Straight Talk & Tech Tips to Online Success

How to Find the Best Place to Live in Atlanta - Part 5

January 21, 2008

Though housing is clearly the largest factor, Atlanta cost-of-living includes other factors as well. Relocation guides, such as Your Guide to Relocating to Metro Atlanta, a service of North Atlanta Realty Group, provide a wealth of information on lifestyle, entertainment, transportation, etc. A valuable online source for comparative information is bestplaces.net

These types of relocation guides provide valuable information, but they won’t help you anticipate new, sometimes major outlays, such as carrying costs or property owner fees.

What is your approximate housing budget?


  • Less than $250,000?
  • $250,000 - $350,000?
  • $350,000 - $500,000?
  • $500,000 - $700,000?
  • $700,000 - $1,000,000?
  • Over $1,000,000?

It’s important to ask North Atlanta Realty Group a lot of questions as you prepare for your move to Atlanta. We are experts in providing peace of mind as you prepare for your move.

How to Find the Best Place to Live in Atlanta - Part 4

January 14, 2008

With words like “upsize” and “downsize” having recently entered the popular lexicon, and with Atlanta new home construction at an all-time high, being realistic about your housing needs - and overall living expenses - is also important.

Think about the home you now live in:

  • What is its current market value?
  • What is your equity?
  • How large is your home - in square feet, number of bedrooms, kitchen, etc.?
  • Is it too large or too small?
  • Are you looking to “downsize” or “upsize”?

Comparatively speaking, home costs in Atlanta are less than they are in California, the Northeast and Midwest.

Establishing a realistic budget or consulting a mortgage consultant may help in regard to finances.

Cobb County Homestead Exemptions Due March 1

January 11, 2008

Vivian Lacy Homeowners have until March 1 to apply for a homestead exemption for this tax year and may apply for homestead exemptions by mail. Applications must be received or U.S. postmarked (a metered postmark is not accepted as proof of timely mailing) by March 1 to receive the benefit of the exemption for that year.

Homeowners must apply for all exemptions for which they are eligible; thereafter, exemptions are automatically renewed each year unless there is a change in ownership or eligibility requirements are no longer met. It is not necessary to reapply if the home has been refinanced.

The applicant’s name must appear on the deed and they must occupy the property by January 1 of the taxable year in order to qualify. Most new property owners will receive an application by mail at the first of the year.

Application forms and information are available at the city's Web site, mariettaga.gov, or by calling 770-794-5680.

Cobb County homestead exemption information is available at cobbtax.org or 770-528-8600.

 

How to Find the Best Place to Live in Atlanta - Part 3

January 8, 2008

Strong social support is important for a successful relocation to Atlanta. We will pose several questions as we strengthen our relationship.

  • What is the level of social support in your current location?
  • What is your level of involvement in your current community?
  • How would you go about creating a new circle of friends in Atlanta?
  • When have you done this in the past?
  • What are the interests you will form new relationships around?
  • What type of community interests you?

Taking time to fully explore these questions will better enable you to determine the right Atlanta location for you.

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