Simply Stephens Real Estate; Keller Williams Realty Atlanta Partners

09/02/2026

You probably think as a general rule of thumb, brand new homes costs more than existing homes. But right now, that's backwards. This shows just how much.

A newly built home costs about $40k less than an existing one right now. That's because builders are cutting prices and piling on incentives to keep their inventory moving.

And that opens up a window for you to get brand new everything for less than you may expect.

DM me if you want a list of nearby new home communities offering deals like this right now to see if a new build may be in your budget after all.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

08/31/2026

Have you seen the headlines about using your 401(k) to cover a down payment?

Tapping it can feel like an easy call, especially if you’ve got a good chunk saved up. But pulling from retirement early can trigger penalties and set back the savings you'll want later on.

But you don’t necessarily have to raid your retirement to buy a home. You’ve got other options, like FHA loans, which let qualified buyers put down as little as 3.5%. And down payment assistance programs can help, too.

So, before you touch your 401(k), talk with a trusted financial advisor. They can help you find the option that fits your goals and your budget.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

08/24/2026

Higher Rates Could Actually Help Housing Supply – Here’s How.

The number of homes for sale is growing slowly but surely, and that means more options for your move. Want to see what’s available in our area? Reach out, and let's take a look together.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

You may have heard the number of homes for sale isn’t growing like it was. And maybe that has you worried you won’t find a home you love when it’s time to make your move.

08/19/2026

Own a house with room for multiple generations, with features like an in-law suite or a finished basement with a separate entrance? Buyers are looking for that right now.
These houses tend to get 13.5% more online views than standard homes. They also command a higher list price per square foot – 22% higher, thanks to the extra square footage and special features.
Thinking about moving and want to know what buyers would pay for your house? Reach out and let’s chat about it.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

08/17/2026

Picture it. A getaway that’s all yours, where you’ll build memories with your loved ones year after year. And maybe even retire someday?

A vacation home of your own might be more within reach than you think. Nearly 40% of vacation-home sellers have lowered their asking price recently.

That place you’re imagining? DM, and let’s talk about what’s available there.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

08/12/2026

Mortgage rates aren’t random. They’re affected by 2 numbers.

The 10-year treasury yield and something called "the spread." That's the gap between the 10-year treasury yield and mortgage rates, and it usually sits around 1.76 percentage points.

Back in 2023, the gap in the spread ballooned up to 3.19 in response to economic uncertainty. If it were still that wide today, rates would be pushing almost 8%.

But the good news is the gap has narrowed to 2.01 (a lot closer to the long-term norm). And that’s a big positive for rates. It’s why today’s mortgage rate is in the upper 6s instead of touching 8%.

Here's the part a lot of people miss. Where rates are right now are already pretty close to what a totally normal spread would produce – a mortgage rate around 6.5%.

In other words, the fact that the spread has narrowed in recent years has helped mortgage rates. Sure, they’re still higher than you may...



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

08/10/2026

🏡 JUST LISTED | Ranch Living + No HOA!

Looking for a home with flexible space, a private backyard, AND extra garage space? This ranch checks some pretty great boxes. 👀

✨ Split bedroom floor plan
🔥 Cathedral family room with stacked stone fireplace
🛏️ Private upstairs suite with full bath
🚗 2-car attached garage, and an extra-deep detached garage
🌳 Covered back porch + landscaped backyard with mature trees
🙌 And the cherry on top… NO HOA!

From the flexible home office to the upstairs bonus suite and outdoor living spaces, there’s plenty of room to make this home fit your lifestyle.

📲 Ready to see it in person? Send us a message to schedule your private showing!

08/10/2026

Thinking About Waiting for Lower Mortgage Rates? Read This First.

If you've been putting your home search on hold because you're convinced mortgage rates will be much lower soon, it may be worth taking another look at that strategy.

Let’s connect so you have an expert who can at least walk you through your options and decide whether waiting really puts you in a better position – or just keeps you on the sidelines a little longer.



Give us a call we can help 770-904-1153

Imagine waiting a year to buy a home, only to find mortgage rates haven't changed much. That may sound frustrating. But it's a real possibility.