MLS Moments
May 26, 2008
I took a few moments for a quick review of multiple listing home sales in North Atlanta this Memorial Day weekend.
| City / Zip Code |
Closed Sales |
Average Sales Price |
Average Market Time |
| North Atlanta Area | 2201 | $368,456 | 90 Days |
| Marietta (30062) | 217 | $307,271 | 88 Days |
| Marietta (30067,30068) | 158 | $432,649 | 70 Days |
| Roswell (30075) | 158 | $399,569 | 80 Days |
| Johns Creek* | 411 | $396,580 | 86 Days |
| Alpharetta (30004,30009,30023) |
157 | $518,903 | 110 Days |
*The zip code of Johns Creek is 30022 and 30005, 2 Suwanee zip codes (30024 and 30076), and 1 Duluth zip code (30097). NOTE: Sales in the individual areas total less than 100%. Our broad geographic area includes additional cities and zip codes.
Want information on an area not reported? Add a comment to let me know. I’ll get you updated right away.
And, be sure to check this week’s detailed market report.
Saturday Stories - Marietta’s Big Chicken
May 24, 2008
Many of our readers are relocating to Atlanta. Looking at houses and researching school statistics is such a small piece of deciding where to live.
Let me tell you a story about living in Atlanta. We want you to see Atlanta the way we see Atlanta - with our hearts, memories, and stories.
The Big Chicken
I moved to the Atlanta area in 1981. My job was in Cobb County, so Marietta seemed the most convenient location to live.
Very quickly I learned the Big Chicken was critical for driving directions. “We’re above the Big Chicken.” “If you get to the chicken, you’ve gone too far.”
My husband loves telling a story about his trip to the Big Chicken with our daughter in 1993.
Over the years, the structure had deteriorated. Public outcry forced Kentucky Fried Chicken to rethink their decision to tear down the infamous landmark.
During final stages of construction, the chicken was shrouded from view.
Rick and Jessica planned for weeks to be on site for the much acclaimed unveiling - and free fried chicken.
Imagine the delight of an 8 year old when yards of canvas fell away to reveal bright yellow beaks, and a black round eye that moved.
What are your stories?
Do you have a favorite story about the Big Chicken? Add a Comment here.
We want to share your stories.
- Why did you move to Atlanta?
- Do you remember when an Atlanta Braves baseball game only cost a dollar?
- What do you like most about the Georgia Aquarium?
Tell us what you like - or don’t like - about living in Atlanta.
Atlanta Mortgage Rates May 23, 2008
May 23, 2008
Mortgage Interest Rates*
| Conforming | |
| 30-Year Fixed | 5.625% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.375% |
| FHA 30- Year Fixed | 5.750% |
| Jumbo 30- Year Fixed | 7.125% |
| 5/1 Interest Only ARM | 5.125% |
*Rates are subject to change due to market fluctuations and borrower’s eligibility.
Inflation has a negative impact to bonds, and rates can climb. I recommend my clients lock at loan application.
Enjoy the long weekend! Jim
New Trend with Atlanta Sellers
May 21, 2008
Atlanta sellers are teasing me. 
Hello. I found you on the internet.
My house at 123 Anystreet is for sale. The listing number is #1234567.
I am offering a 4% commission to the agent who brings a buyer before the end of the month.
Curiosity compels me to investigate. Every time.
What I discover - every time - is the seller hired a flat-fee broker who listed the property in the multiple listing service. And, the seller priced the property without regard to current market conditions, or the most recent sales data.
Today’s carrot dangler seller over-priced the property by $25,000.
My response is always the same. “Homes that are target priced, and in showcase condition are selling. Why do you think your house has not yet sold?”
Sellers take note: Target priced houses in showcase condition are selling.

Subscribe To Our RSS Feed!