Buckhead Homes and Real Estate

HDR Photography for Real Estate

admin — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 23:22:44 +0000

HDR is an acronym for High Dynamic Range. HDR photography allows for a greater dynamic range of light within a picture. In many photos, you might have one area with a lot of light and another area that is in the shade. In a traditional photograph, you would have to pick one of the areas for proper exposure, causing the other area to be “blown out” with light or extremely dark. Instead of trying to describe this problem, it will be easier to just show a couple of examples.

Here are some photos of a dining room. The first one is exposed for the interior, so the outside window is overexposed. The second is exposed for the outside window, so the interior is underexposed.

Here is another example of an outside deck. The first shot is exposed for the shaded deck, making the outside “blown out” and the second shot is exposed for the outside, making the interior of the deck too dark.

In the past, to avoid these exposure problems, professional real estate photographers would set a up a series of remote control flash units to try and balance the exposure. This could be very time consuming and tricky. Lighting is one of the keys to great photography. If you’re not careful, a flash can make a room look very cold and industrial.

HDR is the perfect solution for real estate photography. You blend a series of photos together to get the best of both worlds. There is correct exposure throughout the photograph. I typically use three different exposures, of the same shot, to get my desired result. Best of all, you can take the pictures using natural light, eliminating the harsh “flashy” look. Since the shots have to line up perfectly, it’s important to use a tripod and a remote control. Any camera shake will ruin the process.

Upload the pictures to a computer, blend them using some HDR software, do some more editing with Photoshop and you’ll end up with some naturally lit, beautifully exposed photos. The HDR photos will be more representative of the lighting that the human eye can actually process.

Here are some of examples of the previous shots, blended with HDR software and edited with Photoshop; feel free to click on them for a larger view:

I constantly see ridiculous real estate photos on the FMLS. The agent will pull her little pocket camera out and the exposure will adjust for whatever the camera happens to have in the middle of the shot. If there is a window in the middle of the picture, then the rest of the room will be dark. Then, she’ll actually upload the garbage to the internet in a sort of clueless bliss. The following photo is interesting to me, because this beach condo unit has a bedroom, that opens to a deck with a great ocean view. Since the agent was exposure ignorant, this condo, and it’s $1.8 million view, is not given justice in potential buyers’ internet searches.

Here is a shot from another Rosemary Beach condo. Was the goal to promote a dark and dreary image for this $1.4 million beach condo? It’s sad that these owners will eventually pay a fairly large commission for the sale of these condos, and yet the agents cannot even put a minimal amount of thought into the marketing plans.

I’ve written about the importance of real estate photography before, so I won’t go too far into it. In short, 90% of potential home buyers are now using the internet for their initial searches. Obviously, real estate photography represents the most important aspect of internet marketing. So why do so many agents treat one of the most important aspects of selling your home as if it were a quick family snapshot at the park?

If your agent doesn’t understand how to take a decent photograph, tell her to hire a professional photographer; or find a new agent.

If you would like to learn more about HDR photography, or other home marketing ideas, please feel free to call me.

My Sandy Springs Listing Featured in AJC Homes Section

admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:00:11 +0000

One of the homes I’m marketing, in Sandy Springs, was recently featured in the AJC Homes Section. The Reconstruction era home is at 5895 Mitchell Road in Sandy Springs and is owned by Wanda and Voytek Godlewski. Feel free to click this link to see the article.

Here is an excerpt from the article, although most of the article contains pictures of this classic home with chracter:

Wanda and Voytek Godlewski have called the Mitchell House home for the last 20 years. Located in Sandy Springs, the circa 1870 home is a living reminder of the Reconstruction era and has received beautiful renovations over the years, while maintaining the home’s original character.

This adorable, Reconstruction era home, is offered at $849,000. Please feel free to contact me, if you would like to see this Sandy Springs historic home.

Park Place Condominiums

admin — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 04:51:16 +0000

Park Place on Peachtree Road has been known as one of Atlanta’s, and Buckhead’s, most exclusive condo residences for a longtime. Park Place has all the luxuries you would expect from a premier residential tower: doorman, concierge, valet parking, a wine cellar, guest suites, a health club, and swimming pool.

It’s become a Buckhead landmark with great views of Atlanta’s downtown, Buckhead, and Stone Mountain. On the most well-known street in Atlanta, you’ll be right in the middle of everything Buckhead has to offer.

If you would like to see some of the Park Place condos currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to schedule an appointment for you. I specialize in Buckhead luxury condos, townhomes, and homes.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 21. See more Park Place Condos.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$540,000 : 2660 Peachtree Rd Nw, Unit 5A, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$565,000 : 2660 Peachtree Road, Unit 7B, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$795,000 : 2660 Peachtree Rd Nw, Unit 35B, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$1,650,000 : 2660 Peachtree Rd, Unit 29GH, Atlanta

4 beds, 4 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$1,170,000 : 2660 Peachtree Road 19ha, Unit 19HA, Atlanta

3 beds, 3 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Mathieson Exchange Lofts

admin — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 03:53:45 +0000

Located in the heart of Buckhead, in the Buckhead Forest neighborhood, the Mathieson Exchange Lofts give you the best of both worlds. You get the authentic loft features such as exposed brick, exposed ductwork and cement floors; and also the advantages of a new building in an upscale area of Atlanta. While many think it adds to their character, one of the disadvantages of traditional lofts is they can sometimes be in undesirable areas of town and in very old buildings, that require lots of upkeep and assessments.

Just a few steps off Peachtree Road, it’s quintessential, urban Buckhead living; complete with a short walk to all of the action.

If you would like to see some of the Mathieson Exchange lofts currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to discuss these homes with you; or schedule an appointment. I specialize in the Buckhead homes, condos, lofts and townhomes. I have a thorough understanding of the real estate market.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 11. See more Mathieson Exchange.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$275,000 : 3180 Mathieson Drive, Unit 909, Atlanta

1 beds, 1 full bath

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$874,900 : 3180 Mathieson Dr Ne, Unit 1504, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$270,000 : 3180 Mathieson Drive Ne, Unit 908, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$179,000 : 3180 Mathieson Dr Ne, Unit 1104, Atlanta

1 beds, 1 full bath

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$325,000 : 3180 Mathieson Dr Unit 910, Unit 910, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Wildwood Homes in Buckhead

admin — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 23:51:55 +0000

Wildwood is located between I-75 and Howell Mill Road. It’s a social community, with its own 7 acre park, playground and softball field. I’ve been told Atlanta’s longest street, with a cul-du-sac is located in Wildwood. Wildwood is located in the top-ranked, Morris Brandon elementary school district.

If you would like to see some of the Wildwood homes currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to discuss these homes with you; or schedule an appointment. I specialize in the Buckhead area and have a thorough understanding of its market. There might also be some “quiet listings”, not formally listed, made available to select Buckhead agents and our clients.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 12. See more Wildwood tract real estate.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$1,850,000 : 992 Wadsworth Dr Nw, Atlanta

6 beds, 8 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 13,503 sq ft
$825,000 : 877 Beaverbrook Drive, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$799,000 : 840 Beaverbrook Drive, Atlanta

5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$635,000 : 1005 Northcliffe Dr Nw, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$560,000 : 1076 Northcliffe Drive, Atlanta

4 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 6,621 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Brookwood Place Condominium

admin — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:53:09 +0000

Brookwood Place is literally on the border of Buckhead and Midtown, so living here gives you convenient access to some of Atlanta’s best entertainment and dining districts. This home and community are in immaculate condition. The unit has an extra-large, one-bedroom, one-bathroom design. You get an extra family room and office under this unique floorplan. The actual square footage is similar to the two bedroom units.

This Brookwood Place condo is a professional’s dream. All of the furniture is included with the sale, so all you do is put your clothes in the closet, make a drink, sit-down on the couch, and your move is over.

If you’re looking for a place with outstanding amenities, central location, active social scene and has a competitive price; then please feel free to call me and book and appointment to see the home.

Offered at: $234,900

MLS: 4025997

If you would like to see more pictures, check out the virtual tour of this large Buckhead / Midtown condo. It’s in the middle of the best entertainment districts in Atlanta, so you have the convenience of all the great shopping, restaurants and recreation. Please feel free to contact me for a tour of the home.

Haynes Manor Homes for Sale

admin — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 04:26:56 +0000

The is one of Atlanta’s premier neighborhoods anchored by the renowned Peachtree Battle Parkway. It’s a popular sightseeing destination with a grand entrance off of Peachtree Road. Haynes Manor is located between Peachtree Road and Northside Drive and is also has the City of Atlanta, Bobby Jones Golf Course.

If you would like to see some of the Haynes Manor homes currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to discuss these homes with you; or schedule an appointment. I specialize in the Buckhead area and have a thorough understanding of its market. There might also be some “quiet listings”, not formally listed, made available to select Buckhead agents and our clients.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 28. See more Haynes Manor.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$249,000 : 1370 Peachtree Battle Ave, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$2,249,000 : 500 Peachtree Battle Ave Nw, Atlanta

4 beds, 5 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$729,000 : 2525 Northside Drive, Atlanta

5 beds, 3 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$1,349,000 : 2562 Red Valley Road, Atlanta

5 beds, 4 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 1.46 ac
$599,000 : 435 Whitmore Drive Nw, Atlanta

3 beds, 2 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 12,954 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Homes Sandy Springs over $1 million

admin — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:45:02 +0000

Since Sandy Springs recently made a list of the top 10 richest communities in the United States, I thought it would be appropriate to list the current Sandy Springs luxury homes over $1 million.

Portfolio.com ranked communities with populations over 75,000 and Sandy Springs placed 9th on the list. The report also says Sandy Springs is number two in the Southeast, behind Arlington, VA. Almost 18% of Sandy Springs households make over $200,000 a year and the median home value is $486,500.

If you would like to see some of the Sandy Springs homes currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to discuss these homes with you; or schedule an appointment. I specialize in the Sandy Springs / Buckhead area and have a thorough understanding of its market. There might also be some “quiet listings”, not formally listed, made available to select Sandy Springs / Buckhead agents and our clients.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 32. See more Sandy Springs over 1,000.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$1,195,000 : 25 Highland Valley Court, Sandy Springs

4 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$1,075,000 : 172 Dalrymple Road, Sandy Springs

5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 1.50 ac
$2,400,000 : 223 Saint Nicholas Circle, Sandy Springs

8 beds, 9 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$2,995,000 : 4688 Northside Dr Nw, Sandy Springs

6 beds, 6 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 2.30 ac
$1,150,000 : 25 Wing Mill Rd, Sandy Springs

5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 1.06 ac

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Vinings Homes for Sale

admin — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:46:52 +0000

I really like Vinings. It’s a great little enclave just outside of Buckhead, inside the perimeter. Since I live on the west side of Buckhead, we end up going shopping and eating in Vinings as much as Buckhead. Knowing that I’m a “stones throw” from Vinings, and the much lower Cobb County property taxes, leaves me feeling a little envious of this upscale community.

I’m not the only one who thinks Vinings is great, as a testament to the cache it enjoys, the boundaries seem to keep growing all the way to Chattanooga. Builders use the “Vinings” name more in Smyrna subdivisions than they do in Vinings. I’ve seen this perceived boundary growing phenomenon occur in Brookhaven as well.

If you would like to see some of the Vinings homes currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. I’ve limited the search to the 30339 zip code, since some folks, as previously mentioned, can be really disingenuous about what they refer to as “Vinings.” Please give me a call and I’d be happy to discuss these homes with you; or schedule an appointment. I specialize in the Buckhead/Vinings area and have a thorough understanding of its market. There might also be some “quiet listings”, not formally listed, made available to select Buckhead/Vinings agents and our clients.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 60. See more Vinings.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$1,050,000 : 3781 Randall Farm Rd, Atlanta

4 beds, 4 full, 2 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$725,000 : 3241 Teton Drive, Atlanta

4 beds, 4 full baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$595,000 : 4268 Woodland Brook Dr Se, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$1,175,000 : 4439 Rebel Valley View, Atlanta

5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: 31,798 sq ft
$469,000 : 3824 Courtyard Dr Se, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Brookwood Place Condominiums

admin — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:56:03 +0000

Because it’s located between Buckhead and Midtown, living at Brookwood Place places you right in the middle of Atlanta’s best entertainment and dining districts. This condominium complex has outstanding amenities, a vibrant social scene and a great location. You’ll enjoy walking to some great shops and restaurants.

If you would like to see some of the Brookwood Placce condos currently for sale, then review the up-to-date list below. Please give me a call and I’d be happy to schedule an appointment for you. I specialize in Buckhead houses, townhomes, and condos.

Showing properties 1 - 5 of 17. See more Brookwood Place.
(all data current as of 3/11/2010)

$319,000 : 1735 Peachtree St Ne, Unit 230, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$445,000 : 1735 Peachtree Street Ne, Unit 607, Atlanta

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$234,900 : 1735 Peachtree Road, Unit 217, Atlanta

1 beds, 1 full bath

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$259,900 : 67 25th Street, Unit 4, Atlanta

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a
$510,000 : 1735 Peachtree Street, Unit 624, Atlanta

4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

Size: n/a

Lot size: n/a

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.