Overview

Deborah unpacks talk of 50-year mortgages and removing minimum credit scores for conventional loans, why these ideas aim at affordability yet carry real risks, and how amortization affects equity if you move in five to seven years. Taylor explains what home warranties do, when they help, and common misconceptions. Live calls cover subdividing acreage, foreclosure outreach, barndominium resale and financing, COVID deferments that became surprise second liens, and warranty value.

Key Takeaways

• Extending to 50 years trims payment only modestly while driving total cost up sharply.
• Dropping the conventional credit-score floor expands access but can raise pricing for risk.
• In early years most of the payment goes to interest, slowing equity build.
• Secondary market appetite matters; riskier products often cost more.
• On-time rent may now help mortgage qualification via updated tri-merge reporting.

Caller Q&A

• Charles, Thomaston: Wants to sell house with part of 18 acres and build on the rest. Yes, you can re-plat and record new boundaries with an attorney; local pros can help.
• Lewis, Rome: Behind on payments and contacted by an investor. Work the loss-mitigation path, be wary of lowball offers, and seek trusted local representation.
• James, Conyers: Barndominium resale and financing. Buyer pool and loan options are narrower; great if it is your long-term home, otherwise weigh exit risk.
• Steven, Locust Grove: Are home warranties worth it? They can be, especially for tight budgets and older systems; understand plan tiers, coverage, and claim process.

Looking Ahead

• If standards loosen and data like rent history counts, more first-time buyers may qualify.
• Expect more title surprises from pandemic-era deferments; verify payoff figures early.
• Builders and sellers may negotiate credits to solve monthly payment hurdles.
• Thanksgiving week: more on 50-year mortgages with Deborah joining Shelly’s weekday show.

Practical Tips

For Owners

• Pull a preliminary title and confirm any forbearance or deferment add-ons before listing.
• If systems are aging, compare warranty cost to likely repair or replacement.
• Subdivide with a surveyor and attorney; record promptly and notify your lender if encumbered.

For Buyers

• Model the true monthly: principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA.
• Ask lenders how rent history can help approval; compare loan types and pricing.
• Be cautious with very long terms; consider future equity and resale timing.

Timestamps

• 00:45 50-year mortgages and credit-score changes
• 03:40 Why small payment savings can hurt equity later
• 05:16 Secondary market risk and pricing reality
• 07:02 Guest intro: Taylor Rogowski, First American Home Warranty
• 11:26 What warranties do and how seller coverage can help
• 22:37 COVID deferments showing up as second liens
• 26:32 Barndominium financing and resale considerations

Resources & Contact

Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @theagency.atlanta • @insidegeorgiarealestate

Overview

Shelly Winter and Deborah Morton of Clareo Group unpack why national home sales just hit a 1995-level low, what that mix of tight resale supply and longer days on market means in Georgia, and how buyers can win with new construction incentives. They cover ethics during crises, true closing costs, roof and insurance hurdles, and smart ways to package price and credits so both sides close.

Key Takeaways

• Resale supply is tight while some listings sit longer and trim price.
• New construction inventory is up, and builder credits can fund rate buydowns.
• Converting a price cut into points can move a ~7% quote toward mid 6s.
• After a loss, the mortgage still must be paid; coverage gaps are painful.
• First time buyers often use 3% to 5% down; closing costs near ~3% of the loan, FHA higher.
• Days on market matter: perception shifts near 30, 60, 90 days.
• Bring your own agent for new builds; the site rep serves the builder.

Caller Q&A

• Ed, Lake Spivey: Multiple offers asked for large credits. Option: raise price with a seller credit if the appraisal supports it, or wait for a cleaner net.
• Randall: Limited cash and a 401k loan. Find the right house, let your agent structure terms that fit funds and income.
• Cynthia: Pre-approvals typically last 90–120 days; your lender can refresh.
• John, roofing: Roofs 10–20 years draw underwriting and insurance scrutiny even if not leaking.

Looking Ahead

• Expect spring re-lists from 2024 withdrawals and expirations.
• If rates slip under 6, demand widens fast under ~$400k.
• Builders will keep pairing credits with preferred lenders to move finished homes.
• Model total monthly early: principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA.

Practical Tips

For Owners

• Price to current comps and pair with spotless condition and scent control.
• Pre-inspect big items, especially the roof and HVAC.
• If credits are requested, test price-up plus credit paths against likely appraisal.

For Buyers

• Ask about builder credits for points; compare permanent vs temporary buydowns.
• Underwrite the full monthly before you offer.
• Bring your own agent for new construction to protect your priorities.

Timestamps

• 00:04 1995-level sales and Georgia impact
• 02:15 New construction inventory and incentives
• 03:48 Turning credits into lower monthly payments
• 11:18 Ed on closing costs, credits, appraisals
• 28:57 Randall’s thin-cash plan; Cynthia’s pre-approval window
• 31:08 John on roof age and insurability

Resources & Contact

Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @theagency.atlanta • @insidegeorgiarealestate

Not legal or tax advice. Verify details with your county, insurer, lender, and attorney.

Overview

Deborah Morton of Clareo Group explains how icy conditions affect showings, why many 2024 listings expired or withdrew, and what agents can do now to solve affordability. She breaks down seller financing in plain English, probate steps when there is no will, the rebuild arc after disasters like wildfires, and how insurance and taxes fold into total monthly cost. Listeners call in with practical scenarios that let Deborah map out strategy for both sellers and buyers.

Key Takeaways

• Icy roads slow access, so agents reschedule fast and keep buyers engaged.
• Many Q4 2024 listings failed from financing volatility, not just price or condition.
• Local lenders can structure buydowns; one quote near 6.7 became about 5.65.
• Seller financing = owner becomes the bank; tighten terms with a real estate attorney.
• The seller’s upside is interest income if cash today is not required.
• No will means probate before marketable title can transfer; verify ownership early.
• Disasters can trigger teardown-and-rebuild cycles; hardship is real for residents.
• Affordability rests on mortgage cost, insurance, and property taxes together.

Caller Q&A

• David, Buckhead: Considering taking back a note on a paid-off luxury home. Advice: underwrite the buyer, record a first lien, and have an attorney draft both purchase and finance documents.
• C Arnes: Asked about tax treatment when buyers use seller financing. Answer: ownership records and lien recording work like any loan; the difference is who holds the note.
• Steven: Bought via investor decades ago and later refinanced. Today those deals are rare locally because most sellers prefer to cash out and avoid long ties.

Looking Ahead

• Expect a wave of refreshed listings from last year’s withdrawn and expired inventory.
• Inventory headlines omit context: 2024 unit sales were very low, so actives look “high.”
• Insurance remains tight; buyers will comparison shop and adjust deductibles.
• Probate timelines are improving in some counties; start documentation early.
• Plans should follow household needs, not week-to-week rate noise.

Practical Tips

• Sellers: price to today’s comps, pair with crisp condition, lighting, and pro media.
• Sellers: eliminate odors, fix moisture and pet sources, and remedy layout or deck hazards.
• Sellers: confirm legal ownership and liens before listing; unresolved probate stalls deals.
• Sellers: refresh paint to neutral and tidy curb appeal.
• Buyers: request rate buydown options and DTI-friendly structuring from local lenders.
• Buyers: model the full monthly with taxes and insurance, not just principal and interest.
• Condo buyers: review the building’s master policy, reserves, and recent assessments.
• Everyone: document, disclose, and keep contracts clear on duties and remedies.
• Everyone: loop in a local lender and insurance broker early for precise numbers.

Resources & Contact

Inside Georgia Real Estate with Deborah Morton • Clareo Group Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @theagency.atlanta • @insidegeorgiarealestate

Overview Dave Baker guest-hosts with Realtor-Broker Deborah Morton of Clareo Group at The Agency Atlanta. They tackle agent skepticism vs real representation, how new construction warranties really work, why inspections matter, fair housing rules, and how to vet an agent in today’s tech-driven market.

Key Takeaways

• Listing agents work for sellers; buyers should have their own representation.
• Tech changed search, but contracts, negotiations, and risk management are where agents earn it.
• New homes still need inspections; get pre-drywall and 11-month checks.
• Builder warranties vary; read your contract and track issues in writing.
• Fair housing laws bar discrimination; your agent must educate and keep you compliant.
• Skipping inspections limits your leverage and can be costly later.
• Sellers carry disclosure duties; hidden water issues create liability.
• Interview agents on experience, market data, negotiation approach, and process.

Caller Q&A

• Pam, Woodstock: Bought a former model with defects. Action: rely on written builder warranty terms, document items, escalate with the builder, consider a third-party inspection and legal consult; Deborah can connect pros.
• Jim, Cartersville: Ever skip inspections? Rarely smart. Only consider if a recent, reputable report exists and you accept the risk. Inspections protect leverage and budget.

Looking Ahead Next show: deeper dive on selecting the right agent, plus inspection playbooks for resale vs new construction.

Practical Tips

• Buyers: hire your own agent; budget for full home inspection, pre-drywall on new builds, and an 11-month warranty visit.
• Sellers: disclose known issues; fix moisture and drainage problems before listing.
• Everyone: keep all promises and repairs in writing; verify warranty coverage windows.
• Interview agents using a prepared question list; compare marketing, negotiation, and service, not just fees.

Timestamps

• 00:04 Dave opens; tech hiccups and setup
• 01:14 Real estate and home repair go hand in hand
• 02:42 Agent skepticism vs value of representation
• 04:09 Who the listing agent serves; buyer pitfalls unrepresented
• 05:21 Agent as professional advisor, not just salesperson
• 06:48 Land, builders, and when you need an agent
• 08:41 Fair housing and continuing education
• 10:24 Offers, obligations, and contracts 101
• 14:24 Caller Pam: builder warranty and defect path
• 33:08 Caller Jim: should you ever skip inspections?

Resources & Contact Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call live: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @InsideGeorgiaRealEstate • @theagency.atlanta

Overview Shelly Winter with Realtor-Broker Deborah Morton of Clareo Group at The Agency Atlanta review 2024, why volume mirrored 1995 without a crash, and what a more stable 2025 means for buyers and sellers. They explain rates vs the Fed, inventory, AI’s role in visibility, Zestimate myths, and take calls on inherited property, taxes, and the real pros of townhome living.

Key Takeaways

• 2024 sales equaled 1995 levels due to rates and uncertainty, not a crash.
• 2025 outlook is stable. Expect modest 3–6% price appreciation.
• Market is more balanced. Buyers can negotiate; sellers must present quality.
• Fed moves influence sentiment, but lenders set mortgage rates.
• Inventory is improving, giving buyers more choice.
• AI and platform algorithms drive exposure. Pro digital marketing matters.
• Zestimates are not appraisals. Use a pro valuation for pricing.

Caller Q&A

• Katie: Inherited home 800 miles away with family occupants. A vetted cash buyer can simplify distance and move-out, but expect a discount from market value.
• Craig, Forsyth: Considering selling a rental to pay off primary. Consult a CPA about capital gains and depreciation. Free and clear can be powerful.
• Stacey: Selling long-held land to build. Ask a CPA about taxes and if a 1031 exchange applies.
• Vicky: Townhomes suit many lifestyles, from downsizers to frequent travelers. Lock and leave, maintenance included.
• Daniel (via host): Builder materials vary widely. Lower grade finishes can age poorly and affect resale.

Looking Ahead Rates should ease for well qualified buyers when markets allow, likely mid 5s to mid 6s. New FCC text rules in January will push more opt-in and media-forward marketing.

Practical Tips

• Sellers: invest in light staging, pro photos, and broad online reach.
• Unique homes or land: order an independent appraisal before pricing.
• Compare quick cash sale vs full-market prep. Time and hassle have a cost.
• Buyers: define lifestyle needs first, then beds and baths.
• New construction: compare specs, warranties, and builder track records.

Timestamps

• 00:03 Holiday open and call lines
• 00:55 2024 volume matched 1995
• 01:21 Why slowdown did not equal a crash
• 02:11 What stable means for 2025
• 02:34 Fed cut vs mortgage rates
• 03:12 Inventory and buyer leverage
• 04:22 Price outlook 3–6%
• 08:47 AI, algorithms, and visibility
• 13:05 Zestimate vs real valuation
• 16:48 Caller Katie: inherited home and cash offers

Resources & Contact Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call live: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @InsideGeorgiaRealEstate

Not legal or tax advice. Verify details with your county, lender, and CPA.

Overview Shelly Winter and Realtor/Broker Deborah Morton of Clareo Group at The Agency Atlanta recap 2024 in Georgia real estate. They cover why the predicted crash never came, how high rates shaped demand, what the NAR lawsuit changed, and why 2025 looks more stable. Two great calls highlight how full service marketing can boost price and how to choose between FSBO, discount, or full brokerage.

Key Takeaways

• No crash in 2024. Tight supply and regulation kept prices from falling.
• Higher rates slowed sales volume but did not stop real demand.
• Affordability remains the top challenge heading into 2025.
• NAR lawsuit reshaped how commissions and representation are discussed.
• Atlanta ranks among top 2025 markets and continues to attract jobs and buyers.
• Start early with a consult that focuses on lifestyle, commute, and budget.
• Professional staging and photos can add 6 to 8 percent to sale price.
• For unique homes, an independent appraisal can guide pricing.

Caller Q&A

• Irene, Atlanta: Veteran broker praised Deborah’s professionalism and noted how tech changed the job. Deborah underscored ethics, skills, and the unseen work great agents do.
• Susan, Mableton: Listing in January. Unsure about FSBO vs discount vs full service. Deborah explained exposure is driven by paid digital marketing, pro media, and nationwide reach. Full service includes vetting buyers, negotiations, contracts, lenders, appraisers, and closing. For unusual homes, hire an appraiser to benchmark value.

Looking Ahead Expect steadier conditions in 2025. Rates may not be low, but predictability improves planning for buyers and sellers.

Practical Tips

• Interview agents early and compare marketing plans, not just fees.
• If selling unique or acreage property, order an independent appraisal.
• Invest in staging, declutter, and pro photography before list day.
• Use safety protocols for showings and buyer vetting.
• Buyers: define lifestyle must haves first, then bedroom count.

Timestamps

• 00:08 Shelly and Deborah open the show
• 00:39 Year end setup and 2024 recap
• 00:55 Why the crash did not happen
• 02:10 NAR lawsuit and lasting impacts
• 03:44 Supply, demand, and rates explained
• 05:33 Georgia and Atlanta vs national trends
• 07:22 What a great buyer consult includes
• 09:28 How to pick the right agent
• 10:43 2025 outlook: stability and predictability
• 11:44 Caller Irene: the profession and tech
• 17:05 Caller Susan: FSBO, discount, or full service
• 23:24 Staging metrics and pricing unique homes
• 29:46 Wrap up and key reminders

Resources & Contact Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call live: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @InsideGeorgiaRealEstate • @TheAgencyAtlanta

Overview Deborah Morton (Clareo Group at The Agency Atlanta) with guest co-host Ashley Fraska explains how activity is rebounding post-election, why winter buyers are serious, and how curb appeal starts online. They cover lifestyle fit, schools, and hyperlocal insight, then field calls on selling acreage with an accessible ranch and buying a step-free home with down payment help.

Key Takeaways

• Activity is picking up as election nerves fade.
• Winter can beat spring: fewer lookers, more real buyers.
• Your front photo sells the click; prep outside first.
• Low-cost wins: mow, edge, trim, mulch, power wash.
• Start with lifestyle needs: commute, pets, parks, amenities.
• For land/unique homes, confirm zoning and highest/best use.
• VA loans require a termite report; all buyers should check.
• Georgia senior exemptions help make right-sizing attractive.

Caller Q&A

• Robert, Buford (Gwinnett): Two adjacent parcels with an accessible ranch. Check zoning, subdivision potential, and likely buyer profile (builder vs privacy seeker). Consider an independent appraisal for whole-parcel vs split pricing.
• Sid, Lithonia: Needs a ranch with no steps; asks about zero down. Georgia has down payment assistance through select lenders; some “first-time” programs apply after a long gap. Ask a lender for current options.

Looking Ahead Back in two weeks after Thanksgiving. Teaser: how to spot trusted sources and pros on social media.

Practical Tips

• Tidy beds and edges; add fresh mulch for contrast in photos.
• Power wash drive and walks before listing photos.
• Delay major shrub/tree cuts until late winter to avoid cold damage.
• Stage outdoor living: safe, solid deck; clear grill and seating zones.
• Define a neat pet area; buyers notice.
• Pull county zoning early for acreage or specialty properties.
• Buyers needing accessibility: target ranch, wide doors, step-free entries.
• Ask lenders about current assistance and eligibility windows.

Timestamps

• 00:05 Welcome
• 00:10 Show intro and Deborah’s background
• 01:42 What “winning results” means for clients
• 03:04 Rates, election, and activity rebound
• 04:37 Spring vs winter strategy
• 06:30 Prepping now for spring listings
• 11:17 Lifestyle, schools, hyperlocal know-how
• 16:31 Caller Robert: acreage, zoning, value
• 23:02 Caller Sid: accessibility and down payment aid
• 26:18 Curb appeal and first-photo strategy
• 29:07 Pruning timing notes
• 30:59 Termite inspections and loans
• 32:02 Next show and contacts

Resources & Contact Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Call live: 404-872-0750 • 1-800-WSB-TALK Instagram: @InsideGeorgiaRealEstate • @TheAgencyAtlanta

Not legal or tax advice. Verify details with your county and lender.

Summary

Deborah explains Georgia’s Amendment 1 in plain English, why recent assessments shocked many owners, and how state rules interact with local control. She shares what is happening with mortgage rates, buyer activity, and inventory, then answers listener questions on pools, flooring choices before listing, tax exemptions, and finding or selling fully accessible homes.

Top takeaways

• Amendment 1, in brief: It authorizes a uniform, statewide homestead exemption framework and aims to cap how fast tax bills can rise each year. It does not change your decision to buy or sell, it is about tax mechanics and budget planning.
• Why tax bills jumped: Counties delayed assessments, values then reset sharply higher, and tax bills followed the new assessed values. You can appeal, yet many increases reflect real appreciation.
• State vs local control: One rule for the entire state helps with predictability, but needs may differ in small counties versus dense metro areas.
• Possible tax mix: Shifting some burden to sales tax can spread costs to visitors and renters, not only homeowners.
• Rates and activity: A recent dip in rates was brief, rates ticked back up, and many buyers are pausing before the election. Inventory is still low, about two to three months, which supports prices.
• Pools and value: In-ground pools can add appeal when clean, well maintained, and integrated with the yard. Above-ground generally does not add value. Condition and buyer lifestyle drive the premium.
• Pre-list upgrades: Neutral paint, appropriate flooring for price point, light landscaping, and staging deliver strong returns. Match selections to neighborhood expectations.

Caller Q&A highlights

• Kevin, Gwinnett: Longtime owners feel rising taxes without better services. Deborah notes the value of rebalancing the tax mix so homeowners are not the only funders, and reminds listeners to watch local policy.
• Barry, Gwinnett: At 65, his taxes fell. Many counties offer homestead and senior exemptions, age thresholds vary. Check your county’s rules and file on time.
• Laney, Lake Lanier: Replace dated Saltillo tile or leave it? Compare against current competition, price point, and target buyer. If floors would get your home cut from a buyer’s short list, replace. Otherwise disclose and price accordingly. Use a staging consult.
• Dan, Hiram: Seller shout-out for Deborah’s full prep plan, vetted vendors, and smooth sale.
• Joe, Loganville: Selling a 6,000 sq ft fully accessible home and buying another. Supply exists, but is tighter. Active adult plans often include wider doors and stepless showers.

Owners

• Verify your homestead status, and if eligible, senior or other exemptions.
• If preparing to sell, schedule a walk-through six months out to plan paint, flooring, and small fixes.
• Keep roof, gutters, and grading in good order to protect value.

Buyers

• Ask your agent to model monthly cost with current rates, taxes, and exemptions.
• Evaluate pool condition and operating costs, not just the photo appeal.

Connect with Deborah

Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: @insidegeorgiarealestate and @clariorealestate

Host: Shelly Winter Expert: Deborah Morton, Founder & CEO, Clario Real Estate

Summary

Deborah breaks down how recent storms should inform your home search, what to watch for in basements and yards, which upgrades truly add value, when to list, and how to finance pre-sale fixes. Lively caller Q&A covers first-time buyer help, lease-to-own, and today’s commission landscape.

Top takeaways

• Factor in storm risk: In Metro Atlanta, prioritize drainage, roof condition, tree health, and lot slope. Ask about sump pumps with battery backups.
• Drainage 101: Downspouts should discharge away from the foundation. Use extenders and correct grading so soil slopes away from the house.
• Basement red flags: Look for efflorescence on block walls, visible water lines near doors, high humidity, and past seepage points.
• Negotiation strategy: You can request seller repairs or credits after inspection. In competitive situations, front-loading too many asks can cost you the deal.
• Upgrades that return: Kitchens and baths lead. Fresh neutral paint and quality flooring show well. ROI depends on neighborhood norms. If you will live there 10 years, personalize it for joy. Short stay (about 2 years): cap spend and mirror local comps.
• When to sell: Activity happens year-round. Spring brings more lookers, not always more serious buyers. End of year can be strong for relocations and investors. Meet an agent about six months before listing to plan prep and marketing.
• Financing prep work: Consider a HELOC for improvements. Clario’s concierge program can front common make-ready items like paint, flooring, light landscaping, and staging.
• Choosing your listing agent: Interview. Ask about local track record, list-to-sale price, days on market, negotiation approach, and the full marketing plan (pro photos, video, floor plans, 3D, targeted online reach).

Caller Q&A

• Michael (first-time buyer): Georgia offers down-payment assistance that changes periodically and often requires a minimum stay period. Credit unions can be conservative. Explore multiple lenders and programs to match your debt-to-income profile.
• Don (lease-to-own): Rare today. Strong resale demand means most sellers prefer a clean sale, though a paid-off owner might consider it case by case.
• Gene (commissions): Entirely negotiable. In Atlanta, expect about 3–4% for full-service listing representation or 1–2% for discount service. Buyer-agent compensation is also negotiable. Service level and marketing depth drive outcomes.

Action steps

Buyers

• Bring a flashlight to showings: check downspout discharge, basement corners, and exterior grading.
• Verify a sump pump plus battery backup.
• Use inspection findings to seek repairs or credits.

Sellers

• Pre-inspect roof, gutters, grading, and tree health.
• Budget for neutral paint and flooring where tired.
• Capture storm-related repairs with invoices and photos to reassure buyers.

Connect with Deborah

Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: @insidegeorgiarealestate

Host: Shelly Winter Expert: Deborah Morton, Founder & Owner, Clario Real Estate

Summary

Deborah walks through real-world next steps for buyers and sellers after the recent hurricane: flooded basements, roof damage, trees down, contracts, insurance, lender reinspections, and how to keep a deal on track. She also shares quick fixes that protect foundations and reduce future risk.

What we covered

• Active listings hit by storms: Who pays, what to fix first, and how to keep pricing and timelines intact.
• Under contract and damaged: Sellers must deliver the home in the same condition as when you went under contract. Use the final walk-through, document changes, and renegotiate or delay closing if needed.
• Cash vs financing: With financing, lenders may require a reinspection in declared disaster zones before releasing funds.
• Basements and water: Sump pumps should have battery backups. Look for efflorescence, visible water lines, and grading issues.
• Trees and curb appeal: Balancing charm with risk. When an arborist says a mature tree is failing, removal before listing may save a future claim.
• Gutters and grading: Simple upgrades like downspout extensions and correct slope away from the foundation prevent repeat problems.
• Vendor triage: Roofers, plumbers, and water remediation pros matter. Lean on your agent’s vetted list.

Caller highlights

• Kate, Atlanta: Vacant, bank-owned neighbor’s tree fell across her fence. Response may be slow; the bank is responsible. Deborah offered to connect resources.
• Joe, Augusta: Storm hit just before closing. A second inspection is wise, and the closing attorney should confirm contract obligations.
• Ken: Confirmed that sellers are responsible for storm damage prior to closing.
• Linda, Dunwoody: Streaking on a 15-year roof is often cosmetic. Cleaning methods can damage shingles. Get a roofer’s evaluation before listing.
• Steve, Norcross: Gun safe removed before closing. Check the Seller’s Property Disclosure and ensure all fixtures or personal property are clearly included in the contract.

Quick checklist

Sellers

• Photograph damage, file the claim, and start remediation quickly.
• Ask your agent to align scope, timing, and any credit with your buyer.
• Bring proof of repairs to the final walk-through.

Buyers

• Re-inspect after any significant storm.
• Verify sump pump backup, gutter discharge, and lot grading.
• Use the contract’s condition clause to address new damage.

Need help or vendor referrals?

Website: insidegeorgiarealestate.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: @insidegeorgiarealestate