All Entries For May, 2009
Just after I pushed the “publish” button for the Atlanta May and June 2009 Events posted on Wednesday, we came across more events that should be on this list. Here are some additional Atlanta events to mark your calendars for in May and June.
Musica Ardiente Festival | May 27 – June 6, 2009 | Atlanta
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s ¡Música Ardiente! Festival is here for two weeks happening in various places in Atlanta. Experience the culture and music found along the Inca Trail and in South & Latin America. The first week entitled Caminos Del Inka on May 28 and 30, 2009 will explore the rich and varied music along the Inca Trail. The second week from June 4-6, 2009, will celebrate, through song and dance, the modern evolution of the music of Latin America in a program entitled Tango, Fados and Dance! Though some events require paid admission, there are free events to enjoy as well. For more information, location and show schedule for the Musica Ardiente Festival, visit their website at: www.musicaardiente.org
4th Annual 97.1 The River Wing N’ Rock Fest | Saturday, May 30, 2009 | Marietta
97.1 The River presents the 4th Annual Wing N’ Rock Fest this Saturday from 1:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. This free event located in the Marietta Square will feature multiple chicken wing restaurants, cold beer from Miller Lite & Miller Chill and classic rock cover & tribute bands all day. Wings will come from vendors such as: Taco Mac, Wild Wing Cafe, Twisted Taco, Buffalo Wind Wings & more. The live music line up includes: Chain Reaction (A Tribute to Journey), Rock Fight (Tom Petty & John Cougar Mellancamp Tribute) and more. No cost for general admission. Pay for food, drinks and beer. For more information on the 97.1 The River Wing N’ Rock Fest, visit their website at: http://www.wingandrockfest.com/home.html
7th Annual S. Virginia Highlands Spring Bar Crawl | Saturday, June 6, 2009 | Virginia Higlands
After you enjoy the live music and artist market at the Virginia Highland Summerfest, the party will continue in Virginia Highland here. The 7th Annual S. Virginia Highlands Spring Bar Crawl features 6 participating Bars & Restaurants to offer drink and food specials from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Enjoy $5 house wine at all bars. The places particpating are: Limerick Junction, Diesel, Pozole Nuevo Latino & Tequila Bar, Atkins Park, Dark Horse Tavern & Hand in Hand. Tickets must be purchased and are $5 in advance or $10 at the door. Start at Atkins Park for Registration and to purchase tickets at the door. For more information on the 7th Annual S. Virginia Highlands Spring Bar Crawl, visit their website at: http://www.atlantabartours.com/vahi.html
Screen on the Green | June 11, 18 and 25, 2009 | Atlanta
It’s time again for the free 2009 Screen on the Green Movie Series. Originally held in Piedmont Park, this year’s series will be held in Centennial Olympic Park. Get to the park as early as 6 p.m and wait the for the movie to begin at sunset. Bring blankets, chairs and your picnic to enjoy. You cannot bring your own alcholic beverages but can purchase them at the event. Admission is free. Here’s the line up of movies: June 11 – Field of Dreams, June 18 – Home Alone and June 25 – Viewer’s Choice – Big, Ghostbusters or Princess Bride. For more information on the Screen on the Green, visit the Peachtree TV website at: http://www.peachtreetv.com/specials/sotg2009.jsp
Check out our first Atlanta Events post which includes information on the East Atlanta Beer Festival, Virginia Highlands Summerfest, Decatur Concerts on the Square, Avondale Fishing Derby and Music on the Lake, Smyrna 2009 Summer Concert Series, Decatur Beach Party and Summerfest on the Green (by clicking the link above).
Deals on South Fulton Luxury Homes
If you have missed our recent post, you should know that this weekend is the weekend to get a GREAT DEAL on new luxury South Fulton / Cascade homes. The 3 communities featured for this special promotion are: Veltre Estates in Cascade Heights, Barrington Trace in Cascade and GrandeView Estates in Cascade. Each community has homes ready for move in ranging from 4 bedrooms / 3 and a half baths with basement to 7 bedroom / 5 and a half baths with basement. Luxury home features vary per floorplan and may include: three-sides brick exteriors, triple-column entry way, rich trim details in dining room, formal living room, 2-story family room with fireplace and custom built-in bookshelves and base cabinets, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and large island with bookshelves, granite countertops and custom kitchen cabinets with several choices of color, master bedroom with suite and master bath with separate shower with Jacuzzi tub and his and her sink. Barrington Trace is a swim and tennis community with a clubhouse, 2 tennis courts, pool and a basketball court.
The builder of Jones and Minear Homebuilders LLCwill be on-site at Veltre Estates in Cascade Heights from 11 am – 2pm and Barrington Trace in Cascade from 3pm – 6pm. For Veltre Estates, call: (404) 752-6007 and for Barrington Trace, call: (404) 346-1418. Call now to schedule an appointment. To find out more information about either of these communities mentioned above, visit our website at www.jonesandminear.com. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!
The Home Builders Association of Georgia has an excellent source of information on both the Federal and Georgia Homebuyer Tax Credits. We found this “Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Georgia Homebuyer Tax Credit” information on the Home Builders Association of Georgia website. We thought this was a very simple, easy to understand question and answer way to put this information. For more information, please visit their website by clicking the link: Home Builders Association of Georgia.
The Georgia Statewide Homebuyer Tax Credit has been signed into Law on May 11, 2009 by Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue. GAR applauds House Sponsor Ron Stephens (Savannah), House Ways and Means Chairman Larry O’Neal (Warner Robins) and Senate Chairman Chip Pearson (Dawsonville) for their tireless efforts in the passage of this important legislation. Unlike the federal tax credit, the Georgia credit is not limited to first-time homebuyers, and there are no applicable income limits. The credit is only available to buyers of eligible single family residences who close between June 1 and November 30 of this year. The prompt actions of all GAR members who responded to Calls for Action on this legislation were pivotal in influencing the passage of this legislation.
Below are Frequently Asked Questions regarding the $1800 Georgia Homebuyer Tax Credit:
1. Is this tax credit limited to first time homebuyers? NO, all purchasers of an eligible single family residence in Georgia that file a Georgia income tax return can claim the credit.
2. Can the Georgia credit be combined with the federal $8,000 first time homebuyer tax credit? YES, if buyers meet the qualification for each credit they may claim both. Each credit operates independently from the other. One is claimed on your federal income tax return, the other is claimed on your Georgia income tax return.
3. Is it true this credit is limited to the purchase of a single family residence? YES, the tax credit is limited to the purchase of one single family residence. Single-family residences (including condominiums) are eligible if they are: * New residences, residences occupied at the time of sale, or previously occupied residences, if such residences: – Were for sale prior to the effective date (5/11/09) and were still for sale after the effective date; * Owner-occupied residences with respect to which the owner’s acquisition debt is in default on or before March 1, 2009; and * Residences with respect to which a foreclosure event has taken place and which are owned by the mortgagor or the mortgagor’s agent.
4. Is it true that eligible single family residences must have been listed prior to May 11, 2009 in order to qualify for the credit? YES, the original intent of the bill was aimed at reducing the housing stock that has been on the market for an extended period of time.
5. Is it true that only eligible buyers that close between June 1, 2009 and Nov. 30, 2009 can claim the credit? YES, the intent of credit is to stimulate the market by encouraging potential buyers to get off the fence and BUY NOW!
6. How do I determine the amount of tax credit I am eligible for? The tax credit will be for 1.2% of the purchase price, with a maximum credit of $1,800 (whichever is less). Homes purchased for $150,000 or more will receive a maximum of $1,800.
7. Can I claim all $1,800 on my 2009 income tax returns? NO, the total amount of your credit must be claimed in one-third increments over a three year period. The maximum credit per year is $600 if you are eligible for the maximum $1,800. Any excess or unused credit may be carried forward to apply to succeeding years’ tax liability.
8. Can I amend my 2008 Georgia income tax return to claim the credit? NO, the tax credit cannot be applied against prior years’ tax liability.
9. I am looking for investment property or a second home, is the credit available for the purchase of owner-occupied residences only? NO, all eligible single family residences qualify for the credit. However, each taxpayer can claim the credit one time only. ??
10. Is there an income limit for buyers who claim the credit? NO, there are no income limits applicable to this credit.
11. Is there a limit to how long a buyer must own the property to claim the credit? NO, there is not a limit to how long a buyer must own the property.
12. Does any portion of the credit require repayment for any reason? NO, if you are awarded the credit there are no penalties that would require you repay any portion of the credit.
As stated above, this was found on the Home Builders Association of Georgia. For more information, visit their website at: www.hbag.org
For our recent post on the 8000 homebuyer tax credit, click the link.
The summer is officially here! Along with summer are many great Atlanta events to choose from. There is usually something for everyone…everywhere! Here’s a list of what we know of so far. Feel free to comment of any festivals /events that we may have left out.
Photo by Lenny Montana
East Atlanta Beer Festival | Saturday, May 30, 2009 | East Atlanta
Located in East Atlanta Village from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., this is the 6th Annual East Atlanta Beer Festival. Tickets are still available and are $30 if pre-purchased online or $35 at the door unless they sell out. With the purchase price you will receive a six ounce sampling glass and a sampling collection of over 120 different beers. Everything from local Sweetwater and Terrapin brews to imported Belgium brews, the East Atlanta Beer Festival has you covered. Enjoy music with a line up of bands throughout the festival. Part of the proceeds from this festival go back into the East Atlanta community to keep it a great place to live. For more information, directions and to order tickets for the East Atlanta Beer Festival, you can visit their website at: www.eabfonline.com.
Concerts on the Square | Saturday, May 30, 2009 | Decatur
As the last concert in May, don’t miss your chance to relax in the Decatur Square with free music. Pack your picnic, bring your quilts and blankets and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment on Decatur! From 7 – 9 p.m. For more information on the Concerts on the Square festival, visit their website at: http://www.decaturga.com/cgs_citysvcs_ced_events.aspx
Avondale Fishing Derby and Music on the Lake | Saturday, June 6, 2009 | Avondale
Each year, Avondale, Georgia residents gather at Lake Avondale from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.to compete for the best “catch” of the day during the Avondale Fishing Derby. Prizes are awarded for the largest fish, the most fish caught, the youngest and oldest fisherman to catch a fish. An entry form for this event is required. Then at 6 p.m., enjoy Music On the Lake presented by the
Avondale Arts Alliance and The Community Club. For more information on the Avondale Fishing Derby and Music on the Lake, visit their website at: http://avondaleestates.org/events.html.
Virginia Highland Summerfest | Saturday and Sunday, June 6 – 7, 2009 | Atlanta
It’s time again for the 26th Annual Virginia Highland Summerfest! This is a great festival if you have not been. Sponsored by 929 davefm and the Virginia-Highland Civic Association, this festival is considered to be the official kick off to summer. Enjoy an artist market with original art, the local Virginia Highland area with bars, restaurants and shops and some top name musicians such as: Cowboy Mouth, Manchester Orchestra and more. Admission is f ree however, donations are always appreciated. The festival hours are: Saturday, June 6, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m with the artist market ending at 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 7, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, directions and music line up for the Virginia Highland Summerfest, visit 929 davefm’s website at: http://www.929dave.fm/2009-Virginia-Highland-Summerfest/2110737
Georgia Renaissance Festival | April 18 – June 7, 2009 | Fairburn
The multi-acre kingdom is a re-creation of a 16th-Century European Country Faire where you can shop, eat and revel with a cast of nearly 1,000 colorfully costumed characters. Located in Fairburn, Georgia, ten stages of music and comedy shows are set against a permanent backdrop of Tudor homes and enchanting cottages! Cheer your champion knight at the Royal Equestrian Joust Arena. Feast like a King on the hearty food and drink of the period, shop for fine handcrafted treasures and watch demonstrations of the time-honored arts of weaving, coin minting, spinning, sculpting, glass blowing, and leather crafting and enjoy games and rides for all ages. EIGHT FESTIVE WEEKENDS! Saturdays and Sundays Including Memorial Day – 10:30am – 6pm OPEN RAIN OR SHINE! General Ticket cost is $19.95. For more information, directions and to order tickets for the Georgia Renaissance Festival, visit their website at: www.garenfest.com
Smyrna 2009 Summer Concert Series | June 13, July 11 and August 1, 2009 | Smyrna
The Smyrna 2009 Suumer Concert Series is here and table reservations seem to be the most important part. Reservations can be made by residents only. For more information on the Smyrna 2009 Summer Concert Series, visit their website at: http://www.smyrnavinings.com/2009/04/table-reservations-2009-summer-concert-series/
Decatur Beach Party | Friday, June 19, 2009 | Decatur
At this yearly event, the city of Decatur brings in 60 tons of sand and turns the square into a beach with live music, boardwalk games and more! Why travel far for the sand and entertainment when you can have it in Decatur. From 5 p.m. – midnight, ticket purchases are required. Adults $10; Purchase in advance for $6.50 each. Children 12 and under free (limit two per paying adult). For more information on the Decatur Beach Festival, visit their website at: http://www.decaturga.com/cgs_citysvcs_ced_events.aspx
Summerfest on the Green | Saturday, June 27, 2009 | Morrow
SummerFest on the Green is an annual celebration held at the Morrow Festival Park in Morrow, Georgia. Always on the saturday before the 4th of July holiday, this festival features live musical entertainment, a children’s carnival and a fireworks display fills the event with fun and excitement for area residents and visitors! For more information on this festival Summerfest on the Green, visit their website at: http://www.morrowtourism.com/summerfest2009.htm
The auction was a great kick off to our sell out phase, which is now underway,” said Janis Kirtz, President of Morris and Raper Realtors “Remaining units are available in fabulous locations all throughout the building; on lower levels and upper levels, offerin
g pool, skyline and treeline views, and with designated garage parking.”
“The auction exceeded our goal of selling 40 homes,” said Kirtz. “Residences sold from the low $100,000s to $300,000s. FHA financing is available on homes at Cosmopolitan at Buckhead, allowing buyers to put down a 3.5 percent deposit. The $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers also contributes to this success of the sales here. Post-auction pricing on the homes now ranges from $125,000 to $299,000 – still an unbelievable value for buyers looking for contemporary, intown condo living.”
Cosmopolitan is located in the exclusive Lindbergh area in Buckhead, convenient to midtown and downtown, and provides close proximity to the best that Atlanta has to offer. The community is a short distance to Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square Mall which offers upscale shopping and dining. Direct access to I-75, I-85, GA 400 and MARTA’s Lindbergh station, which is within walking distance, allow for short trips to Atlanta’s numerous sporting events, museums and theaters.
Each urban residence at Cosmopolitan includes luxurious features such as gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, sophisticated 42” flat panel wood cabinets and spacious pantries, 10 to 12 foot ceilings, operable near floor-to-ceiling windows, large linen and walk-in master and guest room closets. Hardwood floors accentuate the hallways, living rooms, dining rooms, powder rooms and kitchens. All residences offer balconies or patios, select units have private terraces with pool access and magnificent downtown views and private street-front entrances. Select units also feature double vanity sinks, walk-in showers and garden tubs in master baths and pedestal sinks in powder rooms.
Cosmopolitan at Buckhead received the Best Amenity Package award from the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association’s OBIE awards. Residents enjoy a full slate of state-of-the-art amenities including a resort-style pool with terrace, fitness center, cyber café with virtual offices, piano bar, billiards room with four tables, 20-seat screening room, 24-hour concierge, WiFi in common areas, controlled access parking and a dramatic two-story lobby with a grand staircase.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity, as these Atlanta condos are selling fast. You won’t find a better deal in Buckhead.
Deals on South Fulton Luxury Homes
The builder will be on-site Saturday, 5/30/09 to make DEALS on luxury Cascade / South Fulton single family homes. He will be on-site at Veltre Estates in Cascade Heights from 11 am – 2pm and in between Barrington Trace and GrandeView Estates in Cascade from 3pm – 6pm. Call now to schedule your personal appointment. Veltre Estates at (404) 752-6007, Barrington Trace at (404) 346-1418 or GrandeView Estates at (404) 344-7668. Or visit our website at www.jonesandminear.com. Don’t miss out on a great deal on a new luxury home. Hurry and schedule your appointment today!
