Call Cleve Atlanta Radio Show

Atlanta’s real estate scene continues to move and shift, and in this episode, we’ve got your quick snapshot of what’s been happening over the past seven days—along with my own take on where the market might be headed next. We’ll also take a moment to step outside the city for a bit of local exploration. Today’s “Something You Should Know About Atlanta” is Fort Yargo State Park, a destination with rich history and plenty of outdoor adventure just a short drive away. Then, we’ll switch gears to a fascinating—and potentially game-changing—proposal: no tax on tips. Imagine keeping every dollar of your hard-earned gratuities. Could a move like this reshape the service industry, influence tipping culture, and maybe even impact how small businesses operate? We’ll break down the latest insights and explore what it might mean for workers and employers alike. At Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, our mission is simple—helping listeners go from real estate novice to expert so that buying or selling a home is a confident, st

You could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table and not even know it. In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re shining a light on the mortgage programs and insider strategies most buyers never hear about. From VA, FHA, and USDA loans to state and local down payment assistance programs, you’ll learn how to find out what you qualify for and how to use it to your advantage. Joining me is our Expert Advisor, Matthew Scout, Vice President and Executive Mortgage Loan Originator with Southeast Mortgage. Together, we’ll uncover how to match the right mortgage program to your needs and avoid costly mistakes along the way. We’ll break down the big missteps that can derail your approval or cost you thousands—like taking on new debt in the middle of the process—and explain why your choice between fixed or adjustable rates, or shorter versus longer terms, can say a lot about your financial style. We’ll also look at what’s changed for buyers in 2025, from new lending guidelines to the growing influenc

Think you need 20% down to buy a house? Or that your credit score has to be perfect? Not so fast. In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re separating fact from fiction when it comes to getting a mortgage. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, thinking about refinancing, or simply curious about what it takes to qualify, this conversation could change the way you look at home financing. Joining me is our Expert Advisor, Matthew Scout, Vice President and Executive Mortgage Loan Originator with Southeast Mortgage. Together, we’ll dig into: Fact vs. Fiction: The truth about down payment requirements, credit score minimums, and income qualifications. We’ll bust the myths that keep too many buyers sitting on the sidelines. Market Timing: With interest rates bouncing up and down, is now the right moment to buy or refinance—or should you wait? Matthew shares the data and insight to help you decide. Step-by-Step Guidance: From pre-approval to keys in hand, we’ll walk through the process so you know exactl

On this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re spotlighting The Preserve in Lawrenceville and diving into the hot topic of contingent offers. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s possible to buy your next home without selling your current one first, this episode is for you. A listener from Norcross asks, “If we make an offer on a house, can we make it contingent on selling our current home first?” We’ll unpack how contingent offers work, when they’re a smart strategy, and how sellers and buyers can navigate the process without putting themselves at too much risk. I’ll explain the key protections that exist in the contingency system and how to maximize your chances of success in today’s market—even with rising prices and interest rates. Then, we’ll have a little fun. You’ve probably heard the song “867-5309/Jenny” more times than you can count. But have you ever tried using that number at the grocery store checkout? We’ll explore a viral trend that’s helping some shoppers score discounts—even without

Atlanta’s real estate market is shifting—but not always in the way the headlines suggest. Are we cooling off, heating up, or just settling into a new normal? In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, I’m joined by Mitchell Palm of Smart Real Estate Data, one of the leading experts on Atlanta housing trends, to break down exactly what’s happening in our market right now. We’ll start with the big picture, asking Mitchell to sum up the state of the market in one sentence. From there, we’ll explore the single biggest change he’s seen in the last 6 months—and what it means for both buyers and sellers. We’ll also talk about home prices in Metro Atlanta—are they still climbing, holding steady, or showing early signs of a slowdown? Plus, we’ll dig into how different neighborhoods are performing and the unique factors driving those differences. Buyer behavior is evolving, too, and Mitchell will share how buyers’ habits, expectations, and priorities have shifted in recent months. And finally, we’ll get the tru

This week on Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re diving into the numbers, the fun, and a little bit of heartbreak in the Atlanta real estate scene. First, we kick things off with your Metro Atlanta Real Estate Update for the last 7 days—covering the latest data on new listings, pending sales, and market shifts that could impact your buying or selling decisions. Whether you’re tracking inventory trends or trying to time your move, these weekly numbers give you an insider’s edge. Then, in Something You Should Know About Atlanta, we turn up the heat—literally—with Cool Things to Do in August in Atlanta. From vibrant festivals to can’t-miss cultural events, August in the city offers something for everyone. If you think the summer slowdown is real, think again—Atlanta knows how to make the most of the dog days. But not all the news is bright. We’re also talking about the surprise cancellation of HGTV’s hit show “Married to Real Estate”, starring Atlanta’s own Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson. Fans are stunned, and

In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we start with our Neighborhood Spotlight on Whitlock Heights in Marietta. This charming community offers a unique blend of character, convenience, and curb appeal — and we’ll share what makes it stand out for today’s buyers and homeowners. Then, we shift gears to talk about a topic that’s been making headlines — Ponzi schemes. You’ve probably heard the term tossed around in the news, but what exactly is a Ponzi scheme, and how can you recognize one before it’s too late? I’ll walk you through the red flags to watch for, explain how these fraudulent operations work, and share why they’re so dangerous to unsuspecting investors. We’ll also discuss a recent high-profile case right here in Georgia, where a $140 million Ponzi scheme unraveled — a story that’s as alarming as it is important to understand. This conversation was inspired by a listener question from Alex in Atlanta, who asked: “What is a Ponzi scheme and how does it work? Would I be able to spot one bef

So, the data is in — but what do you actually do with it? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the value of your home, this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio could save you time, money, and stress. I’m joined again by Mitchell Palm of Smart Real Estate Data, one of Atlanta’s leading market experts, to share exactly how to play today’s real estate market and avoid the biggest mistakes people are making right now. For buyers, Mitchell will reveal what he would do differently if he were purchasing a home in Atlanta today compared to just a year ago. For sellers, he’ll share the single most important thing you can do to position your home for top dollar in the current market. We’ll also bust common market myths—the ones the data proves completely wrong—and explore Mitchell’s outlook for the next 6–12 months. Will prices rise, hold steady, or shift downward? How fierce will competition be? Mitchell will also flag any early warning signs in the numbers that both buyers and homeowners should

We’re continuing the conversation on Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio with Expert Advisor Matt Reeves, Exclusive Allstate Agent and Personal Financial Representative, as we dig deeper into the insurance challenges brought on by the growing number of natural disasters. Host Cleve Gaddis recaps the eye-opening first half of the discussion, then guides listeners through the real-world implications of what homeowners are facing today. From increased premiums and denied claims to policy non-renewals and coverage restrictions, the stakes are rising across Metro Atlanta and beyond. In this extended segment, Matt explains: What’s behind the dramatic increase in homeowner insurance rates—even in low-claim areas Why roof replacement has become a make-or-break issue for coverage approval How some insurers are exiting entire states or zip codes—and what that means for your renewal Strategies for comparing policies, bundling coverages, and asking the right questions How your claims history, deductible level, and credit

This week on Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’ve got another powerful lineup of insights, updates, and eye-opening stories from around Metro Atlanta—and beyond. First, we bring you the latest Metro Atlanta Real Estate Update, covering home inventory, pricing trends, buyer activity, and what you need to know if you're considering buying or selling in this shifting market. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or first-time buyer, Cleve Gaddis gives you the data and interpretation you won’t get anywhere else. Then, in Something You Should Know About Metro Atlanta, we're comparing two American icons: Stone Mountain vs. Mount Rushmore. What are the differences, the controversies, the scale, and the impact of these monumental works? You may be surprised by how they measure up—and what they represent to the public today. Finally, we dig into a serious story that hits close to home: a real estate investor in Atlanta sentenced to prison for their role in a wide-ranging fraud scheme. Reported by Capitol Beat News Serv

On this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re covering everything from Marietta charm to digital currency and long-term housing trends—so whether you're a homeowner, a homebuyer, or just a real estate enthusiast, this one’s for you. Neighborhood Spotlight: We kick things off in Whitlock Heights, a hidden gem in Marietta, Georgia. With its timeless character, established homes, and unbeatable location near the Marietta Square, Whitlock Heights offers a perfect blend of charm and convenience. If you're looking for a community with personality and history, you’ll want to check this one out. Search active listings at SureMLS.com. Next up—cryptocurrency and mortgages. Listener Thomas from Bethlehem asked: “Is cryptocurrency real money? Can I use it to buy a house?” The short answer? Yes... but it’s complicated. Host Cleve Gaddis breaks down how digital currency is starting to make its way into the real estate world, the challenges with lender and seller acceptance, and what to consider before transferrin

In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re taking a closer look at the growing impact of natural disasters on home insurance with Expert Advisor Matt Reeves, Exclusive Allstate Agent and Personal Financial Representative. As weather events become more frequent and more destructive, insurance companies—and homeowners—are facing tough new challenges. Cleve Gaddis kicks off the conversation by addressing the big picture: From wildfires to hurricanes to historic flooding, the U.S. has endured an unprecedented series of natural disasters in recent years. But beyond the headlines, what does this mean for your insurance coverage and monthly premiums? Matt Reeves joins the show to break it all down: Why premiums are rising across the board—even in areas with relatively few claims How insurance carriers are tightening requirements and reducing coverage What homeowners can do to protect their properties and avoid costly gaps in coverage The role of roof age, property condition, and even your credit sco

In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we shine our Neighborhood Spotlight on Amberleigh in Gainesville, a charming and established swim/tennis community perfect for buyers seeking both convenience and community feel. If you're curious about current listings in the area, don’t forget to check out SureMLS.com for the latest homes on the market. But that’s not all—we’re also answering two key listener questions that could impact your next move, whether you're buying or selling. First up: Exterior Siding Options. Listener Timothy from Doraville asked about an unusual siding material made from rice husks—yes, it's real—and how it compares to more familiar options like LP SmartSide and James Hardie (HardiePlank). Cleve breaks down what you need to know about each option, from durability to appearance to resale value. If you’ve ever looked at a home and asked, “What am I even looking at?”—this discussion is for you. Next: Affordable Improvements for Sellers. Sylvia and Bruce from Duluth want to sell the

In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re delivering key updates and insights that every Atlanta homeowner, buyer, or real estate professional should know. First, we break down the Metro Atlanta real estate market performance for the month of June. Whether you're planning to list your home, make a purchase, or just keeping an eye on trends, we’ll cover what changed, what stayed steady, and what to watch for as we head deeper into the summer housing season. Then, in our “Something You Should Know About Atlanta” segment, we take a look back at the remarkable story of Delta Airlines. Headquartered right here in Atlanta, Delta has become one of the most recognized names in global air travel—but it wasn’t always the powerhouse it is today. We’ll explore how this iconic company started, the role it has played in shaping the city’s economy, and what it continues to mean for Atlanta’s growth and reputation on the world stage. In our final segment, we turn our attention to a legal development making wave

On this follow-up segment of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, Cleve Gaddis continues his enlightening conversation with Expert Advisor Michael Crew, CEO of Homeowner Management Services, Inc., diving even deeper into the world of HOA reserves and how they impact today’s homebuyers and sellers. With HOA-related costs becoming more of a concern for buyers, many are asking: “How do I know I won’t get hit with a surprise special assessment after I move in?” In this episode, Cleve and Michael explore how a properly managed reserve fund—and a recent industry shift—can offer a true safety net for buyers. They discuss: Why today’s buyers are demanding transparency about HOA reserves before making an offer. The growing popularity of reserve studies and how they’re becoming a key factor in real estate negotiations. What questions smart buyers should ask about an HOA’s financial health—and how sellers can proactively prepare. The reality behind “surprise” costs in communities and how to avoid them altogether. Cleve a

On this segment of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re joined by expert advisor Michael Crew, CEO of Homeowner Management Services, Inc., to shed light on a topic that impacts every homeowner in a community association—HOA reserves. Whether you live in a condo, townhome, or single-family community with an HOA, understanding how reserve funds work is crucial for protecting your investment and planning for the future. Cleve Gaddis asks Michael a series of practical questions inspired by real-life curiosity from Anne Daniels’ sister, who wanted to better understand how HOA reserves are managed. Together, they dive into questions like: How are HOA reserve funds determined, and what exactly is a reserve study? Why are reserve studies important—and what happens if one hasn’t been completed? What are the key components included in a thorough reserve study? How is the amount of funding calculated, and what are reserve funds typically used for? Is it possible for an HOA to have too much in reserves—or worse, not

In this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re putting the spotlight on one of Suwanee’s most desirable neighborhoods—Rivermoore Park. Known for its beautifully maintained homes, green spaces, and access to top-rated North Gwinnett schools, Rivermoore Park is a standout community in Metro Atlanta. We’ll explore what’s currently happening in the real estate market there, based on insights from SureMLS.com, and why buyers and sellers alike are paying attention. But we’re not stopping with just market stats—this week, we’re also diving into a surprisingly hot topic that’s been making headlines and stirring up debates: gardening etiquette. Inspired by a pair of articles from Better Homes & Gardens, we’re asking the questions many people have likely wondered but never asked out loud: Is it ever okay to pick flowers from someone else’s yard? And is it ever appropriate to trim a neighbor’s bushes, plants, or trees that might be creeping over your property line? We’ll unpack the social and legal implications

If you sold your home in Gwinnett County and were shocked to find a property tax bill in your mailbox this year, you’re not alone. On this episode of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re diving into the confusion surrounding the new Gwinnett County tax notices and why sellers like Wendy and John are still receiving bills—months after the sale.

Segment Teaser – This week on Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we’re bringing you the latest Metro Atlanta real estate update, spotlighting an exciting new driverless transit innovation, and tackling an important listener question: Are HELOCs a hidden fraud risk?

Segment Teaser – Is Zillow positioning itself to become the next MLS? In today’s segment of Go Gaddis Real Estate Radio, we explore one of the most controversial changes in real estate—Zillow’s New Listing Standard Policy. Could this disrupt how homes are listed and sold nationwide?