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        <title>Atlanta Real Estate Blog - Hirsh Real Estate Specialists</title>
        <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/vinings-real-estate/</link>
        <description>Atlanta Real Estate Blog, Atlanta homes for sale, Atlanta Realtors, Hirsh Real Estate Specialists, Atlanta Real Estate News, Reports, and Valuable information!</description>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/valentines-day-deals-in-vinings.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/valentines-day-deals-in-vinings.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Valentines Day Deals in Vinings</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
It's Valentines Day once again and so we want to share the love in Vinings. Whether you're looking for a dozen roses, you need last minute reservations for a romantic dinner or you just want to support a local business, I have some great suggestions for you.


Flowers - Village Green Flowers and Gifts as well as Floral Creations Florist both have roses, tulips and countless other floral arrangements to choose from.





Romantic Dinner - Soho in Vinings Jubilee, South City Kitchen and Canoe are all local favorites, offering romantic dining for two.


Local Business - With the economy in the news these days we all know how important it is to support local businesses. Vinings Bank first opened their doors in 2007 and has a desire to build relationships with local businesses and home buyers. Let me know if you need a pre-approval letter for a home loan and I will make sure you receive excellent service.








Favorite Home - I have a new favorite home for sale in Vinings at 4421 Paradise Circle. This property is really something special so I'll let you click the link and check it out for yourself. Just let me know if you want to buy it for that "someone special" and I will be glad to negotiate a great deal for you!


So Happy Valentines Day from your Smyrna/Vinings Real Estate Specialist and please let me know if you need any assistance with your real estate needs. It would be a privilege to earn your business.
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            <pubDate>Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:52:30 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/cochise-home-for-sale-has-great-potential-in-vinings.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/cochise-home-for-sale-has-great-potential-in-vinings.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Cochise Home for Sale has Great Potential in Vinings</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
A terrific Vinings property has recently come on the market and has excellent potential for renovation. This tudor style home sits high on a hill in Cochise with a long private drive, nearly an acre of land, hardwood floors, masonry fireplaces and a daylight basement. Below is a link to the home.


3488 Cochise Drive








Please let me know if you or anyone you know might be interested in this property. It's an&nbsp;excellent opportunity&nbsp;and I expect it to sell quickly! I would love to help you negotiate a great deal on it. You can reach me any time at 678.739.8686 or Brian@HirshRealEstate.com.
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            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:40:42 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/47-new-homes-for-sale-in-smyrnavinings.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/47-new-homes-for-sale-in-smyrnavinings.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>47 New Homes for Sale in Smyrna/Vinings</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
There&nbsp;are already&nbsp;47 new single family homes listed for sale&nbsp;in Smyrna and Vinings since the start of 2012 and some are selling very quickly.


Twice within the past week I have talked with buyers about homes that already have multiple offers,&nbsp;which means the seller has the luxury of requesting "highest and best" offers from prospective buyers. In most cases this means the seller will get at least their asking price, if not higher. This also means you want a skilled buyer's agent working on your behalf to negotiate the deal and make sure you still get a great value.








By far my favorite home for sale is located in the highly sought after neighborhood of Paces Lake in Vinings. This French inspired masterpiece at 2934 Paces Lake Drive&nbsp;just hit the market yesterday and&nbsp;is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer.


Here is a full list of homes for sale in Smyrna and homes for sale in Vinings.


Whether you are looking to buy or sell, Smyrna/Vinings real estate is my specialty and I would love to earn your business. Please give me a call at 678-739-8686 and let's keep the momentum going to turn this economy around one house at a time.
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            <pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:50:28 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/vinings-main-is-65-sold-and-offering-buyer-incentives-in-the-new-year.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/vinings-main-is-65-sold-and-offering-buyer-incentives-in-the-new-year.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Vinings Main is 65% Sold and Offering Buyer Incentives in the New Year</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
If you're looking for the best deal on a condo in Vinings, then look no further than Vinings Main. I am the Vinings Specialist for Hirsh Real Estate Specialists and know this market very well. Vinings Main remains at the top of my list for condos in the area.








Why? You might ask. Here are a few reasons.


1. They are one of the newest condo buildings in the 30339 zip code (true Vinings).


2. They have some of the nicest amenities around.


3. They are within walking distance to everything Vinings.


4. They are offering great incentives...call me for details.


5. Finally, they have the best price per square foot for new construction in Vinings.


Only Greystone at Vinings beats them on price per square foot, but Vinings Main allows FHA financing with only 3.5% down payment and at the moment only cash buyers can purchase at Greystone.


So, if you are in the market to buy a home or condo in Vinings, then you definitely need a local real estate specialist who knows the market. Please give me a call at 678-739-8686 and I would love to talk with you about your plans, what's on the market and how we can negotiate the best deal that fits your personal needs.


I specialize in representing buyers and in the state of Georgia, using a buyer's agent is FREE! I look forward to hearing from you.
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            <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:52:26 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/30-million-in-home-sales-for-hirsh.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/30-million-in-home-sales-for-hirsh.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>$30 Million in Home Sales for Hirsh</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Ben and I were discussing our 2011 numbers this morning and were quite encouraged at Hirsh Real Estate Specialists' performance this year!


Over $30 Million in Sales


It has been another banner year for Hirsh Real Estate Specialists! Our agents have worked tirelessly throughout 2011 to sell more than $30 million in real estate and our clients have reaped the benefits. The road has certainly had its share of hurdles, but one step at a time we are emerging as one of Atlanta's most successful real estate brokerages. If you or those you know are in need of professional real estate services, we would love to talk with you about your needs.


Mortgage Rate Lows


A high point for home owners, mortgage rates have remained unexpectedly low throughout 2011 and are forecast to stay this way well into 2012. As I highlighted in a recent blog post, a lower rate can be more beneficial than a larger down payment. So if you are considering a refinance or purchase, this is an excellent time to take advantage of rates!30 Year Fixed - 3.99%15 Year Fixed - 3.27%


Growing into 2012


As we look toward 2012, we have a number of plans in place to expand our brokerage. This will include adding team members (jobs), increasing services to our clients and improving technology. Some of you have already experienced our transition toward a "paperless office" this year as the vast majority of our home sales have been negotiated and closed using electronic contracts. In other words, you can basically buy a home from your smart phone.Thank you for your friendship, your loyalty and your business. I look forward to staying in touch.Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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            <pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:44:31 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/atlanta-real-estate-news.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/atlanta-real-estate-news.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Atlanta Real Estate News</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
As we approach the end of 2011, it is still a strong buyers market across Atlanta. Mortgage rates have dropped again since the summer and while prices are struggling to recover, certain properties seem to attract all the attention. We are always looking to grow our business, so if you or those you know are in need of professional real estate advice please feel free to give me a call.&nbsp;


So whats the latest with home prices?


Home prices are actually up nearly 7% in the North Atlanta area around Buckhead and the number of homes sold is up more than 10%, which is good news. Smyrna and Vinings prices are still down more than 10% for the year, but there are a number of great homes pending sale right now, so I do expect the average price and volume to tick up slightly before December 31st.


By the way, home prices in December are statistically the lowest of the year, so if youre considering an end of year purchase, there is no time like the present!


How do you stand out from the crowd?


Today there are more than 3,400 homes actively for sale across Atlanta and less than 500 will actually close this month, so how do you make your home stand out from the crowd? Price it competitively and make it shine.


&ldquo;I recently listed a property on a Tuesday and by Friday we had multiple parties interested in making an offer. Over the weekend, I had another 3 agents call to ask if it was still available. On a side note, there were 10 other properties for sale in this neighborhood, so something made this one stand out and it wasnt just the price.&rdquo;


Give us a call. We would love to help you price your home right, make it shine and then market it to as many buyers as possible.


Hirsh Real Estate Reaches 100,000 Visitors!


We are excited to announce that we have received over 100,000 visitors to our website www.HirshRealEstate.com this year. Many of you have bought homes with us in the past and we hope many of you will become future clients. So please give us a call and let us know how we can earn your business. If youre on the fence, feel free to read our testimonials to see what past clients have to say about us.


Todays Mortgage Rates


I always like to end on a positive note and mortgage rates are certainly in the positive news category lately.


30 Year Fixed  4.25%


30 Year FHA  4.00%


15 Year Fixed  3.37%


Have a Happy Thanksgiving and please feel free to contact me any time. It would be a privilege to earn your business.
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            <pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:29:56 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/vinings-run-condo-for-sale-at-bargain-price.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/vinings-run-condo-for-sale-at-bargain-price.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Vinings Run Condo for Sale at Bargain Price</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Just this morning I listed a top floor, end unit condo in Vinings Run for a great price! This home is move in ready, all appliances are included and the seller is ready to make a deal.


&nbsp;


&nbsp;&nbsp;


Literally minutes from&nbsp;Historic Vinings, 1309 Cumberland Court&nbsp;includes a&nbsp;well maintained swim/tennis HOA, easy access to local shops and restaurants, yet still feels like a&nbsp;secluded retreat with wooded views from your private balcony.


&nbsp; 


This is a fantastic deal at $104,900&nbsp;for a large 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo in Vinings Run with numerous upgrades and a 2 story foyer. Please give me a call at 678-739-8686 or send me an email at Brian@HirshRealEstate.com if you would like to schedule a showing or make an offer.


Come take a look and you will love it!
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            <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:06:06 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/is-a-lower-mortgage-rate-or-bigger-down-payment-better.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/is-a-lower-mortgage-rate-or-bigger-down-payment-better.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Is a Lower Mortgage Rate or Bigger Down Payment Better?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The question of whether to buy now while mortgage rates are down or wait until you have a bigger down payment, is one that is raised quite often. First time home buyers are particularly curious about this dilemma because they are less familiar with the process and often have less saved up to put down.





Each case is a little different but in general, having a lower interest rate on your mortgage is more important than having a larger down payment. In fact, your monthly payment could easily be less if you get a great rate and mortgage more. 


Here's an example:


Mortgage rates for&nbsp;a 30 year fixed loan are close to 4% (actually slightly less today), which means your payment for a $250,000 house would be about $1,600 per month...if you made the minimum down payment for an FHA mortgage.


However, let's say you want to save up another $10,000 for a downpayment and interest rates rise to 5.25% (where they were earlier this year), your new monthly payment would be about $1,675. That means you would have a monthly payment of&nbsp;$75 more, even after waiting and saving the extra cash.


Moral of the story? Buy now while mortgage rates are at historic lows to save money now and later. If you're on the fence or ready to buy but need some&nbsp;professional&nbsp;advice, please feel free to give me a call at 678-739-8686. I would love to answer your questions and&nbsp;help you find a great deal on a home in Smyrna, Vinings, or Atlanta.
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            <pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:06:22 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/mortgage-rates-and-interest-payments-are-falling.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/mortgage-rates-and-interest-payments-are-falling.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>Mortgage Rates and Interest Payments are Falling</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Amid the volatile stock market, economic&nbsp;gridlock in Washington&nbsp;and stagnant home sales, mortgage rates have continued to fall and save buyers thousands of dollars in interest.


Below is a chart showing how mortgage rates in&nbsp;2011&nbsp;have continued to drop for 30-year and 15-year fixed mortgages. Data is courtesy of www.FreddieMac.com





So, how does this translate into real numbers for your budget? Consider this, an average&nbsp;home buyer who purchases a $250,000&nbsp;home today will save nearly $50,000 in interest payments on a 30 year mortgage&nbsp;versus a buyer who bought the same house in February for the same price.


Mortgage rates in February were about 5.05% and mortgage rates today are about 4.15%.&nbsp;A buyer&nbsp;who makes&nbsp;a 3.5% down payment will save about $130 per month on their mortgage today. That translates into $46,000 in savings over the course of a 30 year mortgage!


The saying in real estate "you make your money when you buy" is more true today than ever. If you or someone you know is looking for a great deal on a home, then please give me a call at 678-739-8686 or drop me an email at Brian@HirshRealEstate.com.


I would love to earn your business and help you take advantage of this market!
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            <pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2011 15:17:04 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/august-real-estate-news.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.hirshrealestate.com/blog/august-real-estate-news.html</link>
            <author>Brian@HirshRealEstate.com (Brian Sims)</author>
            <title>August Real Estate News</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
We are now past the mid-point for 2011 and the most expensive property Atlanta has seen in recent years just sold. And while most of the sales numbers are down from last year, single family home sales have actually increased substantially in Vinings. Amid talks of a debt crisis in Washington, interest rates have remained low for now. Its still a buyers market.


Atlantas Most Expensive Home  SOLD (Actually 30 min North of Atlanta)


With more than 72 acres of manicured lawns, over 30,000 square feet of luxury living, an 18 car garage, ballroom, bowling alley and a private 9 hole golf course, &ldquo;Le Reve&rdquo; recently sold for $9.5million. Yes, thats a lot of money, but heres the catch&hellip;it cost approximately $50million to build, the bank foreclosed on the owner and the new buyer just got an absolute steal of a deal!





Back to Real Life


Most of us dont have or need $9.5million to get a great deal and there are still plenty of deals on the market right now. Single family home prices in Smyrna are down a surprising 19% and condos/townhomes are down a staggering 35% since this time last year. In Vinings the average price of a single family home is down 15% but volume is actually up 43% since last year, which means buyers are still taking advantage of unprecedented prices.


Will the Debt Crisis Affect Mortgage Rates?


Maybe. Rates crept up a bit last week while our politicians in Washington debated the debt ceiling but today they are down slightly. In short, if the country defaults on its debt, then rates will likely rise but for now they are reasonably stable.


Todays Mortgage Rates


30 Year Fixed  4.38%


30 Year FHA  4.26%


15 Year Fixed  3.66%


As always, we would love to talk with you if you or someone you know is in need of professional real estate advice. You can reach me any time at 678-739-8686 or Brian@HirshRealEstate.com. Have a great summer and please stay in touch.
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            <pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:20:54 -0500</pubDate>
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