Fred Williams' 2010 Top Producer Club

Fred Williams New Home Sales honored the following Top Producers at their 2010 Christmas luncheon: Lorenzo McDonald, Lori Ann Aleff, Eva Johnson and Andrew Hart.

Fred Williams' Top Producer Club is comprised solely of agents who have achieved outstanding performance measures throughout the year. They have demonstrated the drive and determination required to rise to the top of their profession. Commitment to service and success is their standard…and it shows!

Congratulations Lorenzo McDonald! 2011 Nationals Silver Award Winner for Salesperson of the Year.

Lorenzo McDonald of Fred Williams New Home Sales, Inc. received one of five Silver Awards for Salesperson of the Year by the National Sales and Marketing Council of the National Association of Home Builders. Lorenzo’s passion for real estate and his dedication to customer service has awarded him several other notable achievements including 2009 New Home Salesperson of the Year for the Sales and Marketing Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah, as well as for Fred Williams New Home Sale, Inc. and a membership into the SABOR Distinguished Sales Society.

Learn more about this prestigious awards at TheNationals.com

SMC Announces Award Winner

The Sales and Marketing Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah would like to congratulate the following sales award winner!

Lori Ann Aleff
Fred Williams New Home Sales

SEPTEMBER 2010
In the On-Site Agent Individual Category
Winner for Highest dollar volume and
Highest number of units:

Each month, the Sales and Marketing Council recognizes its members for their success in highest dollar volume and/or number of net written home sales. The Sales and Marketing Council exists to provide its members with education, recognition and networking opportunities.

Learn more about the SMC.

Night Stalkers Honored for Their Bravery

www.WTOC.com
by Brooke Kelley
Updated: Oct 18, 2010

SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - They are the 3rd Battalion 160th Special Operation Aviation Regiment, also called the Night Stalkers. We don't see them very often and almost never at work, but on Friday we went to a very public ceremony to honor the men who so often serve in the shadows of Special Forces soldiers.

You don't hear much about their missions because they are top secret. Their families don't even know and the men often leave in the middle of the night at a moment's notice.

The 1-60 Special Operations Aviation Regiment stood in front of their families and friends at Hunter Army Airfield to receive high honors.

Night Stalker Chief Warrant Officer Timothy Denton was awarded the distinguished Flying Cross Medal for leading a flight into dangerous territory. Read more.

To all of those who protect our freedom, we salute you!

Halloween Safety Starts at Home

Keep your little ghosts and goblins safer this All Hallows Eve!

• Make sure shoes and costumes fit well in order to prevent falling, entanglement and fire hazards.
• Consider non-toxic makeup or a festive hat as a safe alternative to a mask, which can limit or block eyesight.
  
• Purchase only flame resistant costumes and accessories.
• Clear a path to your front door. Be sure to eliminate flower pots, tree limbs, electrical wires or garden hoses that may be an obstacle for children rushing from door to door.
• Test your flashlight and replace old batteries.
• Make sure your children know their phone number. Teach them to dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency or if they lose their way home.
  

From all of us at Fred Williams, we wish you a safe and spooktacular Halloween!

10 Reasons to Buy a Home

Wall Street Journal - September 16, 2010

Enough with the doom and gloom about homeownership. Brett Arends explains why owning a home is a good thing.

1. You can get a good deal.
2. Mortgages are cheap.
3. You'll save on taxes.
4. It'll be yours.
5. You'll get a better home.
6. It offers some inflation protection.
7. It's risk capital.
8. It's forced savings.
9. There is a lot to choose from.
10. Sooner or later, the market will clear.

Read the full article.

Savannah Casting Call: Are You Ready for Your Close-Up?

"Savannah Casting Call Set for Movie Based on Novel"
by Linda Sickler

Savannah Morning News
Updated: September 22, 2010 - 6:45am

The film adaptation of the novel "And Yet You Still Chose Me" will be shot in Savannah. Casting is set for Oct. 2 and 3 at the Savannah Mall. Read More.

Casting for the Film:

All ages and races are being sought for 10 lead and supporting roles, 50 additional speaking roles and dozens of extras. Resumes are being accepted and can be sent to andyetasst@gmail.com. For more casting information, go to onyxpearl.com/casting.

Water Park to Break Ground Near Savannah, Employ 200

Savannah Morning News
by Arlinda Smith Broady
Created 2010-09-16 00:19

After years of rumors and speculation about a water park being built in Chatham County, the permits are granted, the principals have finalized the deals, and the groundbreaking is set for this week. Pirates Cove Water Park is slated to be open for business by next summer at the intersection of Interstate 95 and Ga. 204. Read more.

Pooler Election Update and Candidate Forum

As part of the Pooler Chamber's Lunch and Learn series, Fred Williams Homebuilder is hosting a candidate forum featuring Buddy Carter, Ann Purcell, Carry Smith & Tawana Garrett. Join us today at 11:15 for networking, lunch and an election update.

What: Election Update and Candidate Forum/Luncheon

When: 11:15AM, Wednesday, September 15

Where: Fred Williams Homebuilder, Inc. (100 Commerce Court, Pooler)

Who: Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Inc.

Cost: $12 Pooler Chamber members/$20 non-members, includes lunch

Web: www.PoolerCrossroads.com

Guest speakers will include Earl "Buddy" Carter, Incumbent Georgia State Senator, District 1; Carry Smith, candidate for Georgia State Senate, District 1; Ann Purcell, Incumbent Georgia State Representative, District 159; and Tawana "T" Garrett, candidate for Georgia House of Representatives, District 159.

Contact the Chamber at poolercrossroads@att.net or 912/748-0110 for more information.

Fred Williams Homebuilder Hosts Savvy Shopper Event

Fred Williams Homebuilder is hosting a Savannah Savvy Shopper event on Tuesday, September 14th @ 6:30 pm, 100 Commerce Court, Pooler, GA 31322. To rsvp for the event, call 912/748-2103 or email cconnell@fredwilliamshomes.com.

Savvy Shopper Michelle Rubrecht shows how she saves more than $600 a month!

Now Playing—the Greatest Sale on Earth.

Check it out! Fred Williams launches new commercial. Take advantage of this incredible interest rate and our unbeatable prices during Fred Williams Greatest Sale on Earth!

The ABC's of HOA's

There are many benefits to purchasing a home in a community that is served by a Home Owner's Association. Just to name a few...

• An HOA can improve property values by regulating the outer appearance of homes in the neighborhood.

• HOA fees pay for upkeep of the community's common areas such as a pool, children's playground or fitness facility.

• HOA's often host neighborhood gatherings to encourage a sense of community between neighbors.

• HOA's can be called on to resolve conflicts between residents. The goal is to avoid feelings of negativity between neighbors since the HOA makes the final decision.

Ask one of our New Home Sales Consultants about the benefits of the HOA in your community.

SMC Announces Award Winners

The Sales and Marketing Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah would like to congratulate the following sales award winners!

JUNE 2010

In the On-Site Agent Individual Category
Winner for Highest number of units:
Lorenzo McDonald
Fred Williams New Home Sales






JULY 2010

In the On-Site Agent Individual Category
Winner for Highest dollar volume and
Highest number of units:
Eva Johnson
Fred Williams New Home Sales

Each month, the Sales and Marketing Council recognizes its members for their success in highest dollar volume and/or number of net written home sales. The Sales and Marketing Council exists to provide its members with education, recognition and networking opportunities.

Learn more about the SMC.

Savannah Awards & Accolades

And the winner is................. SAVANNAH!

Yeah, we know Savannah is cool, but it really doesn't count until others say so. Here's a short list (compliments of the Creative Coast Alliance) of what others are saying about this smart, quirky, cool coastal spot:

• “Hottest Cities to do Business” – Inc Magazine (May 2007 issue)

• “Top 12 trendy hot spots in world” – New York Times Magazine

• “Top 25 Places to Live & Work” – Outlook Magazine

• “Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in America” – USA Weekend Magazine

• “One of the top 10 American Travel Destinations” – Conde Nast Traveler Magazine

• “One of the top ten hot spots for entrepreneurs” – Area Development Magazine

• “Top 10 Places to Watch a St. Pat’s Day Parade.” – USA Today

• “Top 10 Walking Cities” – Walking Magazine

• “Top 10 Southeast Cities for Family Vacations” – Family Fun Magazine

• “Top 8 Places to Retire” – Money Magazine

And that's just to name a few! For a more comprehensive list of Savannah's numerous awards and accolades, click here.

8 Design Basics

Are you afraid to use color in your home? Well, here are some design basics that should help calm your fears.

Determine Your Color Scheme

Colors located next to or across from each other on the color wheel usually make the best matches.

Pick from the Pattern
Use colors from the largest pattern in the room to develop your color scheme.

The 60-30-10 Rule
When decorating a particular room, divide the colors into percentages:
60% of a dominant color
30% of a secondary color
10% of an accent color

Paint it Black
By adding a black element into the room you enhance the other colors in the space.

Let it Flow

Create flow from room to room by choosing a color in one and using it in a different way in an adjoining room.

Create Contrast
Use high contrast to formalize a room or low contrast to create a soothing space.

Embrace Your Emotions
Choose reds and yellows for a lively feel or blues and greens for more tranquility.

Let Nature be Your Guide
Decorating vertically, floor to ceiling, from dark to light reflects the techniques of mother nature - the ultimate designer!

For more great decorating ideas, walk through one of our professionally decorated model homes today!

5 Ways to Improve the Value of Your Home

If you've seen your home lose value since the housing bubble burst, there's good news! We have 5 tips that will help you improve your property and gain a little control over the value of your home.

1. Is the Grass Greener on Your Side?
Dead grass can be an eyesore, even if the rest of your house is immaculate. For as little as $10 you can test your soil to see what nutrients your lawn needs. Just make sure to buy the grass that grows best in your area and remember to water each morning.

2. Get Your Shrubs in Shape
If your shrubs are overgrown or out of line, it can give the impression that your house is unkempt. Grab those hedge clippers and snap those shrubs into shape!

3. Make Your Garage Doors Gleam
Defeat those outdoor home stains with one part bleach and three parts water, followed by a clean water rinse. Using a scrub brush with soft, nylon bristles will get the job done without doing permanent damage to your garage doors or siding.

4. Let There Be Light
Poor lighting not only compromises safety and security, but it also hurts the look of your home. Installing low voltage fixtures on pathways can shine a whole new light on the value of your property.

5. Open Says Me
Refinishing and repainting your front entry door can drastically improve the look of your home. Just don't forget to polish the hardware!

Savannah: America's Favorite City?

Travel + Leisure wants your take on the state of America's cities - the downtowns with the hottest restaurants, the cleanest parks, the most beautiful people - and Savannah, GA is in the running!

VOTE - AND VOTE AGAIN!!! After you complete the survey, enter for a chance at a $25,000 Dream of a Lifetime trip!

Click here to discover why Savannah is such a great place to live, work and play.

A Military Salute

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended for Military!

Members of the military and certain other federal employees serving outside the U.S. have an extra year to qualify for the federal housing tax credit. Eligible applicants must buy, or enter into a binding contract to buy, a principal residence on or before April 30, 2011. Members of the uniformed services, members of the Foreign Service and employees of the intelligence community who served on qualified official duty outside the United States for at least 90 days from December 31, 2008 to April 30, 2010 are able to take advantage of this historic opportunity!

For those who risk their lives to protect us today and everyday, we at Fred Williams Homebuilder salute you!

Home Buyer's Fair

DATE: Saturday, July 24th
TIME: 9 am - 12 pm
PLACE: YMCA (West Broad Street)
ADMISSION: FREE to the public

Join us at the 2010 Home Buyer's Fair and learn how to achieve the dream of home ownership - step by step.

• Pre-qualification process
  
• Understanding your credit
  
• How to improve your credit score
• Financing programs for first-time and repeat buyers
  

Avoid the pitfalls in today's market and get the home buying process right the first time! Plus, you'll enjoy FREE food, FREE school supply giveaways and a chance to win a FREE laptop.

Sponsored by the Cultural Diversity and Fair Housing Committee of the Savannah Board of REALTORS.

Senate Approves Home Tax Credit Extension

By ANDREW TAYLOR (AP)

WASHINGTON - The Senate on Wednesday approved a plan to give homebuyers an extra three months to finish qualifying for federal tax incentives that boosted home sales this spring.

The move by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid would give buyers until Sept. 30 to complete their purchases and qualify for tax credits of up to $8,000. Under the current terms, buyers had until April 30 to get a signed sales contract and until June 30 to complete the sale.

The proposal, approved by a 60-37 vote, would only allow people who already have signed contracts to finish at the later date. About 180,000 who already signed purchase agreements would otherwise miss the deadline.

For more information, contact your Fred Williams New Home Sales Consultant.

"Remodel Your Home for Free? Sort of..."

"A new online tool helps consumers test out remodeling ideas, or just dream about their home's possibilities - for free." Amy Hoak, MarketWatch via The Wall Street Journal

Try it yourself!

Now Pre-Selling in Two New Neighborhoods!

New Neighborhoods

Join the excitement at Lake Shore as we introduce two new neighborhoods. Come find the home that's perfect for the way you want to live!

New School

Send your children to Godley Station School, a new state-of-the-art kindergarten through 8th grade school opening in August 2010...right outside your back door!

New Home Designs

Our dedicated construction team has designed 11 new plans to provide the sophisticated features you want at a price you can afford.

• Open Kitchens
• Cathedral Ceilings
• Covered Patios
• Huge Owner's Suites

New Unbeatable Prices
Get the most for your money with unbeatable prices on spacious, luxury homes.

Wondering How You Can Make A Difference?

Donate your hair and your pet's fur to support the Gulf of Mexico oil spill cleanup effort. The next time you have your hair cut or your pet groomed, ask the stylist to mail your clippings to the California based non-profit Matter of Trust.

Matter of Trust is providing a safe, non-toxic and effective way for everyone to participate. Thousands of salons, groomers and individuals from the US, Canada and beyond are sending in hair, fur and nylons. The fibers and tubing are used to make booms that help protect beaches and coastal waters.

We all know the importance of shampooing our oily hair, but it took Phil McCrory, a stylist from Alabama, to realize that hair was an efficient and abundant material for collecting and containing petroleum spills. For over a decade, Phil's company, Ottimat, has been partnering with Matter of Trust to orchestrate an International Fiber Recycling system. To participate in the cleanup, sign up here. INSTRUCTIONS

For more information about our contribution, click here.

Big Winners at Southern Home Show

Congratulations to our big winners from the 29th Annual Southern Home Show! Claire Richardson and Clara Bain both won $500 for stopping by our booth this past weekend. The Fred Williams team also walked away with a win, receiving 2nd place for "Best Booth" at this year's event.

Sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah and the U.S. Green Building Council, the event's main focus was "green living." The show featured seminars and demonstrations on how to make a home more environmentally friendly and energy efficient. Participants also enjoyed an appearance by Handy Mandy in addition to several local celebrity chefs.

29th Annual Southern Home Show

Complete with seminars, demonstrations and even a celebrity chef table, the annual Southern Home Show is back by popular demand! This year's event will take place at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center Friday, April 30th - Sunday, May, 2nd.

Fred Williams Homebuilder will be giving away thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. Swing by our booth to enter for a chance to win $500! Drawings will take place on Saturday and Sunday.

Event Schedule
Friday, April 30th 11am - 8pm
Saturday, May 1st 10am - 6pm
Sunday, May 2nd 12pm - 5pm

Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and children under 12 & active military get in for free! Plus, take advantage of free parking.

The Clock is Ticking!

Don't miss out on this historic event! This is your last chance to cash in on the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. As it stands, the tax credit of $8,000 for first time home buyers, and $6,500 for existing home owners, is set to expire on April 30, 2010. That means, in order to receive the credit there must be a binding contract in place by April 30th and it must be closed on or before June 30th.

Who is a first time home buyer?
A "first time home buyer" is classified as someone who has never owned a home OR who hasn't owned a home in the last 3 years. The property being purchased must be the purchaser's primary residence and certain income guidelines must be met.

What are the guidelines for existing home owners?
Similarly, in order for an existing home owner to qualify for the $6,500 tax credit certain income guidelines must be met. In addition, the home being sold must have been used as the seller's primary residence for 5 consecutive years of the last 8.

What about service members?
Congress has acknowledged the unique circumstances affecting members of the military, foreign service and intelligence community by making a few exceptions to the tax credit deadline. Anyone on active duty and stationed outside the U.S. for 90 days during any part of 2009 will have an extra year to purchase a home. Service members will also be exempt from repaying the credit if they have to sell their home after fewer than 3 years of occupancy due to official business.

Visit www.fredwilliamshomes.com to learn more about this unique opportunity.

Who Says Money Doesn't Grow on Trees!?!

Nearly 50 local Realtors showed up at Fred Williams Homebuilder's Shake the Money Tree Event winning $5,000 in cash prize giveaways. Thank you to our Realtor Partners for making the day such a huge success!

Guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres & cocktails in the spacious kitchen of Lake Shore's 3204 model home.

Justin Singletary Won $1,000!

Rodney Rawls Won $500!

Beth Ann Jackson Won $500!

REALTOR Nationwide Open House Weekend April 10-11

If low interest rates, affordable home prices and home buyer tax credit opportunities have you thinking about buying a new home, the REALTOR Nationwide Open House weekend April 10-11 will provide residents throughout the country with a chance to view homes in specific neighborhoods as the home buying season officially kicks off.

With interest rates remaining at historically low levels and average home prices as low as they have been in five years, home buyers still have time to take advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit available for first-time buyers, as well as a $6,500 credit for current home owners who are under contract on a new home by April 30.

The REALTOR Nationwide Open House Weekend is a collaboration between numerous state and local REALTOR associations across the country. The event will provide potential home buyers with an opportunity to view homes throughout their targeted communities and obtain information and answers to questions about specific homes, market conditions and the home buying process.

via EarthTimes.org

Click here to view Open House homes in a Fred Williams community.

Raving Fans: Part II

Marian found us the home we had been searching for and thought did not exist. The entire search process, financing and closing was smooth and without the much dreaded usual headache. Our home in Windsong Subdivision, a Fred Williams home, is now our safe haven. We were impressed with the design and quality of our home as well as the energy saving features. We could afford more square footage in a Fred Williams home and that prevented us from going down the road of the "fixer upper." We knew that Marian had helped us make the best decision when our house appraised for much more than what we paid for it.

Happy Homeowners,
Jim & Neta Buckwalter

When we found the home of our dreams our Realtor, Lorenzo McDonald, explained to us many things to expect, which really prepared us for what was to come. We had never purchased a home before so the Fred Williams team did an exceptional job in making it a pleasurable and memorable experience! If we were to purchase a second home we would definitely contact Fred Williams Homebuilder!

Warmest Regards,
Tyrone and Idell Brown

Our experience with Fred Williams Homes has been great. They have been very helpful and informative every step of the way. The best part is we are getting a whole lot of house for an amazing price! This has been a truly awesome experience thanks to all the great people at Fred Williams Homes. Thanks, Rebecca!

Happy Homeowner,
Eric Thomas

2009 Salesperson of the Year!

NOMINEE: Lorenzo McDonald
COMPANY: Fred Williams New Homes Sales, Inc.
TITLE: New Home Sales Consultant
2009 SALES: 50 Homes

Interview with Lorenzo McDonald

How long have you been in real estate? What did you do previously?

I have been active in real estate for 9 years. Prior to my real estate career I was employed by Aramark Uniform Services as a Sales Representative for 7 1/2 years.

Why have you chosen a career in real estate?

I chose a career in real estate because I believe the "American Dream" is for everyone and the benefits of home ownership are invaluable.

What's your biggest achievement in this job?

Having a good name after 9 years is my biggest achievement. When people say, "I heard good things about you" I am immensely proud of that.

What is the one thing you can attribute to your success?
Maintaining a solid spiritual and family structure is the core of my success.

What's your best piece of sales advice?
People are not interested in what you know until they know you care.

FWH Wins Big at the 6th Annual Summit Awards

The 6th Annual Summit Awards, hosted by the Sales and Marketing Council of the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah, were held March 11, 2010 at the Armstrong Center in Savannah. Awards were presented in several categories, recognizing outstanding achievement in new home sales as well as marketing. This year, the Summit Awards were judged by an independent group, the Northeast Florida Builders Association, based out of Jacksonville, Florida.

Silver Citation Award Winners: Presented for production over $2 Million.













Lori Ann Aleff













Andrew Hart














Marian Lancaster

Gold Citation Award Winners: Presented for production over $5 Million.








Eva Johnson

Lorenzo McDonald


Salesperson of the Year: Presented to the On-Site Agent with the highest number of units and highest dollar volume sold.

Runner-Up: Eva Johnson
Winner: Lorenzo McDonald

Gold Citation Sales Manager Award: Presented to a New Home Sales Manager with production over $25 Million.













Stevie Williams

Best Print Design: "YES" Campaign










Best Sales Center: Lake Shore Bait Shop












Community of the Year: Lake Shore Subdivision

Why 'Yes'?

It's a bird, it's a plane...no, wait, it's even better. It's the "Yes Man!"

Fred Williams Homebuilder is saying "YES" to the dream of home ownership. This year, more than ever, we're saying yes.

MORE HOUSE: We start by designing our plans with a single purpose - maximizing square footage while minimizing costs. Our construction management team and trade partners are on board with our mission, always seeking bigger and better ways to do just that.

MORE VALUE: We add value to our communities: from Junior Olympic pools and event-size clubhouses to proactively working on the expansion of educational choice in West Chatham.

MORE SERVICE: We have Raving Fan Service! Our high customer satisfaction reflects our efforts to provide a quality product at an unbeatable price in addition to a wonderful service experience.

LESS WORRY: When purchasing a home with Fred Williams Homebuilder, you have the peace of mind knowing you and your home are well protected. Our extensive home buyer's warranty covers certain structural elements for up to ten years.

LESS MONEY: Let us show you our 'apples to apples' comparison of how we stack up against other builders. Based on square footage and features, you'll find that our prices are far less than the competition.

Top Producer Club

Fred Williams' Top Producers Club is comprised solely of agents who have achieved outstanding performance measures throughout the year. They have demonstrated the drive and determination required to rise to the top of their profession. Commitment to service and success are their standard...and it shows!

Lori Ann Aleff

A native Savannahian, Lori has extensive knowledge of the area's growing market. Her dedication and efficiency help make purchasing a home easy and fun! These values also helped her earn a place in the Savannah Board of Realtor's Distinguished Sales Society in 2008. In addition, Lori believes strongly in continuing education, having completed her CSP (Certified New Home Sales Professional) and IRM (Institute of Residential Marketing) III and IV certifications.

Eva Johnson

As an associate broker for Fred Williams New Homes Sales since 2004, Eva is an integral part of the team. She has been awarded Salesperson of the Year by the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah for the past two years for her expertise in new home sales. Having lived in California for many years, Eva has had the opportunity to assist buyers with culturally diverse backgrounds. Her genuine interest in a buyers needs and desires, along with her knowledge of today's real estate market, make her the ideal consultant when it comes to finding a special place to call home.

Lorenzo McDonald

Lorenzo's passion for real estate and dedication to customer service has awarded him several notable achievements. Not only has he been named Salesperson of the Year for Fred Williams New Home Sales, he is also a member of SABOR's Distinguished Sales Society. As a licensed Realtor and Certified New Home Sales Professional, Lorenzo believes "caring" is a necessary ingredient when working with new home buyers. Despite his success, he does not consider himself a great salesperson, but someone who cares about the needs of his buyers.