Grilling Season

Grilling is a great way to keep your kitchen area cool and cut down on those high summer utility bills. To help out all the summer grill masters here are some easy and quick recipes to keep the heat out of the kitchen this summer. Click on each recipe header to view the full recipe and instructions.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Pork Chops

Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple

Improving Markets Index

The National Association of Home Builders/First American Improving Markets Index increased again in June to now include more than 70% of the U.S. metro areas.

The Improving Markets Index or IMI is a list of metropolitan areas that have shown improvement through the areas of housing permits, employment and house prices for at least the past six months.

Twenty-nine new markets were added to the list while twenty-four previously listed markets were removed. This fluctuation is a product of a slow recovery and confirmation that the housing industry still has challenges to face.  However the IMI list is three times larger this year than last year according to the NAHB.


For a full list of improving markets visit the NAHB's website HERE.

Home Safety

It's the time of year when many Americans hit the road for a well deserved summer vacation.  Before you go, it's important to prepare your home for your absence. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind before getting out of town.

1. If possible have someone come by while you're gone. Ask a trusted friend to peek their head in the neighborhood when possible, maybe water a few plants and just walk through the home every few days.

2. Make sure to stop your mail. This is a free service provided by the post office and in most areas the request can be submitted online.

3. Like above, if you receive the newspaper, make sure to stop delivery while you're gone. You don't want a stack of newspapers piling up while you're gone.

4. Unplug your coffee maker, computer and any other small appliances that won't be making the trip. Don't leave the washing machine or dishwasher running before you go.

5. It seems simple, but make sure all the doors are locked and blinds are closed. Double and even triple check. Especially those doors that aren't used as often.

What are some tips you have on keeping your home safe while you're away?

Builder Confidence Increases

According to the National Association of Home Builders and Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, builder confidence increased by eight points in June bringing it to the highest level since April 2006.

Any number over 50 is an indicator that builders view the housing market more favorably than negatively. This eight point gain in June is the biggest one-month increase since 2002.

NAHB Chairman Rick Judson attributes the growth in new home sales to an increase in home buyers and a low inventory of existing homes.

To read the full article click HERE.

Move-in Ready

This has been a busy spring and early summer! We've only got one finished home available and other homes under construction.

If you are looking for a quick move-in home take a look at our home in the popular Northridge neighborhood in Evans.

412 Northridge Circle
3100 sq. ft.
3 bedrooms
2 full baths

Home features study, one bedroom on main level, open floor plan, 10' ceilings, heavy molding, hardwoods on first floor, owners suite with separate vanities and 2 large walk-in closets. Kitchen includes granite, upgraded cabinetry, island and stainless steel appliances. All lawn maintenance included in HOA.

Find out more HERE

Featured Home

Located in Jones Creek Plantation
1060 Emerald Place

This home is located in the heart of Evans, in a gated, private community just minutes from the Evans Fitness Center, government complex and shopping centers.

3788 Square Feet
5 bedrooms
4 full baths

Included features:
Hardwoods on the first floor
Master bedroom on first floor
Granite countertops
Open floor plan
GE appliances
Media Room
Office nook located on second floor
Decorative trim throughout

Schools:
River Ridge Elementary
Stallings Island Middle
Lakeside High

For more information contact Debbie Borne at 706-284-8991.

Community Spotlight

Tucked away off busy Washington Road in Evans is a local coffee shop serving up more than just your usual cup of joe.

Bean Baskette Coffee by day and Tavern at the Bean by night, is a gathering place for coffee enthusiasts, musicians and neighbors looking to catch up over a sandwich.

Before 3pm Bean Baskette Coffee specializes in fresh brewed, whole bean coffee, teas, made-to-order breakfast foods, lunch items and dessert. After 3pm the cafe becomes Tavern at the Bean, still offering coffee but alongside a stocked bar and dinner menu.

Live music is featured Thursday and Friday nights. Saturday is Karaoke night.

The Bean Baskette is located at 4414 Evans to Locks Rd. Visit their website to learn more.