Posts by : Cleve Gaddis

Why More Homeowners Are Downsizing in Metro Atlanta

If you’ve been searching for “how to downsize my home in Metro Atlanta” or “best 55+ communities near Atlanta,” you’re not alone. Many homeowners across Georgia are opting to right-size their lifestyle—moving into homes that better suit their needs, reduce maintenance, and allow more freedom.

Benefits of Downsizing in Your 50s, 60s, and Beyond

• Lower Monthly Expenses: Reduce utility costs, property taxes, and upkeep.
• Simplified Living: Transition to one-level homes or active adult communities.
• More Time for Travel and Leisure: Spend less time on housework and more time doing what you love.

Popular Areas for Downsizing in Met...

We’re honored and thrilled to share that Modern Traditions Realty Group has been nominated for the 2025 Best of Gwinnett Awards – marking our third consecutive year receiving this recognition.

Why This Nomination Matters

The Best of Gwinnett award is more than just a title. It represents the voice of the community, residents, clients, and partners who believe in the value and service of local businesses. Each year, thousands of people vote to recognize excellence across Gwinnett County, and this nomination is a direct reflection of your trust and support.

We’re proud to serve Gwinnett and the surrounding areas with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to helping clients...

The dream of homeownership is alive, but more complicated than ever.

Rising home prices, soaring interest rates, and limited inventory have many Millennials and Gen Zers wondering: Will I ever be able to buy a home? On a recent episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, I sat down with Tammie Slay, Broker/Owner of Hip Realty in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, to explore this tough question and offer hope—and real solutions—for first-time buyers in Metro Atlanta, Dallas, and beyond.

I’m Cleve Gaddis, REALTOR® and host of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, where we help homebuyers and sellers across Metro Atlanta go from real estate novices to confident experts.

Let’s dig into what’s really going o...

Thinking About Relocating to Georgia? Consider Metro Atlanta

If you've been searching for “best places to relocate in Georgia” or “how to move to Metro Atlanta with a family,” you're in good company. With its combination of career opportunities, diverse neighborhoods, and affordable cost of living, Metro Atlanta is one of the top destinations for individuals and families relocating in 2025.

What Makes Metro Atlanta an Ideal Relocation Destination?

As Atlanta relocation specialists, the team at Modern Traditions Realty Group, affiliated with RE/MAX Center, helps buyers find the perfect fit across suburban and urban communities. We know what high-intent movers need:

• Great Schools: A...

Why Choosing the Right Realtor in Atlanta Matters

Searching for the best realtor in Atlanta to sell my home fast or a top-rated real estate agent near me for luxury homes in Metro Atlanta? In today’s dynamic market, who you work with matters more than ever. Whether you're relocating, upgrading, or downsizing, choosing a trusted advisor can make or break your experience.

What Sets the Best Realtors Apart?

The best agents bring more than experience; they deliver strategic marketing, negotiation expertise, and local knowledge. At Modern Traditions Realty Group, affiliated with REMAX Center and REMAX Metro Atlanta, we’re proud to be a top real estate team in Georgia with a client-first a...

Welcome to 2379 Fallbrook Court in Duluth, Georgia—a stunning four-sided brick home that blends timeless curb appeal with modern upgrades. Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac within the desirable Duluth High School district, this move-in-ready gem offers space, style, and convenience in one of Metro Atlanta’s most sought-after areas.

Step Inside and Fall in Love

From the moment you step through the front door, you’re greeted by a dramatic two-story foyer and open sightlines into the formal living and dining areas. The entire home is carpet-free, featuring upgraded luxury vinyl plank flooring in a stylish grey tone that enhances the natural light flowing throughout the space.

Freshly ...

Looking for fun, fireworks, and family-friendly festivities this Fourth of July? You're in luck! The greater Atlanta area knows how to celebrate in style. From parades and concerts to lakeside firework shows and historic reenactments, here are 10 can’t-miss events happening July 3–6, 2025:

1. Stone Mountain Park – Fantastic Fourth Celebration (July 1–7)

Stone Mountain Park's weeklong patriotic party features a state-of-the-art drone and laser light show followed by a jaw-dropping fireworks finale each night at 9:30 PM. With music synced to every blast and the granite mountain glowing in the background, it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate America's birthday.

2. Marietta’s "4th in t...

Why Metro Atlanta Is One of the Best Places to Buy Your First Home

If you're searching for “how to buy a home in Metro Atlanta as a first-time buyer” or “affordable homes near Atlanta with good schools,” you're not alone. Metro Atlanta remains one of the most popular destinations for new homeowners thanks to its balance of job growth, diverse communities, and accessible suburbs.

Where First-Time Buyers Should Look

The region offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Some top areas include:

• Gwinnett County homes for sale: Known for great schools and family-friendly communities like Suwanee, Lawrenceville, and Grayson.
• Forsyth County real estate: O...

Are You Stuck in Your Current Home Because of a Low Mortgage Rate? You’re Not Alone.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading, downsizing, or relocating—but can’t justify trading your 2.75% mortgage for today’s 7% rate—you’re feeling the pressure of what experts are calling the mortgage lock-in effect. And it’s not just you. Across Metro Atlanta, tens of thousands of homeowners are feeling “trapped,” unsure how to make their next move without sacrificing their historically low interest rates.

I’m Cleve Gaddis, REALTOR® and host of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, where I help home buyers and sellers throughout Gwinnett, Forsyth, Fulton, and surrounding counties make smarter decisions in to...

As we move further into 2025, home décor is embracing bold self-expression, eco-conscious materials, and clever technology, all while maintaining a sense of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home for resale or want to keep your space current, here are 10 of the biggest home decorating trends to look out for this year.

1.  Warm Minimalism
   While minimalism remains popular, 2025 sees a softer approach. Think cozy neutral palettes, warm taupes, clay tones, and soft whites—paired with clean lines and natural materials like oak, linen, and clay tile. This trend focuses on simplicity without sacrificing comfort.
   
   
2. Statement Stone

Marble is getting a makeover. Homeowners...

Welcome to Lawrenceville, where summer brings a vibrant mix of events, activities, and community spirit. Whether you're a local resident or visiting from out of town, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling city located in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

Explore Local Parks and Outdoor Escapes

• Lawrenceville boasts an array of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces perfect for enjoying the summer sunshine. Don't miss:
• Rhodes Jordan Park: A family favorite with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas.
• Alexander Park: Ideal for sports enthusiasts with its baseball fields, tennis courts, and scenic walking paths.
• Bay Creek Park: Offers serene lake views, fishing docks, a...

If you're considering a move to the northern suburbs of Atlanta, Sugar Hill, GA should be at the top of your list. Nestled between Buford and Suwanee in Gwinnett County, Sugar Hill blends small-town charm with modern amenities, top-rated schools, and a vibrant downtown scene.

Why Buyers Are Flocking to Sugar Hill

Over the past few years, Sugar Hill has transformed into one of the fastest-growing communities in Metro Atlanta. Downtown features walkable areas with local restaurants, boutiques, and live music at The Bowl, an outdoor amphitheater that hosts year-round events.

Outdoor lovers enjoy proximity to Lake Lanier, Gary Pirkle Park, and the Sugar Hill Greenway, which will eventual...

Are you planning to buy or sell a home in the second half of 2025? If so, you're not alone—and you're asking the right questions. On this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, Cleve Gaddis, REALTOR® and host of the show, delivers a data-driven breakdown of what’s ahead for the Metro Atlanta real estate market and how it may impact your plans.

The housing market has shifted dramatically over the past few years, and 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transition. Whether you're preparing to list your home or hoping to buy, this episode provides clarity, confidence, and expert strategies to help you navigate today’s evolving landscape.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• A snapshot of...

Welcome to 4416 Water Mill Drive in Buford, GA, a beautifully maintained home in the highly sought-after Water Mill neighborhood. This move-in-ready property combines thoughtful updates with timeless charm, and it's located just across the street from Mill Creek High School, one of Gwinnett County’s top-rated schools.

Fresh Updates & Impressive Features

This home features a brand-new roof and full interior paint, offering peace of mind and a fresh, clean feel the moment you walk in. The formal foyer opens to elegant living and dining spaces, perfect for entertaining. The dining room includes custom wood detailing and easily accommodates large gatherings.

The spacious kitchen includ...

Why North Georgia Is the Ideal Spot for Family Fun

Looking for family-friendly activities in North Georgia that blend outdoor adventure with cultural charm? Whether you're a weekend explorer or planning to relocate to North Georgia, this region is filled with memorable experiences for all ages. From waterfalls and train rides to festivals and apple orchards, North Georgia homes for sale come with a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Top Outdoor Family Activities in North Georgia

1. Hike to Amicalola Falls State Park
Located near Dawsonville, this is one of the most accessible and awe-inspiring destinations for families seeking nature, waterfalls, and picnic spots.

2. Ride the Blue Ridge...

We’re honored and thrilled to announce that Modern Traditions Realty Group has been named to the prestigious 2025 RealTrends “The Thousand” list, recognizing the top 1,000 real estate teams in the entire United States based on 2024 transaction sides and sales volume.

This national honor places us among the most productive and trusted real estate professionals in the country, and it’s all thanks to our incredible clients, partners, and the hardworking agents and staff who show up every single day with a commitment to excellence.

What is RealTrends “The Thousand”?

Published annually by RealTrends and in partnership with The Wall Street Journal, “The Thousand” is one of the most respect...

If you’ve been searching for a home in Dacula that blends timeless elegance, modern upgrades, and serene outdoor living, look no further than this must-see property in Apalachee Heritage. With its recent updates, spacious layout, and unbeatable location, this home is truly a standout in one of Gwinnett County’s most sought-after communities.

A Grand Welcome from the Start

As soon as you arrive, the home’s grey brick exterior, manicured landscaping, and spacious two-car garage create an inviting first impression. Step through the front door into a formal two-story foyer featuring a dramatic staircase and views into both the living and dining rooms. Whether you're hosting a dinner p...

In a real estate market where high interest rates and tight lending conditions are becoming the norm, smart buyers and sellers are turning to creative strategies to get deals done. Two tools that are gaining traction—especially here in Metro Atlanta—are Letters of Intent (LOIs) and seller financing.

In a recent episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, I sat down with real estate attorney Joe O’Kelley of O’Kelley & Sorohan to explore how these strategies can make-or-break your next transaction.

What Is a Letter of Intent (LOI) and When Should You Use One?

A Letter of Intent is a document that outlines the key terms of a potential deal before the parties commit to a formal contract. It’...

If you're seeking an elegant, move-in-ready home in one of Gwinnett County’s most desirable 55+ communities, 332 Rosshandler Road in Suwanee, Georgia, is a must-see. Located within a gated, sidewalk-lined neighborhood just minutes from Suwanee Town Center, this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence redefines luxury living for active adults who value comfort, customization, and convenience.

Thoughtful Design Meets High-End Craftsmanship

Built in 2018, this four-sided brick home stands out for its custom upgrades and sophisticated features rarely found in comparable properties. Step through the glass front door and you’ll immediately notice the grand 12-foot ceilings, elegant crown moldin...