Georgia Real Estate Voice: January 2009

Now is the time to file your Homestead Exemption.  If you bought your home last year and lived in it January 1st as your primary legal residence, you can file between now and March 1.  Once you file, that's it, don't have to file for Homestead Exemption again every year.  If you don't file by March 1, you will not get the exemption for this year.

For Dekalb County, GA residents filing is easily done on-line: Dekalb County Tax Commissioner

When filing your taxes this year, be sure to get the proper tax credits for closing costs etc. from your HUD settlement statement that you received at closing.  I recommend asking your accountant for details on that.

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If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, contact local expert Jen Bowman, Realtor and Broker Associate with Keller Williams Realty serving the real estate needs of Decatur and Metro Atlanta, GA. 404-456-5024

Last night the Decatur City Commissioners voted to defer the large scale annexation of residential and commercial areas of Decatur, for now.  Peggy Merriss, the City Manager recommended that they defer the decision to annex for 24 months.

Hundreds of residents banded together in opposition of the Annexation. They were encouraged to voice their opinions to the City and they did. It was really amazing to see how the community came together on this issue.

Here is the article that was in the AJC today.

On another note: The Mayor, Bill Floyd told the audience to watch for changes at Suburban Plaza.  He said there would be changes there that would affect the neighborhood.  He suggested that residents be aware of the high density projects that may develop by getting involved in Dekalb County's plans. In the future Suburban Plaza will be redeveloped.

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If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, contact local expert Jen Bowman, Realtor and Broker Associate with Success Realty serving the real estate needs of Decatur and Metro Atlanta, GA. 404-456-5024

Last week Peggy Merriss, Decatur City Manager, sent out an e-mail with her recommendation to the Decatur City Commissioners.  She recommends the City Commissioners defer voting on the issue of large scale Annexation for at least 24 months. The City Commissioners were to vote on this very important issue on Tuesday January 20, 2009 7:30 p.m. at Decatur City Hall. Commissioners could still vote to go forward now or at anytime in the future. Here is a link to her memo: Annexation Recommendation

Concerned citizens are encouraged to voice their opinions to the City Commissioners at the January 20th meeting. 

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If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, contact local expert Jen Bowman, Realtor and Broker Associate with Success Realty serving the real estate needs of Decatur and Metro Atlanta, GA. 404-456-5024