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This year, just like every other year, the leaves will change, the temperatures will drop, Starbucks will serve pumpkin spice lattes, and freshly baked apple pie still tastes like heaven. So, keep your head up, pumpkin! Plenty is going on in Atlanta to help you celebrate the autumn season!
If you’re looking for the perfect fall day trip outside Atlanta, look no further than Southern Belle Farms in McDonough. This quintessential farm is less than an hour’s drive from downtown and is the perfect outing for families with kids or groups of friends looking to get into a more festive mood. Southern Belle Farms activities include a corn maze, hayride, cow train ride, corn cannon, racing pedal carts, giant tunnel slide, and so much more. The farm also provides the perfect backdrop for family photos!
Stone Mountain Park is one of Georgia’s most loved natural wonders. It’s also a popular place to visit around this time of year for the Pumpkin Festival. Pack up the kiddos and drive a quick 30-minutes to the family-friendly event of the season. Experience the new magic show performed by award-winning magician Aaron Radatz, hop aboard the full-size locomotive, enjoy an adventurous round of miniature golf, and explore all the Pumpkin Festival has to offer. After sunset, partake in the Glow By Night Experience. Take an outdoor journey through classic storybook tales that come to life, witness thousands of glowing lights, massive carved pumpkins, and plenty of not-so-spooky, glow-in-the-dark adventures.
Not ALL events are canceled this season! The Taste of Atlanta event is still on, folks! Get your tickets today for $25, and partake in the city’s 19th annual food and drink festival showcasing the local restaurant scene. The event will occur at Historic Fourth Ward Park on October 16, 17 and 18, 2020. Support local businesses, discover new restaurants, and sample dozens of delectable bites and drinks.
Atlanta’s BeltLine, when complete, will be 22 miles of continuous paved trails circling the city and connecting 45 neighborhoods. It’s the perfect way to get some exercise, enjoy the crisp weather, and maintain your distance. Explore the art along the way, take in the foliage, and make pit-stops at places like Ponce City Market along the way.
We LOVE this unique and festive display at the botanical gardens. October 1 – November 1, you’ll see handcrafted scarecrows created by businesses, individuals, schools and organizations, scattered throughout the Garden. Goblins in the Garden is happening on October 28 and is the perfect way to show off your child’s Halloween costume and enjoy a few socially- distanced fall family activities.
What’s better than hiking the beautiful Chattahoochee trails? Hiking the beautiful Chattahoochee trails in your Halloween costume! Experience the 35th annual Halloween Hike through the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about how they live – it’s mysterious AND educational. This non-traditional event also offers music, crafts, campfire, and other festival fun. (Plus, you can feel safe only hiking with a group of 10 people – bring enough family and friends and you can hike in your own group!)
Atlanta is a beautiful city to live in, especially during autumn. The temperatures are comfortable, the foliage is stunning, and there’s so much to see and do!
You don’t need to attend a big, crowded event to have fun – just be responsible, wear your mask, and keep your distance. If you can, visit places on off-hours, this may mean going to the pumpkin patch on an afternoon or waking up early on the weekend to get on the bike trail. However you choose to spend this fall season, whether it’s cozying up inside by the fire, organizing outdoor community events, or hosting small get-togethers at home, we hope you’re staying well and having fun!
When many go to buy a new home they often debate between new construction or buying an existing resale home. Each option has its pros and cons, leaving the decision entirely up to the homebuyer’s preference.
Before deciding on your next home, consider what the possibilities are for both. Below, we’ve listed the benefits and hurdles one may find when trying to choose either home buying option.
Considering a new build? Check out Bent Creek from Lennar. Bent Creek is a prestigious gated lakefront community nestled within the charming city of Fort Pierce, Florida. This family-oriented neighborhood along the spectacular Treasure Coast features sidewalks, open green spaces, a resort-style clubhouse with pool, fitness center, social room, kids room, sports courts and more! Homesites are oversized and waterfront, making Bent Creek a unique gem in the heart of St. Lucie County.
Choosing New Construction:
The Pros
The first pro to building a new home is no need to worry about home buying competition. We see homes fly off the market so quickly, by choosing a new build you could eliminate the typical home market stress.
New home construction allows you to choose every aspect of your potential dream home. You have the option to choose from the latest floor plans, trendiest designs, and latest technologies. Buyers also have the option to make their new home reflect their unique tastes inside and out.
A majority of builders stick with the times and include many of today’s best styles and features. They’ve also made what used to be upgrades, a standard part of the home. After your move in, you’ll have a warranty that will help you take care of any issues that may arise and help you keep your new home in tip-top shape.
The Cons
However, by choosing new construction your move-in date could be delayed. This leaves the possibility of a gap in residence between the time you sell your old place and build your new one. It’s important to be prepared to cover the cost of renting until you can move into your newly built place, if this issue does arise.
Many homebuyers approach the market wanting to make deals and lower costs, but with new construction prices usually don’t fluctuate. This is why researching the new construction market can come in handy. Knowing the price of builders nearby could possibly help you negotiate incentives that can be worked into the contract price.
Given the situation on the build, new construction can come with some unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. These are usually seen with home upgrades or amenities that may have not been rolled into your contract price. This is why it’s important to ask your builders questions before such as: How much does your typical buyer actually spend on upgrades? What’s included in the base price? What will be an additional cost at closing? Knowing more information upfront is better than being blindsided later.
Choosing An Existing Home:
The Pros
This route tends to be more cost-effective initially, minimizing construction stress. While many consider having a choice in all matters in new construction amazing, some don’t particularly enjoy or want that pressure. Having a home that’s already built can eliminate the number of decisions you need to make about the house since it’s all there!
Existing homes tend to be very negotiable on price when you’re going to purchase.You could potentially save money by choosing an existing home by negotiating with the seller on the weak points of the home. Then, once the home is bought, you’re all set to move in!
Once in your new home, you can have all the time thereafter to renovate and remodel at the speed and time you want it done. This allows you time to save money for the changes you wish for your home while being able to live in it still.
The Cons
Given how old your existing home is, there’s a higher risk you’ll face maintenance issues. But by having a professional home inspection before you close the deal, you can root out many of those potential problems and save yourself the maintenance hassle later.
Older homes may contain outdated decor such as raggedy carpeting or unappealing wallpapers and paint colors. This may lead to you having to spend time and money on remodeling this, but you could use these points to negotiate a better deal.
Some who purchase existing homes tend to feel a buyer’s remorse. This refers to elements of the purchase you cannot really control such as not loving your home’s floor plan, higher energy costs, or rowdy neighbors. However, if you choose a real estate agent who knows the areas you’re looking at, they could help point you in the right direction.
What will you choose?
Every home buyer is different, just like the market. It’s best to consider your living needs, budget, and time when making your decision. Hopefully, these points will help you decide if you’re looking for a place with roots and character or be the first in the up-and-coming communities.
Lennar has released the model homes for reservation at Monterey Ranch, where the final homes are also now selling from two collections: The Groves and The Gardens. Located in the Mountain’s Edge masterplan, homeowners have great access to amenities in a prime Las Vegas Valley location.
“We are down to our final homes at this popular community that has a total of 543 homesites! Monterey Ranch’s final homes are now selling and interested home buyers can also reserve one of the beautiful models,” said Ashley Max, Marketing Manager for Lennar Las Vegas. “This is the final opportunity to own new homes at this location so interested home shoppers should act quickly!”
The two collections of homes feature a variety of floorplans to choose from. The Gardens offers three distinctive floorplans with sizes that range from approximately 1,465 to 2,174 square feet. One model is available for reservation. The Groves offers two floorplans, with two models available for reservation, with home sizes from approximately 1,967 to 2,929 square feet of living space.
Each home comes complete with added value thanks to Lennar’s Everything’s Included® program, which outfits the homes with today’s popular upgrades and features as standard. Notable items include stainless steel appliances, granite kitchen countertops, integrated home automation and Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ designs for whole home connectivity, all at no additional cost. Models come with designer-upgrades throughout, such as custom lighting, backyard landscaping, wall treatments and more.
Monterey Ranch also offers a variety of private amenities for homeowners, including a splash pad, swimming pool, walking trails and park all within the gated community.
Home shoppers can schedule a model tour with self-guided and Lennar-guided tours available, as well as virtual tours available online. To schedule yours visit www.lennar.com/lasvegas today.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar’s homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LenX drives Lennar’s technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com.
Lennar’s first community in Stockton, The Keys at Westlake, will Grand Open new model homes next Saturday, October 31 with a Halloween-themed event. The model tours will be open by appointment, so interested home shoppers are encouraged to schedule theirs today.
“We are so excited unveil these new models and offer new homes in Stockton for the first time at a truly gorgeous location complete with on-site amenities and great outdoor recreation,” said Michelle Velky, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Lennar Sacramento. “Homebuyers have a great variety of floorplans here at The Keys, including single-story and our popular Next Gen® – The Home Within A Home® designs.”
Lennar features five distinctive floorplans at The Keys, each of which are available in a variety of elevation styles. Home sizes range from approximately 1,662 to 3,156 square feet of living space with three to four bedrooms, two to three and one-half bathrooms and two-bay garages.
Included at The Keys is Residence 3156, a Next Gen home design that provides an innovative layout to meet a variety of needs. This flexible floorplan features an attached private suite that has its own separate entrance, bedroom, bathroom, laundry area and kitchenette. The Next Gen suite can be utilized as a home for aging parents, extended families, older children or used as a private home office or at-home classroom and learning space.
Each home at The Keys will also come with added value and style thanks to Lennar’s signature Everything’s Included® program. Upgrades and features such as granite or quartz kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances, solar, integrated home automation and Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ home designs for whole home connectivity come outfitted in each new home at no additional cost.
Located in the Westlake masterplan, homeowners enjoy living close to great recreation at Paradise Marina along with a future recreation center, local wineries, farmer’s markets, nearby shopping, Spanos Reserve golf course, trails, restaurants and all the desirable aspects the Northern California region has to offer.
The Keys is now selling with prices from the low-mid $400,000s and models will be open for the first time at the Grand Opening. To schedule your tour and learn more visit www.lennar.com/sacramento today.
About Lennar
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar’s homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LenX drives Lennar’s technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com.
Lennar invites home shoppers to schedule a tour of the new model homes at Retreat beginning Saturday, October 24 at 10 a.m. The fourth and final community to open model homes at Canopy Grove, Retreat will feature three model homes and home shoppers are encouraged to tour the models from the masterplans other three communities: Sanctuary, Haven and Reflection.
“We are so excited to unveil this final collection of models here at Canopy Grove,” said Cindy Baker, Director of Marketing for Lennar San Diego. “Canopy Grove offers a one-of-a-kind lifestyle set in the heart of Escondido, with easy access to nearby schools, employers, restaurants and shopping, along with top-notch future amenities.”
Retreat offers a collection of single-family and duplex-style new homes to choose from, with three floorplans that range in size from approximately 1,535 to 1,986 square feet, three to four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and two-bay garages. Both single-story and two-story plans are available, and prices start from the low $600,000s.
Each home features modern open-concept living areas, center-island kitchens and spa-inspired owner’s suites reflecting Lennar’s Everything’s Included® program, where the homebuilder’s most popular options and upgrades are built into the base price of the home. At Canopy Grove this includes stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, solar and integrated home automation. Depending on the plan, homes may also include California rooms to enjoy Southern California’s temperate climate.
All Canopy Grove homes are Wi-Fi Certified with whole-home connectivity and conveniences like a Ring Pro video doorbell, Honeywell Pro Smart Thermostat, Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi lock with keypad and deadbolt.
Residents at Canopy Grove will enjoy a highly-amenitized setting including three parks with extensive walking paths, Pickle Ball and Bocce Ball, playgrounds, barbeques, dog parks and picnic pavilions. A barn-style recreation area called Basecamp will sit at the heart of Canopy Grove and offer an exciting hub of activity. The space offers a gathering area equipped with a kitchen, indoor and outdoor event spaces, restrooms and an office. The recreation center also features a resort-style swimming pool, spa, fitness center, event lawn and shower facilities.
Canopy Grove is located in the heart of Escondido, California, minutes from Interstate 15 and California State Highway 78, just 30 miles from downtown San Diego and only 30 minutes from famed local beaches.
Children living at Canopy Grove are served by the San Marcos Union School district and the Escondido union School District.
Canopy Grove is located at 1846 Abby Lane, Escondido, California 92026. Self-guided and Lennar-guided tours are now available for Canopy Grove’s three open communities, call (760) 313-0613 or visit us online at the Canopy Grove community website or www.lennar.com/sd for more information.
About Lennar Corporation
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar’s homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LenX drives Lennar’s technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com.
Searching for some spooky family recipes to cook up in your Tampa Lennar or WCI home this Halloween? Treat yourself to our fun list of sweet and savory recipes that will be sure to put a grin on your face! Plus, we’ve found some healthy Halloween options that will get the family excited about mealtime, without the sugar crash.
This fun and festive treat is almost as sweet to make as it is to taste! Your kids will surely get a kick out of scooping creamy chocolate mousse from their mandarin orange jack o’ lanterns, and they won’t even notice if you substitute cream for coconut cream, or refined sugar for hearty maple syrup.
Searching for something a bit more savory for your October dinner? Sweet potatoes are not only in season, but the perfect canvas for mini pumpkin chips! Simply slice up a sweet potato and carve your unique jack o’ lantern face, arrange on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven. A dash of cinnamon and salt makes these the perfect family favorite!
The spookiest things about these cupcakes is how scary-good they are! Sure to be a hit with your family this Halloween, these gluten-free cupcakes are as rich as a brownie without the extra sugar. Garnished with a web of coconut icing and a spider on top, these cupcakes will definitely cast a spell on your family!
There’s nothing quite as cozy as a warm bowl of chili, and this recipe certainly kicks up the creativity a notch! This recipe features protein-packed quinoa in a hollowed-out pumpkin, for a total feast for the eyes and tastebuds. With warm fall flavors and savory spices familiar to all families, plus the option to make this meal vegetarian, this pumpkin cauldron will surely become a family favorite.
With more hours spent at home these days, it’s the perfect time to introduce your family to healthy new recipes that inspire both creativity and festivity! Lennar and WCI offer exceptional homes with family-friendly spaces and chef-inspired kitchens, so you can explore more culinary creations with your family this fall. For more home and family tips this fall, be sure to ‘like’ Lennar on Facebook.
