Articles Tagged "For families"

While many homeowners downplayed New Year's in 2020, this year will probably be bigger for a lot of families. Perhaps that's why Atlanta homes for sale have become such a popular discussion. To help you start 2022 in the best way possible, our real estate agents have compiled a quick list of ways to ring in the new year in your new (or existing) home. 

1. New Year's Essentials
   You can't start off a New Year's celebration in your new home without some of the essentials. We're talking, of course, about party hats, noisemakers, confetti poppers, and all that jazz. It also wouldn't hurt to pick up some crazy 2022 glasses to pass out to your guests. Go to any party store or most department stores, and you'll find plenty of great selections.

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Fossils provide a unique window into what the world was like so long ago and inspire the imagination of people of all ages. Whether you're already a fossil fanatic or you're interested in discovering more about these unique specimens, Atlanta has a variety of museums where you can learn more about fossils. Our real estate agents have all of the info you need to explore fossils around Atlanta.

• Fernbank Natural History Museum – 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30307
  For fossil explorations close to Atlanta homes for sale, it's tough to top the experience at the Fernbank Natural History Museum. The museum is home to countless exhibits on the natural history of Georgia and points far beyond, including an excellent collection of fossils. The Giants of the Mesozoic exhibit is where you'll find many of the best fossils, and the Antarctic Dinosaurs exhibit is also open.

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Moving can be as disruptive an experience for kids as it is for adults, especially if they're too young to understand why. Older kids also find the transition stressful since they'll be giving up their home, familiar places, friends, and school for new ones. Even when moving into a home as lovely and serene as these Atlanta homes for sale, navigating a big change such as moving has its difficulties.

Kids don't adapt as quickly as adults to change. But there are several ways you can help your kids adjust to a new neighborhood.

1. Talk about what's happening
   The best way to counter moving anxiety is to talk to your kids before the move. Explain where you're moving to and why. How detailed the explanation will depend on how verbal they are. For toddlers and preschoolers, you can use toy trucks and furniture to act out and explain the move.

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Do the unprecedented events of the last 18 months have you longing for a more peaceful, family-oriented place to call home? You're not alone. Our real estate agents share the compelling reasons that led Realtor.com to name Peachtree City as one of the top 11 family-friendly suburbs in the country.

Peachtree City by the Numbers

• Peachtree City enjoys a robust job market. At a rate of 2%, unemployment is nearly nonexistent and only one-third of the national rate of 6%. In addition, the job market has increased 2.9% over the last year and is projected to grow by 44.1% over the next 10 years, compared to the national estimate of 33.5%.

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August is National Family Fun Month! Just the perfect time to have some carefree playtime with the kids before you get devoured by the chaotic routines of school. And what better place to enjoy some family-fun activities than in Atlanta? From top museums to amusement parks, the capital of Georgia offers a lot to love for natives and visitors alike. Our real estate agents have rounded up the top fun attractions to get you started.

• Georgia Aquarium - 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  As the country's largest aquarium, Georgia Aquarium has plenty to see and do. Be amazed at the graceful motions of fascinating oceanic giants such as manta rays, whale sharks, and beluga whales, or be amused by the antics of big-bellied seahorses and sea otters. Don't forget to visit the new shark gallery and experience unique encounters with Predators of the Deep.

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Whether you're an experienced artist looking to improve your skills or would simply like to explore your creative side in a fun class, you'll find plenty of art studios that offer painting classes in Atlanta. Some are more serious, while others are a little more laid back and have wine and nibbles available.

Our real estate agents suggest checking out the following Atlanta studios to help you paint a work of art.

• DawnArt Studios – 180 11th St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  You'll be in expert hands at DawnArt Studios, whose award-winning owner has taught at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Atlanta and The Atlanta College of Art. She teaches one-on-one private painting lessons that cater to each student's abilities and interests, as well as group classes and workshops. Classes range from those designed specifically for beginners to those appropriate for all levels, and workshops include a 3-day session on controlling your color and getting the color you want. Each year, students of DawnArt Studios have the opporunity to plan and hang their own group show at an Atlanta gallery.

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Get your checkered blanket, pack your favorite food, grab your favorite people, head to the park, and enjoy an al fresco lunch, because June 18 is International Picnic Day. This unofficial holiday is all about enjoying good food and good company in a beautiful setting. Our real estate agents hope you get a chance to soak up some sun and have fun in a park around Atlanta. Here are some of the parks that offer a grassy spot, as well as scenic and active settings.

• Historic Fourth Ward Park - 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Located just a few blocks from Atlanta homes for sale, the Historic Fourth Ward Park is one of the highest-rated in the area. It offers 17 acres of green space, a skate park, a 2-acre lake, and athletic fields. The kid-friendly spot has a splash pad, slides, and climbing structures. You can grab a picnic bench, but there are lots of wide-open spaces where you can set up a picnic if the area is busy.

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Mild temperatures will be here before you know it, so we can finally get some fresh air and outdoor exercise. Some of our real estate agents love playing tennis and are looking forward to hitting the courts this year.

Tennis is the perfect way to mix fun, exercise, and socializing. Whether you're a seasoned professional or novice beginner, anybody can enjoy tennis, especially with dozens of great courts around Atlanta. If you're planning to incorporate tennis into your spring workout routine, below are some of our favorite facilities around the city:

• McGhee Tennis Center - 820 Beecher Ct. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311|
  The McGhee Tennis Center in downtown Atlanta is often considered one of the best places to play tennis in Atlanta. This facility offers nine outdoor lighted tennis courts, an indoor clubhouse, and a pro shop.  Join in on a variety of activities like new player programs, weekly round robins, and weekly tournaments. Hours vary depending on the season, but the facility is open seven days a week. Fees range from $3 to $6 per person per hour and $15 per hour for ball machine rental.

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While Christmas may look a little different this year, there's still plenty to see and do around Atlanta. Our real estate agents know that you want to stay as safe as possible yet still want to embrace the holiday season in every way imaginable. Load up the family car with hot cocoa and cookies; these drive-thru and social-distant walk-through light displays within an hour of Atlanta will keep your holidays magical.

• Atlanta Festival of Lights — Atlantic Station, 270 17th St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
  Fill your evening with holiday festivities without venturing out of city limits at the Atlanta Festival of Lights show. This dazzling drive-thru display takes place at Atlantic Station and lasts approximately half of an hour. The event prioritizes social distancing, so you don't even need to roll your window down to present your ticket. However, they will also have a bike/scooter night (masks required) for those who want to enjoy the fresh winter air. There is also an ice-skating rink across the street with food and drinks available if you would like to spend the evening celebrating the season at Atlantic Station.

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Social distancing and shutdowns have made life somewhat mundane for many families. As things begin to slowly open up, our real estate agents are starting to talk to more parents who are looking for ways to get their children out of the house and have some fun. 

August is Family Fun Month, so now is a great time to start thinking about some safe activities that everyone in the family can enjoy! Whether you're a potential new resident exploring Atlanta homes for sale or you've lived in the area for years, you'll appreciate some of these great ideas. Each of the following options are offering "timed tickets" and taking other precautions to keep visitors safe and socially distant, so you have extra peace of mind while can planning your adventure.

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When you need some time in the great outdoors, Georgia is a great place to be. Some of the state's most beautiful parks, trails, campgrounds, and lakes are within an hour's drive of Atlanta, and our real estate agents are excited to share some of our favorites. If you're looking for tent camping near Atlanta, be sure to check out these fun, relaxing campgrounds:

• Red Top Mountain State Park - 50 Lodge Rd. SE, Acworth, GA 30102
  Encompassing more than 1,000 shady, secluded acres on the shore of Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park is one of Georgia's top destinations for fishing, swimming, and water sports. Fifteen miles of hiking trails also make it a haven for hikers, and the park's campground includes just shy of 100 campsites for both tents and RVs. Red Top Mountain State Park is less than 40 minutes from the heart of Atlanta, and just a short drive from these Atlanta homes for sale.

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Summer is right around the corner, and there's no better time to host an outdoor movie night. Our real estate agents provide some tips for making your cinematic adventures go off without a hitch. 

Choose a Movie Everyone Will Enjoy

Unless your gathering is child-free, it's best to pick a G or PG film that's appropriate for people of all ages. If you're using social media to create an invitation, select a few potential movies and make a poll. That way, everyone can weigh in on what they want to watch.

Set Up Your Outdoor Theater

Once you've made a decision, it's time to get started. First, figure out how you're going to show the movie, whether it's by purchasing it digitally, using a DVD, or streaming it via services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Hulu. Creating an outdoor movie theater experience can be daunting. If you have any techie friends or family, ask them for a hand. Here's the equipment you'll need:

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If you're looking for Atlanta homes for sale, you've probably been impressed at everything the city has to offer. You'll find there's always plenty going on, for kids and adults alike to enjoy, including over Spring Break (April 5-April 9, 2020 in most metro Atlanta school districts).

Our real estate agents suggest the following five destinations as great examples of Spring Break fun that's going on around Atlanta:

• Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta
  The Atlanta Botanical Garden is located adjacent to midtown Atlanta's Piedmont Park, and it's a beautiful destination that hosts exhibitions, classes, and more. The venue kicks off Spring Break with an interactive program teaching families how certain plants can create stunning colors for dying eggs. You'll learn more about the plants and make and take three vibrant eggs. In addition, you can enroll the kids in a Spring Break camp that celebrates the arrival of spring by letting them learn and explore how plants and animals emerge for the spring season.

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Buying a home and selling a home each come with more than their fair share of challenges. But what if you're trying to do both at the same time? Our real estate agents understand that the struggle is real, and we're here to help. 

Before you sell your home or start looking for Atlanta homes for sale, we have a few tips that might take some of the stress out of the equation. One option many homebuyers turn to is a bridge loan, which essentially "bridges" the gap between buying a new home and selling your current residence. There are a lot of benefits as well as some potential drawbacks, but it's an option worth considering. 

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Held the third weekend of every October in historic downtown Hogansville, GA, the Hogansville Hummingbird Festival is one of our real estate agents' favorite fall festivities. This vibrant outdoor festival provides fun for the whole family, with activities, music, food, and vendors and wares from local artists, crafters, shops, and more.

Tons of Events and Activities

Designated as a Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Event, this fabulous festival has a true small-town feel. It happens in downtown Hogansville (aka "The City of Friendly People"). To find it on your GPS, enter the address: 400 East Main Street, Hogansville, GA. Start time is 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 19th and Sunday, October 20th. Admission and parking are free, with security and handicap access available. With more than 200 vendors, tasty food, live music, a children's area, and tons of local restaurants and businesses, it's the perfect way to spend a beautiful autumn weekend. Or get to know your neighbors at the annual Kickoff Dinner, Dance, and Silent Auction gala at the Victoria Belle Mansion, Thursday, Oct 17.

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One of the most vibrant cities in America, Atlanta has become a major cultural center and a bustling economic hub. There's plenty of southern hospitality to go around and along with more traditional attractions like museums, there are tons of fun, wild and weird sights, sounds, and history to take in. Our real estate agents not only have the skinny on beautiful Atlanta homes for sale, we've come up with a list of must-see attractions that entertain visitors and locals alike in the Atlanta metro area.

1. The Doll's Head Trail at Constitution Lakes Park - 1305 South River Industrial Blvd SE, Atlanta
   One of Atlanta's most unusual hiking adventures, The Doll's Head Trail is repurposing at its finest. In addition to being part of multiple trails that take you through scenic, wildlife-filled wetlands, it features installations of found objects, including discarded doll parts, truck parts, toys, bottles, bricks, tiles, and more. These whimsical displays are all created by objects that are found inside Constitution Lakes Park. Visitors are encouraged to pick up items inside this urban nature preserve to create their own unique found-art pieces.

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There are so many things to love about summertime in Atlanta! From fun summer festivals and picnics in the park, to wet and wild fun at local splash pads and water playgrounds, there's never a shortage of ways to enjoy the gorgeous weather.

When our real estate agents and their prospective buyers are ready to take a break from exploring the best Atlanta homes for sale, they like to stop by some of the area's most popular ice cream shops for a sweet treat. While there are a ton of choices, a few places always come out on top. Check out these six local favorites so you can decide which one deserves the top spot on your list. 

1. Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream: 1198 Howell Mill Road
   Located in the Westside Provisions District, Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream serves up hand-crafted ice cream made from whole ingredients and the milk of grass-pastured cows. With exciting flavors like Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, Pistachio and Honey, and Fluffernutter Pie, you're guaranteed never to get bored! 

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Your dad is your hero year-round, but on the day set aside to honor him, you want to be his hero. Atlanta has lots of options for taking Dad out on Father's Day. Our real estate agents can help you find the right event to celebrate your dad's unique style.  

Here are some suggestions:

1. Take Him Out To The Ballpark - Atlanta Braves vs. Philadelphia Phillies, Suntrust Park, 755 Battery Ave. SE
   Nothing like a day at the ballpark to celebrate family and tradition. Take your dad to see the Braves take on the Philadelphia Phillies at Suntrust Park. If he especially loves baseball, consider getting the special ticket package that lets you take your dad onto the field to play catch.  

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Craving a big, juicy burger in Atlanta? Then we've got some great news for you! National Hamburger Day, one of the tastiest holidays of the year, is celebrated annually on May 28, and there's no better place in the country to celebrate the holiday than Atlanta.

Whether you're looking for a classic burger, a unique, local creation, or a delicious vegetarian option, there's a burger spot in Atlanta that's perfect for you. From burger boutiques to countertop restaurants that have been serving Atlanta neighborhoods for decades, you'll find delicious burgers and even better service. Our real estate agents are here to help you celebrate National Burger Day, with a guide to six of the best spots in Atlanta to grab a burger.

Celebrate National Hamburger Day in Atlanta

1. FLIP Burger Boutique – 1587 Howell Mill Road NW, Atlanta 30318
   Atlanta homes for sale make it easy to reach popular spots like FLIP Burger Boutique. With 13 house-made burger specials to choose from, along with a full build-your-own burger menu, FLIP is sure to have something for you. Try an Impossible Burger, sample the vegetarian favorite Fauxlafel Burger, or dive into one of the many classic burgers on the menu.

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Whether you make it a special, once-per-year occasion or a regular thing, there's no doubt that enjoying Sunday brunch is a great way to spend a morning. Easter is one of the most popular holidays of the year for Sunday brunch, and with the big day coming up now is the perfect time to take a closer look at the best brunch spots in the Atlanta area. There is a brunch destination for every taste in the Atlanta area, from elegant, upscale establishments to neighborhood restaurants serving up your favorite comfort foods. Our real estate agents have the details on 6 of the best spots in Atlanta to enjoy an Easter Sunday brunch this year.

Atlanta Dining: 6 Places to Enjoy a Lovely Easter Brunch in the City

1. Bistro Niko – 3344 Peachtree Road, Atlanta 30326
   Shopping for Atlanta homes for sale, and looking for a taste of Paris for Sunday brunch? Head to Bistro Niko in Buckhead, where authentic, simple French cuisine is always on the menu. The atmosphere at Bistro Niko is shaped by French art, grand ceilings, and a patio that is perfect for enjoying brunch on a pleasant Easter morning. The staff at Bistro Niko is known for going above and beyond to make guests feel at home.

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Everyone's Irish on St. Patrick's Day, and nowhere is that more true than in Atlanta, home of one of the country's oldest and largest St. Patrick's Day parades. Want to partake in some luck o' the Irish as you tour Atlanta homes for sale? Here's what you should know to join in the fun and festivities on Saturday, March 16.

History of the St. Patrick's Day Parade

In 1858, the Hibernian Benevolent Society held Atlanta's first St. Patrick's Day parade to honor the rich heritage of Irish immigrants in the city. Specific recognition was given to Father Thomas O'Reilly and the Hibernian Rifles, who played an important role in Atlanta during the Civil War.

Father O'Reilly earned respect tending to the religious needs of both Union and Confederate soldiers. When General William Sherman captured Atlanta, O'Reilly led a group that ultimately convinced Sherman to spare City Hall, the courthouse, and five churches, including O'Reilly's own Immaculate Conception.

The Hibernian Rifles, named after a nationalist militia group in Ireland, also stood up against Sherman's "scorched earth" campaign. In gratitude, Oakland Cemetery set aside a plot dedicated to the Hibernian Rifles and members of the HBS.

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Our real estate agents love to grab a bowl of hot chili for lunch here in Atlanta. Atlanta homes for sale are easy to recommend, but not many home buyers realize that a long tradition of spicy, flavorful chili is one major attraction.

When you visit or relocate to Atlanta, you'll be in the thick of some of the best chili restaurants in the nation. State and national chili competitions are held in Atlanta on a regular basis – and all the hoopla means there are plenty of world-class barbecue restaurants for you to enjoy.

Let's take a look at six of our favorite places for a bowl of chili in Atlanta.

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