Georgia Living

By: Chris and Céline Evans
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  • Summary

  • Welcome to the Georgia Living Podcast, where we explore everything that makes our great state a true home. Joining you are hosts Dr. Céline Higgins Evans and Chris, both proud Georgians with deep roots in the area. Dr. Higgins Evans is an Atlanta native, born in the former Paces Ferry Hospital. She spent her early years in Smyrna and later moved to East Cobb, where she grew up. She is an alumnus of Campbell High School’s International Baccalaureate program. Céline earned both her BA in Biology and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia, making her a "double dawg." Chris, on the other hand, moved to Georgia when he was 11 and settled in West Cobb. He is a graduate of Osborne High School and later earned a BBA in Finance from UGA's Terry College of Business. Chris and Céline, who were high school sweethearts, are the second generation running Sellect Realty, a residential real estate brokerage based in East Cobb. Founded by Céline’s parents in 2007, the brokerage has been serving the Metro Atlanta area with dedication. Chris joined the family business in 2010, followed by Céline in 2016, continuing the legacy of community-focused real estate service.
    2024
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Episodes
  • Ep. 10: ADUs, Green Spaces, and Groundbreaking in Cobb

    Ep. 10: ADUs, Green Spaces, and Groundbreaking in Cobb
    Nov 19 2024
    Episode Summary:

    In this lively and informative episode of Georgia Living, Chris and Céline Evans explore major topics impacting Metro Atlanta, with a special focus on community development, sustainable living, and family updates. Here’s what we covered:

    Highlights

    • Family DIY Projects

      • Updates on home improvement adventures, including painting, stair banister upgrades, and energy-saving window films.
      • Discussion about the charm of older homes and balancing sustainability with preservation.

    • Greenhouse Development in Marietta

      • Beazer Homes’ groundbreaking 591-home community featuring townhomes, ranch-style homes, and zero-energy-ready houses.
      • The preservation of unique site features like a historic cemetery and a lake, along with pocket parks and trails.

    • Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

      • A hot local debate about adding secondary housing units in Cobb County.
      • Pros: Housing affordability and multi-generational living solutions.
      • Cons: Potential impact on neighborhood character, parking, and infrastructure.

    • Cobb County Stormwater Projects

      • $3 million allocated to stormwater system improvements, using federal COVID relief funds.
      • The significance of upgrading aging infrastructure after the floods of 2021.

    • Affordable Housing Challenges in Atlanta

      • Centennial Yards’ decision to pay fees instead of building affordable units sparks criticism.
      • Discussion on whether inclusionary zoning policies need reform to better serve community needs.

    • Mixed-Use Districts & Campus 244 in Dunwoody

      • How projects like Campus 244 are reshaping suburban landscapes with live-work-play models.
      • Pros and cons of urbanization in traditionally suburban areas.

    • HGTV Smart Home in Marietta

      • Chris’ tour of the HGTV Smart Home, a tech-forward renovation blending charm with modern convenience.
      • Features like remote-controlled curtains, vertically adjustable wardrobes, and Samsung Frame TVs.
    Listener Questions:
    • Would you live in a zero-energy-ready community like Greenhouse?
    • What’s your stance on ADUs in suburban neighborhoods?
    • Should developers be allowed to pay fees instead of providing affordable housing?
    • How do you feel about mixed-use developments in the suburbs?
    Resources & Links:

    • Follow Us:

      • Apple Podcasts
      • Spotify
      • YouTube

    • Contact Us:

      • Share your thoughts on social media or leave a comment on YouTube!
    Next Week’s Episode Teaser:

    We’ll dive into the holiday season with local events, home decorating tips, and a special guest from the East Cobb community.

    Closing Note:

    Thank you for joining Georgia Living! Don’t forget to leave us a review and share the podcast with your network. Until next time, stay connected, stay curious, and always stay Georgia.
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    39 mins
  • Ep. 9: Holiday Traditions and Family Fun in Cobb

    Ep. 9: Holiday Traditions and Family Fun in Cobb
    Nov 12 2024
    Your Guide to Real Estate and Holiday Happenings in Cobb County Welcome back to Georgia Living, your go-to podcast for all things happening in Cobb County and tips for navigating the real estate market! In today’s episode, we dive into the festive holiday events around Cobb County, along with some key insights into the real estate trends in this thriving area. Episode Highlights 1. Veterans Day Parade and Fall Foliage in Marietta We kick off this episode with a recap of Cobb County’s recent Veterans Day Parade in Marietta. With beautiful fall foliage creating a stunning backdrop, it’s a reminder of why this area is so beloved by residents. The scenic surroundings add to the appeal for anyone looking to buy a home in Marietta, where community and tradition are truly valued. 2. Recent Eats Around Cobb County: We share our recent dining experiences, including the blackened grouper sandwich at McCray’s Tavern in West Village and a Japanese meal with oyakodon and curry udon at Yakitori Jinbei in Smyrna. Local dining scenes like this add to the lifestyle appeal of Cobb County, making it a hotspot for homebuyers seeking convenience and culinary variety close to home. 3. Upcoming Holiday Events in Cobb County Thanksgiving Runs: Participate in the Acworth Turkey Chase or the Gobble Jog at Marietta Square for some festive exercise, a great way to feel connected to the community while supporting local causes.Tree Lightings: Don’t miss the Battery Atlanta Tree Lighting on November 30 and the Marietta City Tree Lighting on December 5. These events draw large crowds and highlight the area’s strong community spirit.Holiday Light Displays: Lights of LIFE at Life University: Open from November 25 through December 31, this local favorite is perfect for families and adds to the unique charm of Cobb County.Christmas Wonderland at Jim R. Miller Park and Lights of Joy in Kennesaw: Drive through these beautiful light displays and feel the magic of the holiday season. These festive spots reflect the family-friendly atmosphere that makes real estate in Cobb County so sought after.World of Illumination at Six Flags White Water: Running from November 15 through December 29, this immersive drive-through light show offers holiday entertainment for all ages. 4. Marietta’s Real Estate Market Trends for the Holidays With holiday festivities boosting the local appeal, we discuss the current real estate trends in Marietta and surrounding areas. The holiday season is a time when serious buyers are looking to make moves before the end of the year, making it a prime time for sellers to capitalize on the increased interest.Homes in Marietta and nearby East Cobb continue to attract families drawn to the high-quality schools, robust dining scene, and strong sense of community. 5. Holiday Shopping and Artisan Markets Support local artisans and find unique gifts at holiday markets such as the Apple Annie Arts & Crafts Show at St. Ann’s and the Holiday Artisan Market at Cobb County Civic Center. These events not only offer holiday shopping opportunities but also showcase the creativity and community spirit of Cobb County, another reason it’s such a desirable place to live. 6. Real Estate Tip: Why the Holidays Can Be a Great Time to Buy or Sell in Cobb County We discuss why holiday real estate transactions can be beneficial, including reduced competition and serious buyers who are motivated to close. In Cobb County, holiday events and family gatherings showcase the area’s appeal and can be a unique advantage for sellers.Additionally, buyers can take advantage of lower interest rates and potentially find homes with festive charm that underscores why Cobb County real estate is so inviting. Community Feature: Christmas Tree Fundraiser at First Baptist Church Marietta We wrap up with a special segment on the Christmas Tree Fundraiser at St Ann Catholic Church, where Chris ran the event for nine years. Events like these are part of what makes Cobb County’s real estate market so unique—it's not just about finding a home; it's about joining a vibrant, caring community that values traditions and connections. Real Estate Insights: Cobb County’s Market Appeal As we explore the holiday events and local attractions, it’s clear why Cobb County remains one of the top areas for real estate in Georgia. From Marietta Square to Kennesaw and East Cobb, each community offers distinct features that draw in new residents, including top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a robust local economy. These neighborhoods are ideal for families and young professionals alike, with easy access to Atlanta and a strong sense of community that is felt throughout the holiday season.
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    59 mins
  • Ep. 8: Vote, Honor, Winterize!

    Ep. 8: Vote, Honor, Winterize!
    Nov 5 2024

    Chris and Céline return with updates on local events, election news, and essential home maintenance tasks to prepare for the winter season. From Veterans Day preparations in Roswell and Marietta to practical advice for maintaining your home’s warmth and efficiency, this episode dives into community events and tips to get ready for the colder months.

    Highlights:

    1. Veterans Day in Roswell and Marietta:
      • Chris and Céline share their involvement in local Veterans Day events, including a flag sponsorship at Roswell City Hall and their plans to join the Daughters of the American Revolution float in Marietta Square.
    2. Election Day in Georgia:
      • Chris and Celine discuss the latest absentee ballot updates and high voter turnout in Cobb County, emphasizing the importance of making informed voting decisions.
    3. Local Wildlife Conservation:
      • Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources recently downgraded the red-cockaded woodpecker from endangered to threatened, marking a major win for conservation efforts in Georgia.
    4. Winter Home Maintenance Tips:
      • Essential seasonal tips to prepare for winter, including:
        • Regular HVAC filter changes
        • Weather-stripping doors and windows to reduce drafts
        • Reversing ceiling fans for winter mode
        • Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
        • Cleaning gutters and dryer lint traps
        • Scheduling chimney and fireplace cleanings for safe winter use.
    5. Atlanta Real Estate Market Update:
      • Chris provides insights on inventory trends, including a 50% increase in available homes compared to last year and potential benefits for buyers due to slower market activity in the winter months.
      • Discusses home pricing stability and the impact of winter holidays on real estate transactions, noting how buyers can find favorable deals during the season.
    6. Planning for a Move:
      • Advice on timing a sale or purchase with the market's seasonal trends, including how sellers and buyers can leverage lower January prices.

    Mentioned Resources:

    • From the Ground Up: How Two Millennial High School Sweethearts Created a Multi-million Dollar Real Estate Investment Portfolio from Scratch, and You Can, Too - Chris and Celine's book on real estate investment, available on Amazon and Audible.
    • FTGU Guides - Annual Maintenance Checklist
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    47 mins

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