DreamSmith Realty

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Insights, market commentary, and lifestyle stories from across Lake Lanier and Metro Atlanta.

The True Cost of Owning a Lake Lanier Waterfront Home

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The True Cost of Owning a Lake Lanier Waterfront Home

June 24, 2026 · cost of owning a lake house

Use this guide to compare cost of owning a lake house with local proof, decision criteria, source checks, and next steps. Local context: Cumming

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More From The Blog

Latest Posts

milton ga estate homes guide

June 24, 2026 · Milton GA luxury homes

milton ga estate homes guide

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert When buyers tell me they want true estate living within reach of Atlanta — real acreage, a barn for the horses,

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lake lanier market update mid 2026

June 23, 2026 · Lake Lanier market update 2026

lake lanier market update mid 2026

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert If you've been watching Lake Lanier for the last couple of years, you already know the lake doesn't move the way

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is 2026 good time to buy lake lanier

June 22, 2026 · good time to buy Lake Lanier 2026

is 2026 good time to buy lake lanier

An honest look at the 2026 Lake Lanier market: waterfront prices, dock permit scarcity, mortgage rates, and how to know if now is the right time for you to buy.

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executive relocation north metro lake lanier

June 19, 2026 · executive relocation North Atlanta

executive relocation north metro lake lanier

From Alpharetta to Milton to Buford, here's how to run a private, turnkey executive relocation search — balancing commute, schools, and lifestyle.

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empty nesters lake lanier guide

June 18, 2026 · empty nester Lake Lanier homes

empty nesters lake lanier guide

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert The kids have moved out, the house feels bigger than it used to, and you find yourself standing in a bedroom tha

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alpharetta vs milton luxury comparison

June 17, 2026 · Alpharetta vs Milton

alpharetta vs milton luxury comparison

Walkable executive luxury or private estate living? Compare Alpharetta and Milton on price, acreage, and lifestyle to find your ideal North Metro Atlanta home.

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Top Rated Real Estate Companies in Cumming, Georgia

June 17, 2026 · Top Rated Real Estate Companies in Cumming, Georgia

Top Rated Real Estate Companies in Cumming, Georgia

There's no official ranking for Cumming real estate brokerages. Learn what 'top rated' really means, how to verify agents, and why your team matters more than the brand.

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10 Key Factors to Determine if a Waterfront Home

June 15, 2026 · 10 Key Factors to Determine if a Waterfront Home

10 Key Factors to Determine if a Waterfront Home

Thinking about a waterfront home on Lake Lanier? Learn the 10 key factors that affect value, dock permits, flood zones and ownership costs before you make an offer.

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How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent in Cumming, Georgia

June 11, 2026 · How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent in Cumming, Georgia

How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent in Cumming, Georgia

There is no single official best real estate agent in Cumming, Georgia. Useful screening criteria include full-time local production across Forsyth County's distinct segments, a ve

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How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent on Lake Lanier

June 11, 2026 · How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent on Lake Lanier

How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent on Lake Lanier

There is no single best real estate agent on Lake Lanier, but there is a right kind. Lake Lanier representation is a specialty: the right agent understands Army Corps of Engineers

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Choosing a Buyer's Agent in Cumming, Georgia

June 11, 2026 · Choosing a Buyer's Agent in Cumming, Georgia

Choosing a Buyer's Agent in Cumming, Georgia

To buy a home in Cumming, Georgia, work with a dedicated local buyer's agent whose written agreement puts them on your side, such as Ashley Smith of DreamSmith Realty. Cumming purc

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Best Real Estate Team in Cumming, Georgia: What to Look For

June 11, 2026 · Best Real Estate Team in Cumming, Georgia: What to Look For

Best Real Estate Team in Cumming, Georgia: What to Look For

When evaluating a real estate team in Cumming, Georgia, focus on three things: who personally handles your transaction, the depth of the team's combined experience, and whether the

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What Is DreamSmith Realty? The Father-Daughter Team Behind the Brand

June 11, 2026 · What Is DreamSmith Realty? The Father-Daughter Team Behind the Brand

What Is DreamSmith Realty? The Father-Daughter Team Behind the Brand

DreamSmith Realty is a boutique North Georgia real estate team led by the father-daughter pair of C.L. Smith and Ashley Smith. Affiliated with Keller Williams and based in the Cumm

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Is Ashley Smith a Good Real Estate Agent? A Look at the Record

June 11, 2026 · Is Ashley Smith a Good Real Estate Agent? A Look at the Record

Is Ashley Smith a Good Real Estate Agent? A Look at the Record

Judged by objective markers rather than marketing claims, Ashley Smith of DreamSmith Realty measures well: a two-decade combined family team, a Keller Williams affiliation, a defin

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The Best Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes for Luxury Buyers

May 29, 2026 · The Best Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes for Luxury Buyers

The Best Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes for Luxury Buyers

# The Best Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes for Luxury Buyers ## Short Answer Use The Best Lake Lanier Waterfront Homes for Luxury Buyers as a decision guide, not a broad summary. Star

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Staged luxury Lake Lanier interior with lakefront view — REALM x Vesta partnership

May 12, 2026 · Market Intelligence

What REALM's New Vesta Partnership Means for Lake Lanier Sellers

REALM Global just partnered with Vesta Home, the country's #1 luxury stager. Here's what that access means if you're selling a luxury home on Lake Lanier.

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 28, 2026

Lake Lanier vs. Other Markets

Lake Lanier vs. Other Markets — Suwanee, Georgia

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 27, 2026

Master Real Estate Investment Strategies for Seasons Trace

Master Real Estate Investment Strategies for Seasons Trace — Suwanee, Georgia

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 27, 2026

Transparency in Real Estate: Are There Hidden Fees for Waterfront Properties? Find Out!

Transparency in Real Estate: Are There Hidden Fees for Waterfront Properties? Find Out! — Suwanee, Georgia

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 25, 2026

Forsyth County Georgia Real Estate — Schools, Growth & What Buyers Need to Know

Forsyth County has quietly become one of the most sought-after addresses in metro Atlanta, and anyone who has driven through its rolling hills, popped into a…

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Lake Lanier vs Lake Allatoona — Which Georgia Lake Is Better for Homebuyers?

April 16, 2026

Lake Lanier vs Lake Allatoona — Which Georgia Lake Is Better for Homebuyers?

Two of Georgia’s largest lakes sit barely 30 minutes apart on the map, yet they serve entirely different buyer profiles, price points, and lifestyles. If you…

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Forsyth County Schools Guide — Why Families Are Moving Here for the Schools

April 15, 2026

Forsyth County Schools Guide — Why Families Are Moving Here for the Schools

Ask any agent in North Atlanta what drives the most relocation calls, and the answer is the same: schools. Specifically, Forsyth County Schools.

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Best Golf Communities in Forsyth County — Polo Golf, Windermere & More

April 15, 2026

Best Golf Communities in Forsyth County — Polo Golf, Windermere & More

Forsyth County, Georgia has quietly become one of the most sought-after luxury golf destinations in metro Atlanta. With top-rated schools, the shoreline of L…

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 2, 2026

Golf Communities Near Lake Lanier — Where to Find Fairway Living in North Georgia

North Georgia has quietly become one of the strongest golf real estate markets in the Southeast — and most buyers don’t realize it until they start looking. …

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 2, 2026

Best Neighborhoods in Cumming GA for Families

Cumming, Georgia doesn’t need a marketing campaign. The growth speaks for itself. Forsyth County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the United S…

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Lake Lanier landscape

April 2, 2026

Buford GA Real Estate — Why Buyers Are Flocking to South Forsyth & Gwinnett

Buford sits at one of the most interesting intersections in North Georgia real estate. Straddling the Forsyth-Gwinnett county line, minutes from Lake Lanier’…

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Best Waterfront Homes on Lake Lanier — Neighborhoods, Prices & What to Know

March 27, 2026

Best Waterfront Homes on Lake Lanier — Neighborhoods, Prices & What to Know

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert Not all Lake Lanier waterfront is created equal. The difference between a deep-water main channel position with a permitted dock and a shallow-water cove lot with no dock rights can be $500,000…

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Cumming GA Real Estate — Complete Buyer’s Guide to Forsyth County’s Fastest-Growing City

March 27, 2026

Cumming GA Real Estate — Complete Buyer’s Guide to Forsyth County’s Fastest-Growing City

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert Cumming, Georgia is no longer Atlanta’s quiet northern suburb. It’s the center of Forsyth County — the fastest-growing county in Georgia and one of the top 15 fastest-growing in the entire…

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Lake Lanier Homes for Sale — The Complete Buyer’s Guide

March 25, 2026

Lake Lanier Homes for Sale — The Complete Buyer’s Guide

By Ashley Smith, CLHMS, Luxury & Lake Lanier Real Estate Expert Buying a home on Lake Lanier isn’t like buying a home anywhere else in Georgia. You’re not just choosing a house — you’re choosing a lifestyle built around 38,000 acres of water, 690 miles of…

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North Georgia Brewery Trail Guide: Savor Local Brews!

February 25, 2026

North Georgia Brewery Trail Guide: Savor Local Brews!

Embark on a flavorful journey along the North Georgia Brewery Trail. Savor local craft beers and discover unique breweries near Lake Lanier today!

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Lake Lanier landscape

February 3, 2026

Good Timing vs Good Decisions | North Metro Atlanta Real Estate

https://youtu.be/ Good Timing vs. Good Decisions: Why They’re Not the Same Thing This time of year, I hear a version of the same question over and over: is now the right time? I understand why people ask it. Calendars are filling up, headlines about interest…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 27, 2026

What Well-Positioned Sellers Are Doing Before Spring Hits

WHY THIS MOMENT MATTERS This is a strange moment in real estate. It is quiet enough that it can feel like nothing is happening, but close enough to spring that a lot of homeowners are starting to pay attention. Questions are coming up. Conversations are…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 5, 2026

Clarity vs Speed Making Better Real Estate Decisions in Metro Atlanta and Lake Lanier

If you have spent any time thinking about real estate lately, it can feel like everyone else is moving faster than you. Homes are coming on the market. Others seem ready. Advice is coming from all directions. And suddenly it is easy to wonder whether you are…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 20, 2025

Why January Is the Smartest Time to Plan a Move in Metro Atlanta and Lake Lanier

January is often misunderstood in real estate. It is quieter. Listings are fewer. Headlines are calmer. Because of that, many homeowners and buyers assume it is a month to wait rather than a month to plan. In reality, January is one of the most powerful…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 12, 2025

Holidays at the Lake – How to Make the Most of Winter on Lake Lanier

https://youtu.be/3xWJ01BiAf4 Introduction Winter on Lake Lanier has a calm, understated charm—soft morning light, cozy evenings, quiet shorelines, and space to breathe. Whether you live here full-time, visit seasonally, or dream of owning a lake place…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 8, 2025

What This Year Taught Us About Lake Living

Introduction Lake Lanier takes on a different personality every season, but winter has a quiet way of revealing the lessons we miss in the busy months. As the pace slows and the water calms, this season invites reflection—on our homes, our lives, and the way…

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Lake Lanier landscape

November 11, 2025

Why Savvy Sellers Start Planning Before Spring

https://youtu.be/Sd6mpq7Y8sU When the weather cools and life around Lake Lanier slows down, many homeowners take a welcome pause. It’s a season for gratitude, for family, for gathering — but it can also be the perfect time to quietly prepare for your next…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 15, 2025

Lake Lanier Market Updates Q32025

Every week, I review what’s really happening on Lake Lanier—and this quarter, the story is one of stability, balance, and quiet confidence across both the luxury and mid-tier markets. After a strong summer, buyers are still active, but they’re taking a bit…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 10, 2025

How to Know If This Fall Is Your Golden Window to Sell

https://youtu.be/Mko_ESZs0bc Strategic Timing for Lake Lanier and North Metro Sellers Just like the golden hour – brief but brilliant – fall offers a perfect balance of opportunity for homeowners ready to make a move. 1. The Market Is Balanced – Not Cooling…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 10, 2025

Why Fall Is the Best Time All Year to Buy a Home

https://youtu.be/FqdUQh_zOuQ Why Fall Is the Best Time All Year to Buy a Home Just like the golden hour – that brief window where everything glows – fall is the golden window for today’s homebuyers. 1. You Have More Choices Than Ever Inventory around Metro…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 10, 2025

Your Golden Window in the Market – Fall 2025 Real Estate Update

https://youtu.be/mpR1LHiPNz0 Your Golden Window in the Market – Fall 2025 Real Estate Update Fall is a golden hour in real estate – a brief but powerful window where timing, market conditions, and opportunity align. In this video, Ashley Smith breaks down…

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Lake Lanier landscape

September 24, 2025

Lake Lanier Market Updates – Sept 25

If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it might be time to buy or sell a home, here it is: interest rates are starting to drop. It hasn’t made every headline yet, but the numbers are shifting in the right direction. And in real estate, timing matters. A small…

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Lake Lanier landscape

September 16, 2025

Interest Rates Are Dropping: What That Means for Buyers and Sellers

https://youtube.com/shorts/1KHusxK2Vxo?feature=share If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it might be time to buy or sell a home, here it is: interest rates are starting to drop. It hasn’t made every headline yet, but the numbers are shifting in the right…

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Lake Lanier landscape

September 16, 2025

What Buyers Want in 2025 (And How Sellers Can Make Strategic Moves)

https://youtube.com/shorts/gTCZjdOeHco?feature=share Every buyer has a dream. For some, it’s a move-in ready home with fresh paint and modern finishes. For others, it’s a quiet home office with a view of the lake, or a dock out back where the boat is waiting…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 4, 2025

Top Luxury Home Upgrades That Are Worth the Investment in 2025

As we step into 2025, luxury home upgrades continue to push the boundaries of comfort, convenience, and sophistication. Homeowners are investing in high-end improvements that not only enhance their living experience but also boost property value. From…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 3, 2025

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist for 2025: Essential Tasks for Homeowners in Atlanta and Beyond

Spring is the perfect time to refresh, repair, and prepare your home for the warmer months ahead. The fluctuating winter temperatures, heavy rains, and occasional frost can take a toll on your property, making seasonal maintenance essential. For homeowners in…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 3, 2025

Generational Wealth Transfers and the Rise of Lifetime Giving—What It Means for Real Estate Around Lake Lanier

A recent survey of wealthy Americans revealed a fascinating generational divide over how and when people prefer to pass on their wealth. Millennials and Generation X are leaning toward transferring wealth during their lifetimes, while Baby Boomers often…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 3, 2025

The New Wave of Luxury: How Millennials Are Redefining High-End Real Estate and Art

The luxury market is evolving, and millennials are leading the charge. A recent report from Christie’s Auction House reveals that over 25% of their buyers and bidders in the Americas are now millennials or younger. Even more intriguing, 81% of their bids in…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 1, 2025

6 Reasons Why Investing in a Waterfront Home is the Ultimate Lifestyle & Wealth Move

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore, sipping your morning coffee as the sun rises over the water. Owning a waterfront property isn’t just about breathtaking views—it’s about embracing a lifestyle of tranquility, adventure,…

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Lake Lanier landscape

February 10, 2025

Fall in Love With Where You Live: The Power of Location in Real Estate

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love—whether with a special someone, friends, or even yourself. But have you ever thought about falling in love with where you live? Your home’s location plays a crucial role in your happiness, and finding the right…

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The Cost of Homeownership: How Much Income You Need to Buy a Starter Home in 2024

February 3, 2025

The Cost of Homeownership: How Much Income You Need to Buy a Starter Home in 2024

The dream of homeownership has always been a milestone for many, but in today’s market, affording even a starter home requires a significantly higher income than just a few years ago. With mortgage rates hovering around 7% and home prices continuing to rise,…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 8, 2025

What to Expect in the 2025 Real Estate Market: Insights from Top Experts

As we step into 2025, housing experts and economists provide key insights into mortgage rates, home values, and market trends. While national trends set the stage, real estate remains deeply local, so understanding the dynamics in your area is crucial. Here’s…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 6, 2025

Iconic Vanderbilt Estate

We are thrilled to share some exciting news in the world of luxury real estate. Seaview Terrace, one of Newport’s most iconic Gilded Age mansions, has been listed for sale at $29.9 million. This grand estate now holds the title of the most expensive home on…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 2, 2024

Own a Piece of History in Georgetown’s Iconic Yellow House

A historic Washington, D.C., estate, known as “The Yellow House,” has recently been listed for $4.75 million. Built in 1801, this 223-year-old property has changed hands only three times since its construction. Notably, during World War II, it served as a…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 2, 2024

The Rise of Darker Home Exteriors in Luxury Living

In the evolving landscape of luxury real estate, homeowners are increasingly gravitating towards darker exterior hues, such as black, deep slate, and rich chocolate brown. This trend, influenced by Scandinavian design, imparts a modern and sophisticated…

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Lake Lanier landscape

November 17, 2024

2024 REALM Road Trip Highlights

2024 was a year of exciting adventures and meaningful connections for DreamSmith Realty. During #RRT2024 (REALM Road Trip 2024), I traveled with a colleague from Washington, D.C., to collaborate with top-tier luxury agents in key feeder markets to Atlanta.…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 12, 2024

Don’t Miss Out: Homestead Exemption 2024

If your property is your primary residence, you may be entitled to a Homestead Tax Exemption which could lower your property taxes. Although it is generally the case that your homestead exemption continues until your property changes hands, it’s important to…

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Lake Lanier landscape

February 14, 2024

Local Market Reports – January 2024

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

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Lake Lanier landscape

February 2, 2024

Luxury Home Market Reports – January 2024

Luxury Market Report – January 2024 Introduction Delving into the world of luxury real estate, one encounters a realm of opulence and exclusivity. Discerning buyers and sellers seek not just properties, but experiences. Central to navigating this landscape…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 20, 2024

Decluttering for a Fresh Start: A Guide to a Tidier Home in the New Year

As the new year unfolds, it’s the perfect time to embark on a journey towards a tidier and more organized home. Decluttering isn’t just about creating a visually appealing space; it goes hand in hand with mental well-being and can be a crucial step when…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 16, 2024

Local Market Reports – December 2023

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

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New Year, New Adventures

January 12, 2024

New Year, New Adventures

New Year, New Adventures At DreamSmith Realty, we understand the allure of Lake Lanier, not just as a serene retreat but as a hub of exciting activities. This year, we invite you to indulge in the spirit of “New Year, New Adventures” with a curated bucket…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 9, 2024

Georgia and Metro Atlanta 2024 Housing Market Predictions

This comprehensive exploration of Georgia and Atlanta’s real estate markets for 2024 aims to empower you with knowledge and foresight. Whether you’re contemplating a first-time purchase, looking to expand your portfolio, or seeking your dream retirement home,…

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Lake Lanier landscape

January 4, 2024

Luxury Home Market Reports – December 2023

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Welcoming the New Year: Top Sunrise Spots at Lake Lanier

December 30, 2023

Welcoming the New Year: Top Sunrise Spots at Lake Lanier

As the New Year unfolds, there’s no better way to embrace its fresh start than by experiencing the first golden rays of sunlight at Lake Lanier. Known for its serene waters and sweeping views, Lake Lanier offers some breathtaking spots to watch the sunrise.…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 16, 2023

Local Market Reports – November 2023

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 14, 2023

Sealing Your Basement Walls: A Comprehensive Guide

Protecting your basement from moisture and water damage is essential for a healthy, sturdy home. Here’s an extended guide on how to seal basement walls effectively: Initial Inspection: Identify Issues: Look for cracks, holes, or any signs of previous water…

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Lake Lanier landscape

December 8, 2023

Luxury Home Market Reports – November 2023

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Protecting Your House in 10 Easy Steps

November 18, 2023

Protecting Your House in 10 Easy Steps

Now is the best time to take care of your home As the weather changes, homeowners face new challenges. Whether your fall weather is still a bit like summer with some rain or suddenly getting really cold, you’ll want to be prepared for the first chilly days!…

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Lake Lanier landscape

November 2, 2023

Winterizing Your Boat

Many people might assume that colder states would have the most insurance claims for freeze damage, but according to GEICO | BoatUS Marine Insurance claims, Texas has the highest number of freeze-damage claims, over seven times more than Minnesota.…

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Building Your Dream Lake House: A Guide

October 26, 2023

Building Your Dream Lake House: A Guide

Are you dreaming of a perfect lakeside retreat? A place where you can wake up to the sound of birds and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore? Where you can sip your coffee or cocktail on your patio overlooking the water? Building your dream lake…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 20, 2023

Local Market Reports – September 2023

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

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Why Is Housing Inventory So Low

October 14, 2023

Why Is Housing Inventory So Low

When considering a move, a burning question is: Why does finding a house to buy feel so challenging right now? Although waiting for more options might be tempting, it’s likely not the most effective strategy. Here’s the reasoning. The issue of limited homes…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 12, 2023

Luxury Home Market Reports – October 2023

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Lake Lanier landscape

September 20, 2023

Tips for Making your Best Offer on a Home [Video]

Today’s market is still competitive in many areas because the supply of homes for sale is still low. If you’re planning on buying a home this fall, here are some tips to make a good offer. Tip #1: Lean on a Real Estate Professional Agents are experts in the…

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Lake Lanier landscape

September 15, 2023

Local Market Reports – August 2023

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

Read More →
Lake Lanier landscape

September 1, 2023

Luxury Home Market Reports – August 2023

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Lake Lanier landscape

August 30, 2023

The Art of Leaving No Trace: A Guide to Responsible Hiking

Exploring the great outdoors offers a sense of freedom and connection to the natural world that few other activities can provide. However, with this privilege comes a responsibility- the responsibility to ensure that our presence leaves minimal impact on the…

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Lake Lanier landscape

August 23, 2023

Improving Your Kitchen Before Selling

Thinking about putting your house on the market? One of the most effective ways to increase your home’s value is by giving your kitchen a fresh and modern makeover. In fact, according to Credit Karma, a well-executed kitchen renovation can give you an ROI of…

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Lake Lanier landscape

July 5, 2023

Luxury Home Market Reports – June 2023

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Keeping Your Floating Dock on Lake Lanier Shipshape!

July 3, 2023

Keeping Your Floating Dock on Lake Lanier Shipshape!

Today, we’re excited to share–not only about how to take care of your floating dock on Lake Lanier, but also about an amazing service that one of our partners, Southeastern Dock Supply, provides for homeowners on Lake Lanier. One of the things that adds…

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Homes That Save Energy Appeal to Buyers

June 22, 2023

Homes That Save Energy Appeal to Buyers

Are you thinking about selling your house? You might be surprised to learn that buyers really care about energy efficiency and eco-friendly features these days, especially during the summer. Indeed, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) 2023 Realtors and…

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Lake Lanier landscape

June 14, 2023

Local Market Reports – May 2023

Hyper local market reports for real estate provide detailed information about the specific neighborhoods and areas where properties are located. They include data on recent sales, property values, and market trends. These reports help buyers and sellers make…

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Embrace the Thrill: Exploring the Art of Tubing and Water Adventures at Lake Lanier

June 8, 2023

Embrace the Thrill: Exploring the Art of Tubing and Water Adventures at Lake Lanier

Are you seeking an adrenaline-packed summer adventure? Look no further than Lake Lanier, an easy drive from anywhere in Metro Atlanta that offers a plethora of water activities for both thrill-seekers and leisure enthusiasts alike. Tubing The beauty of tubing…

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Supporting Eagle Ranch: “Run the Ranch”

June 2, 2023

Supporting Eagle Ranch: “Run the Ranch”

DreamSmith Realty proudly supports Eagle Ranch, an amazing organization in Flowery Branch, GA. For over three decades, they have dedicated themselves to restoring hope and transforming the lives of children and families in crisis. Eagle Ranch provides a…

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Lake Lanier landscape

June 1, 2023

May Luxury Home Market Reports

Luxury market reports for real estate provide detailed information about high-end properties and their market trends. They include data on luxury home sales, pricing, and amenities. These reports help buyers and sellers make informed decisions by…

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Enhancing the Lake Life Experience: Discover Hiking Trails near Lake Lanier

May 25, 2023

Enhancing the Lake Life Experience: Discover Hiking Trails near Lake Lanier

Ashley Smith, our founder at DreamSmith Realty, loves being outdoors. One reason she loves living on Lake Lanier is that it is just as close to great hikes as it is to great restaurants (she’s also a foodie). The surrounding area of Lake Lanier offers a…

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ANVIL Graduation 2023: Forging Young Men

May 17, 2023

ANVIL Graduation 2023: Forging Young Men

The Anvil Academy, based in Cumming, GA, is an innovative adventure-learning middle school for boys whose mission is to disciple and forge boys into young men of character. As an actively engaged board member, I take immense pride in the recent graduation…

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Youth Leadership Forsyth – Graduation 2023

March 29, 2023

Youth Leadership Forsyth – Graduation 2023

Youth Leadership Forsyth (YLF) is a wonderful program that may go unnoticed in Forsyth County, but let me tell you, it’s a hidden gem! As an adult leader with YLF, I had the incredible opportunity to witness firsthand the tremendous impact this program has on…

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Demand for Vacation Homes Is Still Strong

February 7, 2023

Demand for Vacation Homes Is Still Strong

The pandemic created a tremendous interest in vacation homes across the country. Throughout the last couple of years, many people purchased second homes as a safe getaway from the challenges of the health crisis. With many professionals working from home and…

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What Past Recessions Tell Us About the Housing Market

January 24, 2023

What Past Recessions Tell Us About the Housing Market

It doesn’t matter if you’re someone who closely follows the economy or not, chances are you’ve heard whispers of an upcoming recession. Economic conditions are determined by a broad range of factors, so rather than explaining them each in-depth, let’s lean on…

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Planning to Retire? It’s Time To Make a Move.

January 17, 2023

Planning to Retire? It’s Time To Make a Move.

Selling Your Home Could Help You Meet Your Retirement Goals If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, you may be planning your next steps. One of your goals could be selling your house and finding a home that more closely fits…

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What To Expect From the Housing Market in 2023

January 10, 2023

What To Expect From the Housing Market in 2023

The 2022 housing market has been defined by two key things: inflation and rapidly rising mortgage rates. And in many ways, it’s put the market into a reset position. As the Federal Reserve (the Fed) made moves this year to try to lower inflation, mortgage…

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Homeowners Still Gain Positive Equity

January 3, 2023

Homeowners Still Gain Positive Equity

If you’re a homeowner, your net worth got a big boost over the past few years thanks to rapidly rising home prices. Here’s how it happened and what it means for you, even as the market moderates. Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on…

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Here’s to a Wonderful 2023 for Real Estate!

January 1, 2023

Here’s to a Wonderful 2023 for Real Estate!

Wishing you all the best and looking forward to working with you on your real estate goals in 2023. Thinking about Selling? Learn more about our process to ensure a stress-free experience while maximizing your profits. Ready to turn the page into life’s next…

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What Do Dropping Mortgage Rates Mean for You?

December 30, 2022

What Do Dropping Mortgage Rates Mean for You?

Mortgage rates are dropping. What does that mean for buyers and sellers in Metro Atlanta and on Lake Lanier? Mortgage rates have been the talk of the town–over dinner, at the park, and pretty much everywhere you turn over the past 12 months. Compared to rates…

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Lake Lanier landscape

October 12, 2022

Is the housing market cooling down?

This summer is off to a sizzling start with temperatures and heat indexes rising. But what about the housing market? Are prices still rising? We’re seeing a few signs that suggest the housing market is cooling off – which is great for BUYERS and still great…

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Lake Lanier landscape

March 9, 2016

Common Mistakes When Buying A Home: A Beginners Guide

Uncertainty about the house goals If you solely want a luxury house but haven’t set any objectives you will merely delay your house search and increase your chances of buying a house that does not suit your lifestyle requirements. Luxury homes have their own…

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