Harbor Club has built something more enduring than of-the-moment flash: steady growth, consistent sales, and a lifestyle that delivers both joy and long-term value.

The 1,100-acre gated community on Lake Oconee’s north shore has quietly become one of the area’s most resilient and rewarding investments. With nine miles of lake frontage, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a suite of resort-style amenities, Harbor Club blends relaxed luxury with financial peace of mind.

Since 2021, average home prices around Lake Oconee have risen more than 20%. But while some neighboring communities have seen price swings and extended days on market, Harbor Club has held its ground with steady appreciation and consistent sales velocity. For buyers seeking more than just short-term appreciation, Harbor Club offers something rare: confidence. Whether as a primary residence, weekend escape, or investment property, homeowners enjoy the assurance that comes from a track record of performance, a balanced market position, and a vibrant community. Real estate sales over the past few years tell a clear story:

– Harbor Club had $69.3 million in sales in 2022

– Nearly $50 million in sales across 101 transactions in 2023

– $71.1 million in sales in 2024, comprised of 171 transactions (107 residential and 64 homesites)

– There are 39 pending and closed transactions totaling $33.4 million as of June 2025

Behind these numbers is a strategy of thoughtful, phased development. By releasing new homesites in measured waves and preserving inventory, Harbor Club has avoided the boom-and-bust cycles seen elsewhere. Today, the developer is nearing the end of its remaining lots, adding a layer of scarcity that continues to drive demand.

Part of Harbor Club’s appeal is its range of real estate offerings. New builds and resales start in the high $300,000s, while custom lakefront estates exceed $3 million. My Home Communities is currently delivering 36 single-family homes priced from the low $400,000s—making Harbor Club accessible to first-time buyers and empty nesters wanting to downsize, while still appealing to the most affluent lake and golf buyers. This diverse pricing structure ensures a broader market base and helps the community weather market shifts with ease.

“The community’s considerable appeal at the lake is driven by its sense of relaxed luxury, broad range of amenities and club activities, plus a wide range of home types and prices ranging from the $300’s to over $3 million,” says Kathy Phillips, Director of Real Estate at Harbor Club, and also a longtime Harbor Club resident.

Harbor Club’s value proposition isn’t just about price—it’s about how the community was built to last. Several key factors have contributed to its long-term strength:

– Master-planned from the start: With a mix of homes, gathering spaces, dining options, award-winning golf, racquet sports, and a wide range of amenities, Harbor Club offers more than just homes—it delivers a well-rounded lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to The Grove, a 12-acre wellness and recreation complex featuring a fitness center, Fit-Trails®, running track, event field, dog parks, community garden, and pond. The community also includes a Southern-style Clubhouse with a pro shop, restaurant, locker rooms, and meeting spaces, a member pool, a family-friendly playground, and a full-service Marina for boat storage and assistance.

– Controlled inventory release: A phased approach to development has kept supply in check and demand high.

– Preservation of character: By protecting natural spaces and limiting overdevelopment, the community has maintained its charm and appeal.

– Market responsiveness: Harbor Club’s leadership team adapts to buyer trends, supporting everything from speculative builds to custom homes.

– Financial strength: The Harbor Club Master Property Owners Association enjoys surplus funds, underscoring the community’s solid financial foundation.

The Bottom Line:  In a region known for high demand and low inventory, Harbor Club stands out for all the right reasons. With proven appreciation, financial stability, and a well-rounded lifestyle offering, Harbor Club remains the steady standout of the Lake Oconee market.

One of our esteemed builders, Southvine Homes, is offering a brand new, highly compelling incentive for homebuyers interested in Harbor Club. They’re giving buyers a whopping $10,000 any way you want it on select homes. Each is in our highly sought-after Enclave at Heron Ridge neighborhood. All Southvine homes feature 8-foot main-level doors, step-less entry showers, gas cooktops and fireplaces, and wide doorways in the primary suite (for the added convenience of aging-in-place.) These low-maintenance, lux homes have landscape services included in your fees. So instead of doing yard work, you’ll have more time to enjoy all that Harbor Club has to offer, including easy access to Lake Oconee, golf, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, pool, clubhouse, marina with boat storage, and social opportunities to your heart’s content. 

Each of the four homes included in this special incentive is move-in ready. Plus, our seasoned real estate team makes the home-buying process easy. So, take advantage of this generous builder incentive and move right into the home and community you have been looking for.

1140 Providence Loop – 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths 

The Magnolia Plan is a popular plan, and this one has the added bonus of a 3rd car garage. (Workshop, Golf cart, trophy car?). Enjoy the rocking chair front porch with wrapped cedar columns, quartz countertops, upgraded tile, stone fireplace with cedar mantle, and luxury vinyl plank flooring in the primary suite. This split-bedroom ranch plan has the primary in the rear and two secondary bedrooms in front of the home. An additional bedroom/flex room upstairs provides multiple living options along with two large storage areas.

1060 Providence Loop – 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

This brand-new ranch plan offers luxury finishes you can’t find anywhere at this price point at Lake Oconee in a gated golf and lake community. The Magnolia Plan is a super-functional and efficient design with two secondary bedrooms and the primary bedroom suite on the main. Upstairs, find a spacious bedroom/flex room with a full bath/closet and two huge storage areas. Enjoy quartz countertops, a gas cooktop, an upgraded fireplace with brick surround/cedar mantle, a step-less entry shower, handicap-accessible doorways, and spacious rooms. The primary suite features upgraded luxury vinyl plank flooring, and the rear yard is expertly landscaped to provide a private courtyard setting. 

1150 Providence Loop– 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths

The Oxford Plan is one of Southvine Homes’s latest and most spacious at the Enclave at Heron Ridge. Like the other homes in Enclave, this home has primary and secondary bedrooms on the main and a bedroom/bath upstairs. It also includes a powder room, Butler’s Pantry, and an oversized living/dining and kitchen area with 10-foot ceilings. Upstairs, there is a 200-square-foot storage area as well as a spacious loft for a private getaway. Many upgrades are in this home, including an exterior stone apron, a stone fireplace with a cedar mantle, and quartz countertops. The rear covered patio overlooks a lushly landscaped level backyard, providing a garden oasis.  

1160 Providence Loop – 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths

This Azalea plan by Southvine Homes has everything you want. The primary and two secondary bedrooms are on the main floor. There is a bedroom/loft and bath upstairs, along with a huge storage area. Loaded with upgrades, this gorgeous home features quartz counters, a gas cooktop, and an open-concept living/dining/kitchen area with 10-foot ceilings. Enjoy the covered rear porch with a view of the level, lushly landscaped backyard. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is in the primary suite, where you’ll also find a zero-entry shower, wide doorways, and a large walk-in closet.  

What would you do with $10,000? You name it. You could use it for closing costs, upgrades, or a club membership. It’s entirely up to you, but to help you decide, we thought of these ten awesome things:

1. But that fabulous new bedroom set you’ve been eyeing
2. Take that trip to Paris you’ve been dreaming of
3. Pay off your credit card debt
4. Put it in a high-yield savings account to double your funds
5. Buy a unique piece of art for your new home
6. Create an outdoor have for yourself – Green Egg, surround sound, snazzy new outdoor furniture
7. Buy a built-in sound system – your media room could be your personal theater
8. Put a down payment on a boat
9. Buy a golf cart to get around your new neighborhood
10. Get a camper and take that once-in-a-lifetime cross-country trip

Curious to learn more? Get in touch with our friendly sales director, Kathy Phillips. She has the utmost expertise when it comes to Harbor Club real estate. She’d love to welcome you to Harbor Club and take you on an exclusive discovery tour of our award-winning community. 

Come to Harbor Club and see how great living can be. Indulge in golf, lake life, pickleball, fitness, dog parks, a clubhouse with dining, hiking trails, a marina, a community garden, social activities, and more. Don’t wait. See why so many are flocking to Lake Oconee, especially Harbor Club, and take advantage of this excellent builder incentive. Contact us today.

Selling a home is a significant decision that involves intricate processes, negotiations, and market dynamics. While some homeowners may consider the DIY route to save on commissions, utilizing the expertise of a seasoned real estate agent is invaluable. Here are the main reasons for using a knowledgeable real estate agent when selling your home.

Experience Matters

One of the main advantages of hiring a real estate agent is their wealth of experience navigating the complex world of real estate transactions. Seasoned agents understand local market trends, property values, and buyer preferences. They have encountered various scenarios, enabling them to anticipate and proactively address potential issues. This experience equips them to guide you through the entire selling process easily and effectively. 

Maximizing Your Profit

An experienced real estate agent’s knowledge can directly impact your bottom line. Their understanding of market conditions empowers them to set the right price for your home. Pricing a property too high can lead to extended market time and a lower final sale price, while pricing too low can mean leaving money on the table. A knowledgeable agent will conduct a thorough comparative market analysis to determine the optimal listing price and provide smart tips so that your property attracts the right buyers and brings in the best offers.

Expert negotiation skills

Negotiating a home sale is an art that requires finesse, strategic thinking, and effective communication. An experienced agent acts as your advocate, negotiating on your behalf to secure the best possible terms. They understand the many nuances of negotiation and can navigate tricky situations (like multiple offers or counteroffers) with skill and professionalism. Your experienced agent can also present your property’s value more persuasively. That’s an indispensable quality that leads to better outcomes — ones that you likely would have struggled to achieve on your own.

Access to a network

Real estate agents are well-connected professionals with extensive contacts, including other agents, potential buyers, and industry experts. This network gives them access to a broader pool of potential buyers, increasing the exposure of your property to your target audience. Agents also have exclusive access to online listing platforms and marketing tools. They leverage these technologies to ensure your home is promoted broadly and effectively.

Avoiding pitfalls of FSBO (For Sale By Owner)

While selling your home without an agent might seem appealing, it comes with significant challenges and potential pitfalls. Without an expert agent’s guidance, homeowners can make costly mistakes in pricing, marketing, legal documents, and negotiations. A lack of experience usually leads to delays, frustration, and, worst of all, lower sale prices. A knowledgeable agent’s expertise mitigates these risks and streamlines the selling process for you.

When it comes to selling real estate at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee, you’ll discover that our team makes it a simple, seamless process – from consultation to contract to close. If you’re toying with the idea of selling your Harbor Club home, we invite you to contact our Sales Director, Kathy Phillips. She’s a highly knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent who will guide you through a smoother, more profitable transaction – because her expertise in Lake Oconee homes is unparalleled. Don’t wait — increase your success as a seller and reach out today.

Sometimes you have to sell your home…fast. It could be due to job relocation, a pending offer on a new house, or a unique family situation. Whatever the reason, you’ll need to get multiple buyers interested in purchasing your home quickly and at the right price. Here are nine tips for selling your home that will help make it happen:

Entice with your entryway

Impress buyers with a welcoming front entryway and a pristine foyer. It’s not uncommon for buyers to decide on a home within the first few seconds of entering it. So keep these areas tidy, clean, and as impressive and welcoming as possible.

Clear clutter and make repairs

Declutter every room of your house, including all closets, the basement, the attic, and other storage areas. If any major repairs need to be made, take care of them immediately. A clean, decluttered, well-maintained home is highly attractive to potential buyers, and it goes a long way in helping them imagine living there. 

Depersonalize and neutralize

To sell your home quickly, you want buyers to see it as a home for their family rather than yours. To help them envision that, remove all of your family photos, political items, and religious memorabilia. Clear everything off of the refrigerator. Anything that reflects that the house is yours should be removed, including any collections, children’s toys, and sports paraphernalia. Afterward, if the rooms look too empty, add neutral art pieces that appeal to anyone.

Let in the light

People always talk about how much they admire “light and bright” rooms, so let in the light wherever possible. One trick is to wash all your windows so they’re sparkling clean. Especially for showings, be sure all your curtains and blinds are open to let the sunshine in. And, if you have any dark rooms, turn on lights and strategically-placed lamps to make those spaces more appealing. 

Consider paint possibilities 

If you have any non-neutral colors inside or outside your home, repaint them in shades of white, gray, taupe, or cream. A fresh coat of neutral paint does wonders to freshen up your house, inside and out. Also, if you have any overly elaborate wallpaper, consider removing it, as it may be a turn-off for potential buyers. Neutral-colored rooms help buyers see how they can add their own personal touches to the home.

Stage for success

Staging makes your home look its very best through highly-appealing furniture arrangements and fresh decor. According to the 2021 Profile of Home Staging, 82% of buyers’ agents stated that staging made it easier for buyers to visualize a property as their future home, which helped sell the house faster. According to the same report, staging the living room was very important to 46% of buyers, followed by the primary bedroom at 43%, then the kitchen at 35%.

Get professional photos

High-quality, professionally-done photos are critical when marketing your home – especially online. A professional real estate photographer will know how to take the best, most flattering pictures of your home, inside and out. They know how to capture all of the most important rooms in their best light, making your listing more appealing to buyers and helping to gain more traffic and sell it faster. 

Try a 3D tour

In addition to professional photos, consider a 3D tour of your home. 3D tours became standard for online listings during the COVID-19 pandemic because seeing a house in person wasn’t always viable. A 3D tour allows potential buyers to do a “walk-through” of the home from anywhere at any time. They’ve even helped encourage buyers to purchase a home sight unseen. 

Seek a seasoned Real Estate agent

A highly-knowledgeable real estate agent understands the local market and will price your home appropriately and competitively. Setting a realistic and competitive asking price is one of the best ways to sell your house fast. Your agent will also market your home more effectively to get it to the right buyers.

Selling a house quickly can be intimidating, but following through on these tips and utilizing the wise advice of a seasoned Realtor will provide impressive offers and a successful sale in no time. Our Sales Director, Kathy Phillips, is happy to offer more thoughtful suggestions for selling your house, especially if it’s located in Harbor Club. Get in touch today.

Note: The interior image shown above is of a home currently for sale in Harbor Club. See the listing for 1010 Glen Eagle Drive. 

Golf communities like Harbor Club are seeing increased home sales in the post-pandemic world. We continue to happily welcome buyers of all ages interested in living, working, and playing outside of more urban areas like Atlanta. Younger people are making more money, and most have the freedom to choose where they want to live since they can do their job from anywhere. And retirees who enjoy golf are moving to top-notch, up-scale communities at more reasonable prices – most moving to Southern states like Georgia. They’re attracted to affordable home prices, lower taxes, and a better cost of living. What else is drawing people to move to Harbor Club full-time? Here are six reasons why:

Airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport continues to be one of the best and most efficient in the nation. Even better, it’s located less than 1.5 hours away from Harbor Club. It’s an asset for anyone who travels for work or pleasure, as it offers service to over 150 U.S. destinations and more than 75 international destinations in 50 countries. No matter where you want to go, you can easily start and conclude your journey at ATL.

Amenities

Our golf community on Lake Oconee offers a wide range of amenities, including a highly acclaimed Weiskopf/Morrish-designed golf course, clubhouse, swimming pool, pickleball courts, dog park, fitness center, and much more. Of course, there are lots of lake activities, too, like boating, water sports, and some of the best fishing in Georgia. All are major draws for people looking for a more active lifestyle.

Location

Harbor Club is located in a desirable area east of Atlanta on the shores of beautiful Lake Oconee. The climate is excellent, too, with mild winters and warm summers. All are significant factors for people who wish to enjoy more of the outdoors or simply want to enjoy beautiful views and scenery during the changing seasons.

Community

At Harbor Club, we take pride in fostering friendly gatherings, interactions, and celebrations. We have over 80% full-time residents who are warm, fun-loving people, making it a draw for those looking for great new friends and neighbors.

Maintenance-free living

Several of Harbor Club’s neighborhoods offer maintenance-free living, so residents do not have to worry about lawn care and other landscaping tasks. It’s a significant benefit for people who don’t enjoy yard work and would prefer to use that time for more enjoyable endeavors, like playing golf, boat rides on Lake Oconee, or enjoying a delicious meal at the Clubhouse Restaurant. 

Value

A home in an award-winning golf and lake community like Harbor Club is an excellent investment. Harbor Club homes offer a great return and provide homeowners with a lot of value for the money. Also, one of the most impressive and compelling reasons to admire Harbor Club is that it’s a golf course community that is entirely debt-free.

Visit, and you’ll quickly see that Harbor Club is the perfect community for all ages. Our residents love living here in a thriving, safe environment where fun and beauty abound. Will your family be next? There’s only one way to find out. Contact us, and let’s start planning your visit today.

Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, you’re not alone. Even with a volatile real estate market, there are plenty of scenarios where selling makes sense. If you’re not quite sure and need some reassurance, here are nine reasons why you might want to put your house on the market:

Your family is growing

If a baby is on the way, it may be time to expand your home’s footprint to accommodate everyone in your family better. Moving into a larger home will help ensure everyone is more comfortable. Access to excellent education is also significant for growing families, so moving to a larger home in a great school district is a wise choice. 

Be closer to family

Location, location, location – that’s typically the main requirement for almost all homebuyers. The fact that Harbor Club is close to Atlanta, Athens, and Augusta helps, but there’s one unique selling point that we’ve discovered at Harbor Club – many of the people who bought homes in our community did so to be closer to family. 

You are ok with waiting for the right buyer

The days of bidding wars and multiple all-cash offers are, for the most part, over. On the flip side, property values have grown. If you’re ok with waiting for the right buyer, your patience will likely pay off in profits. Working with a seasoned real estate agent will help ensure you price your home right and get top dollar. 

You need a better work-from-home office space

The massive shift to remote work has changed how Americans work and where they do it. Today, working from home is now a common and widely accepted practice. Many are fleeing big cities in search of more peaceful, amenity-rich environments that offer homes with dedicated, well-appointed home office spaces.

You can make a profit

If property values in your neighborhood have grown significantly, or if you’ve lived in your current home for a long time and have accrued a lot of equity, now may be the best time to sell your house. Cashing out is even more profitable now because supply is low and demand is high. 

You can pay cash for your next home

The profit made from cashing out of your current home offers nice advantages. It’s especially true for those moving from areas with a high standard of living (like New York) to less expensive markets (like those in Georgia.) You have the advantage of buying with cash or at least buying with a sizeable down payment, which puts you in a better buying position. What’s more, the use of cash eliminates any worry about giving up a low-rate mortgage. 

High interest rates don’t bother you

Economic indicators show that mortgage interest rates will continue to stabilize in 2023. So if interest rates in the 5% or 6% range don’t bother you, a new mortgage shouldn’t hinder you from selling now. Plus, new creative financing options put the home of your dreams within easy reach. 

You’re ready to downsize

As your children begin to “fly the coop,” you may suddenly find yourself with a large home and yard that require tons of maintenance. Plus, you’re heating and cooling now empty, unutilized rooms. What to do? Downsize – but consider it “rightsizing” instead. Rightsizing is a better term that means you don’t have to sacrifice luxury or quality when moving to a smaller home. 

You’re ready for a change 

Sometimes, the best reason to sell your home is simply because you’re ready for a change. If you’re bored with your current home or looking for a location change, selling your home and moving to a new place can be a great way to start fresh.

The profitable sale of your current home and purchasing a new one is certainly possible in today’s market. Just be sure to work with an experienced real estate agent, prepare as much as possible, and maintain realistic expectations. If you do, all will work out well. Our seasoned Real Estate expert at Harbor Club, Kathy Phillips, makes the process of home buying and selling easy and stress-free. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. She and her team are happy to help.

The housing market finally seems like it’s starting to return to normal. Today, there’s a healthier balance between supply and demand, giving homebuyers some of their negotiation power back – a nice advantage. There are other benefits of buying a home now too. Here are five reasons why you don’t want to wait any longer:

Build equity right away

No matter which way the real estate market is leaning, you’ll start building equity immediately if you buy now. Why would you want to build equity right away? Because it provides certain advantages, like adding to your net worth, gradually converting your mortgage debt into an asset, and the ability to take out a home equity loan or line of credit. 

Avoid future mortgage increases

No one can predict the future. Sure, mortgage rates may go down…but they also might increase. If they go up, not only will your payments be larger, but you’ll also pay a lot more in interest over the life of the loan.  

Avoid FOMO (fear of missing out) on a house you love

If you discover your dream home, don’t delay making an offer. Home inventory remains low. That means finding another house that ticks everything on your wish list will be challenging. Instead, move quickly with an offer now so you don’t miss out on the home you love.

Don’t let financing stop you

If you decide to wait to buy your dream house to see if rates improve, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Instead, shop around now for the best deal you can get. There are some great creative financing options available now. And remember, provided that your income and credit score remains strong, you can always refinance down the road if rates decrease.

Put your downpayment to work

If you’ve already saved enough for a down payment on a house, don’t let it languish in a bank account collecting little interest. Let that money provide you with a place to live instead. Putting down a hefty down payment will improve your financing options, making your payments lower and easier to digest. 

At Harbor Club, there is an excellent selection of new home inventory, as well as some very nice incentives for homebuyers. There are also prime homesites for building the house of your dreams, including gorgeous waterfront and golf course lots. Even better, our seasoned Real Estate expert at Harbor Club, Kathy Phillips, makes home-buying easy and stress-free. So don’t wait until the best properties are gone – contact us today to schedule an exclusive tour of our award-winning Southern Living Inspired Community.

Here’s an interesting stat – as of this writing, the current average 30-year mortgage rate in the US is 6.94%. One year ago, it was only 3.09%. In early November, the Fed meets again to consider another interest rate hike, possibly bumping mortgage rates even higher. If you’re in the market for a home loan, don’t despair. With new creative financing options, the home of your dreams is still within easy reach, especially at Harbor Club.

Our favorite, vetted lenders wisely encourage you to “Marry the house, date the rate.” It’s smart advice. You don’t have to miss out on buying a house you love. Interest rates will go down again. In the meantime, here are some unique mortgage options that help buyers fight rising loan rates.

Gary Welch, Capital City Home Loans

Gary Welch has over 28 years of experience as a mortgage consultant. He specializes in financing options for several Harbor Club homes, especially in The Enclave at Heron Ridge. Quality-built by Southvine Homes, each of The Enclave’s craftsman-style ranch houses features the best in one-level living without sacrificing luxury.

Gary shared that home buyers are gravitating toward their mid-range ARM (adjustable rate mortgage) products. This option allows buyers to lock in an interest rate for 10, 7, or 5 years and then transition to an adjustable rate for the remaining 20 years. The program has no prepayment penalty and has a 30-year amortization. Gary states that the ARM “…is about as versatile as a Swiss army knife” and that it genuinely helps buyers to maximize their purchasing power. In addition, he says, “The mid-range ARM for primary residences has a significantly lower rate which is a great alternative option for the rate-conscious, payment-sensitive buyer.” Gary shared that Capital City’s 10/6 ARM has been very well-received by the homebuyer market, as it backfills a gap needed with the recent rise in interest rates.

Go to Gary’s website to learn more about the 10/6 ARM or any other Capital City Home Loans (including conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo loans, bridge loans, lot loans, and bank statement loans) or contact him via email at gwelch@cchl.com or call him at 770.314.0873.

Hunter Lack, Ameris Bank

Hunter Lack at Ameris Bank has savvy financing options that make sense no matter what kind of home you’re interested in purchasing. With 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry under his belt, Hunter has some compelling loan options. These include:

2-1 Buydown

This program lowers your initial monthly mortgage payment with a temporary buydown. It works by using builder contributions to buy down the interest rate by 2% during the first year of the loan and 1% during the second year of the loan. After the second year, the interest rate reverts to the original locked-in rate. Anyone who qualifies for a standard loan is eligible for this unique program.

3, 5, and 7-year ARMs

An adjustable-rate mortgage features lower initial rates than a traditional fixed-rate mortgage. Those rates adjust at regular intervals over time. Therefore, it’s an excellent option for those that plan to sell their home within the first five to ten years of owning it. The goal is to lock in on the lower rate now and refinance later once interest rates go down. 

Extended Rate Lock

An Extended Rate Lock is an excellent option for those interested in building a new home. It allows buyers to lock in an interest rate for up to 12 months, which is the typical amount of time it takes to build a new house. This loan also comes with a float-down option, which allows you to reduce your locked rate if market rates decline. The cost is 1% of the loan, but that amount is credited back toward closing costs as long as the loan closes within the original lock-term period.

To learn more about any of these or other Ameris Bank financing options, go to Hunter’s website or contact him via email at hunter.lack@amerisbank.com or call him at 478.957.7606.

Richard Staley, Angel Oak Home Loans

Richard Staley of Angel Oak Home Loans has over 25 years of experience in the home lending industry. His impressive mission statement is to “serve others before self,” which is simple yet imperative, considering today’s financing challenges. As such, Richard offers a distinctive buydown option for today’s home buyers. 

2-1 Buydown

The Angel Oak 2-1 is a 30-year fixed-rate loan where seller-paid contributions subsidize the first two years of interest. It easily allows homebuyers to purchase a new home with lower, more affordable mortgage payments for the first two years of ownership. After that, they either ease into the full payment based on the note rate amount or have the option to refinance using the Angel Advantage Program*. Angel Oak’s 2-1 Buydown is available on conventional, VA, FHA, and USDA financing. And, for those interested in building a new home, an extended rate cap is available for new construction with a float-down option within the last 30 days prior to closing. 

*What makes Angel Oak’s 2-1 Buydown program most compelling is its Angel Advantage Program. This program eliminates refinancing fees by 90%. To be eligible, simply refinance with Angel Oak within three years from the note date.

Angel Oak also gives back to community heroes via its HERO program. This program helps teachers, police, first responders, military, medical personnel, firefighters, and others who serve our country by offering up to $500 credit for appraisal or closing costs.

To learn more about any of these or other Angel Oak financing options, go to Richard’s website or contact him via email at Richard.Staley@angeloakhomeloans.com or call 770.351.7553. Richard also has an excellent Mortgage Rate Watch newsletter that provides highly insightful information. Email him to get on the list. 

Considering today’s rising mortgage rates, buying and financing a new home can be challenging – but it doesn’t have to be. Our seasoned Real Estate expert at Harbor Club, Kathy Phillips, makes home-buying easy and stress-free. Learn more about what to expect when buying a Harbor Club home, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We’re happy to help and look forward to talking to you soon.

Congratulations – the seller accepted your offer on the home of your dreams. But what happens next? Much of it depends on whether you’re buying a resale or new construction home. To set the right expectations, we’re first going to break down the next steps in purchasing a resale. But also stay tuned for our blog post regarding the next steps on a new construction home.

In either buying situation, knowledge is power. Whether purchasing a home at Harbor Club or not, our real estate team wants to help you be aware and prepared for a smooth, stress-free transaction.

Do your due diligence

Now that your offer has been accepted, your next step is to do your due diligence on the resale home. Due diligence is investigating the physical condition of the property as well as the area in which it is located. The period to do your due diligence typically ranges from 10 to 14 days. You’ll need to complete your home inspection during that time frame. Hire a qualified and seasoned inspector who can point out not only the features and benefits of the home but also areas that may need repair. A seasoned real estate agent will help you every step of the way. A due diligence contingency period is a very important step in the purchasing process. It allows you to understand what you are buying and gives you an opportunity to either negotiate repairs or walk away with no risk of losing your earnest money deposit. 

Finish up your financing

Speaking of earnest money, if not already, pay your ‘good faith’ deposit within the timeline of the negotiated contract terms. Failure to do so can cause you to default on the agreement, and if the home has multiple interested parties, you could risk losing your dream home. Some negotiated purchase contracts allow for a contingency on obtaining financing. There will be set dates for you to determine with your lender that you will be able to purchase the property with the personal initial financial data you have supplied. And even though you’re likely already pre-approved, you’ll also need to submit all remaining documentation to get underwriting approval for securing your mortgage loan. Additionally, some financing contingencies allow for an appraisal contingency as part of the agreement. As part of the final loan underwriting process, your lender will order an appraisal for the home. Should that appraisal not meet the contract price, there will be an opportunity for you to re-negotiate the price with the seller. During the final loan preparation process, your lender will want you to be diligent in submitting requested documentation and obtaining homeowners insurance.

Power up the power

Even though the seller must handle the cancellation of their utility services (typically effective the day of closing,) be sure to contact the utility companies at least two weeks prior to your scheduled closing date. This gives them enough time to receive your security deposits if needed and process your new utility accounts. After all, things like electricity and water are crucial on move-in day. 

Complete your closing

Schedule your final walkthrough at least one to two days before your closing day. That way, you can ensure all agreed-upon repairs are completed and that the home is still in acceptable condition. Then, on closing day, be prepared to sign tons of paperwork – and, best of all, claim those coveted keys to your new, beautiful home.

Buying a home can be challenging – but it doesn’t have to be. Our seasoned Real Estate expert at Harbor Club, Kathy Phillips, makes home-buying easy and stress-free. Learn more about what to expect when you buy a Harbor Club home, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We’re happy to help and look forward to talking to you soon.

Where we live, work and play significantly impacts our overall health and wellness. That’s why it’s no surprise that thousands of homebuyers are making a move to communities that support and encourage healthier living. Today, health is the new wealth, as the pandemic boosted the demand for a better lifestyle.

A recent World Health Organization study found that 80 to 90 percent of our health outcomes are intimately tied to where and how we live. Sadly, most modern lifestyle patterns include lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, stress, and social isolation – all contributing to increased chronic ailments. In an effort to avoid these troubles, today’s homebuyers are focusing on communities that emphasize health, safety, and wellness. Here are the three main factors to consider:

Fitness options

Health-based communities offer their residents beautiful, natural environments for wholesome living as well as modern amenities that contribute to a wellness-centric lifestyle. At Harbor Club, for example, several options readily provide the tools for better health. Some of these include:

• A well-equipped Fitness Center that provides multiple options for both cardio and weight training 
• Exercise classes, including yoga, strength training, Jazzercise, and more
• A sparking Junior-Olympic-sized pool for a refreshing dip or to swim laps
• A quarter-mile track to enjoy a run, jog, or walk
• A grandstand that offers a great view of our sports field, and a place for interval training, with sprints up and down the steps
• Hiking and FitTrails for ambles in nature
• A dog park for active play with your pup
• Award-winning golf on our Weiskopf/Morrish-designed course
• Racquet sports, like pickleball and tennis
• A Community Garden for cultivating friendships and bountiful harvests
• Croquet for leisurely play with friends

These fun fitness options are there for Harbor Club residents and members by design. They’re a never-ending source of joy and fulfillment, not to mention a significant contributor to good health.

Social interaction

Studies show that neighborhoods that facilitate more social interactions help to increase healthy behaviors. That’s why you see so many porches on the front of homes at Harbor Club. They create opportunities for homeowners to enjoy an extended living space and have more friendly interactions with neighbors. Our social events, activity groups, and other clubs also significantly increase social capital. Here, we know that caring individuals with high social capital are more likely to encourage wellness and share valuable health information among good friends and neighbors. Finding the best nearby dentist, for example, is no longer a daunting task.

Home dynamics

Front porches aren’t the only wellness asset of our homes. A home should never be a hassle. A quality-built, polished home that’s easy to maintain is highly ideal (especially if yard maintenance is included, like at The Enclave at Heron Ridge and our Cottage Series homes.) All Harbor Club homes are retreats for getting re-centered and re-energized. Big or small, they’re all sanctuaries that encourage fulfilling, happy lifestyles. So no matter whether you’re a Millennial homebuyer or one who’s more interested in aging in place, there’s a home for you at Harbor Club.

Interested in learning more? Let’s start planning your visit today so you can discover a better, healthier, happier life tomorrow.

Everyone knows that buying a home is stressful. It’s a big decision, not to mention a significant investment too. But at Harbor Club, we make the home buying process easy and stress-free. Here are three reasons why:

Seasoned real estate expertise = a painless purchasing process 

Our highly knowledgeable Sales Director, Kathy Phillips, brings eighteen years of real estate professionalism to the table for every one of her clients. She’s experienced in all price points of resale and new construction homes, and she’s the top-notch source for all real estate transactions in Harbor Club. But don’t take it from us. Here’s what a few of her clients recently shared:

“Kathy Phillips is the best real estate sales professional I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She’s extremely knowledgeable in every aspect of new construction and resale. But what has impressed us the most is her dedication to individual client needs. Those character traits can’t be taught or learned, and stem from a sincere caring for her clients . . . who invariably become friends.” – Terri

“…Kathy made recommendations on what I needed to do to get my house ready to sell and priced it according to market conditions. She then helped me find my next home within the [Harbor Club] community and also guided me through that step. Kathy is very professional and responded to my many questions promptly…” – Joyce

“Kathy Phillips deserves sincere recognition for her knowledge about Harbor Club and market trends. She was very helpful and straightforward with us on the sale of our home. Kathy is professional in every aspect of the real estate business. She was always quick to respond when we sent her a text message or e-mail. If she didn’t know the answer, she was quick to find it out and get back to us immediately.” – Brian K.

As you can see, there’s tremendous value in working with a seasoned real estate professional.

Partnerships with quality builders = provides a competitive edge on new homes

We’ve already done all the hard work for you by scrutinizing, evaluating, and vetting several local homebuilding professionals. The result is a list of the best, highly-skilled builders you can trust. What’s more, our close relationships with these builders mean you’re the first to know about any upcoming pre-sale and speculative home opportunities – giving you a competitive edge on the new home of your dreams.

Connections with local resources = makes every aspect of home buying simple

We have connections to all of the top local resources you might need before, during, and after your real estate transaction. We’re happy to connect you with the best financing providers, home inspectors, moving companies, home repair businesses, decorators, utilities, warranty companies…or even give you the scoop on not-to-miss community events, restaurants, shops, and other things you might enjoy. We’d love to share our knowledge with you about everything Lake Country has to offer. There’s more than you realize.

When it comes to buying real estate at Harbor Club, you’ll discover that our team makes it a simple, seamless process – from consultation to contract to close. Plus, when you visit, you’ll soon understand why Southern Living chose Harbor Club as one of its highly-esteemed Inspired Communities. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an exclusive tour. You’ll be glad you did.

A few years ago, we shared five reasons why families love living at Lake Oconee. With over 3000 hits on that article, it certainly resonated. So we’re expanding on that topic. Why? Because we’re seeing even more young families moving to our area – and especially to Harbor Club. Here’s why so many of them like to call our Southern Living-Inspired Community home.

Remote work is here to stay

The work-from-home trend isn’t expected to slow down, and some may never return to the office. Since the pandemic, several companies have increasingly allowed more employees to work remotely. Today, most people work and get educated from anywhere there’s high-speed internet access. So, why not work from home with a gorgeous view of Lake Oconee, a pristine golf course, peaceful woods, or a tranquil pond? Why not enjoy your lunch break like never before, with access to tons of fantastic amenities located right outside your door? Many have done exactly that and are very glad they did. 

Easy access to top-notch education

One of the best schools in the state of Georgia is located just a few miles from our gates. Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) is a highly rated public charter school. Established in 2007, it caters to grades Kindergarten through 12. Since the school’s inception, LOA has been one of the highest-performing schools in the state of Georgia. Many families have moved to this area to give their children access to an outstanding education at LOA or one of the other excellent schools in the Lake Country area. And when it comes to higher education, nearby Athens is where you’ll find our state’s highly-esteemed flagship public university, the University of Georgia (UGA.) Of course, nearby Atlanta is also home to the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Emory University. So, with plenty of top-notch schools so close to home, it’s no surprise that parents find Harbor Club the perfect location to gain knowledge and enjoy life.

Greensboro is country quiet, yet city close

What’s nice about living in Greensboro, Georgia, is that you’re close enough to quickly get to Atlanta (via Interstate 20) but without having to deal with the city’s accelerated pace of life. Many parents want to avoid urban annoyances, not only for themselves but for their children too. It’s a quieter lifestyle here, but you don’t have to forgo all the great things Atlanta has to offer, like professional sports, music, culture, and more. And with Atlanta’s airport only about an hour away, young professionals can still easily fly out and be back in time for fun weekend activities with the family or simply savor the relaxed pace of lake life. 

Real estate options abound

One reason Harbor Club is so successful in attracting families is because of the many real estate options available. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community. We happily cater to those who wish to get more value for their money. In fact, some new homeowners have opted to move out of neighboring communities to reside at Harbor Club. Even better, several of our new homes include yard maintenance, which is perfect for families who’d rather allocate that time towards golfing, boating, dining at the Clubhouse Restaurant, or simply enjoying time together at the dog park, among other fun activities. 

Harbor Club is a debt-free community and an authentic neighborhood

One of the most impressive and compelling reasons to admire Harbor Club is that it’s entirely debt-free…and the Matney family intends to keep it that way. As they remain very involved in the community, the Matneys and their hard-working team continuously add more value for Harbor Club residents and members. What’s more, Harbor Club has over 80% full-time residents — an impressive feat for a resort-style, lake, and golf community such as ours. We truly live, work, and play here. 

Visit, and you’ll quickly see that Harbor Club is a wonderful community for all ages. We’re excited about the new generation of young parents who have made Harbor Club home in their pursuit of a better quality of life. They love living here in a thriving, safe environment where fun and beauty abound. Will your family be next? There’s only one way to find out. Contact us, and let’s start planning your visit today.

Is now a good time to sell my house? With sky-rocketing home prices, we’ve heard that question a lot lately. As most people know, spring is one of the most popular times to put your house on the market. However, if you’re wondering whether to list yours, it depends on several factors.

And while no one can perfectly predict the future, we’re sharing tips that can help you decide. Here’s what to look for if you’re considering putting your home up for sale.

Monitor interest rates

Mortgage interest rates have been at record lows for years, but they’re starting to creep up. Even if the increases are small, the higher rates often slow the rate of home sales. So, if you’re thinking about selling your home, watch interest rates closely. If they continue to go up, you’ll want to list your place sooner before losing out on a larger group of buyers. 

Watch your local market

What boosted home prices this past year was low inventory. Scarcity is a factor to keep an eye on in your area. If you see an uptick in homes listed for sale in your neighborhood and surrounding area, it’ll be more challenging to get multiple offers on your home’s listing. Talk to a knowledgeable local agent to get their take on current and future inventory levels. 

Check on new construction

The pandemic created supply chain interruptions that continue to challenge homebuilders. With fewer construction materials available, fewer homes were built. That resulted in reduced inventory and higher home values. And while construction materials are now easier to come by, we’re far from pre-pandemic supplies – which will help maintain the seller’s market we’re in well into the new year. 

Beware of iBuying Companies

You’ve seen the television commercials for all those iBuying companies. They’re the ones offering you easy, super-fast buyouts for your home. Sure, those cash offers are convenient and quick, but you could end up with many thousands less than if you listed your home with a professional, local real estate agent. So think twice and weigh your options before moving forward with an iBuyer. 

Work with a seasoned real estate agent

Bottom line, it’s best to team up with a knowledgeable real estate agent in your community. They are seasoned experts who know and understand the home buying and selling trends in your area and so much more. They’ll know if the timing is right for listing your home and can offer helpful advice on getting top-dollar for it. 

If you need more top-notch real estate advice, especially if you’re considering selling a house in the Lake Oconee area, our Director of Sales, Kathy Phillips, can help. Feel free to contact us with any questions and learn more about what this year might bring for home sellers. Cheers to you for the highest and best offers you’ve always wanted. 

PS – If you’re interested in buying a home, be sure to read our recent article with tips on making a winning offer on your dream home.

The real estate market continues to be fierce in 2021. And even though the pandemic seems to be coming to a close, the housing market is not slowing down one bit. Whether you’re in the market to buy or sell a home this summer, here are some of the trends to be aware of: 

Interest rates

The pandemic drove mortgage rates to historic lows last year. While interest rates are likely to remain low, we’re seeing that they’re starting to inch up. The average interest rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was 2.65% in early January. On April 8, it increased to 3.13%. It’s expected to continue to rise slightly more over the summer months.

Home inventory

We see indicators that the inventory of available homes will increase this summer, but not by much. It certainly won’t be enough to create a buyer’s market. We foresee it continuing to be a seller’s market through the summer months and likely beyond. There just aren’t enough homes available to match the current number of active buyers. But with growing consumer confidence, the continued rollout of vaccinations, declining unemployment numbers, and higher home prices, more potential sellers will get their homes listed.

Home prices

Due to the current lack of home inventory, buyers should expect to compete heavily with others putting in offers. We’re seeing multiple situations where agents request “highest and best” offers from all serious buyers immediately after a home is listed. It’s one of the reasons home prices continue to rise. We’re also entering prime buying season, where families are trying to get situated and established in a new place before starting the new school year. What’s more, demand for new construction continues to rise. Building permits have increased since the pandemic, especially with the need for more modern house plans (primarily due to the pandemic.) But with today’s economy, we’re now dealing with higher building costs, longer delivery times, and challenges in the construction supply chain, all of which are making new home prices rise further. 

Location, location, location

While there will be some renewed interest in city living, most homebuyers will continue to focus on real estate in the suburbs. As the ‘work from home’ culture continues, so does the demand for homes farther outside of major metropolitan areas. Buyers want a bit more breathing and elbow room, so they are opting for less congested housing. Plus, those who work remotely from home don’t have to worry about long commutes. They have the freedom to choose houses and communities with more recreational amenities — especially since they now have more time to enjoy those perks. 

Whether you’re in the market to buy or sell a home this summer, we can help. Chatting with a local real estate agent (like our own Kathy Phillips) will help you get better educated on home prices and sales activity in Harbor Club and the surrounding Lake Country area. In today’s red hot real estate market, speed is of the essence, so don’t miss out on any upcoming opportunities — contact us today. We look forward to working with you.

In the market for a new home? Lucky you, because fall is the perfect time to go house hunting. Not only is it an excellent time of year to buy, but it’s also one of the best seasons to shop for a perfect property (and not just because you can look at listings while sipping a pumpkin spice latte.) Here are some compelling reasons why fall is the best time to seek a new place: 

Sellers need to sell

Home sellers typically wait until the spring to get their house listed, as it’s the most popular time of year to sell. If someone lists their place in the fall (or winter), it might signify that something is motivating them to do so. Perhaps they got transferred for work, are going through a divorce, need to downsize quickly, or are experiencing some other life event that requires a quick sale. A motivated seller will likely be more open and flexible in negotiating with a potential buyer. 

Timely tax deductions

New homeowners can take advantage of the many tax deductions that come with buying a home before the December 31 tax deadline. Buyers can write off things like mortgage interest, private mortgage insurance premiums, and their real estate property taxes. They can also deduct costs tied to obtaining their mortgage, such as loan origination fees and discount points paid to the lender. What’s more, self-employed people can write off the square footage of a dedicated home office, as well as a percentage of their utilities. It’s timely because purchasing in autumn means that new homeowners won’t have to wait as long to take advantage of all those tax savings, either creating a larger refund or diminishing their tax burden.

Even with COVID-19, there’s less competition

Many people now work from home due to coronavirus. As a result, there was a buying frenzy during the pandemic — everyone wanted to escape the city’s confines and live in a place with a bit more breathing room. That “frenzy” has abated since most families prefer to be settled by the first day of school (virtual or otherwise.) Plus, fall is the time when everyone is getting caught up in sports and the upcoming holidays. We all hunker down at home more often, especially as the days grow shorter and colder. Since there are fewer buyers in autumn, it means fewer multiple-offer situations and more favorable negotiation terms for those ready to purchase now. 

Fall makes for a pleasant shopping experience

House hunting is a pleasant experience in autumn because summer’s heat and humidity are gone, and buyers don’t have to deal with the chill of winter. Plus, fall is “cozy home” season. Most houses are staged and decorated beautifully. Buyers get to enjoy the gorgeous, fall-themed porch and interior decor, smell the sweet scents of cinnamon and pumpkin spice candles and see fire pits and even a few early holiday lights aglow. 

Bonus: You could obtain a free golf membership

If you’re a golfer and in the market for a brand new, quality-built home in Georgia, then fall is the perfect time to buy at Harbor Club on Lake Oconee. Right now, anyone who purchases a new home built by Patriot Builders will receive a free golf membership — a huge perk that’s tough to match by other golf/lake communities and home sellers in Lake Country. Even better, a Harbor Club membership offers way more than just golf. 

If you’re house-hunting this fall and curious to learn more about our Patriot Builders’ homes, or any other listings available at Harbor Club, give us a shout. We’re happy to answer your questions and would love to show you around our award-winning Southern Living-Inspired Community. For a personalized tour (either virtually or from a safe, social-distance), contact us today.

Even during this COVID-19 crisis, Harbor Club is finding creative ways to maintain it’s real estate dealings. With interest rates as low as they are right now, several people are taking advantage of the excellent real estate opportunities in our area. If you’re curious as to how it works, we’re sharing answers to some of the top questions we’re being asked regarding our real estate operations.

In all cases, we’re doing all we can to minimize any negative impacts on our valued customers, owners, and investors. 

Could a “shelter-in-place” order negatively affect my closing? 

Probably not. Title companies are currently considered as providers of essential services. That means they will stay in operation during a shelter-in-place situation. Depending on where your closing is taking place, you may still be able to close in person at the title company’s office. However, several are offering fee-free remote closings as a safer alternative. Talk to your title company about the procedures they are implementing during this time to keep you and their staff safe.

What happens if my closing is delayed?

On Wednesday, March 17, the Georgia Association of Realtors Forms Committee approved a COVID-19 Special Stipulation. It states, “…in the event a Closing cannot occur when scheduled due to a COVID-19 related event (“CRE”)* resulting in the closing attorney, the mortgage lender and/or the Buyer and/or Seller being unable to perform their respective obligations, then the Closing shall be postponed until 7 days after the specific event delaying the Closing has been resolved.”

What happens if either the buyer or the seller is unable to attend the closing due to a COVID-19 situation?

As of March 31, 2010, The Office of Governor Brian Kemp published Executive Order allowing for real estate transactions to take place through video conferencing during the current State of Emergency. Real estate closings may now take place completely remotely, allowing Georgians to purchase new homes while adhering to social distancing requirements to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

I’m a home buyer interested in a property. Since we can’t do a physical tour, what are alternative ways to “see” a home?

Our online listings already show several photographs of a home or building site, including aerial photos and videos, floor plans, and three-dimensional online tours. Our sales team is happy to conduct a live tour in real-time using Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, or another “face-to-face” type of application. Virtual meetings are always available and you can easily schedule a free consultation for buying or selling from the comfort of your home.

If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert Sales Director, Kathy Phillips. Now, more than ever, she’s happy to help in any way she can. Contact us today.

Time certainly flies when you’re having fun, especially during the summer months here at Lake Oconee. It’s hard to believe, but school will be back in session very soon. We know that access to great schools is a significant factor for families when deciding where to live, so we’re highlighting some of the very best in our area.

These include Athens Academy, Gatewood School, and Lake Oconee Academy, which is a Greene County Public Charter School. Here’s some helpful information on each:

Lake Oconee Academy

Location: 1021 Titan Circle, Greensboro, GA 30642 (2.4 miles from our front gate.)

Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) is a highly rated, public charter school. Established in 2007, LOA caters to grades Kindergarten through 12. There are approximately 1020 kids enrolled, and the student-to-teacher ratio is 10:1. Since the school’s inception, Lake Oconee Academy has been one of the highest performing schools in the state of Georgia.

Mission:“The mission of Lake Oconee Academy is to increase student achievement by building a culture of high expectations for all students. The Academy will incorporate common sense and proven principles, such as a research-based curriculum, high expectations for students, both academically and behaviorally, an emphasis on outstanding school leadership and faculty, and parental involvement. The culture of the Academy is built on these fundamental principles.”

Accolades: 2014 National Blue Ribbon School, 2014 Best 50 Public Elementary Schools in the U.S. by TheBestSchools.org, 2018 AP® Honor School, 5-Star School Climate Star Rating by the Georgia DOE, AdvancedEd Accredited, LOA’s high school was ranked number 10 in the state according to 2015 CCRPI (College Career Readiness Performance Index) results. 

Notable fact: LOA was named an International Spanish Academy (ISA) by the Ministry of Education of Spain in 2016 and was the first K-12 program in the U.S. and Canada to obtain the designation. ISA students gain fluid use of the Spanish language, using it in context in their content courses, such as Social Studies and Science, as well as in their Spanish classes.

Athens Academy

Location: 1281 Spartan Ln, Athens, GA 30606

Athens Academy is a private, co-educational, college preparatory school. Established in 1967, Athens Academy caters to grades Nursery/Preschool through 12. There are approximately 936 kids enrolled, and the student-to-teacher ratio is 8:1.

Mission:“Athens Academy seeks excellence with honor in the educational and personal experience of each student. For over 50 years, Athens Academy has pursued its mission of Excellence with Honor through academics, athletics, fine arts, and service and leadership.”

Accolades: National Blue Ribbon Exemplary High School 2018

Notable fact: 92% of students earned scores of 3 or higher on Advanced Placement exams over the past decade.

Gatewood Schools

Location: 139 Phillips Dr, Eatonton, GA 31024

Gatewood Schools is a private, co-educational, Christian school. Established in 1970, Gatewood Schools caters to grades PreK through 12. There are approximately 423 kids enrolled, and the student-to-teacher ratio is 9:1.

Mission: “The mission of Gatewood Schools is to educate students in a nurturing, Christian environment while instilling life-long characteristics of faith, truth, honor, loyalty, and pride. Gatewood Schools will provide an educational experience that prepares students for postsecondary education and lasting success.”

Accolades: The Michael Drake Award for the Top GISA School in Athletics

Notable fact: All classrooms are equipped with SMART Board technology to enhance the student’s learning experience.

If your thinking of moving to the Lake Oconee area and want an excellent education for your children, these three schools present outstanding options. Don’t forget, The University of Georgia (UGA), which U.S. News & World Report presently ranks 13th among public national universities, is in nearby Athens too. If you’d like more information on schools and other educational facilities near our Southern Living-Inspired Community, our real estate team is happy to help. Contact us today.

When it comes to buying or selling real estate, there are lots of myths out there. How do you know what’s real and what’s not? We recently sat down with our expert sales director, Kathy Phillips, to find out. 

Myth 1 – You don’t need an agent.

Kathy: “Not only do you need an agent, but it’s best to have one that is highly knowledgeable about your area of interest. A reputable agent who has expertise in the local area that you want to buy or sell in is going to add a lot of value to your transaction either way.“

Myth 2 – You can save money by selling your home yourself.

Kathy: “Widely known as an FSBO (For Sale By Owner), people who take on the task of selling their home or property themselves could be doing themselves a disservice. According to the National Association of Realtors, over 80% of buyers purchase real estate through an agent. More importantly, sellers often net over 20% more in the sale. Without an agent, it can easily be a big headache and a hassle. Especially when you consider the value of your time, it’s highly likely that money will be lost in the transaction rather than saved. Without a good agent, you could be losing a lot of exposure to a large portion of the buying population.”

Myth 3 – You’re better off using an agent who’s a friend.

Kathy: “It’s actually better to leave personal relationships personal and use an on-site agent for the area you’re interested in. They will have the expertise and the power to help you buy and sell effectively. They have deep knowledge of disclosures, liability, pricing, house condition consulting, showing quality, and so much more. They know the area well and best understand how to match the needs of both local buyers and sellers.“

Myth 4 – It’s cheaper to renovate an older home than buy a new one.

Kathy: “Sometimes this is true, but not always. It depends a lot on the home; it’s location and any unique differentiators that the property may have. For example, an older home on a nice lakefront piece of property can have a tremendous amount of potential. Sellers will have a greater return on investment if it is properly renovated with tasteful updates and upgrades. I bought my lake villa at Harbor Club with that in mind.“

Myth 5 – You don’t need a home inspection on a brand new home.

Kathy: “No matter the home, whether it be resale or new construction, I always recommend getting an inspection. It’s worth every penny to have a professional set of eyes inspect the home from top to bottom to ensure there is nothing wrong and that your investment is sound.“

When it comes to buying and selling real estate of any kind, it’s wise to have professional representation to help you debunk all the myths. At Harbor Club, Kathy is your perfect choice. She’s involved in almost half the real estate transactions that occur here. What’s more, she is successfully selling a third of all real estate at Harbor Club. She is vested in making the most of every transaction. Why? Because your success is her success. If you have an interest in Harbor Club real estate, contact us today.

Buying new house results in a lot more than just a great new place to live. Over time, that house becomes a home full of wonderful, warm memories of times spent with family and friends. What’s more, your investment comes with several tax and financial advantages, especially if financing was used for the purchase. Here’s why new homeowners should consider themselves fortunate, in more ways than one. 

It’s less expensive than renting

For some people, renting makes more sense than buying, especially if they foresee moving a lot in the future. However, for those that are ready to settle down and live someplace more long-term, buying is the way to go. Buying is, in the long term, far less expensive than renting, especially if interest rates remain low and the homeowners live there for a few years.

It produces wealth

Homebuyers should consider a mortgage like a mandatory savings plan. It’s an investment that will build wealth over time, especially for those that avoid overextending themselves financially. Making a wise home purchase – that being a well-built house in an excellent location – can be a smart financial move. Slowly but surely, the investment will produce wealth over time.

It builds equity

Every mortgage payment you make not only chips away at the amount you owe on your new home, but it also builds equity. Over time, as you pay down your mortgage, a more significant portion of your payment is applied to the principal, making the home’s equity grow even larger. Extra payments made toward the principal will make your equity increase even faster.

Mortgage interest tax deduction

A favorite financial incentive advantage for owning your own home? You can typically write off the interest payments you make on your mortgage. Mortgage companies send homeowners a 1098 tax form which shows the amount of interest paid on the loan the previous year. Depending on the homeowner’s tax situation, they can deduct some, if not all of that amount on their taxes. Also, if the house was purchased in the previous year, any interest paid as part of the closing costs can be included. Check with your tax preparer to be sure as to how much you can deduct as there can be a cap.

Property tax deduction

Some people pay their property taxes through their mortgage lenders via an escrow account. Others pay their municipality directly. Either way, the money paid for those taxes is also deductible. If paid through a lender’s escrow account, the amount will be shown on the 1098 form. If paid directly, homeowners should keep records of the check or automatic transfer used to pay the bill.

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) tax deduction

For those that put down less than 20% equity on a new home, the mortgage lender is likely to require private mortgage insurance on the loan. The advantage for the homebuyer is that the private mortgage insurance payments can be deducted, but only within certain income thresholds. Check with your tax preparer for eligibility.

Aging in place tax deductions

For those that expect to live in their new home for a long period of time, they can deduct certain costs that will assist with aging in place. Examples are grip bars in the bathtub and shower, lowered cabinets and electrical fixtures for ease of accessibility, and ramps and other amendments for better wheelchair accessibility.

Home office tax deductions

More people are working from home these days. Whether you own your own small business or work a full-time, work-from-home position, a home office can be used as a tax deduction. It includes home office expenses and the space that is used. Those with home offices can deduct $5 per square foot (up to 300 square feet) with a maximum deduction of $1,500. They can also deduct a percentage of the home’s utility bills, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, general maintenance and repairs, and more. Talk to your tax professional to find out the maximum amounts your particular financial situation allows.

Of course, for the most accurate tax advice, please be sure to speak to a licensed accounting professional — but it’s easy to see how buying a home at the right time in the right place can be a wise investment. We’ve got some fantastic new homes under construction right now here at Harbor Club. Come see them for yourself. Start planning your visit to not only discover the valuable ROI in the homes we build, but the rewarding life you can create in our award-winning, Southern Living-Inspired Community. Contact us today.

When it comes time to sell your home, there are a few big-impact things you can do to sell it quickly and for top dollar. We all know that the home selling process can be stressful, but it’s better to channel that stress into success. Here are four smart tips that will help get your home sold fast. 

Create classy curb appeal

You don’t have a second chance to make a first impression, so do all you can to make a positive impact. Install seasonal flowers and add fresh mulch to your beds. Keep the lawn mowed, edged, and tidy. Trim all overgrown bushes and trees, particularly those that are touching the house. If you have a front porch, make it welcoming with a beautiful wreath on the front door, some fresh potted plants and flowers, and some cozy chairs. Keep the floor and steps swept and clear of cobwebs. Of course, fix anything that is in disrepair, such as a crooked lamp post or a rusty fireplace shroud. Remember – you want to make buyers fall in love with the first sight of your place, so make it as picture-perfect as possible.

Update the walls

Take a look at your walls with fresh eyes. If you have older wallpaper or if the paint looks dated you’ll want to do some changes. Bright, red dining rooms, hunter green offices and floral wallpaper in the bathrooms used to be all the rage — but will your potential buyers like them today? Maybe, but probably not. Create a better impression with neutral colors throughout the interior of your home. You don’t have to paint them stark white. Go with calming colors like off-white, cream, taupe, beige, or even “greige,” which is a combination of light grey and beige. All of these offer a little bit of a darker value yet still reflect light throughout the space, making it feel brighter, more airy, and open.

Freshen-up the flooring

Just as you did with your walls, take a good look at your floors. It’s easy to miss subtle stains and marks when you live in a space every day. However, buyers have a sharp eye for details. Do a deep steam clean of your carpets, or consider replacing them if they are too soiled or stained. Get that broken tile in the bathroom repaired. Fix the scratches in the wood floor. Once all of these little details are tended to, they’ll make a big, positive difference in how each of the rooms look.

Ditch the clutter

One of the smartest things you can do to sell your house is declutter every room. This keeps your potential buyers from being distracted by your personal belongings. What you want is for them to envision their things in the space, not yours. Declutter everything — even your outdoor sheds, garages, the laundry room, and all of the closets. If you must, rent a storage unit for the stuff you don’t want to donate, give away, or throw away. You might be pleasantly surprised at how little you miss your things anyway.

Doing these four things will significantly increase your chances for resale success. You’ll see that a lit bit of time and money will go a long way toward getting your home sold fast. Of course, if you sell it too quickly and need to move asap, take a look at our available home inventory. We have several “move-in-ready” homes available in our award-winning, resort-style community. Give us a call to schedule a personalized tour today.

We all know that the winter season is a time of year when most people hunker down at home and prepare for the holidays. But did you know that it is also a fantastic time to buy a new house? Here are four reasons why:

The timing is right

If you wish to design and build a home from scratch, winter is the time to get started. Why? Because from start to finish, the process will take approximately six months, give or take a month or two. That puts your move-in time squarely into the spring and summer seasons. Those are perfect times to move and get settled before school starts back up. Not only that, you can take advantage of all the great things there are to do at Harbor Club during the spring and summer months — golfing, fishing, boating, swimming, lake life and so much more.

There are fewer buyers

Spring is often the most popular time for homebuyers to shop. Fall and winter months often have the least number of buyers vying for property. Less buyers equates to less competition, giving winter buyers an advantage. In the winter, you no longer will be “a day late and a dollar short” when putting in your offers. Bidding wars are much less likely. Not only that but you’ll have your pick of prime real estate offerings at this quieter time of the year.

The pricing is budget-friendly

In the real estate world, the busy spring season actually starts as early as January. Due to the laws of supply and demand, the new year is often a time when prices begin to inch up. Lower demand in the winter months can mean that new home prices are lower as well. Once demand starts to go up, prices often follow — making winter an ideal time to get the most bang for your buck.

The best location has the right climate

More specific to Harbor Club, we are incredibly fortunate to be located in a temperate, Southeastern climate. The big advantage of the mild winters here is that our builder can still easily dig a foundation, pour concrete (that will cure properly), and it’s less likely for moisture to get in the house due to it being a drier time of year. Just because it is winter doesn’t mean that construction has to slow down or stop altogether. In fact, Harbor Club currently has 21 new homes under construction, and we don’t plan to slow down anytime soon.

Why not come out and see the beautiful new homes we are building at Harbor Club? It’s an awesome time of year to visit and we’d love to show you around our fantastic community. Contact us today for a personalized tour.

Ahhhh, that brand new home smell. It’s like that brand new car smell that we all seem to love so much. It’s exciting. There’s just something about a “never-lived-in” home. In fact, a recent survey from Trulia found that 41% of Americans prefer a newly built home over one that has been lived in. Why all the allure? Here are five reasons:

The ability to choose your own piece of property

Have you always wanted a lakefront home with a perfect sunset view? Or maybe a home with long, sweeping views of a perfectly manicured golf course? Or even a homesite that encompasses both? Those things your wish list are much easier to make a reality when you find the perfect piece of land to build your home on.

The ability to choose and modify your favorite home design

No matter your home design preference, you don’t have to settle for someone else’s idea of perfection. Work with a home designer who can help you build the home of your dreams. Plus, if you need a bigger window to see that sunset or a screened-in porch to better enjoy the outdoors (bug-free), a great home designer can tweak the design to make these dreams come true.

The ability to choose interior design details to your exact specification

From flooring to light fixtures, countertops to carpet — these are all details that you get to choose to your exacting standards. And if you don’t think you are the designer type, you can get expert help to make the experience exciting, fun yet still uniquely your own.

New homes are more energy efficient

Brand new homes are built to standards that are often well above most older homes. Well-built, new construction homes will have more consistent temperatures, are less drafty and have better indoor air quality. They will have the most advanced technology in HVAC, roofing, insulation and more.

New homes have lower maintenance requirements

Speaking of HVAC systems, the one in your newly constructed home will keep your home at a comfortable temperature for years to come. You won’t have to replace the roof or paint the house in the near term, either. These are big maintenance expenses that you won’t have to worry about anytime soon, diverting big headaches and saving you money.

Ready to make your dream home a reality? If you’re looking to invest in a new home in the Lake Oconee area, Harbor Club has great real estate options available. We pride ourselves on beautiful, high-quality, and well-built homes that you would be proud to call your own. We’d love to show you our wonderful community! Call (706) 454-7042 to schedule a tour. You’ll be glad you did.

As we age, things change. What was once your large, vibrant home, full of life, may now be oddly quiet (and clean) as your children begin to “fly the coop.” Suddenly, you have this large space, with a large yard, all of which needs to be maintained on your own, since Junior isn’t around to help out anymore. And, worth mentioning, you’re heating and cooling now empty rooms that somehow keep accumulating more and more dust. It all gets old pretty fast. What to do? Downsize.