Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
-
If you buy an older house, one of the expenses you may eventually face is a bathroom remodel. That means you’re going to have to have some money set aside.
How Much Is a Bathroom Remodel?
The cost of remodeling a bathroom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the scope of the project, the quality of materials, your location, and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring professionals.
On average, bathroom remodeling costs in the United States can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more. Here are some cost considerations:
A few months ago, we decided to remodel a bathroom in our Georgia home. I knew that I wanted to take an affordable option rather than go all out on the bathroom renovation.
In this article, I’m going to show you all the steps to take to remodel a bathroom for less.
How To Remodel a Bathroom
Before you get started, you need to consider some things:
Scope of the Project
The extent of your bathroom remodel will have the most significant impact on the cost. A minor cosmetic update, such as replacing fixtures and giving the bathroom a fresh coat of paint, will cost significantly less than a full-scale renovation that involves moving plumbing, replacing all fixtures, and changing the layout.
I knew that I wanted to spend around $5,000 on a bathroom remodel. That automatically meant that whoever I hired needed to be a small business owner and not a big conglomerate that hires a bunch of people.
Design and Planning
If you hire a designer or architect to help plan your bathroom remodel, their fees will be an additional cost.
If you’re married, there is a good chance that your spouse may choose to take on this part of the project. Not only will it save you money (like it did in my case) but it can make for a happy home:)
Materials and Fixtures
You also need to decide if you’re going to buy high-end fixtures from boutique vendors or if you’re going to visit your local Home Depot and Lowe’s for the run-of-the-mill products.
The quality and type of materials and fixtures you choose can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials, like natural stone or designer fixtures, will increase the budget.
Labor Costs
Finding affordable contractors has always been a sport in Atlanta, but it’s a necessary endeavor if you want to save more.
If you hire professionals, labor costs will be a substantial portion of your budget. Labor costs can vary by location and the complexity of the work.
Each of these resources has their detractors, but I found a contractor by looking at the following places:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Read our guide on hiring a reputable contractor.
Permits and Inspections
As a rule of thumb, in most municipalities, if you tear down an existing wall, you’ll need a permit to get the work done. This is not only a safety protection, but it ensures that local building codes are enforced.
Depending on your local building codes and the extent of the remodel, you may need permits and inspections, which can add to the overall cost.
Demolition and Disposal
One of the most unexpected costs associated with a remodel is demolition and disposal of the trash. Many contractors will build the expenses of trash removal into their fee, but – as I found out – not all of them.
To save money, I chose to physically remove the trash from my home myself, and it was a major headache!
Removing old fixtures, tiles, and other materials can be a labor-intensive process and may require a dumpster for disposal.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
If you need to move plumbing or electrical connections, it will add to the cost of the project as well.
When you hire a contractor for a job that includes skills of the major trades, it is their responsibility to bring tradesmen in on the job to get the work completed.
Unexpected Issues
No matter how well you plan, there is always the possibility of unexpected and unforeseen problems with a remodel.
In my case, an old corroded plumbing pipe added some significant expenses and time to the project. You’ll have to plan for this whenever doing any kind of remodeling project.
Final Word
Remodeling a bathroom or any room in your house is a major task. There are so many pieces you’re going to have to put together to avoid crazy stress or debt problems.
And you also need to hire a reliable contractor that knows how to get the job done in the timeframe you’ve established.
-
Mercedes-Benz USA recently announced a partnership with lifestyle golf brand Eastside Golf to increase access and opportunities to play, learn and grow the sport.
The two entities will collaborate on the “Vehicles for Change” program to create unique activations to build a more inclusive community around the game, and advance golf beyond traditionally exclusive environments.
These initiatives will create accessible touchpoints to broader audiences and attract a new generation of diverse golf professionals and fans.
“At Mercedes-Benz, we are focused on innovation and transformation to create a better future. We are committed to community reinvestment that helps generate meaningful change and empower the next generation of leaders through increased access and education. Our partnership with Eastside Golf reflects this mission and aligns with our long-standing support of golf programs around the globe. Together, we’re helping to remove barriers and open doors to a game that is not only fun, but teaches valuable life lessons about humility, hard work, persistence and dedication.”
Monique Harrison, Head of Brand Marketing at Mercedes-Benz USAThe partnership kicked off in September 2023 at the Eastside Golf Invitational at The Grand Golf Club at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego. MBUSA executives joined Eastside Golf Founders, Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper, to discuss their shared goal of increasing equitable access to the sport. The partnership will celebrate the history of the game while bringing authenticity and culture to the golf course. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the golf team from Morehouse College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Atlanta.
“Eastside Golf was created to improve the experience and entry points for new golfers, young athletes and emerging professionals in the sport. We want to show people that they can compete or simply enjoy the game while remaining true to themselves, unapologetically. Our mission is to bring more diversity into every aspect of golf, from playing professionally and running golf courses, to media, marketing and beyond. This partnership with Mercedes-Benz is bringing us another step closer to our goals.”
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
-
In his latest social media video, food critic Keith Lee says that he’s not okay with threats to him or his family due to his reviews of Atlanta restaurants.
Lee recently wrapped up a tour of Atlanta’s black-owned eateries and caused quite a stir in the dining community. So much so that now he’s saying that threats have been made.
Keith Lee Received ‘Death Threats’ After Restaurant Reviews?
“You can disagree with me or not like what I say. I’m completely fine with that. When my safety and my family’s safety comes into play, that’s where I draw the line,” he says in a new Tik-Tok video.
“I’m going to be 100% transparent and 100% honest. Me and my family will postpone touring if other cities are going to be like this,” he says.
Lee’s most visible scuffle was with The Real Milk & Honey, which apologized after an ill-timed response video.
Radio personality Ryan Cameron posted that, “Keith lee said he and his family received death threats and he will not be returning to Atlanta for a second round of food reviews.”
Watch the video below for Lee’s full comments. Do y’all think Atlanta has gone too far?
Before You Go
Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
-
Foreclosures are risky investments that can yield big returns if you know what you’re doing.
Buying a foreclosure in Atlanta, Georgia can pay off with a little persistence.
With the local real estate market teetering on unaffordability you can be sure to find several foreclosed properties in the area for sale right now.
What makes a foreclosure so attractive? Well, the primary draw is that these homes are cheaper than market value, so they are very attractive to people looking to get into home investing.
How To Buy A Foreclosure: Everything You Need To Know
This article will tell you everything you need to know about buying a foreclosure.
What Is A Foreclosure?
A foreclosure is a process in which the deed holder of a property seeks to take ownership of it, usually due to unpaid debt.
Here’s how a foreclosure typically works: For one reason or another, a distressed homeowner finds himself or herself in danger of defaulting on their mortgage. When a mortgage payment or perhaps several payments is missed, the bank sends the homeowner a notice of trustee’s sale.
Because the debtor loses possession — and rights — to the home, the lender will look to sell the home under its value.
This makes the home especially attractive to investors. Meanwhile it is an understandably emotional transaction for the previous owner.
Is It Smart To Buy A Foreclosed Home?
Buying a foreclosed home is a great way to get a property for less money than it’s worth. Buying a home in pre-foreclosure — meaning, before it enters the foreclosure phase — may be when the owner is at their most motivated state.
That being said, the wisdom in buying a foreclosure rests entirely with your plans to profit from it. If you don’t have a plan, then buying a foreclosure may be a terrible idea, especially if you don’t get a home inspection done.
Now let’s go over some steps you need to buy a foreclosure. There are three ways you can buy one:
But first, you need to know where the foreclosures are U.S. foreclosure filings are down across most of the U.S., but they’re up double digits in these cities:
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana (43%)
- Atlanta, Georgia (up 25%)
- Salt Lake City, Utah (up 17%)
- Orlando, Florida (up 16%)
- Portland, Oregon (up 16%)
Now, if you live in one of these cities, all you need to do is get a foreclosure filings list to see the properties. Let’s go over the three ways you can buy a foreclosure:
In Pre-Foreclosure
If you learn that a home is in pre-foreclosure, that means that the bank or lender has notified the homeowner that they plan to foreclose on the property.
This creates a motivated seller. If you happen to approach the homeowner about selling the property, you can get it for a good price.
The key to buying a pre-foreclosure home is to get while the owner still has control. Once the property goes into foreclosure, the owner loses all rights and you have to deal with the bank.
What’s different about buying a home in pre-foreclosure is that, you typically have to pay the following:
- Loan balance
- Any liens on the property
- homeowners insurance
After that, you take over possession of the home from the seller. Again, remember to handle the transaction with all due care, dignity and respect.
Where To Find Pre-Foreclosure Homes
You can find real estate listings that will show you plenty of pre-foreclosure homes.
You may also try to get the a distressed property at foreclosure. Let’s talk about it:
At Foreclosure Auction
A foreclosure auction often takes place on the courthouse steps. The Sheriff conducts the auction and ensures that order takes place.
A bailiff or another official may preside over proceedings, reading out properties from a foreclosure list. All you have to do is be present and bid on the properties to participate.
Be wary of some foreclosures if you haven’t done your research or driven by the properties. Many of them are uninhabitable and may required extensive repairs.
If you end up buying a money pit, you’d better have a plan. That’s because once you buy a foreclosure, you’re liable for all expenses related to the home.
Bank-Owned Property
You may choose to buy a property straight from the lender. This is typically considered a bank-owned property.
The bank has a right to hold onto a property as long as possible, so be aware that sales often take months and maybe even years.
Where To Find REO Properties
- Familiarize yourself with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which has a list of REO properties.
- Contact Realtors: Real estate agents know where all the REOs are in any given area.
- Go online and Google search “REOs near me” to find listings in your area.
With any real estate transaction, make sure you get in touch with a real estate attorney so that you’re protected legally.
Final Thoughts
When you buy a foreclosure, you have to purchase it with cash, so you should make sure that your money is right.
Ether you have to put together a plan to save or take out a loan. Either way, you need to have cash money. So here’s my closing advice: Count the cost.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here.More Articles From AtlantaFi:
-
After Detroit-based food critic Keith Lee swept through Atlanta and reviewed several of the city’s black-owned restaurants, it’s safe to say that his videos left some food for thought for a few popular eateries. He even received death threats!
Several of them responding to his feedback, but one of them — The Real Milk & Honey in College Park — had a response that many construed as disrespectful.
The Real Milk & Honey posted a video in which the owner said “Who is Keith Lee?” as if to imply that he was not anyone to be respected in the food industry.
Of course, the video did not go over well with the Lee-gion (OK, I made that up). But seriously, Lee’s fans were upset.
Now the restaurant just posted an apology and clarification on social media saying that he didn’t mean to “discredit” Lee, who has left the city with his family to do other food tours in American cities.
The apology from the Real Milk & Honey reads:
“Today, we extend our apologies to all as we address a recent incident that highlighted a review from a high-profile food blogger.
In no way were we trying to discredit anyone, if the comments came across as such, kindly accept our apologies.
It’s crucial to always take feedback and make improvements for the success of our business, and our community. We’ve taken time to reflect on the incident and have started internal corrective actions with our team regarding communication styles.“
The restaurant also noted that the “house rules” circulating social media were outdated. “The current one is to be published soon on our social platforms so everyone can see it’s a vibe no rules.”
The owner of the restaurant is hosting a sitdown at the establishment on “all day Saturday” to talk about the incident and share lessons and insights.
Final Bite
We love The Real Milk & Honey restaurant and we know that they will get it right as they continue to win in metro Atlanta’s competitive food and drink scene.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
-
What do you know about Queen City cuisine? If your cup does not runneth over with the latest and greatest chef and restaurant
Savor Charlotte, an immersive taste of Charlotte’s awesome epicurean experiences, is coming to Atlanta.
When Is Savor Charlotte Coming To Atlanta?
On November 9, 2023, Savor Charlotte will bring its dynamic food and drink landscape to Atlanta as a dozen of the city’s pioneering culinary tastemakers converge for a one night only experience.
Savor Charlotte will take place at six Atlanta restaurants:
- Grana
- Mission + Market
- Southern National
- The Chastain
- The Woodall
- Tio Lucho’s
The food and beverage menus will be exclusively crafted at each restaurant, spotlighting the talents and pairings of Charlotte’s innovative culinary community. Bookings are now available through each restaurant link on SavorCharlotte.com.
“The Queen City has so many talented, passionate and inventive chefs and mixologists who are making our region a dynamic culinary destination and adding so much to our quality of life,” Tom Murray, Chief Executive Officer at The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), which is bringing the event to Georgia, says in a press release. “We are excited to showcase Charlotte’s unique flavors and diverse tastes in Atlanta, and hope the experience will inspire guests to plan a visit so they can enjoy our city and culinary offerings firsthand.”
The pairing of six of Atlanta’s top restaurants with Charlotte chefs and mixologists offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for restaurant goers to get an exceptional taste of Charlotte’s culinary scene. The six chef, mixologist and restaurant collaborations include:
- Grana – Chef Brittany Cochran of Stagioni and mixologist Justin Hazelton of Top Shelf Co.
- Mission + Market – Chef Chris Rogienski of Supperland and mixologist Yoshi Mejia of Creative Consulting CLT
- Southern National – Chef Oscar Johnson of Jimmy Pearls and mixologist Stefan Huebner of Dot Dot Dot
- The Chastain – Chef Chris Coleman of Goodyear House and mixologist Bob Peters of Built On Hospitality
- The Woodall – Chef Sam Diminich of Restaurant Constance and mixologist Amanda Britton of Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails
- Tio Lucho’s – Chef Bruce Macchiavello of Yunta and mixologist Morgan Styers of Merchant and Trade
Charlotte has an eclectic mix of epicurean adventures ranging from internationally inspired dishes to local farms and everything in between. From recently announced James Beard Award nominees to perpetually creative mixologists, Charlotte remains at the forefront of travelers’ minds as a must-visit culinary destination. Savor Charlotte is a testament to the inspirational work of those who define the flavor of the Queen City.
The ‘Savor Charlotte’ Atlanta culinary adventure is easy to experience. Diners interested in tasting the eclectic mix of Charlotte dishes and beverages can reserve a table directly at one of the six participating restaurants. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged, as space is limited.
Final Bite
Charlotte has a great reputation when it comes to food. It’s almost like you can say Charlotte and Atlanta are cuisine cousins.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
-
Sweetgreen continues its expansion around Atlanta. The fast-casual restaurant specializes in healthy foods, salads and protein bowls with options like chicken or salmon.
Aside from being one of the best places in Atlanta for salads, Sweetgreen boasts some of the most seasoned and fresh vegetables you can find in a fast-casual spot.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about the latest new Atlanta restaurant opening.
Now Open: Sweetgreen In Emory Village in Atlanta
If you don’t know much about Sweetgreen, you should know its history.
The eatery was founded by Jonathan Newman, Nathaniel Ru and Nicolas Jammet. The eatery’s assets are valued at more than $1 billion and they’ve got some aggressive expansion plans in the making.
The salad chain is super-popular with millennials, who have shown the willingness to pay higher prices for sustainable food. None other than tennis star Naomi Osaka joined Sweetgreen as an investor. She has her own protein bowl on the eatery’s menu.
Anyone that knows me knows I’ve been into @sweetgreen for a while (I eat it three times a week when I’m training/at shoots), which is why I’m excited to share that I’m their newest partner and youngest investor 💚 more on how we’re redefining fast food together coming soon. pic.twitter.com/ZCIU78qdU3
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) May 6, 2021
How Healthy Is Sweetgreen?
Sweetgreen has plenty of vegetable options, particularly of the green variety, but the eatery also serves the usual proteins along with toppings that can add to your calorie count.
How Many Sweetgreens Are In Atlanta?
As of now, there are six Sweetgreen locations in Atlanta. Here are the addresses of the current ones:
- Colony Square: 1201 Peachtree St NE Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30361
- Ponce City Market: 650 North Avenue NE Suite 102B, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Lenox Square: 3393 Peachtree Rd NE #3065C, Atlanta, GA 30326
- 1050 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
- 123 Perimeter Center W Suite 400, Atlanta, GA 30346
- 1556 N Decatur Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
Where Is Sweetgreen Located In Emory Village?
Sweetgreen in Emory Village is located at 1556 N Decatur Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Where Can I Eat Healthy Food In Atlanta?
Atlanta may be a Southern city known for greasy meats and sweet tea, but Georgia’s largest city does have a healthy site. Here’s where to eat keto in Atlanta.
More AtlantaFi.com Articles:
-
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis continues to secure the guilty pleas in her election case against President Donald Trump and 19 other co-defendants. On Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, Fulton County officials announced that Jenna Ellis, a former attorney for Trump, has agreed to plead guilty before trial.
What Did Jenna Ellis Plead Guilty To?
Ellis will plead guilty to one count of aiding and abetting false statements and writings.
As with all the co-defendants in the trial related to the 2020 election, Ellis was charged with violating the state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and soliciting the violation of oath by a public officer.
Although the particulars remain to be seen, Ellis’s guilty verdict likely means that she will be cooperating with Fulton prosecutors to build bigger and more substantial cases against Trump and Rudy Giuliani.
How Many Trump Co-Defendants Have Pleaded Guilty?
So far, four guilty pleas in the Fulton County election interference case.
- Scott Hall
- Sidney Powell
- Kenneth Chesebro
- Jenna Ellis
Willis is the first prosecutor to bring charges against Trump related to the 2020 election, but she won’t be the last. New York’s Attorney General has also gearing up to indict the former president.
Since announcing the indictments in August, Willis has been the target of racist threats and verbal attacks.
In early September, Willis wrote a scathing letter to Ohio Congress Jim Jordan, a Republican that has attempted to derail her investigation.
-
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis continues to surprise her critics. On Friday, Oct. 20, another witness in her racketeering case against former President Donald Trump and co-defendants turned state witness.
Kenneth Chesebro, who many have called the originator of the “fake electors” plot, has struck a plea deal with prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
Kenneth Chesebro Agrees To Turn State Witness In Fulton County Election Case
As part of the deal, Chesebro pleaded guilty to a felony charge for his role in the election case.
He was asked pointedly by the prosecutor: “It is your decision to enter into this guilty plea because you are in fact guilty?”
Chesebro said: “Yes.” The prosecutor then asked him: “How do you plead to count 15, conspiracy to commit filing false documents?” Chesebro replied: “Guilty.”
Watch: Chesebro Pleads Guilty in a Fulton County Courtroom
While Trump has been attacking Willis and spreading rumors and lies about her, she and her Fulton prosecutors have been steadily building a case that has flipped two huge witnesses against Trump.
On Thursday, Trump co-defendant Sidney Powell pleaded guilty in a Fulton courthouse as well.
Powell pleaded guilty to six misdemeanors that will allow her to avoid jail time and pay fines. She did not plead guilty to racketeering conspiracy, which was the biggest charge.
Notably, Powell has agreed to testify against some of the other co-defendants, which is startling news to Trump and a significant legal development.
Since announcing the indictments in August, Willis has been the target of racist threats and verbal attacks.In early September, Willis wrote a scathing letter to Ohio Congress Jim Jordan, a Republican that has attempted to derail her investigation.
Final Word
The turning of yet another witness signals a triumph for Willis, who has been scolded for attempting to try all 19 Trump co-defendants at one time. With an increasingly surprising number of them agreeing to plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for cooperating with prosecutors, it’s a sign that Willis will have the bandwidth — and time — to see justice through in the case.
-
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is uncovering the lid on some of the abuse she’s been subjected to since she indicted former President Donald Trump along with 19 co-defendants.
Willis, speaking at a private fundraiser in Atlanta in honor of her 52nd birthday, opened up on the many verbal attacks and racist threats she said she’s endured over the past couple of months.
Top Republican leaders aligned with Trump have sought to stop the indictments brought by Willis and have tried to reprimand her over the charges. Although as a county prosecutor, she’s not alone, Willis is the first prosecutor to bring charges against Trump related to the 2020 election.
In early September, Willis wrote a scathing letter to Ohio Congress Jim Jordan, a Republican that has attempted to derail her investigation.
She said that she sees the attacks as par for the course in American politics.
“If you are a leader, you’re going to be attacked,” Willis said, according to AJC.com. “There are some days I’m human and I’m really angry or I’m hurt that somebody would tell a bold-faced lie on me.”
“I think the craziest ]lie] was that I was sleeping with a gang-banger. Like, what?! I like them old. What are you talking about?” she told the crowd as they laughed.
Willis said that she has had to rely on the Bible to get her through these tough times.
“You have these personal moments, when you’re like, ‘Why am I being personally attacked and all I’m out here trying to do is my job? And in the reading of that Scripture, what it told me was that you ain’t special,” she said, referring to herself. “That if you are a leader and you’re put in a position where people are going to lie on you, and they’re going to attack you, you have to still do what is the mission. And the mission here is to keep society safe. That everyone is equal. And that the law is protected.”
Final Word
Trump co-defendants are slowly having their day in an Atlanta courtroom. On Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023, Sidney Powell pleaded guilty to her role in the election case.