Category Archives : General

Each year, The Curtin Team looks forward to one of its most meaningful traditions: the Roswell Home Refresh Project. It’s more than a home makeover—it’s a tangible way to give back to someone in our community who pours love, service, and strength into others every day.

This year’s Home Refresh will take place in mid-November, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this year’s recipient- Toni Reeves, a Roswell teacher, mother, and friend whose kindness and quiet strength have touched so many.

Meet Toni Reeves

Toni Reeves is a single mom of two young boys and a special-needs kindergarten teacher at Hembree Elementary School in the Roswell School District. She is known for her steady dedication, thoughtful approach in the classroom, and the way she meets each child with patience and understanding. Her work requires equal parts compassion and consistency—qualities that also define how she leads her family.

Toni will soon celebrate one year as a homeowner, marking a meaningful step forward after moving from an apartment last year. Each move she’s made—both personally and with her change of address—reflects her commitment to creating stability and opportunity for her family.

At home, her children have been eager to make their mark on the space—especially by painting their bedrooms and choosing their own curtains. These simple updates symbolize much more than decoration; they represent pride of place and the sense of belonging Toni has worked hard to give them.

Toni has built a life centered on care, purpose, and growth for herself and her children, and we look forward to celebrating her story and her home through the Roswell Home Refresh Project.

Nominations, Selection, and the Surprises

Months before the work began, The Curtin Team’s nonprofit organization, Curtin Team Cares, opened nominations to the community—inviting neighbors and friends to share stories of any Roswell area schools staff member who’s had a hard year. A huge thank-you goes to Pure Barre Roswell and the Roswell School District Principals for their ongoing support in promoting the project, encouraging nominations, and helping collect donations. We couldn’t make this impact without their partnership and generosity.

When Toni’s name came in, it was accompanied by heartfelt words from coworkers, parents, and families who described her as “a light,” “a nurturer,” and “the calm presence every child deserves.”
Once Toni was selected, we quietly began planning behind the scenes—collaborating with her school and community partners to create a surprise announcement that would let her know she’d been chosen, and to share our hope of giving her a moment of joy, rest, and visible love in the home she’s made a safe haven for her family.

A big thank-you to Stems on the Move for the beautiful bouquet presented to Toni during the announcement of her selection as this year’s winner.

Bringing It All Together: Home Refresh Day & Behind the Scenes

Home Refresh Day will be a whirlwind of teamwork and transformation—an outpouring of care and collaboration that will impact not only the walls of Toni’s home but also the atmosphere within it.
When asked how it felt to be selected as this year’s winner, Toni shared, “I did not believe that stuff like this actually happened. It’s like something you see on TV, on HGTV—and it’s actually happening to me.”

Every Home Refresh project comes to life through dozens of moving parts and generous hearts—from local businesses to community partners and volunteers who give their time, resources, and talent. This kind of impact doesn’t happen overnight; it’s the result of weeks of planning, preparation, and compassion, all focused on honoring one deserving person and family.
For Toni and her children, this refresh is about far more than paint or furniture—it’s about creating a home that feels like a deep exhale. It’s a tangible reminder that their community sees them, values them, and celebrates their hard work and quiet generosity.

At its core, the Roswell Home Refresh Project is about people, connection, and community—neighbors showing up for one another and making kindness visible in the most meaningful ways.

How to Get Involved & What’s Next

The 2025 Roswell Home Refresh will take place mid-November, and we can’t wait to share the before-and-after photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and Toni’s reaction with you all.
If you’d like to get involved in this project or future projects—by nominating a deserving family, volunteering your time, making a monetary donation, or sponsoring materials like paint, décor, or flowers—please click here to reach out to The Curtin Team.

Make sure to follow along on Facebook or Instagram as we celebrate and refresh Toni Reeves’ home!

-The Curtin Team

Over the years, we’ve had the honor of guiding hundreds of families through some of the most meaningful moves of their lives. Lately, one theme keeps coming up again and again: “I think it’s time for something different.”

More and more, homeowners are choosing to “rightsize”—not necessarily scaling down, but finding a home that better fits their lifestyle today. It’s less about square footage, and more about freedom, simplicity, and purpose.

Maybe you’ve been asking yourself:

– What would life look like with less maintenance—or in a new location?

– Am I still in a home that serves my current lifestyle, or one that suited a season now behind me?

– Could moving actually give me more time, energy, and flexibility?

If these questions resonate with you, you’re not alone—and your next step might be simpler than you think.

Coming Soon: Live Smart, Rightsize Your Life Workshops

This fall, we’ll be hosting a free community workshop designed specifically for homeowners who are thinking about what’s next—whether that’s in one year or five. This educational session will walk you through the practical, emotional, and financial sides of selling your home and making a transition.

Whether you’re planning to move closer to family, trade yardwork for a condo lifestyle, or help a parent make a decision about the future and need resources to help with the move and home preparations, this workshop is for you. We’ll cover topics like:

– What does it really mean to rightsize?
– The biggest mistakes sellers make when downsizing—and how to avoid them.
– How to prepare your home to sell in today’s market.
– Understanding capital gains, property tax exemptions, and other financial factors.
– Where people are going—and how to find your next best fit.

You’ll leave feeling more informed, more confident, and more in control of your timeline and transition.

Let’s Start the Conversation

Join our interest list and receive early access to registration as dates are announced. This event will be offered in-person and virtually, and space will be limited.

At the Curtin Team, we believe your home should support the life you want to live—not hold you back from it. If you’re dreaming of a lock-and-leave lifestyle, a peaceful retreat, or simply less stress, we’re here to help you plan your next smart step with confidence.

Let’s explore what’s possible—together. And let our years of experience and resources make this easier for you!

Have additional questions? The Curtin Team is always here for you—reach out anytime!

The Curtin Team Entrepreneur Spirit Scholarship Award proudly recognizes Jack Rapp, a 2025 Roswell High School graduate whose creativity, work ethic, and entrepreneurial mindset stood out among his peers. Since 2018, the Curtin Team has supported young leaders who take initiative, think independently, and serve their communities — and Jack perfectly embodies that spirit.

Jack’s journey as a hands-on problem solver started early. Whether he’s building custom desktop computers, repairing small engines, or restoring a decades-old Isuzu Trooper, Jack has always been drawn to fixing and creating. What began as a favor for a neighbor — fixing a chainsaw — has grown into a thriving small engine repair business. He now regularly services lawn mowers, blowers, and other equipment, learning to manage time, customer service, and pricing along the way.

In addition to running his repair business, Jack offers lawn mowing and car washing services — all while maintaining a strong academic focus, particularly in math and economics. A standout project in his economics class involved simulating a small business, which he modeled after his real-world experience. Calculating costs, setting prices, and estimating profit margins wasn’t just theory — it was a reflection of his daily entrepreneurial life.

Looking ahead, Jack plans to pursue a degree in finance, aiming to blend his love for numbers with his passion for machines. Whether it leads to a career in automotive or agricultural finance, he envisions a future where he can connect financial strategies with hands-on industries that keep the world running.

The Curtin Team is honored to support Jack as he takes the next step toward turning his high school hustle into a lasting career. His drive, ingenuity, and practical experience are what the Entrepreneur Spirit Scholarship is all about.

Congratulations, Jack Rapp — and congratulations to the entire Roswell High School Class of 2025!

We’re back with the Second Annual Curtin Team Home Refresh Project! We’re giving a Roswell School District employee a well-deserved home makeover. Know someone who could use a little extra support? Nominations are open until July 15th! Let’s come together and make a difference.

Submit your nomination here: https://www.curtinteam.com/curtin-team-cares/curtin-team-roswell-home-refresh/

24 years ago, Tom and I started our business. Tom was sitting in a $5 plastic chair from Food Lion. After some initial success, we could have clearly bought a chair but we were using what we had, reinvesting in our business and education. I’ll never forget when the arm broke off and was flapping around.

I couldn’t find the picture of Tom sitting in the chair (probably for the best)
Here’s the thing — it’s easy to get caught up in how things look. None of that matters if you’re not doing the work. Lead with revenue. Earn the right to upgrade. And until then? Sit in the $5 chair!

Connect with me on social
Facebook
Instagram

My first love language? Words of affirmation. My second? Strategy.
Tom and I are always buying, always studying the market, always thinking five steps ahead. But even for us, it’s not always easy.
I know so many of you feel the same way. You’re sitting in a house with a sweet 2.5% interest rate, thinking, Why would I give this up? You want more space, a better location, a fresh start—but that low rate feels like golden handcuffs. And the fear of making the wrong move? It’s real.
But here’s what I know: fear keeps people stuck, and stuck people don’t build wealth.
If rates drop, that dream home you’ve been waiting for? It just got further out of reach. And if you’re holding out for the perfect time to sell? The second inventory rises, we’re back to price wars and beauty pageants.
This market isn’t about waiting—it’s about strategy! The people who win aren’t the ones sitting on the sidelines, hoping for perfect conditions. They’re the ones who understand the game, make smart moves, and position themselves for the future.
Even when it feels scary, t r u s t. Because no one builds wealth or changes their life by waiting for permission. – Joanne

Connect with me on social
Facebook
Instagram

Joanne Curtin from Roswell, Georgia knows that the current real estate market may be tough to handle but if you follow your DREAM and have support – YOU CAN SUCCEED TOO!
Follow Joanne on social:
Facebook
Instagram

#realestateinvesting #FinancialFreedom #Curtinteam #TopRealtorInRoswell #JoanneCurtin #realestate #RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #PropertyInvestment #RealEstateInvestor #InvestmentProperty #RealEstateTips #CashFlowProperties #WealthBuilding #RealEstateEducation #followyourdreams

As shared in the second edition of Your First Home, written by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan:

“Buying a home is a big decision – particularly your first home – but it is one of the best choices anyone can make. It’s a place that is entirely your own. Something you can paint, renovate, and live a full life in. Secondly, the reality is that homes are an incredible way to accumulate generational wealth. Because home isn’t only where your heart is, it’s where your money is, too. There are few places you will treasure more than your home and no place that will add more to your personal treasury.”

While the prospect of homeownership is exciting, it can also be filled with complexities as you embark on the journey for the very first time. Yet, have no fear! If you’d like to receive a copy of the book that contains a complete guide to first-time homebuying, Your First Home, fill out this form and we will get a copy to you!

Click HERE To Receive Your Free Guide

Deciding to Buy

First-time homebuyer fears can range from “I can’t afford to buy a home” to “I can’t buy a home because my credit score is too bad.” While it can be natural to have these thoughts, it’s important to face fears with facts. Let’s take affordability, for instance.

Fear #1: “I can’t afford to buy a home now.”

Fact: Until you do the math, you don’t know what you can or can’t afford.

If you are currently paying rent, generally you can afford to buy. From a financial point of view, in the United States, the tax savings on mortgage interest alone usually make up most of the difference between your rent and mortgage payments – the tax write-offs you get at the end of the year will generally help you save a lot of money.

Additionally, depending on your credit score, you can end up affording more than you realize. The credit scores used for mortgage lending take on a much larger picture of your overall credit score.

Although there may be a higher initial cost to buying a house, if you’re planning on staying in one place for a few years, the equity you build can end up being a financial boon. And did you know that even if you’ve owned a home, you might still be considered a “first-time” buyer? Under many programs, the definition of a first-time homebuyer includes someone who’s never owned a home or who hasn’t owned a home in the past three years.

Fear #2: “I should wait until the real estate market gets better.”

Fact: There is never a wrong time to buy the right home.

Whether “right” means the right price or the right property for you, waiting for the perfect market timing seldom works to your advantage. If you don’t believe us, look back to the Great Recession when the bubble around the housing market burst, GDP declined 4.5%, and unemployment rose to around 9.5%. But like those who endured the Great Depression, those who lived through the Great Recession made it through and benefited from an era of financial growth. In fact, immediately following the Great Recession, the United States entered the longest period of rising prices and general prosperity since World War II.

In the end, there are two ways to make money in real estate: timing and time. Either you happen upon the right moment to purchase before prices appreciate, or you hold it long enough for appreciation to make your investment worthwhile. If you miss the first, you can most certainly count on the second.

Fear #3: “I don’t have the money for a down payment.”

Fact: There are a variety of down-payment options available to you.

While many believe that buying a home requires a substantial down payment, as much as 20%, this is seldom true. You can buy with as little as 5% down – sometimes even less. Moreover, most states have down-payment assistance programs that can help.

House-hacking is also a great way to make homeownership more affordable. This involves purchasing a property and leasing out a bedroom or unit to offset your mortgage. Alternatively, platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can generate income to cover your mortgage while you’re away.

Fear #4: “I can’t buy a home because my credit score isn’t good.”

Fact: A less-than-perfect credit score won’t necessarily prevent you from buying a home.

A poor credit score shouldn’t stop you from talking to lenders. A good loan officer or mortgage specialist can help resolve credit challenges, sometimes by consolidating debts or referring you to a credit counselor.

If you have no credit history because you’re new to the workforce or haven’t made purchases on credit, alternative solutions exist. A cosigner (such as a parent) can help, or lenders may consider alternative forms of credit history like rent and utility payments.

As real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran advises:

“The perfect time to buy a house? When you can afford the down payment–not when you’re waiting for the ‘perfect’ market. Houses went up 4% this last year. They’re even going to go up more next year. So you’re not really saving anything by waiting.”

The pattern will continue: Prices will rise. Interest rates won’t drop drastically. The sooner you buy, the better.

Finding Your Agent

The legal, financing, and regulatory aspects of real estate transactions are complex. To navigate them successfully, finding a licensed real estate agent is crucial. A good agent serves as an advocate for your interests, ensuring a smooth and informed process.

What a Real Estate Agent Does:

Educates you about the market
Analyzes your wants and needs
Guides you to homes that fit your criteria
Coordinates with professionals like inspectors and lenders
Negotiates on your behalf
Manages paperwork and deadlines
Solves any problems that arise
Questions to ask when choosing an agent:

Why did you become a real estate agent?
Why should I work with you?
What process will you use to help me find the right home?
Shape

Securing Financing

While owning a home is exciting, mortgages can seem daunting. However, the basics come down to four key factors:

Down Payment: You don’t necessarily need 20% down; assistance programs exist.
Interest Rate: Lower rates save you money in the long run.
Term: 15, 20, or 30-year loans impact your equity-building and payments.
Loan Type: Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages affect long-term costs.
Shape

Homeownership is one of the best financial decisions you can make. While fears exist, facts reveal that buying a home is more achievable than many realize. The sooner you start, the more wealth you build over time. If you’re ready to take the leap, our team at the Curtin Team is here to guide you every step of the way!

Have questions? Click HERE to receive information on our next live Home Buyer Workshop where you can learn more and get all your questions answered.

I have a masters in early childhood education. I spent 5 years teaching during the day and working nights at a restaurant. Then, in 2001, I quit!
But here’s the thing—I didn’t just quit to escape; I quit to build something better.
It’s okay to run away from something that isn’t serving you. But never quit unless you’re running toward something greater.
That decision changed my life. Because wealth, freedom, and success aren’t found in playing it safe—they’re built by those willing to bet on themselves.
Go make a move and level up! — Joanne

Connect with me on social
Facebook
Instagram

Hey y’all, it’s Joanne! I just got back from Keller Williams’ Family Reunion, where Gary Keller gave his annual Vision Speech—breaking down what’s happening in the housing market and what it means for all of us. And let me tell you, there’s a lot to unpack!

Now, I know the headlines can be overwhelming, and you might be wondering:
“Is now a good time to buy or sell? Should I wait? What’s next?”
So, let’s talk about it in real terms—because while the market is shifting, there’s still plenty of opportunity out there.

Where We Are Now: The Big Picture
The real estate market is definitely feeling a slowdown, with home sales projected to be around 4.2 million in 2025—the lowest we’ve seen in nearly 30 years. That’s a big shift from what we got used to in the past decade. Now, historically, when the market dips like this, it takes about three to four years to fully bounce back, which means we may not see things feel truly ‘normal’ again until 2026 or later.

KWFR 2025

But before you panic—let’s put things in perspective.

Home prices are still strong overall, and while we saw some crazy price jumps after the pandemic, things are trending back toward affordability. In other words, real estate is still one of the best investments you can make—it’s just about knowing how to navigate today’s market.

2025 KWFR

For Buyers: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about buying, here’s some good news for you:

Price Stability – Even though the number of homes sold is lower, the overall market is still moving. In fact, 2024 saw $2.2 trillion in home sales—making it the third-best year on record. That tells us that home values aren’t falling off a cliff.

More Negotiation Power – We’re seeing more price reductions—from 24% of listings in early 2024 to 31% in early 2025. That means more room to negotiate and better deals for buyers! And as more inventory hits the market, that trend should continue.

Real Estate is a Long-Term Game – If you’re waiting for the “perfect” time to buy—you might be waiting forever. The truth is, real estate appreciates over time, and the sooner you get in, the better your long-term returns. Like Jay Papasan (one of the smartest guys in the business) said, “Don’t wait to buy real estate. Buy real estate and wait.”

Bottom line? If you find the right home at the right price and it fits your budget, don’t be afraid to go for it!

For Sellers: What to Expect

If you’re thinking about selling, you can still win in this market—you just have to be strategic.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell – With fewer buyers in the market, homes aren’t flying off the shelves overnight like they did a couple of years ago. That means pricing right from the start is more important than ever. Overpricing will just cause your home to sit longer and force price cuts later.

Less Transactions, More Volume – There are fewer deals happening, but when they do, they’re still moving big dollar amounts. This means there’s still demand, but buyers are being more selective—so you’ve got to stand out.

Stay Positive & Work with the Right Agent – The long-term outlook is still strong for real estate. Home values hold steady over time, and working with an experienced agent (hi!) can help you price, market, and sell your home the right way.

Final Thoughts: There’s Still Opportunity!

I know the market feels uncertain right now, but here’s the truth: there’s never a “bad” time to buy or sell—only a bad strategy.

If you’re buying, now’s the time to negotiate strong and take advantage of price reductions. If you’re selling, it’s all about smart pricing and great marketing to attract serious buyers.

The best thing you can do? Stay informed, get good advice, and don’t let fear make your decisions for you. If you have questions, we’re here to help—whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to make sense of it all.