If you haven’t heard already, Lennar has partnered with Amazon to make Alexa standard in every new home. Each Lennar home will include built-in Wi-Fi, smart locks, doorbells, thermostats and lights – all controlled by the voice-activated assistant. This roll out comes shortly after the merge of Lennar and CalAtlantic, now making Lennar the largest homebuilder in the nation and more accessible to millions of homebuyers. Customers currently have the opportunity to experience the Alexa smart home environment with Amazon Experience Centers at select Lennar communities in Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington DC with more markets to come.

While experiencing Alexa in a real home environment, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the benefits of using the digital assistant first hand. Features of Alexa include putting your home on auto-pilot with “good morning” and “good night” routines, ordering household essentials, scheduling home services, notifications for doorbells, entries, exits and more. Included in the flagship Amazon Experience Centers are the latest smart home products for lighting, locks, entertainment, sprinklers, shades, car chargers and so much more.

With Lennar being the first home builder to implement Amazon Alexa as a standard feature, it seems like a safe assumption that we’ll see a rise in demand for Alexa smart home solutions in new home communities across the country.  This may open a larger door for Amazon to dominate the market for digital voice-activated assistants and custom solutions for each market, in house training, education, marketing and installation make this partnership all the more appealing for home builders.

To experience an Amazon Experience Center, tour a Lennar home near you.

If you’re in the market for a home in the Southern region and haven’t heard of Johnson Development then you could be missing out on your dream home opportunity. Johnson Development was established in 1975 by Larry Johnson and is headquartered in Houston, TX. Since its conception, this residential land developer has become one of the largest in Houston by producing top-selling master plans throughout the area. A focus for Johnson Development has always been to provide premier amenities to their residents and their master-plans have delivered that and more. Residents of Johnson Development communities enjoy a unique experience in that they are immersed in natural surroundings yet close to urban cities and modern day amenities. With over 10,000 acres of parks and open green space, 2000 plus acres of lakes and wetlands, miles of walking trails and of course beautiful home design, it’s no wonder homebuyers are flocking to Johnson Development communities. Behind the success of Johnson Development is the heart to give back their communities. Over the years the company has donated millions of dollars and volunteered countless hours to local charities, schools and charitable organizations.

In addition to the 14 projects underway in the Houston, TX area, Johnson Development currently has one master-plan in Atlanta, GA and two in the Dallas-Fort Worth area specifically in Arlington, TX and McKinney, TX.

In this new year, there’s more news to grab your attention in the Atlanta real estate market. As it turns out, the number of homes for sale in Atlanta is up from December – by nearly 2,000 homes, as a matter of fact. Not great news for sellers, who may or may not see any activity for awhile. However, there’s great news for buyers; and of course, it’s in regards to price (that’s the best kind of news, isn’t it?)

Currently, the median home price in Atlanta is $175,900, down from the $189,900 median we saw in December. As the Yahoo! Snapshot shows us, that’s a price drop of 7.4%. Wow! Unfortunately, the number of foreclosures has risen, but experts concede that this is to be expected. Plus, it’s great news for those seeking Atlanta foreclosure homes.

If you like to monitor Atlanta real estate market conditions, check back here in February to see what kind of progress the market has made. We’ll do our best to give you the most accurate information possible.

Finally, there is news to report regarding the Atlanta real estate market; but unfortunately, it’s not good news for sellers. Since November, the median price of homes in Atlanta has dropped a stunning 5% (as the Yahoo! Snapshot below indicates). As for new homes, though, prices have stayed the same. Take a look at the official Atlanta real estate market conditions for December 2010:

Listing Type              Number      Median Price     Price Change

Homes for Sale           9,356          $189,900           -5.0%

New Homes                 23              $244,900             0.0%

Foreclosures               4,849          $134,000            +2.3%

However, there is good news if you’re a buyer – really good news! After all, a 5% drop in price is definitely a perk for buyers on a budget. Plus, those interested in Atlanta new homes can rest assured that prices (predictably) haven’t climbed. And there is good news for one sector of the selling population: foreclosure investors. It appears that if you’re in the business of buying up Atlanta foreclosures, you can make a pretty profit this holiday season.

Of course, Atlanta real estate market conditions for December 2010 can morph into greater improvements in the new year. So, stay tuned for news that may be bigger and better in January!

Johns Creek, Georgia, home of Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and other natural landscape attractions, has developed into quite an attractive town for homebuyers. Need some ideas about where to buy there? We like The Villas at Johns Creek, a premier, maintenance-free community. Condos, yes…but chances are, you’ve never seen condos like this. From builder Epcon Communities, The Villas of Johns Creek exemplifies what new condos in Georgia - or anywhere, for that matter - should be.

These condos in Johns Creek, GA are spread over acres of beautifully landscaped property, making them an appealing alternative to those who have had it with boring, stacked apartment-style condos. In fact, this community is anything but boring! Located in the new city of Johns Creek, it’s within walking distance to just about everything you need. From the sidewalk of the gates, you're just steps away from a night out for steak or sushi, a quick trip to the market, or a day at the spa.

Of course, you may enjoy staying home as well. The clubhouse is the perfect centerpiece for neighborhood gatherings, and the pool/fitness center negates the need for an expensive gym membership! But your home is a veritable showpiece as well. What else could you ask for?

How about patented, award-winning homes? The Epcon floorplans offer you just that. They’re elegant, spacious, and because they’re new, in pristine condition. If these condos in Johns Creek, GA pique your interest, contact the sales center at (678) 957-1205. To receive an e-mail reply, drop a note to villasofjohnscreek@gmail.com.

If an active adult community where an exclusive way of life is the norm sounds like your cup of tea, we have some Atlanta homes for sale you surely won’t want to miss. South Oaks at Cascade, located in the desirable Cascade area, is a beautiful, scenic community that allows homeowners to be lifestyle rich – and that’s no exaggeration! Here, every homeowner receives a complimentary membership to the private residential social club; there are no added expenses for immersing yourself in the best your gated community has to offer.

Known as the South Oaks Society, the club includes an on-site activities director, who plans and provides a wide variety of events – opportunities for members to mix and mingle with new friends who enjoy the same active adult lifestyle they do. What kinds of activities are included? How about a mystery dinner theater, Labor Day cookout, or informative community forum? These are the types of fun, interactive events you can look forward to on a regular basis when you live and play at South Oaks at Cascade, Atlanta’s premier active adult community.

But don’t worry: Your South Oaks home has plenty of appeal to it as well. You’ll love the spacious floorplans, which include owner’s suites, guest suites, and even a family room/den (Canterbury only). For outdoor enjoyment, a veranda or private garden patio will be your ideal retreat. Of course, you’ll also relish your time spent poolside, or strolling the landscaped property of your neighborhood. This is the rich, fulfilling lifestyle you’ve dreamed of for your active adult years.

If this incredible community of Atlanta homes for sale is of interest to you, stop in to the South Oaks at Cascade sales office: 350 Cascade Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30331. Or, call for an appointment at (800) 736-5240, ext. 1001.

Offering stylish and luxurious Atlanta new green townhomes for sale in a wonderful location, Riverwalk at Wildwood defies expectations of what a new green townhome can be. Providing townhome-buyers with a tranquil wooded setting that is also a convenient location situated mere minutes from I-75 and I-285, the Atlanta new green townhomes for sale at Riverwalk at Wildwood is your retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled in the prestigious area of East Cobb, you'll be amazed at how affordable the high life can be when residing in Riverwalk at Wildwood!

The capital and most populous city in the state of Georgia, Atlanta is a veritable hotspot of exciting urban culture, dazzling entertainment, and plenty of historic southern charm, all while being one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. There's also plenty to love in East Cobb, which will provide a comfortable and safe place to raise a family.

Some of the superb features available at the Atlanta new green townhomes for sale at Riverwalk at Wildwood include open and spacious living rooms, gourmet kitchens, open master retreats,  and much more. Townhome-buyers will also have a whole bevy of customizable design opportunities, like cabinet, counterop, and optional appliance selections, color and upgraded flooring selections, and leaded glass windows and Entry door systems.

Thanks to the ethos of Ashton Woods, the new green townhomes for sale at Riverwalk at Wildwood also boast the feature of meeting the Environments for Living program Platinum standards, which, according to studies, can potentially save up to 42% of annual energy usage. Some of these benefits manifest themselves in the form of 92.1 % high efficiency gas heating and electric cooling systems, LoE(2) insulated window glass, GE energy-efficient appliances, whole house sealant packages, and much more.

The Atlanta new green townhomes for sale at Riverwalk at Wildwood are available in several masterfully-designed floorplans that range anywhere from 2,335 to 2,592 square feet, contain 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, and are starting in price from around. For more information about one of these fantastic Atlanta new homes for sale, please call  678-627-0043.

Sun City Peachtree is a fantastic new Del Webb community for active adults better than 55 and looking to be a part of something big and exciting. At only 35 miles south of Atlanta, Sun City Peachtree is also close to all of the fun and excitement that a big city has to offer, so whether you prefer to stay close to home, or you love a night out on the town, these new homes for sale will give you the comfort and freedom to spend your time however you want. Covering 1,726 acres of beautiful landscape, Sun City Peachtree is the state of Georgia's largest new home community, and you're guaranteed to be impressed by all of the features that these new Atlanta homes have to offer- a 45,00 square foot recreation center perfect for keeping in shape, as well as mingling with your new neighbors; Canongate, a private 18-hole golf course, as well as other outdoor activities like tennis, basketball, and bocce ball. You'll also have access to the Sun City Lifestyle director who serves as an expert in-community resource, hooking you up with new activities, clubs, classes, or trips.

Being only a short drive away from Atlanta, you'll also be able to enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coke, or the Margaret Mitchell House & Museum; not to mention that some of the best shopping and dining in the South will be at your fingertips.

These new Atlanta homes for sale at Sun City Peachtree by Del Webb are currently available in 12 different models that offer 2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths, and have floorplans that range from 1,103 to 2,637 square feet.
 
Not convinced quite yet? Well Del Webb is willing to go one step further in convincing you that Sun City Peachtree is everything that you could want. A steadfast philosophy that Del Webb continues to act on is the belief that you should always get to try before you buy. It's called "The Vacation Getaway" and it's designed as a great way for potential home buyers to get to try out all of the wonderful amenities that these new homes for sale have to offer. If you live within 150 miles of Sun City Peachtree, then you have the distinct privilege of being able to enjoy a stay in one of the fully-furnished villas for two nights, at a mere $89 a night. during your stay, you'll be able to experience everything that the residents get to enjoy. Beats a test-drive, doesn't it?

Escape from the ordinary at the Cottages at Lakeview Road. These beautiful European ranch-style new homes for sale have been thoroughly planned using only the most energy-efficient and low-maintenance materials to build these open floor plans. Cottages at Lakeview Road new homes at Warner Robins Georgia, allow you enjoy your weekends once more with an all exclusive exterior home maintenance and landscaping taken care by Cottages at Lakeview Roads friendly maintenance staff.

Conveniently located just minutes from Interstate 75 and the Richard B. Russell Parkway, Cottages at Lakeview Road provide convenient access to Middle Georgia, including Robins Air Force Base. You will find yourself only minutes away from shopping centers, numerous restaurants, grocery stores and pharmacies.
The Cottages at Lakeview Road provides four award-winning floor plans. With special features that include four-season sunrooms, two-car attached garages, cathedral ceilings, large round-top windows, private entrances, ample storage and private courtyards. What more could you ask for in a new home?

Personalize your new home with an array of exciting upgrades including solid surface or granite countertops, custom cabinets, hardwood floors, and even energy efficient appliances. Usually you can only find suck amazing amenities in more costly of homes. Every corner of these Warner Robins new homes for sale you will find tremendous value and efficiency in each home designs. At Cottages at Lakeview you can enjoy the look and feel of a single-family home with all of the benefits of maintenance-free community.

Within the center of Cottages at Lakeview new homes for sale you will find the community centerpiece for social, recreational and fitness activity. Residents of these new homes can take delight in know they have access to the Clubhouse, heated pool, and fitness center. The Clubhouse offers a place where the neighborhood gathers to watch the big game on the big screen...where friends meet for a game of cards...where your workout can be as rigorous or relaxed as you want it to be...or where the poolside provides the perfect environment to dive into that book at the top of your reading list.

The stylishly appointed and attractively decorated main room of the Clubhouse is both welcoming and tranquility with a fireplace that brings warmth and relaxation. A kitchen with appliances facilitates planning and preparing for parties and the outdoor swimming pool and terrace are a great place to gather or escape. Everything you will need to entertain is right at your fingertips.  For more information on these new Georgia homes for sale call at 478-224-3345.

What do buyers want in a townhome? Open living areas, spacious master retreats, gourmet kitchens…not to mention a convenient, yet scenic location – right? Those who act quickly may be able to take advantage of an Atlanta townhome community that fits the bill, as it approaches its final opportunity phase. The place? Riverwalk at Wildwood.

Located in the prestigious East Cobb area, Riverwalk is a series of beautiful three story brick townhomes in a secluded, gated community. There is hardly a more ideal locale for this appealing line of attractive townhomes with an East Coast Brownstone appearance: a serene, wooded that creates a retreat-like environment, despite its well-situated site just minutes from I-75 and I-285. Imagine the tranquility that can be yours when living in these quaint, distinctive residences against the backdrop of the lush Georgia woods.   

Do Riverwalk townhomes meet a buyer’s interior requirements? They should! The award-winning floorplans from Ashton Woods Homes feature the aforementioned open, spacious rooms (that's no exaggeration; the spaces start at 2,335 square feet and top out at 3,318 square feet), high-end kitchens, and wonderful extras like slate surround fireplaces and those coveted architectural details that townhome residents love! For safety and convenience, each home features a security system and garage.

These homes are perfect for anyone interested in a community of authentic, charming Atlanta townhomes for sale, but there is a catch; there are only a handful of Riverwalk at Wildwood homes left! Two buildings, to be exact. To view their various floorplans and the inventory of available townhomes (pricing starts at $299,900), visit the sales office at 1730 Woodwalk Creek Atlanta, GA 30339. Or, inquire by phone at (678) 627-0043. Sales representatives are available daily, with the following hours set aside for model tours: Sunday & Monday 12-6, Tuesday-Saturday 10-6.