With the Braves’ new stadium and more commercial development on the way in Smyrna, Tim Gonder saw an opportunity to invest in the area where he has lived for 15 years and build equity.
Gonder, 38, a bank examiner with the Federal Reserve Bank, talked about the three-bedroom townhome he bought in Smyrna.
Q: What were your priorities?
A: I looked for a newer property with a modern kitchen, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, hardwood floors and features that are typically upgrades in other homes such as trims and moldings. I wanted to see some grass and a couple of floors with no one above me or below me. I wanted something with lots of light and in a safe area. I also looked for a place with a homeowner's association for upkeep, but didn't want to pay $600 per month for expenses that could go toward building equity.
Q: How did you find this home?
A: When I looked at townhomes, they seemed to be the same three-level layout with an office or game room on the bottom with the garage, the living room and kitchen on the second level, and the bedrooms and laundry room upstairs. This neighborhood had an interesting two-level plan with a formal living room and dining room on the first floor with a breakfast nook that feeds into a patio and an informal living room off the master upstairs with two guest bedrooms. It struck me as home and fit with my personal lifestyle.
Q: How was the offer and closing process?
A: The whole experience was wonderful. I was able to pick my lot and floor plan and sit with the design team to pick the interior amenities such as floors, countertops, ceiling fans and fixtures. Nichole (Beroset with Keller Williams Atlanta Midtown) walked me through every step and reminded me about upcoming dates and what I needed to have in place. She even helped me to pick carpet colors.
Q: How is the neighborhood?
A: I met my neighbors as I watched the townhome being built and recognized people doing the same thing. When my parents visited, they said it reminded them of the street they grew up on in New Jersey where everyone knows the neighbors.
Q: What’s a tip for first-time buyers?
A: Seek the advice of a quality agent to assist you throughout the process. You'll feel comfortable knowing you're secure in your contract and buying a good neighborhood.
At a Glance
Tim Gonder’s new townhome has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms and 1,650 square feet. Townhomes in the White Oak neighborhood in Smyrna range from the low to high $200,000s.
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