of a contract of other instrument, document, or writing.

Why is an Exhibit important to a Buyer?Exhibits are used to incorporate other documents into a contract or other instrument, document or writing. For example, a legal

description is necessary to any purchase and sale agreement for real property, instead of spelling out and describing the property

subject to sale in the body of a purchase and sale agreement, the parties to a contract may attach the description of the property to the

purchase and sale agreement by use of an exhibit.

Glossary of Real Estate Terms

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Glossary of Real Estate TermsAddenda (Addendum): An attachment to the Purchase & Sale Agreement

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)*: A mortgage in which the interest rate is adjusted periodically according to a

preselected index

Agency: !e relationship that a real estate agent has with a customer or client

Alternative Financing*: A home "nancing program that accommodates borrowers with special qualifying factors,

including unique employment, income or credit issues

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)*: A yearly percentage rate that expressed the total "nance charge on a loan over its

entire term. !e APR includes the interest rate, fees, points and mortgage insurance, and is therefore a more complete

measure of the loan’s cost than the interest rate alone. !e loan’s interest rate, not its APR, is used to calculate the

monthly principal and interest payment

Appraisal*: A report made by a quali"ed person setting forth an opinion or estimate of property value. !e term also

applies to the process by which this estimate is obtained

Bridge Loan*: A form of second deed of trust or mortgage that is collateralized by the borrower’s present home

(which is usually for sale) in a manner that allows the proceeds to be used for closing on a new home before the present

home is sold

Buyer Broker: An agent who represents the buyer in a transaction

Closing*: !e consummation of a real estate transaction. !e closing includes the delivery of a deed, "nancial adjust-

ments, the signing of notes and the disbursement of funds necessary to complete the sale and loan transaction

Closing Costs*: !e costs paid by the mortgage borrower (and sometimes the seller) in addition to the purchase price

of the property. !ese include the origination fee, discount points, appraisal, credit report, title insurance, attorney’s

fees, survey and prepaid items such as tax and insurance escrow payments

CMA: Comparable Market Analysis, or an opinion of a home’s value

Commitment Letter*: A formal o"er by a lender stating the terms under which it agrees to loan money to a home

buyer

Comps: Properties used as “comparables” on a CMA

Conventional Loan*: A mortgage not obtained under a government insured program (such as FHA or VA)

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Glossary of Real Estate TermsDebt-to Income Ratio*: A formula lenders use to determine the loan amount for which you may qualify, also known

as “back-end ratio”. Guidelines may vary depending on the loan program

Deed*: !e legal document conveying title to a real property

Disclosure: Verbal and/or written communication regarding agency, property condition, etc.

Down Payment: Initial investment on a home loan

Earnest Money: Earnest money deposit, or good faith deposit, is provided as consideration when a buyer o"ers a

contract to a seller

Escrow*: An item of value, money or documents, deposited with a third party, to be delivered upon the ful!llment

of a condition. For example, the deposit by a borrower with the lender of funds to pay taxes and insurance premiums

when they become due, or the deposit of funds or documents with an attorney or escrow agent to be dispersed upon

the closing of a sale of real estate. In some parts of the country, escrows of taxes and insurance premiums are called

impounds or reserves

FHA: A type of loan, government insured !nancing

Fixed-Rate Mortgage*: A mortgage which the interest rate and payments remain the same for the life of the loan.

Float the Rate*: !is term is used when a mortgage applicant chooses not to secure a rate lock, but instead allows the

rate pricing to $uctuate until the applicant decides to lock in, usually no later than #ve days prior to closing.

Foreclosure: !e mortgage lender has legally taken the property back from the home owner due to non-payment of

the mortgage by the homeowner. !e homeowner no longer has any legal rights to the property. !e seller and owner

of the property is the bank. !ere is also a time when a property is foreclosed on because of non-payment of taxes. It is

risky to buy under these conditions as the homeowner has the opportunity to pay the taxes and reclaim the property

during a certain speci!ed time.

Front-End Ratio*: Also known as the housing expense-to-income ratio, it compares your proposed monthly home

payment (PITI) to your household gross monthly income.

Good Faith Estimate*: A document which tells borrowers the approximate cost they will pay at or before settlement,

based on common practice in the locality. Under requirements of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RE-

SPA), the mortgage banker or the mortgage broker, if any must deliver the GFE to the applicant

Government Loan*: A mortgage insured by a government agency, such as FHA, VA, Farmers Home Administration,

or a state bond program. !e loans are generally made by private lenders, such as Academy Financial Services.

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Glossary of Real Estate TermsHome Mortgage Consultant*: !e HomeServices Lending representative to a homebuyer. Sometimes called a loan

o"cer, account executive or sales representative

Homeowners Insurance (also called Hazard Insurance)*: A real estate insurance policy required of the buyer pro-

tecting the property against loss caused by #re, some natural causes, vandalism, etc. May also include added coverage

such as personal liability and the$ away from the home

HUD-1 Settlement Statement*: A standard form used to disclose costs at closing

Index*: A published interest rate, such as the prime rate, LIBOR, T-Bill rate, or the 11th District COFI. Lenders use

indexes to establish interest rates charged on mortgages or to compare investment returns. On ARMs, a predeter-

mined margin is added to the index to compute the interest rate adjustment

Interest Rate*: !e percentage of an amount of money which is paid for a speci#c time

Leverage*: Using credit or borrowed money to increase the rate of return for an investment. For example, by purchas-

ing a $100,000 with 10% down, you are using just $10,000 to control the investment

Lien*: A legal claim or attachment against property as security for payment of an obligation

Listing: When a seller signs a listing agreement with a broker to market their property

Listing Agent: Agent who takes a listing on behalf of the broker

Loan Conditions*: !ese are the terms under which the lender agrees to make the loan. !ey include the interest

rate, length of loan agreement, and any requirements the borrower must meet prior to closing

Loan Payment Reserves*: A requirement of many loan programs that, in addition to funds for the down payment

and other purchase-related costs, you have saved enough money to cover one or two months of mortgage payments

a$er your closing

Loan Settlement*: !e conclusion of the mortgage transaction. !is includes the delivery of a deed, the signing of

notes, and the disbursement of funds necessary to the mortgage loan transaction

Loan-to-Value (LTV)*: !e ratio between the amount of a given mortgage loan and the lower sales price or ap-

praised value

Lock-box: MLS electronic key which allows agents access to listed properties

Lock-in: A term to obtain the interest rate at today’s rate, or lock-in the rate

Margin*: !e set percentage the lender adds to the index rate to determine the interest rate of an ARM

(continue...)

Glossary of Real Estate TermsMLS: Multiple Listing Service. An organization that distributes information on properties listed by MLS member

brokers. Georgia has 2 MLS services, the FMLS and the GAMLS

Mortgage*: !e conveyance of an interest in real property given as security for the payment of a loan

Mortgagor*: !e borrower in a mortgage transaction who pledges property as security for a debt

Mortgage Specialist*: !e HomeServices Lending employee responsible for collecting the completed application

with all supporting documents before the entire loan packet is submitted to underwriting. Also known as the “proces-

sor”

Non-Conforming Loan*: Conventional home mortgages not eligible for sale and delivery to either FNMA or

FHLMC because of various reasons, including loan amount, loan characteristics or underwriting guidelines

Note*: A general term for any kind of paper or document signed by a borrower that is an acknowledgement of the

debt, and it, be inference, a promise to pay. When the note is secured by a mortgage, it is called a mortgage note and

the mortgagee (lender) is named as the payee

Origination Fee*: !e amount charged for services performed by the company handling the initial application and

processing of the loan

Points*: A one-time charge by the lender to increase the yield of the loan, a point is 1% of the amount of the mortgage

Pre-Approval*: A written commitment from a lender, subject to a property appraisal and other stated conditions,

that lets you know exactly how much home you can a"ord

Pre-Foreclosure: Not really a factual term. Typically the homeowner has been late on several mortgage payments

which caused the lender to begin the legal process of foreclosure. Foreclosure can typically take 6 to 8 months. !e

lender begins the legal process of taking the home back from the homeowner including advertising the home in the

county newspaper as a foreclosure. During this legal process the homeowner can continue to live in the property. If

the property is listed for sale by the homeowner it is sometimes referred to as “pre-foreclosure” due to the fact that the

lender has begun the legal process of foreclosure

Prepaids*: Closing costs related to the mortgage loan which are collected at loan closing – including per diem pre-

paid interest and initial deposits of monthly escrows of taxes and insurance

Primary Residence*: A residence which the borrower intends to occupy as the principal residence

Principal*: !e amount borrowed or remaining unpaid; also, the part of the monthly payment that reduces the out-

standing balance of the mortgage

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Glossary of Real Estate TermsPrivate Mortgage Insurance (PMI)*: Insurance written by a private company protecting the mortgage lender against

loss resulting from a mortgage default

Property Pro!le: An information/fact sheet about a property on the market

Purchase and Sale Agreement: A contract between a buyer and a seller to purchase real property

Rate Cap*: !e limit of how much the interest rate may change on an ARM at each adjustment and over the life of

the loan

Rate Lock*: !e borrower or lender agree to protect the interest rates, points, and term of the loan while it is pro-

cessed

Short Sale: !e homeowner still owns the home legally. !e homeowner may or may not be late on his current mort-

gage payments. !e home owner’s mortgage on the property (sometimes a 1st and 2nd mortgage) is greater than the

value of the property. !e homeowner negotiates with his lender to arrange for a pay o" on the mortgage(s) that is

less than what is owed on the mortgage (short). !e homeowner and the lender may sign an outside agreement for the

short amount but this in no way will a"ect the title of legal transfer of the property. !is should not be called a “Short

Sale” because it can take many months and is not a guarantee to close as the bank doesn’t sign o" on the contract and

conditions until close to the closing date

Title Insurance*: An insurance policy that protects a lender and/or homebuyer (only if the homebuyer purchases a

separate policy, called owner’s coverage) against any loss resulting from a title error or dispute

Truth-In-Lending Statement*: A Federal law requiring full disclosure of credit terms using a standard format. !is

is intended to facilitate comparisons between the lending terms and !nancial institutions

Transaction: A listing sold or the sale of real property Underwriting*: Analysis of risk, determination of loan eligi-

bility, and setting of an appropriate rate and terms for a mortgage on a give property for given borrowers

VA: A type of loan, government guaranteed !nancing available to military veteran

*Provided by HomeServices Lending


Moving Tips


Checklist for MovingSend Change Of Address To:

Post O�ce - Provide forwarding address.

Creditors - credit card companies, local charge accounts.

Magazine Publication Houses - address change for subscriptions requires several weeks

Friends and relatives.

Contact:Utility Companies - Get refund of deposits.

Route Men - Paperboy, milk and laundry men, landscape company. Stop services on given date.

Schools - ask for transfer o! children’s records.

Doctor, dentist - ask for referrals; transfer x-rays, prescriptions for medication, vision correction.

Bank - transfer funds; arrange for check cashing and credit approval in new city.

Auto Registration Department - arrange for transfer, if necessary, of car title, driver’s license, inspection stickers.

Also transfer motor club membership.

Insurance Companies - life, health, "re, auto. Supply with new address information to assure uninterrupted coverage.

Church, clubs, civic organizations - transfer memberships, get letter of introduction.

Veterinarian - ask about regulations; licenses, vaccinations, tags, etc.

Remember to:Consult with your moving counselor to check insurance coverage, vacancy clause, packing and unpacking assistance,

arrival day, necessary shipping papers, and payment arrangements.

Cancel Homeowner’s insurance on former residence a#er closing.

Empty freezer; plan use of foods. Defrost refrigerator.

Have appliances serviced for moving.

Arrange to clean clothing & rugs. Have them wrapped for moving.

Plan special care needs for infants.

Plan for transporting your pets.

On Moving Day:Carry cash, jewelry, and documents yourself, or use registered mail.

Carry traveler’s checks for quick available funds.

Notify friends or relatives of the route you’re taking and your travel schedule, including over night stops.

Double check closets, drawers, and shelves to be sure they’re empty.

Leave any information pertinent to the sale of your home with new owner or REALTOR®.


Tips for Moving with Children

Inform children early that a family move is planned.

Keep a positive attitude in their presence.

Allow them to openly talk about the move and to have input in the decisions

when appropriate.

Remind children often that although everything seems to be changing,

the family is still very secure as a unit.

Involve children in packing their personal belongings.

Help them accumulate memoirs of present home and friends in an

organized manner.

Consider moving during the school session to avoid summer anxiety related to

the !rst day of school. Be sure they are dressed like the local children on the !rst

day of school to avoid being labeled “di"erent”.

Allow children to take favorite toys or possessions with them on the trip.

Have games and snacks for the trip.

Request special education or medical information early in the process.

Get books about new location from franchise bookstores in your present area.

Get books on moving for children.

Get information for teenagers on areas of interest. Begin early by involving

them in groups with common interest.

Allow children to help selections relating to their room in the new home.

Take a camera for pictures on your home buying trip if children do not

accompany you.

Allow children to make occasional phone calls to friends they le# behind.

Locate school bus stops in new neighborhood to avoid stress of !rst day.

Contact local church as soon as possible, if desired, and get counseling, if needed.

The Atlanta Perimeter Office4848 Ashford Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30338 Office www.harrynorman.com