Real Estate | Maria Sims Group Blog

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

There’s something magical about the first Friday of every month in Downtown Canton, GA—the streets come alive with music, food, shopping, and a vibrant community spirit. First Fridays is a beloved tradition that brings locals and visitors together for an evening of fun, entertainment, and small-town charm.

What Is First Friday?

Inspired by the Explore Canton GA event page (see here), First Friday is a free, family-friendly event held on the first Friday of each month from 6 PM to 9 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Downtown Canton transforms into a lively hub with:
1. Live music from local bands and performers
2. Food trucks & restaurant specials (perfect for dinner out!)
3. Local vendors & artisans selling handmade goods
4. Kid-friendly activities like face painting and games
5. Special themes (seasonal events, holiday celebrations, and more)
Why You Should Go
Support Local B. ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, ellijay, renovations, restaurants, fall, ball ground, buying, decor, homeownership, staging, festivals, upgrades, budget, farmers markets, home ownership, nightlife, parks, pros and cons, selling, brunch, pool, porch decor, recipes, tiny homes, waleska

Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

Selling your home can be stressful, but home staging is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers, increase offers, and speed up the sale. Whether you're a homeowner or a real estate agent, understanding the power of staging can make all the difference.
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by enhancing its appeal to potential buyers. This involves:

Decluttering & depersonalizing (so buyers can envision themselves living there)

Furniture arrangement & decor updates (to highlight the home’s best features)

Minor repairs & cosmetic upgrades (like fresh paint or updated lighting)

Neutralizing bold colors & styles (to appeal to a broader audience)

Why Home Staging Matters
Statistics show that staged homes sell faster and for higher prices than unstaged ones. Here’s why:
Creates a Strong First Impression – Buyers decide within seconds? ...

georgia, local, canton, home, seasonal, events, real estate, summer, outdoor, food, woodstock, north georgia, entertainment, jasper, kids, blue ridge, renovations, decor, homeownership, staging, upgrades, budget, home ownership, nightlife, parks, selling

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 / by Maria Sims

The Wild, Wonderful Ride of Owning Your First House

You’ve done it. After all the late-night scrolling through listings, the whirlwind of house tours, and signing your name so many times your hand went numb, you’re finally holding the keys to your very own place. It’s yours. That feeling? Pure magic.
But here’s what no one really tells you: buying your first home is just the start of the story. The real adventure begins when you walk through that door—and realize you’re in charge of everything now.
The First Night: A Mix of Joy and Chaos
That first night hits different. Maybe you’ve got a single chair and an air mattress, or maybe you’re eating takeout on the floor because the couch hasn’t arrived yet. Every sound is new, every corner feels unfamiliar, but there’s this buzz of excitement because—this is home. Imperfect, a little messy, and 100% yours.
DIY Wins (and Fails)
You’ll find yourself Googling things you never thought about before—like how to reli ...

home, real estate, homeownership, home ownership

Monday, March 10, 2025 / by Maria Sims

How to Boost Your Home’s Value Without Breaking the Bank

Are you looking to increase your home’s value without spending a fortune? Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to build equity, there are budget-friendly improvements that can make a big impact. Here are some smart, cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s appeal and value.
Boost Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and your home's exterior is the first thing potential buyers or guests see. Here’s how to enhance it without overspending:
-Paint the Front Door – A fresh coat of paint in a bold or classic color can make a statement.
-Upgrade Landscaping – Trim bushes, plant seasonal flowers, and add fresh mulch for a polished look.
-Update House Numbers & Mailbox – Small details can modernize the look of your home.
Refresh Your Walls with Paint
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to update your home. Stick to neutral colors like soft grays, whites, or beiges to appeal to a wide range of buyers. If you. ...

home, real estate, renovations, staging, upgrades, budget

Friday, February 21, 2025 / by Maria Sims

Homestead Exemption in Georgia: How to Save on Property Taxes

If you own a home in Georgia and live in it as your primary residence, you may qualify for a homestead exemption—a tax break that lowers the amount of property taxes you owe. Many homeowners miss out on this savings simply because they don’t apply. Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of it!
What Is a Homestead Exemption?
A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your home, which means you pay less in property taxes. In Georgia, there are different types of homestead exemptions, including special ones for seniors, disabled homeowners, and veterans.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for a homestead exemption in Georgia, you must:
1) Own and live in the home as your primary residence as of January 1
2) Make sure you apply per your county's deadline
3) Not claim a homestead exemption on any other property
Types of Homestead Exemptions in Georgia
Each county may have different rules, so it’s best to check with your local tax assessor. ...

georgia, real estate, home ownership

Real Estate | Maria Sims Group Blog

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

The Wild, Wonderful Ride of Owning Your First House

How to Boost Your Home’s Value Without Breaking the Bank

Homestead Exemption in Georgia: How to Save on Property Taxes

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Real Estate | Maria Sims Group Blog

First Friday in Downtown Canton, GA: A Monthly Celebration of Community and Fun

Beyond Cleaning: The Smart Seller's Guide to Staging That Actually Works

The Wild, Wonderful Ride of Owning Your First House

How to Boost Your Home’s Value Without Breaking the Bank

Homestead Exemption in Georgia: How to Save on Property Taxes

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