Buying Power

If you've done any research into buying a home you've probably come across the term "buying power". Simply put, "buying power" is your ability to maximize your money when purchasing a new home.

Interest rates greatly affect your buying power. Historically speaking, today's interest rates are extremely low. This means that the money you pay in order to
borrow money for your home is much less than it was in the past. With lower interest rates your monthly payment is lower and you can afford a more expensive home than you could before - thus your buying power has increased.

Interest rates are going to slowly rise and as they do it will erode some of your buying power. Now is the time to buy, before rates go higher!  You'll be able to afford more home than you thought possible while the interest rates remain low.  They won't be this low forever so don't miss this opportunity to maximize your buying power!

Available Homes by Park Ridge

Available Homes in Cotswold Place

Located off Boyscout Road in Augusta, less than a mile from Washington Road and I-20.

Homes feature Old World European design and open, inviting floor plans. Amenities include wood flooring, granite countertops, tiled bathrooms and two-car garages.

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms

Cotswold Place is convenient to shopping, dining and the medical district.

For more information call Woody Trulock at Blanchard and Calhoun

 706-877-3757

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