NEW IN THE TREES

As a member of the—literally—growing Gainesville, Georgia community, Treesort has sought new ways to foster a sense of togetherness and create shared spaces for people to enjoy. That is exactly why we decided to create the Co-Hop, a community garden project launching this spring.

Community gardens play an important in bringing people together and promoting communal well-being. We had the joy of sitting down with the garden’s director and learning more about this exciting new project.

According to the owner, Steve McKibbon, “The Co-Hop community garden project is a way to foster a sense of community, promote sustainability, and provide our guests with the ability to grow their own fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and/or flowers. Many of our guests love to garden but no longer have a place since they are downsizing their living space. The ability to garden at Treesort will give our guests more of a home feeling and hopefully expose new people to the love of gardening.”

The project will help make it easier for Treesort residents to spend some time outside, enjoying the beautiful Georgia sunshine. For the garden’s creator, this unique space has a personal meaning, as well, noting, “What initially inspired me was a scuppernong vine. Not just any vine, but a vine that has been in my family for over 150 years that was started by my ancestors in Alabama before the Civil War. As our family moved over the decades, cuttings from this vine came with them. The DNA of this vine was moved to Newnan, Georgia, more than 100 years ago, then to my grandparent’s house on Green Street Circle in the 1930s. In the 1970s, the vine was moved to my parents’ house on Dixon Drive. The last location of the vine was at my father’s warehouse on Murphy Blvd, which was sold in 2023. I could not part with this vine and have hired Deep Roots Landscaping to move it to Treesort.”

Currently, there is enough plot space for about one-quarter of Treesort residents to create a personal garden. This is unique opportunity that helps distinguish Treesort from some of the other gardens in the area, with the owner indicating, “No other apartment complex that we know of in Hall County offers their guests a place to have a personal garden. Treesort is not jammed into a small parcel of land where green space is the exception. We have a 22-acre campus where there is more green space than concrete and asphalt. A community garden is a natural extension of the ‘Treesort’ philosophy of green space and sustainability.”

In addition to being a great place to gather and meet new people, the community garden will also be an excellent location for Treesort to truly live out its founding values. Treesort is committed to being more than just an apartment complex; it is committed to being a home for its residents, complete with access to beautiful outdoor spaces and various sustainable features.

As the owner suggests, “Our garden plots will be ready for planting using organic soil and chemical-free deep-well water. I hope that our gardeners will create a sense of community where experienced gardeners will mentor first-time gardeners. Learning to grow your own food is a skill everyone needs to have. If Covid taught us anything, having the ability to feed your family with clean, pesticide-free food without relying on supply chain problems or geopolitics is very important. If the concept is very successful, Treesort has the area to increase the amount of garden plots available to our guests.”

The community garden is set to open in April 2024. Let’s grow together for many years to come!

Anyone who has lived in Northern Georgia for a while will tell you spring is the best season. During spring, it will be warm enough for the flowers to bloom and for the landscape of Northern Georgia to look her absolute best. At the same time, it is not yet too hot or humid for people to want to stay inside. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the Braves, a World Series contender this year, will have their home opener against the Diamondbacks on April 5.

With that being said, you might find yourself looking for new things to do and experience this spring—and plenty of options are available. This handy guide has selected some of the best things to look forward to in Northern Georgia this spring, including highlights in Gainesville, Lake Lanier, Dawsonville, Dahlonega, and Atlanta.

Gainesville

Gainesville is the cultural hub of Hall County, Georgia, complete with dozens of excellent restaurants, great museums (such as the Northeast Georgia History Center), impressive cultural centers (such as the Quinlan Visual Arts Center), and, of course, plenty of great places to experience the outdoors.

We encourage you to take some time to get to know your city and discover some of Gainesville’s many hidden gems. We also encourage you to check out some of Gainesville’s best spring events, including Mutts on Main (March 23), the 2024 Art Walk on Main Street (April 18), Food Truck Fridays, the Blue Sky Concert Series, and Skate the City (April 28).

Additionally, there are more than a dozen new restaurants that have either already opened this year or are opening in the near future. A few of our favorites include Vendetti’s Pizza & Pasta Grill, the North Georgia BBQ & Oyster Shop, and the Lunch Counter, which has already established itself as a local favorite. Be sure to try them all!

Lake Lanier

Located right next to Gainesville, Lake Lanier is one of the most scenic and popular lakes in the entire State of Georgia. It also gained some national and international attention when it was used during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Lake Lanier often hosts an array of water-based and other events, many of which occur in the spring. This year, we have much to look forward to, including the Lake Lanier Boat Show, which will occur from March 22 to March 24. Be sure to also check out Sailfest, which will take place from April 5 to April 7, and follow the Lake Lanier Association for more details regarding these events.

Dawsonville

Dawsonville is located about 25 miles (35 minutes driving) northwest of Gainesville, on the other side of Lake Lanier. The city is well-known for its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains foothills and as a gateway to some of the region’s best opportunities for hiking and camping.

One of the most notable Dawsonville highlights of the season is the grand opening of the Grandaddy Mimms Distilling Company and Brewery, which promises the opportunity for visitors to “taste the spirit of the south” via a unique North Georgia blend. The city is also known as “the birthplace of stockcar racing” and features an extensive museum at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame.

If you want to spend some time outdoors near Dawsonville, we suggest checking out Amicalola Falls State Park Park (home to the state’s tallest cascading waterfall).

Dahlonega

Dahlonega—the site of the United States’s first major gold rush in 1833—is another city about thirty minutes north of Gainesville, featuring plenty of things to do in the spring. The city is home not only to a worthwhile Gold Museum and some great wineries but also to the University of North Georgia.

One of the season’s most anticipated events is the “Bear on the Square Mountain Festival,” a large, wide-reaching festival dedicated to celebrating and preserving the unique culture of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This year, the festival will take place on April 20 and 21 in Dahlonega’s main public square. There will be something for everyone at the festival, including free live music, an artist marketplace, storytelling, food, and much more.

Atlanta

There is always something going on in Atlanta. In addition to the start of the Braves season this spring, Atlanta will host dozens of concerts, festivals, and other great activities. Upcoming highlights include:

• The Spring Festival (May 11-12).
• The Atlanta Science Festival (March 9-23).
• The always famous Atlanta Dogwood Festival (April 12-14) located in Piedmont Park.

There are also several neighborhood-specific worth checking out (“Go South Atlanta” regularly publishes updates).

Additionally, with thousands of restaurants within the city of Atlanta, the culinary scene is constantly evolving. Eater Atlanta recently announced a few upcoming restaurants worth trying, including Butter and Scotch, Painted Park, Lucky Star, Fawn, Block and Drum, Nadair, Bom, and a yet-to-be-named restaurant created by Indigo Road’s Steve Palmer. Bon appetit!

Conclusion

There are many reasons to live in North Georgia, including its many great communities, such as Treesort. There are always new festivals to experience, new restaurants to try, new people to meet, and so much more. Check out these great events and opportunities near Gainesville, Georgia, this spring—and let us know if we missed anything!

It’s that time of year again—the flowers are starting to bloom, the sun is beginning to stay out later (finally), and, of course, Gainesville, Georgia’s best new apartment complex, Treesort, is organizing a calendar of great activities.

Since we opened our doors last year, we have been committed to providing an unparalleled living experience with a unique sense of community. As residents are fully moved in and friendships are beginning to kindle, this year will be unlike any other.

One of the things that makes Treesort so conducive to hosting outdoor events is the covered outdoor relaxation area, complete with a top-notch stage and amphitheater. This is the perfect place to enjoy an evening with friends (or by yourself!) with the always breathtaking Georgia sun setting in the background.

Our team is always looking for new opportunities to host events in this dynamic, with several already planned and many more in the works. Keeping that in mind, here are just a few outdoor events, experiences, and amenities you can enjoy at Treesort this spring and summer.

Live Music

Ever since the early days of Ray Charles and Otis Redding, Georgia has long been home to some of the best music in the country. This is particularly true in Northern Georgia, where Atlanta, Gainesville, and other cities continue to produce talented musicians across all genres.

This year, Treesort plans to tap into this well-established musical tradition and plans to feature several different live artists at our outdoor amphitheater. Is there a better way to spend a spring evening than listening to your favorite style of music, surrounded by a serene, green backdrop? And best of all, these concerts will be happening right here, in your very own community.

Poetry Readings

There are also plenty of talented poets and writers in our area, and, as a luxury apartment complex committed to uplifting our community, we plan to showcase poetry and literary readings.

Be sure to stay tuned for our open-mic poetry readings, which will be open to both first-timers and more experienced performers. This might be the perfect opportunity if you have a creative work you’d like to share with the world.

Yoga on the Patio

Placed in a calm, visually pleasing setting, our patio is also the perfect spot for yoga. It will be offered periodically throughout the year and open to residents and guests. Our yoga sessions will be led by a welcoming instructor who hopes to create a space where everyone can gather, regardless of their yoga experience or ability.

Yoga has proven to have numerous physical and mental health benefits, including reduced stress, increased flexibility, a healthier heart, and more. If you’re free during any of our guided yoga sessions this season, we encourage you to check them out.

Treesort Dog Park

Of course—as our residents have been sure to let us know—one of the primary reasons people choose to live at Treesort is our top-notch dog park. The dog park includes a wash station, covered seating, social areas, and more. It is the perfect place for our four-legged friends—and their two-legged companions—to get to know each other better.

Local Wine Tastings

Due to its proximity to the coasts, network of waterways, and relatively warm climate, Georgia has proven to be one of the best states for wine in the United States. According to Explore Georgia, the state is currently home to 57 licensed wineries, about twice as many as there were just ten years ago.

Georgia is experiencing a wine renaissance. We hope to take advantage of that by offering casual, enjoyable wine tastings right here at Treesort. Be sure to watch for upcoming vendors—and let us know which wines you want to be featured!

Connections to the Great Outdoors

Ultimately, the most important part of Treesort’s mission is making sure that each of our residents can connect to the beautiful natural world around them. Ever since Treesort was first conceived as an idea, we’ve strived to make this connection as apparent as possible (we even included it in our name!).

And it’s a great time of year to gather outside. Whether you plan a relaxing afternoon by the pool, want to go hiking at any of our many nearby parks and trails, or want to enjoy the activities mentioned above, there is certainly a lot to look forward to here at Treesort.

There are plenty of reasons thousands of people decide to move to the beautiful city of Gainesville, Georgia, every year. Among these reasons is the city’s excellent dining scene, characterized by its high quality and wide variety.

When planning a romantic dining experience, plenty of Gainesville, Georgia, residents are looking for a new restaurant to experience. Fortunately, the City of Gainesville has much to offer if you are looking for delicious traditional Italian cuisine, classic southern seafood, or anything in between.

Here are a few of our top picks for romantic places to dine in Gainesville.

1. Cotto Italian

Located on Spring Street in Downtown Gainesville, Cotto Italian has quickly established itself as a modern Italian favorite. In addition to the always-reliable pizza Napoletana, some top dishes include seafood fra diavolo, a delicious salisiccia alla griglia (grilled Italian sausage), several world-class salads, and more. Cotto offers the perfect blend of old and new Italian cooking styles.

2. Consuelo

Consuelo is one of Gainesville’s top authentic Mexican restaurants and is open every Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm. In addition to a menu featuring traditional dishes and shareable appetizers (though you might have a hard time sharing), Consuelo offers a wide variety of tequilas and margaritas, perfect for any occasion.

3. The Stag

The Stag Chophouse was recently recognized as “Gainesville’s top restaurant for premium steaks and cocktails,” a title that anyone who has been there will agree is well-deserved. Premium appetizers include fried calamari, crab cakes, and the always-popular tomato sliders. Try the steak sandwich, chicken risotto, or glazed salmon for main courses. And, of course, no meal here can be complete without a handcrafted cocktail.

4. Standard Service

Recognized for its top-notch “bar, bites, and beers,” Standard Service is a fun and exciting establishment distinguished by a retro-diner exterior and exposed brick interior. Open for lunch, brunch, and dinner, Standard Service has gained praise for its fun atmosphere, tasty burgers, local beer selections, and undoubtedly above-standard service.

5. Cork It Wine Bar & Payton’s Pie Company

Gainesville’s Cork It Wine Bar is the perfect location to unwind after a long day and to take your loved one on a special occasion. Cork It offers a bespoke wine menu featuring red, white, and sparkling wines from more than a dozen different countries. Be sure to check out Payton’s Pie Company for the perfect end to any special night.

6. Soco Seafood

Soco, located in Gainesville, is a Peruvian restaurant committed to creating authentic and inspired dishes with only the freshest ingredients. Among the restaurant’s many different seafood specialties—each made with some distinct Peruvian flair—we recommend lobsters, prawns, and mussels. It is the perfect destination for any well-rounded foodie.

7. Luna’s

If you are looking for a romantic destination—and might even be thinking about “popping the question”—look no further than Luna’s. Recognized for its excellent cuisine, romantic atmosphere, and high-quality menu, Luna’s is the perfect destination for any special occasion. The fireplace and live piano lounge will help make the night even more memorable.

8. Hopscotch Tapas

Located directly beneath the Blue Door Comedy Club (a great spot to wrap up a date night), Hopscotch is a delicious tapas restaurant with an ever-evolving menu. The restaurant features traditional Spanish small plates, along with several features inspired by other culinary traditions. Some recent favorites include the calamari and the crusted cod over crab cakes.

9. Dinner and a Show at Bourbon Brothers

Lastly, a list of worthwhile Gainesville dating destinations can only be completed by mentioning the Bourbon Brothers. In addition to its extensive drink and cocktail menu, you’ll find a variety of smokehouse classics and a strong rotation of live music.

In Gainesville, there is always somewhere new to explore!

Located just a short drive northeast of Atlanta, Gainesville, Georgia, has been consistently gaining population for decades. In fact, since 2000, the population has nearly doubled, growing from about 25,000 to 45,000 residents.
 
This steady growth has resulted in the emergence of several new apartment complexes across the city, including the highly-rated and widely renowned Treesort apartment complex.
 
But why has Gainesville, Georgia, in particular, been getting so much attention over the past few years? Well, it is likely because of the location. Located in Hall County, Georgia, and nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Gainesville is the perfect place for those who want immediate access to nature while also being within reach of the bustling city of Atlanta.
 
However, that’s not all that Gainesville has to offer. The city hosts various events, festivals, and activities open to people of all ages. Among many others, here are just a few reasons why 2024 in Gainesville, Georgia, will be amazing.
 
1. Food Truck Fridays
Food Truck Fridays, which begin in March and last throughout the entire summer, are a great way to experience the tasty and diverse cuisine that Gainesville offers. Whether you are looking for some traditional southern fare, a taste of something abroad, fun drinks, or just a little bit of everything, you’ll surely find something right up your alley.
 
2. First Concert Fridays
Speaking of Fridays, you’ll also want to check out the First Concert Friday series, which is an excellent concert series offering the people of Gainesville a free concert on the First Friday of every month. The series features various bands and genres, including classic rock, country, hip-hop, and more. Grab a blanket, friends, and snacks, and prepare for a great night out.
 
3. Mutts on Main
Between its many pet-friendly apartment complexes, such as Treesort, its many incredible parks, and its highly walkable downtown area, Gainesville is rightfully recognized as a dog-lovers paradise. Mutts on Main is a community-oriented event on Main Street designed for dog owners and general canine enthusiasts alike.
 
4. Gainesville Chicken Festival
Long-time residents of Gainesville know that the city has worked hard to earn the affectionate title ‘Chicken Capital of the World.’ The region is home to a substantial portion of the country’s chicken stock (pun intended) and some of the best chicken, fried and otherwise, you’ll find in Georgia. With thousands of visitors every year, the annual Chicken Festival is one of the most popular annual events in the city. This year, the festival is scheduled for October 19.
 
5. John Ferriss Regatta and Hong Kong Boat Festival
Lake Lanier Olympic Park played a pivotal role in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and the legacy of boat racing lives on in the park to this day. On Saturday, March 23, boating and rowing enthusiasts will have the chance to watch the John Ferriss Regatta, featuring some of the top crews in the country. Additionally, check out the always-popular and family-friendly Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, located directly on Lake Lanier, on September 7.
 
6. So Many Other Great Things To Do!
Even when there aren’t any scheduled events going on, Gainesville is a city that is almost impossible to get tired of exploring. If you are outdoorsy, you’ll find that there are more than a dozen state parks within a two-hour drive, with some even featuring parts of the Appalachian Trail.
 
Additionally, the nearby city of Atlanta offers an endless array of cultural options while the city maintains a historic, charming downtown. In other words, no matter who you are, you’ll find a place in or near Gainesville worth getting excited about. We can’t wait to see what this year has in store.

When the days are short and the nights are cold, being optimistic about where you live can be challenging. After all, there is a reason that winter consistently ranks as the average American’s least favorite season.
 
But, as you might expect, there are some places where the winter months are much more enjoyable than others. From Gainesville to Savannah to everywhere in between, the state of Georgia has become an increasingly popular winter destination. This is one—of many reasons—Georgia continues to increase in population with each passing year.
 
Whether it is your first winter in Georgia, you’ve been living here for a while, or simply visiting, you might be looking for ways to get the most out of these colder winter months. Keeping that in mind, here are just a few reasons Georgia has become one of the most popular places to spend winter.
 
Excellent Opportunities for Outdoor Adventure
There is no other way to put it: Georgia is an outdoor state at its core. That is why many of the state’s most highly-rated places to live, such as the recently opened Treesort apartment complex in Gainesville, are so focused on establishing a connection to the outdoors.
 
Even in Gainesville, which is in the northern portion of the state, the winter weather is mild. Gainesville gets just 1.6 inches of snow annually — well below the national average. In January, the coldest month of the year, the mean daily maximum is around 51 degrees (F). Furthermore, because the state is relatively southern, the winter days are not nearly as short as they are up north.
 
You’re in luck if you want to spend time outside in Georgia. The state has more than 60 state parks and historic sites, which is among the most of any state in the nation. These parks cover a wide variety of terrain and ecosystems, ranging from the rugged foothills of the Appalachians in the far north to beautiful pined forests in the central part of the state to palm-lined beaches in the southeast.
 
If you’re in Gainesville or the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, you’ll find plenty of options within a relatively short drive. Some of the best destinations include Chattahoochee National Forest, Cloudland Canyon, and Amacalola Falls.
 
Additionally, Georgia—world-renowned for having some of the best golf courses in the world—has dozens of courses that remain open throughout the entire winter. And for those looking to hit the slopes, Ober Gatlinburg Mountain, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, and Beech Mountain Resort are all within a four-hour drive from Atlanta.
 
… with Plenty of Great Alternatives
Of course, even with Gainesville’s notably temperate climate, you might still look for alternatives to outdoor adventures. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options available to choose from. Atlanta, for example, currently has 112 museums available, including several art museums, history museums, and places to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement.
 
But if you’re not in the mood for a museum, you’ll still find plenty of options available to choose from. For example, Atlanta and Gainesville have several notable entertainment venues, perfect for seeing a play, catching your favorite band, or discovering something new. And, perhaps even more notably, North Georgia has some of the best culinary options available in the country, including traditional southern cooking, contemporary American cuisine, international dishes, and everything in between.
 
There is no denying that, for many people, winter can be a somewhat difficult time of the year. This is especially true right after the holiday season, when it might feel like there isn’t as much to look forward to. However, if you are looking to have a truly great winter, there are few places better to do it than the great Peach State.

Established in 2023, Treesort has quickly become recognized as one of the premier luxury apartment complexes not only in Gainesville but in all of Hall County. The complex has received ample praise from developers, residents, and employees and is viewed by many as a great place to live.

From the beginning, Treesort sought to be more than “just another luxury apartment complex.” Inspired by some of the world’s most prestigious resorts, this unique living space takes full advantage of the beautiful trees and natural features surrounding it. Additionally, the complex’s countless amenities help make it easy for people of all kinds to truly live their best lives.

It is already clear that one of the best things about this complex is its ongoing commitment to establishing a lasting sense of community. By creating opportunities for residents to interact and get to know each other, Treesort has become more than just a place to live; it has become a place where you can truly feel at home.

That’s why community can be clearly recognized as one of Treesort’s most important values. But how, exactly, has Treesort been able to establish such a strong sense of community?

… It certainly wasn’t by accident. Here are seven things about Treesort that have helped cultivate a sense of community and empowered its residents to thrive.

1. Community Amenities

Of course, one of the best ways for Treesort to establish a sense of community is to create bespoke, resort-inspired community areas where people will actually want to gather. For example, not only is Treesort’s resort-styled pool—one of the largest at apartment complexes in Gainesville, Georgia—available for all its residents, but the pool also incorporates features (such as a tanning shelf) that are especially great for gathering.

Other features, such as the vast array of cabanas and the poolside bar, make spending an entire summer day outside, surrounded by friends and other residents, easy. This makes Treesort notably different from other apartment complexes with relatively limited public spaces.

There are plenty of additional public-oriented spaces to gather, as well. For example, for those who like to cook and entertain, the world-class summer kitchen (complete with an outdoor pizza oven) has everything you need for a delightful dinner. Once inside, features such as a pool table, shuffleboard table, public workspace, and more can establish a great sense of community.

2. Connection to Nature

 One of the best ways to cultivate a sense of community in a luxury apartment complex is to establish something that all residents can have in common. At Treesort, this special something is—undoubtedly—our community-wide connection to and appreciation for nature.

Treesort, known as a “place among the trees,” is perhaps the best location in Gainesville, Georgia, for deeply integrating into the natural world. North Georgia is well-known for its variety of beautiful trees, exactly where the tree-inspired resort got its name. The campus includes many lush trees, and the area is close to some of the best hiking areas in the state. This total emergence into nature is something that all residents of Treesort can share, which has bolstered a strong community identity.

3. Community Events

As you might expect, hosting regular events is one of the best ways to bring people together. As Treesort prepares for its first full year as a community, several holidays, seasonal events, and other notable events are already being planned.

These events will give you an excellent opportunity to celebrate some of the most exciting times of the year and get to know your neighbors. Our goal is to ensure everyone will have the chance to participate and feel like a true member of our budding—and growing—community.

4. Art and Culture

To truly feel like you are part of a community, you’ll want to be sure you are living in a place you can be proud of. Luckily, the interior designers and the rest of the team behind Treesort have helped make this incredibly easy. Residents can bond over shared aesthetics and cultural moments by including distinctive art features, along with “The Frog”—a unique, unofficial mascot for the community.

5. Community-Oriented Architecture

Whether we acknowledge it or not, architecture significantly impacts how we live our lives. Ultimately, Every choice an architect makes will impact how we go about our days. This is especially true in a place like Treesort, which has a campus-style layout rather than existing in a single building.

After just one quick walk around Treesort’s impressive campus, it is easy to see how the entire complex was designed with community living in mind. For example, having the pool, the outdoor dining areas, and other community-oriented locations in the facility's center has helped make it easier for people to gather and meet in a shared destination. And while each campus building has its distinct personalities, they are all still part of the same, broader community.

6. Pet-Friendly Living

Our pets are a part of our family—and our families are a part of the community. With more people owning pets than ever before, the team at Treesort knew just how important it was to create a place where pets can feel welcome. That’s why the team worked so hard to develop pet-friendly places that all can easily access and enjoy.

For example, pet owners can get to know each other and bond with their beloved furry friends by having a dedicated dog park. In the future, there will also be events geared towards pet owners, where meeting other people—and creating a sense of community—will be even more accessible.

7. Dedicated Team

Finally, the team behind the Treesort experience is what will help this community thrive. Led by Leslie White (owner and broker), Jeannie Copeland (property manager), Kate Harper (leasing manager), Alisha McGaha, and many other dedicated team members, Treesort is committed to establishing shared community values and experiences.

There are so many things to love about Treesort and so many things that separate it from other luxury apartments in Gainesville, Georgia. But in the end, the overwhelming sense of community makes Treesort the ideal place to call home.

If you are currently searching for a new apartment—whether in Gainesville, Georgia or anywhere else—you might be overwhelmed by the number of available options. After all, in addition to Treesort luxury apartments, dozens of other places have opened within the past ten years.

This is why it is necessary to consider the type of place you want to live in. Ask yourself, “What are my ‘must-haves’ when choosing a new apartment?” For some people, the most important detail will be the location or the monthly rent. For others, it will be the amenities or the floorplan. However, as you might expect, most people will care about all of these things and will need to carefully balance their needs.

When narrowing down your search, deciding whether you want to live in a luxury apartment or a ‘standard’ apartment will be significant. As is the case with any major living decision, both of these options will have pros and cons that come with them.

The term 'luxury apartment’ isn’t just a generic phrase used for marketing purposes—luxury apartments represent a distinctive category of living quarters with many features that make them unique. Below, we will discuss the differences between luxury and standard apartments, the benefits of living in a luxury apartment, and how to find the Gainesville, Georgia luxury apartment that’s right for you.

By taking some time to identify and understand what you are looking for, you’ll be one step closer to finding your ideal home.

What is the Difference Between a Luxury Apartment and a Standard Apartment?

According to Apartments.com, “A luxury apartment provides high-end features and amenities that are designed to make a renter feel pampered… Luxury apartments usually have high-end appliances and finishes throughout, and the spaces are often larger than traditional apartments.”

In other words, luxury apartments will go above and beyond what you truly need to live. They will provide things generally considered wants but not necessities, such as in-unit appliances, pools, other public areas, and more.

Usually, it will be pretty easy to tell whether or not a specific community can be considered a luxury apartment—even from the moment you walk into the lobby. For example, in a standard apartment, there will likely be a front door immediately followed by an elevator (or even just stairs). In a luxury apartment, on the other hand, the lobby will be welcoming, warmly decorated, and will include places to gather and relax. There will also likely be a doorman, security guard, or someone working at the reception desk.

After spending some time walking around the building, the level of luxury will become even more apparent. At a standard apartment, there will usually only be hallways leading to each unit. In a luxury apartment like Treesort, you’ll find excellent amenities, including a resort-inspired pool, a world-class fitness center, an al fresco dining area, and a ‘Willow Room,’ which can be rented for events and used for various other purposes. You’ll also find other great amenities, such as a pool table, shuffleboard, and more.

Of course, it will also be important to consider what is included within each apartment type. This really will be what separates luxury apartments from their less luxurious counterparts and will ultimately have a notable impact on your overall quality of life.

To start, take a look at the floorplan. Luxury apartments are usually larger than the alternatives (at least 800 square feet) and will have a layout conducive to everyday living. Furthermore, these apartments are much more likely to have a balcony or some other type of outdoor space that can be accessed directly from the unit.

Additionally, these apartments will have ample closet space and additional appliances. There are plenty of appliances that people don’t necessarily need but are luxuries that are certainly nice to have, including washers, dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, and more. Having the right appliances will undoubtedly make your life much easier.

Before deciding whether a given apartment type is right for you, look closer at the finishes and other details. Because Treesort was built in 2023, every finish and interior detail is about as modern and up-to-date as possible. This is one of the reasons these sorts of apartments have become so popular in recent years. 

Do Luxury Apartments Always Cost More than Standard Apartments?

Luxury apartments will cost a bit more than standard apartments within the same neighborhood. After all, you are generally paying for a better place to live. However, these price differences are often smaller than many people might assume. When comparing a luxury apartment to other equally-sized apartments, the difference in monthly rents could be as low as $200.

Depending on your personal needs, living in a luxury apartment could help you save money. This is usually because these complexes give you access to facilities and resources you would otherwise have to pay for on your own. For example, if having access to a top-notch gym and pool is essential to you, you’ll have two options: pay up to $100 per month for a membership at these places or rent an apartment where these facilities are already paid for.

Additionally, if you are among the many people currently working from home, choosing a complex with good workspaces can help you avoid other costs, such as the monthly cost of using a coworking space. Other minor details, such as an in-unit washer-dryer, parking, and more, really can help improve the true cost of living somewhere.

Benefits of Living in a Luxury Apartment

Now that we have discussed the primary differences between luxury and standard apartments, you might wonder, “Should I consider living in a luxury apartment?”

In many cases, the answer will be a resounding “yes!” Here are just a few of the reasons people choose to live in a luxury apartment complex:

• Increased Quality of Life: after a long, stressful day, you probably want somewhere to relax and feel at home. A place that gives you access to a pool, access to the outdoors (even looking at trees is good for your mental health), and other in-demand amenities help make it easier to escape into your personal oasis.
• Ease of Living: as anyone who has done it before can tell you, living in a standard apartment can often be stressful. Having to go to the laundromat, having to commute for other typical errands, and having things break all the time are just a few problems you might encounter. A luxury apartment's quality of facilities, utilities, and staff will help you live your life without interruptions.
• Better Sense of Community: one of the reasons luxury apartment complexes such as Treesort are so popular is that—contrary to places where you go straight from the front door to your unit—there is a real sense of community. These complexes are especially conducive to getting to know your neighbors. Between the open lobby, pet-friendly areas, and ample outdoor spaces, places like Treesort will help you feel like a genuine community member and not just a resident of a “unit.”
• Great Value: though luxury apartments indeed cost slightly more, you will usually end up getting an excellent value for what you are spending. These spacious units are conducive to resort-style living, allowing you to maximize your time at home and truly enjoy your life.

Finding the Luxury Apartment that’s Right for You

It’s easy to see why luxury apartments have become so popular in recent years, especially in places like Gainesville, Georgia. Between the high-quality finishes, community living, resort-style amenities, and more, it is easy to see why these apartments are often associated with a higher quality of life.

Before making a final decision, take some time to explore your options. You’ll want to consider many things in your search, including the location of the apartment unit, your personal budget, and the types of luxury features that are most important for you to have.

Treesort is one of many great Gainesville, Georgia luxury apartments available for you to choose from. Be sure to contact our dedicated team and BOOK A TOUR today!

One of the most significant problems facing the United States over the past few years—which was particularly exaggerated throughout the COVID-19 pandemic—is that there has been a notable housing shortage, especially in fast-growing metropolitan areas, such as Northern Georgia (which includes Atlanta, Gainesville, and other major cities).

Whenever a housing shortage persists, this creates a wide variety of problems for anyone looking to own or rent a house. When there are not enough homes for people to live in, costs will inevitably increase for all parties involved. This has caused many people to have limited housing options—a problem across nearly all income brackets.

Fortunately, the ‘luxury apartment boom’ has helped limit the adverse effects of this ongoing issue. Luxury apartments are generally considered apartments with bespoke features (such as pools, outdoor spaces, gyms, and more) and have become an increasingly popular option across the United States.

Within the city of Gainesville, Georgia, luxury apartment destinations such as Treesort have helped make it possible for people of all kinds to find resort-quality living options that still work within their budget. While there are still many things that will need to be done to address the ongoing national housing shortage, there is no denying that places like Treesort and many others have helped create a positive impact.

Let’s look at how these places have created remarkable community benefits.

1. Increased Population Density

Nearly every urban planner you will ever meet will agree that population density is key to community cohesion. With higher levels of population density, which new apartment complexes (contrary to single-family homes) provide, it becomes much easier for communities to establish shared resources, reduce their overall carbon footprint, and make it easier to develop effective and affordable infrastructure.

Higher levels of density can also have a beneficial impact on the overall cost of living. For example, suppose you have 100 people living in a one-acre area instead of 4 people living in a one-acre. In that case, the cost of acquiring and developing land can be significantly diluted. This is why most new residential builds, particularly in urban areas, have been multifamily units or entire apartment complexes.

According to the National Apartment Association, the United States needs at least 4.6 million additional apartments to be built by 2030. Otherwise, the nation will continue to face significant housing shortage issues. That’s why newly built apartments, especially in-demand luxury apartments, are considered a vital solution to a nationwide problem.

2. Transition to Mixed-Use Neighborhoods and Communities

Another recent real estate trend has been the ongoing transition from highly-zoned neighborhoods to mixed-used neighborhoods that effectively offer residents and members just about everything they could want. This marks a significant shift from urban planning philosophies of the mid-20th century, largely characterized by single-family units in distant suburbs (often only connected via highway) and business/industry concentrated in downtown neighborhoods.

The development of mixed-use communities has been remarkable—and these neighborhoods make sense. If someone can easily access their workplace, places to eat out, essential stores, and other desirable locations within 15 minutes, their quality of life will significantly improve. Gainesville, Georgia is an excellent example of a growing, mixed-use area where almost anything you could desire is readily within reach.

Additionally, as more Americans continue to pursue the work-from-home lifestyle, the demand for these living situations will increase even further.

3. Efficient Use of Resources

As suggested, the United States currently needs millions more places to live. This is especially true in counties that are growing well beyond the national average, such as Hall County, Georgia. According to the US Census, Hall County grew by 13.1% between 2010 and 2020. And between 1990 and 2020, the population more than doubled, expanding from about 95,000 to about 203,000.

In other words, Hall County—including one of its crown jewels, Gainesville—is a great example where it is abundantly clear more housing is needed. This forces developers and city planners to have to make an important decision. Do we increase the housing supply with single-family homes? Or do we increase the housing supply with apartment complexes, including at least some luxury ones?

In this situation, the choice is obvious. If you want to add an additional one thousand units to the housing stock, it will be much more affordable and much more efficient to create top-notch apartments that people actually want to live in. Treesort is an excellent example of a new apartment complex that can provide an incredible quality of life for its residents while also facilitating the natural growth of the city.

4. Community Benefits

The apartment model—as opposed to the single-family housing model—also makes it much easier for residents to access community benefits that would otherwise be out of reach. Most people living in a warm, southern state such as Georgia will likely want access to a pool. Of course, even relatively dedicated pool users will spend more than a few hours per week swimming, lounging, and relaxing. Creating a single high-quality pool that can be shared by dozens of (or more) people is much more productive and efficient than creating dozens of independent pools.

And this same logic can be applied to almost every other aspect of living. Take Treesort, for example. At Treesort, you will find countless amenities, including ample outdoor space, al fresco dining, a 24-hour fitness center, an expansive sun deck, a dog park, and so much more. These are all highly demanded, highly beneficial amenities that most people would otherwise be unable to access.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best solution to the housing crisis will rely heavily on developing new apartments. Whether you are looking to live in Gainesville, Georgia, or anywhere else, the best option for your new home will likely be in a quality, newly-developed apartment complex.

There are many great things about living in Northern Georgia. Still, for many people, the best thing about this beautiful part of the country is exploring its incredible array of natural areas. Within a short drive of Gainesville, you can find the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, forests, lakes, prairies, and more.

And because this region contains a unique mix of coniferous and deciduous plant life, every season is different. Many long-time outdoor enthusiasts claim autumn is the best time of year for hiking since the temperature is slightly more moderate and the changing leaves are stunning.

If you have recently bought a home or are renting a luxury apartment complex in Gainesville, Georgia, you might look for new outdoor destinations to explore. Fortunately, whether you are looking for trails that are relatively short and easy or are looking for something geared more towards experts, you will quickly discover that there are plenty of great options available to choose from.

Here are a few of our favorite fall hiking destinations near Gainesville, Georgia, including some of the most desirable trails.

1. Don Carter State Park

Don Carter State Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Northern Georgia and is located just a short drive away from Gainesville. The park has about five miles of well-maintained hiking trails that cross a variety of different types of terrain, including scenic Lake Lanier and moderately inclined forested hills. The Lakeview Loop Trail is especially enjoyable during late October and early November when Georgia fall colors are generally considered at their annual peak. And if you are a bird-watching enthusiast, this location is an absolute “must-visit.”

2. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

For those who prefer longer hiking trails, head north of Gainesville toward Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. This particular forest, which is maintained as a part of the National Park Service, features dozens of miles of hiking trails distributed across thousands of acres of lush Appalachian forests.

At Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, you can find hiking trails for nearly every experience level. One of the most renowned trails within the park is the Raven Cliff Falls Trail, which winds through a beautiful forest full of diverse, colorful trees, eventually reaching a magnificent waterfall. The National Forest is also located near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, which continues up to Maine and is one of the best long-distance hiking trails in the world.

3. Yonah Mountain

If you are an experienced hiker seeking breathtaking panoramic views of the North Georgian fall foliage, then Yonah Mountain is your destination. While reaching the top of Yonah Mountain requires quite a bit of time and effort, the views at the top are undeniably worth it.

Because the hike itself is relatively strenuous, the trail is usually relatively empty. Once you reach the summit, you’ll enjoy 360-degree panoramic views for miles in every direction, characterized by an eclectic mix of red, yellow, and coniferous trees. Be sure to bring plenty of water, reliable hiking boots, and, of course, your favorite camera.

4. Elachee Nature Science Center

For those who prefer to learn as they walk, the Elachee Nature Science Center is the perfect destination. The Center’s mission is to help provide informative, interesting, and accessible trails that help make it easy for people to learn a bit more about the beauty of the North Georgia wilderness.

The Center has several trails, including paved trails that are great for families. Be sure to check out an interpretive hike or nature program led by local experts. Additionally, despite the Center’s relatively small size (at least compared to the National Forests), you’ll find an incredibly diverse collection of terrain, including wetlands, forests, and meadows.

5. Shawnee Mountain Preserve

While many of these options are located to the north of Gainesville, residents will be delighted to discover that there are great hiking options available in other directions, as well. Shawnee Mountain Preserve is located southwest of Gainesville and has some of the unique scenery and wildlife available.

One of the most popular trails in Shawnee Mountain Preserve is the Indian Seats Trail, which incorporates several unique overlooks that have long been referred to as the Indian Seats. Once you reach the top of this rigorous but manageable trail, you will enjoy dramatic views across the wilderness.

6. Amicalola Falls State Park

This popular state park includes some of the region’s most spectacular views of waterfalls, as well as a direct link to Frosty Mountain, which is an iconic landmark along the Appalachian Trail. This is widely considered one of the best parks within the Georgia State Park system, especially during fall, when the leaves have fully changed.

One of the great things about this particular hike is that it has options available for just about every skill level. For those looking for something more accessible, there are winding roads throughout the park that can help you get somewhat near the falls (to reach the falls, you will need to go upstairs). There is also a more rigorous hike to the falls up steep—yet stunning—terrain. Regardless of your preference, this is a destination you will not want to miss. 

Finding a Place Among the Trees

“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.”—Henry David Thoreau

Spending some time surrounded by trees is one of the best things we can do for our personal well-being. At Treesort, we’ve worked hard to create a great living experience entirely integrated into a beautiful natural environment. Schedule a tour today to see how resort-style amenities can be blended with a love of the natural world.

One of the best things about living in an apartment is that it is significantly more flexible—and requires a much smaller commitment—than owning a home. While closing on a home requires a down payment that can be tens of thousands of dollars, as well as closing costs, living in an apartment usually only requires you to pay the first month’s rent and make a security deposit.

Because of this, many people across the country will decide to rent a luxury apartment every year. This can be especially exciting if you live in a fast-growing community such as Gainesville, Georgia. In fact, Gainesville—surrounded by the beautiful landscape of Northern Georgia—currently has many great luxury apartments available, including the recently constructed award-winning Treesort.

However, it is also true that many people will plan to live in their apartment for just a few years while trying to save up to buy a home (or make some other significant life change, such as moving abroad). If you want to improve your savings account during your time in a luxury apartment, it will be essential to have a deliberate plan of action.

Fortunately, by making just a few small changes to your lifestyle, you’ll be able to live in the apartment of your dreams while also watching your savings continue to grow over time. In this article, we will offer some helpful tips for saving while living in an apartment and, of course, still taking the time to live your best life.

1. Do Your Research When Comparing Apartments

When comparing different places to live, one of the first details you’ll probably look at is the price. After all, if your goal is to save up for a future down payment on a house, you’ll want to choose a place to live that allows you to have at least a little bit of money at the end of the month.

However, it is also important to realize that the so-called “sticker price” of the home you are considering is just one of several factors that can affect the actual cost of living in a luxury apartment. In many places, there are a lot of hidden fees and expenses that can cause the actual cost to considerably increase. For example, if you choose an apartment that doesn’t have things you consider essential—such as a gym, dog park, available parking, workspaces, etc.—you must find other ways to pay for these expenses.

In other words, when comparing your options, be sure your cost calculations are comprehensive.

2. Create a Detailed Budget—and Stick with It

The best way to begin saving is to create a budget you can stick with. Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to cut out your unnecessary expenses. Entertainment (sports, concerts, etc.), nights out with friends, luxury goods, and other “wants” are all still things you can consume in moderation—but they should all still be included in your budget (for example, you might limit yourself to spending $200 per month on going out).

The more you can account for in advance via your budget, the easier it will be to achieve your long-term savings goals. And be sure to take a close look at your budget every month and make adjustments as needed. If you find you are consistently spending more than you planned for on certain expenses, consider asking yourself why and making some adjustments.

3. Find Ways to Reduce Your Utility Bills

Relatively speaking, the utility bills you’ll receive while living in an apartment will be remarkably lower than the bills you’ll find while owning a home. In fact, recent estimates indicate that the average apartment renter in Georgia only spends about one-third the amount of utilities as the average homeowner. Over time, these monthly differences can really begin to add up.

Still, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be proactive about cutting your utility expenses even further. For example, suppose you are willing to keep your apartment at a slightly higher temperature (say, 75 degrees instead of 70 degrees). In that case, you can save hundreds of dollars throughout a sweltering Georgia summer. Finding ways to minimize your water usage, gas usage, and other utility consumption can also make a significant difference. Plus, using fewer utilities is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint!

4. Consider Getting a Roommate

One of the easiest ways to reduce the total cost of living in a Gainesville, Georgia, luxury apartment is to get an additional roommate. Having a roommate will allow you to cut your monthly rent payments in half, thus allowing you to put quite a bit more money into savings every month.

Of course, having a roommate also has its fair share of drawbacks, such as having to share common areas and having a little bit less privacy. However, finding a roommate with a similar lifestyle can help you save thousands of dollars over the year. This makes a difference for anyone who is trying to better manage their finances.

5. General Lifestyle Changes

It is easy for seemingly small expenses to add up over time, thus impacting your ability to save for future financial goals. For example, making a cup of coffee at home will cost less than $1 per cup, while getting a cup of coffee from Starbucks will cost, on average, about $5. On a day-to-day basis, $4 probably doesn’t seem like much. But if you make these sorts of decisions daily for a year, you will save about $1,500.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of other ways small lifestyle changes can have a tremendous impact. Cutting unnecessary subscriptions, refinancing high-interest debt, buying used items instead of new things, and more are just a few ways to improve your financial position.

Conclusion

Ultimately, living in an apartment doesn’t mean throwing your money away: there are plenty of ways to save while enjoying modern, luxury apartment living. No matter what your future financial goals might be, each of these actions can help.

One of the most exciting things about moving into a new luxury apartment is decorating it over time. By selecting from different works of art, rugs, and other decorations, you can express yourself and help turn your apartment into a place that truly feels like home.

However, as you’d probably expect, decorating any interior space requires quite a bit of skill, experience, and attention to detail. If it is your first time decorating an apartment (or the first time you are seriously going to try), then you might not be sure where to start.

And that’s okay!

In this comprehensive guide, we are going to discuss some of the most common questions that people have regarding how to decorate an apartment, including the essential dos and don’ts, tips for expressing yourself, and more. By developing a comprehensive interior design scheme, you can turn your current pad into a lasting oasis.

1. Review Your Lease to See What You Are Allowed to Do

By law, every apartment lease is required to outline things residents are allowed (or not allowed) to do in their own homes. For example, most leases allow residents to make minor changes to the apartment, such as putting a nail into a wall to hang a photograph.

However, there are a lot of other modifications you can make to the place that might not be so readily welcomed. For example, most leases won’t allow you to paint or make permanent changes to the walls (at least without paying a fee to eventually paint it back to normal). Suppose you want to make permanent structural changes to your apartment, such as tearing down a wall. In that case, the odds of the property owner approving the project become even lower.

In any case, reviewing your lease will help you get a better understanding of your interior decorating boundaries. And if you are still deciding whether something is allowed, it certainly never hurts to ask.

2. Identify Your Personal Aesthetic

The way you decorate your apartment will be a very personal process. That means the decorating scheme that is ‘best’ for one person might not necessarily be the best for another. For example, someone who loves antique, patterned wall art will have substantially different preferences than someone who considers themselves a minimalist.

This doesn’t necessarily mean everything you enjoy or like to look at has a place in your new apartment. If your goal is to create a visually appealing environment, then you’ll want to be sure to develop a strategy.

Luckily, there are many ways you can help define your ‘personal aesthetic,’ even if it’s something you’ve never done before. One of the best places to get started is on social media, particularly Pinterest and Instagram, where you can efficiently compare moods, themes, aesthetics, decorations, and more.

It also helps to think about your own experiences. Are there any apartments you’ve visited that you particularly admired? What made them stand out?

3. Choose a ‘Key Piece’ that Establishes Ambiance

When starting the decorating process from scratch, it often helps to focus on a single piece and then build out from there. For example, if you have a highly detailed rug, a specific piece of furniture you consider beautiful, or a large ‘statement’ piece of artwork, this can help you begin creating a broader theme.

Of course, not everything in your apartment has to exactly match. In fact, most interior decorators will caution against making things match too much. Nevertheless, if your statement piece has a specific color or pattern, it will be easier to support smaller supplementary pieces.

4. Think About the Seven Elements

There are a lot of different approaches you might take to designing your apartment; you’ll always want to consider each of the seven elements of interior design.

These elements include color, form, light, line, pattern, texture, and space.

Perhaps even more importantly, it is essential to think about how each of these seven elements directly interact with one another. For example, if you add a significant light fixture in the corner (or even the center) of your important, that will have an immediate impact on the overall ‘light’ element. But it will also directly affect how specific colors in your home are perceived, as well as whether or not certain patterns are visible.

Even small changes in your design scheme can have a significant impact on how your apartment is generally experienced (both good and bad experiences). Keeping these essential elements in mind will make it much easier to create the perfect look.

6. Don’t Be Afraid of Your Green Thumb

One of the best ways to—quite literally—add some life to your apartment is to incorporate some living plants. This is especially true for homes such as luxury apartments in Gainesville, Georgia, where residents are regularly surrounded by lush and impressive greenery.

Contrary to popular belief, becoming a ‘plant parent’ doesn’t always require a lot of work or resources. A simple succulent plant, for example, will require just a little watering every few weeks and is otherwise self-sufficient. As time goes on and you continue to enhance your plant-keeping skills, you can always go for larger plants requiring more upkeep.

8. Be Willing to Take Your Time

If you just made your first lease payment on a luxury apartment, you are probably (rightfully) excited and are ready to get the whole place decorated.

However, as plenty of experts within the interior decorating community will attest, it is much better to take your time and only incorporate decorations you genuinely care about. With a bit of patience and an eye for design, your dream home will eventually come to be.

One of the most common long-term goals in the United States is to own a home of your own eventually. After all, home equity is the most significant form of current household wealth, meaning owning a home is one of the most effective ways to achieve your long-term financial goals.

However, even if owning a home is something you hope to achieve, that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be in your best interest to make a down payment on a mortgage immediately. In many cases, waiting just a few years before deciding to make the giant leap can provide many benefits.

There are countless articles available that discuss the benefits of owning a home—but what about the benefits of renting?

Let’s take a closer look at why there are tens of millions of American households who choose to rent instead of buy.

1. In the Short-Run, Owning a Home is Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be

One of the main reasons people rush into owning a home is that they are “tired of paying rent” and want to begin building equity.

In many cases, this line of thinking makes sense. However, one thing that most aspiring homeowners need to realize is that even when they are earning monthly mortgage payments, most of the money that they pay is going to someone else.

In other words, if your proposed total mortgage payment is projected to be, say, $2,400 per month, you can typically expect—especially towards the beginning of the mortgage—for at least $1,800 per month to be going to something other than your principal mortgage payment. Between interest payments, property taxes, private mortgage insurance (when applicable), homeowners’ insurance, and other expenses, you’ll still pay quite a bit each payment cycle.

Over time, the amount of money that ‘comes back’ to you might gradually improve. But it’s important to realize that even with a reasonable interest rate, only a fraction of your mortgage payment goes to your equity.

2. Limited Flexibility, Limited Liquidity

Another thing to remember when deciding whether renting or owning—whether in Gainesville, Georgia or anywhere else—is right for you is that owning a home is a significant financial commitment. Selling a home, on average, costs about $20,000 (or about 6% of the sale price), meaning that if you haven’t lived there for very long, you might end up losing money.

Additionally, if you are hoping to sell a home, you can expect it will take at least two months before you’ll be able to move into a new place (unless you want to pay for multiple homes at the same time). For a lot of people, especially those who are experiencing career changes, plan to travel, or are shuffling between cities, that is not acceptable.

Furthermore, the investment for anyone interested in buying a home to recognize must be highly illiquid—meaning that converting the equity you’ve built in your home into cash is relatively complicated. Sure, you might check Zillow once every few months or so and notice that your home has increased in estimated value by several thousand dollars. But as long as that money is tied up in the home itself, you won’t be able to use it—a common phenomenon known as being ‘house poor.’

3. Increased Responsibility (and Liability)

In general, property values tend to increase over time—often faster than the public stock market—which is why homeownership is often viewed as the most effective way to establish generational wealth. However, while this investment offers plenty of upside potential, it still carries several risks for owners.

If you are a homeowner—barring an event covered by insurance (surprisingly limited)—then you are on the hook for everything that goes wrong with your home. Did your air conditioner blow out in the middle of a hot, humid Georgia summer? Well, then, you expect to pay at least $5,000 to get a new one. Appliances breaking, simple wear and tear, and other disasters can all cause homeowners to spend thousands of dollars annually.

In some cases, it might be possible to reduce financial risk, such as by purchasing a warranty. But in any case, renting undoubtedly carries significantly less stress (and less liability) than the home-owning alternative.

4. Ongoing Exposure to Market-Related Risk

Keeping the concept of risk in mind, it’s important to remember that one of the most significant risks homeowners are exposed to is their ongoing exposure to financial risk. For example, in 2008—the worst year for the housing market this century—the average American owner lost nearly 10% of their property value, meaning that if their home was worth $400,000, their total losses would have been around $40,000.

Obviously, this particular year is an outlier. Houses do, on average, increase in value every year. But if you don’t want to deal with the stressful ups and downs of equity markets, renting might be your best option.

5. Better Access to Amenities

Finally, and perhaps the most influential reason for becoming a renter is that, in doing so, you get access to an abundance of amenities. Amenities are especially true at Treesort, which has quickly established itself as one of the best luxury apartment complexes in Gainesville, Georgia.

Popular amenities include a fully-equipped gym, pool, ample outdoor and walking space, entertainment areas, community areas, and more. For example, the average cost of a pool in the United States is around $40,000, which means that having a pool is a non-starter for most new homeowners. If the pool is already included in your stress-free rent, on the other hand, then that changes the entire situation.

Of course, there are many things you need to consider before deciding whether you want to buy or rent. But if you are interested in the many benefits of renting, we encourage you to visit Treesort and see for yourself!

If you have recently rented a luxury apartment in Gainesville, Georgia, you are probably looking to get to know your neighborhood a little bit better. That includes finding the best places to eat in Gainesville. While the city itself has a long tradition of providing high-quality delicious Soul Food, that is one of the many culinary traditions you’ll find in this hip, fast-growing area.

Cuisine has always been an essential component of southern living. But as the city of Gainesville continues to grow—and continues to become a more essential component of the broader Atlanta Metropolitan Area—the number of options available to choose from has considerably expanded.

As a result, Gainesville has become a sort of culinary Mecca. With, literally, hundreds of different restaurants available to choose from, people who have recently moved to the Gainesville area can find delight in the vast array of available choices.

Keeping this in mind, whether you are living in Gainesville long-term or are passing through, here are ten fantastic culinary destinations that are worth exploring.

1. Recess Southern Gastro Pub

As the old saying goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." In other words, if you are looking for a great place to eat in the South, it never hurts to start with some classic southern cuisine. Recess is the self-proclaimed ‘first known Southern Gastro Pub,’ which focuses on offering a unique twist to southern dining traditions with an ongoing commitment to quality ingredients. The atmosphere, expansive food and drink menus, and dedicated staff are all worthy of praise.

1. Luna’s Restaurant

Luna’s very well might be the best Mexican restaurant in the entire state of Georgia. Whether you are looking for something more traditional or something with a bit more of a modern twist, the authentic food served at Luna’s remains second to none. We recommend trying their delicious fajitas, as well as their expertly-crafted margaritas.

1. 2 Dog Restaurant

If you are new to the Gainesville, Georgia area, it will only be a matter of time before a local recommends checking out the fantastic 2 Dog Restaurant. The wide-reaching menu features plenty of comforting, southern classics, as well as a delicious series of burgers, sandwiches, and salads. If you are with a group that can’t agree on a single location, ‘2 Dog’ might be the best place to get started.

1. Avocados Restaurant

Located right in the heart of the city, Avocados has played a significant role in establishing Gainesville as a go-to destination for regional foodies. One of the factors that helps separate Avocados from the rest of the crowd is their relentless commitment to offering fresh ingredients in everything they create. Though loosely classified as modern American cuisine, Avocados has great options for just about everybody—alongside a remarkable cocktail and craft beer menu.

1. Atlas Pizza

Of course, there can't be a list of top-notch restaurants that doesn’t include at least one pizza place. And Atlas Pizza might very well be the best pizza option available, not only within the city limits of Gainesville but also within the greater Atlanta area. Fresh ingredients combined with a signature New York pizza style have helped Atlas become one of the most well-known names in the area. Other excellent menu options include signature calzones, strombolis, and more.

1. Kiku Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

When it comes to Japanese food in the greater Gainesville area, Kiku is about as good as it gets. While the restaurant is mostly known for its carefully crafted, wide-ranging sushi selection, the expansive menu goes much further. The restaurant offers plenty of other delicious selections, including steaks made in a variety of traditional Japanese cooking styles. Additionally, the drink menu features both Asian and American selections that can appeal to just about any palate.

1. Longstreet Cafe

Any well-rounded citizen of Gainesville cannot forget about the most important meal of the day: breakfast. And, as many long-time locals will agree, the Longstreet Café is quite possibly the best place to get it. This unique café, styled like a traditional diner with plenty of higher-end touches, is the perfect place to get your day started with excellent egg- and meat-based dishes, as well as plenty of lighter options. Yet, if you are looking for something a little bit later on, the impressive sandwich/lunch menu is also worth exploring.

1. The Collegiate Grill

The Collegiate Grill, in many ways, is like a portal into an earlier era. The Grill—which opened its doors in 1936 and has experienced many changes over time—is a well-known stomping ground for locals and visitors looking to buy quality, affordable hamburgers, and other classic American staples. Be sure to try one of their classic chocolate milkshakes in order to get the full experience.

1. Inman Perk Coffee

Inman might very well be the most well-known coffee shop in Gainesville. Though the wait can sometimes be rather long during certain times of the day (Sunday morning, for example), it is undeniably worth it. Inman Perk Coffee uses high-quality beans and, when combined with its eclectic atmosphere, is certainly worth experiencing while in Gainesville.

1. Luna’s on the Square

Luna’s On the Square has a menu that is notably different from the aforementioned ‘Luna’s.’ This particular establishment is widely appreciated for its tremendous Mediterranean food, which includes handmade falafels, gyros, kabobs, and more. If you are hoping to indulge in some tremendous Mediterranean flavor, then this is undoubtedly the place you want to be.

Conclusion

Of course, these are just a few of the restaurants you might consider visiting while living in Gainesville, Georgia. As the city continues to expand—and become enriched with new types of people—the culinary scene continues to expand. At Treesort, we will continue to keep you updated with changes in the city’s dining options and will continue to work to help you find your next favorite spot.

The Complete Guide for Moving Into a New Apartment

Moving into a new place—whether it is a luxury apartment in Gainesville, Georgia, or a home located anywhere else—is always very exciting. With a new home, you can find a world of new opportunities, as well as the ability to live the exact sort of life you’ve been dreaming of.

When making any major life decision, moving into a new apartment can also sometimes be stressful. Move-in and move-out days often come up much more quickly than we anticipated. That’s why it is important to come up with a detailed plan before you actually make your big move.

Fortunately, the Treesort team is here to help. By using this comprehensive guide—which will outline the most important things to consider when moving into a new apartment—your transition from Point A to Point B will be as easy as possible.

No matter where you are moving, be sure to keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Start by Creating a Detailed Timeline

It is very easy to think, "My current lease runs through August," and then wait until the end of July before making any big moves.

To start, take note of when your current lease ends and when your next one begins. You should also contact your current property manager and ask questions about your lease, such as, "Could I stay here for one more month, if necessary?" and "What are the terms for closing my lease?" From there, you will be able to build a medium-term moving calendar, which might include other important dates such as inspections, lease signings, and hiring helpers.

2. Take Inventory of the Things You Currently Own

Every time you move—whether it has been years or weeks—is a great time to take a detailed inventory of the things you currently own. It is also an opportunity to reconsider the things you have been hanging onto but could consider throwing away.

While we all like to hold onto our prized possessions, take a step back and ask yourself: Do I really need this? The more things you can part with while sorting through your possessions, the easier the apartment-moving process will be. Regardless of what you want to keep and what you want to part with, creating an accurate, sorted inventory list will make this entire process much easier.

3. Coordinate Your Bills, Utilities, and Mail

When moving from one apartment to another, you will want to make sure that all of your accounts are in order. Make a list of each of the utilities you pay independent of your current landlord. Some of the most common utilities include internet, electricity, security, and gas. Call the providers of each of these services and make sure the account is completely closed. Additionally, you should create a list of all bills sent to your current residence and redirect them to your new apartment. Contacting the postal service (USPS) to notify them of a change of address will also be beneficial

4. Begin Packing Well in Advance

We’ve all been there before. You know you are moving next week, but you want to wait until the very last minute before you actually begin the packing process. After all, it can’t take that long to pack, right?

Even if the physical packing process only takes a few hours, it’s a good idea to begin packing at least a few days before your move. Early packing will help you avoid needless amounts of stress, and ensure your belongings are all accounted for and well organized.

5. Confirm Your Final Moving Details

When it comes to moving into a Georgia apartment, there is no such thing as being 'too cautious.' For example, if you booked a moving truck a few months ago, you’ll want to call the moving company at least a week in advance of the move.

There are plenty of other details you’ll want to look into, as well. Do you know where you’ll be getting your key? Will the Wi-Fi and other utilities be running as soon as you move in? Do you need any help from your friends or family to move?

Following up on these details in advance can help you avoid some major headaches. Once you have these details sorted, you will be able to develop a detailed loading and unloading strategy that will make the moving process much easier.

6. Take Detailed Notes (and Pictures) of Your New Place

Only a few luxury apartment renters will ever encounter conflicts regarding their security deposit. Most property managers in this community are willing to listen to your complaints and find a workable solution.

That being said, there is no such thing as being too diligent. The moment you move into your new apartment, take a look around to make sure that everything is operational, and everything appears exactly as it did when you signed the lease. If you do encounter a problem, be sure to document it (in writing and with photos) and present it to the property manager as soon as you can.

7. Get to Know Your New Digs

Congrats! You have now moved into your luxury Gainesville, Georgia apartment. We know this was a big change for you and that you are probably very excited to begin a new chapter in your life.

Now that you’re here, take some time to get to know your new environment. Take a walk around the campus, dip in the pool, check out the scenery, and get to know your new neighbors. While the moving process can be very stressful in certain situations, it can also be well worth the effort.

Current Trends in the Rental Market

Currently, there are an estimated 44 million rental units currently in use in the United States. With just under two people living in the average rental unit, that means there are about 80 million people renting across the country.

As you would expect, that is a pretty sizeable population—about 25% of the country’s population and about 8 times the population of Georgia. And with interest rates relatively high right now, the demand for renting has increased even further.

Like many other people, you might be wondering, “Is now the right time for me to rent?”

There are many factors that can impact the answer to this question, including your current living situation, your income, your life plans, and so much more. Nevertheless, if you are currently considering becoming a renter, you might want to take a closer look at the market.-

Here are some of the most important trends influencing the current state of the rental market.

1. Increased Emphasis on Luxury Features

Perhaps the most notable change in the rental industry—especially in fast-growing rental markets like Gainesville, Georgia—has been the growing emphasis on creating rental units that are new and have plenty of luxury features. The general mindset regarding rental units has shifted from being a place where you simply live to being a place where you can actually enjoy your life.

And this recent change makes sense. When surveyed, renters below 40 years old (a considerable portion of the rental market) consistently rank factors such as outdoor space, a pool, access to a gym, community areas, and others as being 'important or very important.' General apartment features, adequate window or balcony space, open floor plans, and modern appliances are also highly valued.

Fortunately, Treesort makes it easy for all aspiring renters to access these desirable features.

2. Population Shifts

Another major variable that’s been impacting the rental market has been the significant population shift occurring across the country.

Geographically, the population has been moving both west and south. There are quite a few reasons for this change occurring, such as higher levels of migration into these regions, as well as the fact that Midwest and the Northeast developed relatively early on in American history. As a result, Georgia increased in population by more than one million people (about 10%) between 2010 and 2020, which marks the fourth-highest total increase of any state (only Texas, California, and Florida had more).

There has also been a notable shift regarding where people live within each state. In general, people have been moving away from dense urban cores (such as you’d find in Atlanta), which is largely due to the growth of working from home as well as the increased cost of living. However, the fastest-growing areas are still usually near large cities. This unique combination has helped satellite cities, such as Gainesville, Georgia, thrive.

3. Increased Demand for Rentals

Between 2020 and 2021, there were a lot of Americans who became homeowners for the very first time. During this period, the percentage of people owning their homes increased. Yet, over the course of the past year, this rate has declined.

One of the most obvious reasons for this change is the notable increase in interest rates that has occurred over the past year. This caused the cost of mortgages to rise and, as a direct result, the appeal of buying a home as soon as possible has dropped. Many people of all income brackets now find renting for a few years and saving for a down payment to be their best option.

4. Emphasis on Community

During the density-focused 20th century, developers would regularly focus on packing as many units into a given space as they possibly could. Keeping a 21st century perspective in mind, there are now a lot of developers who are realizing that what is even more important than density is community.

This dramatically changed the way that most modern living communities are designed. Increasing public spaces, promoting openness, creating community activities, and other changes have helped people feel more connected to the place they live. Throughout the creation of Treesort, the need for community was a constant consideration.

5. Increased Transparency from Property Owners

Over the past few years, the relationship between property owners and their tenants has also considerably changed. Tenants—rightfully—want to live in a place where their property owner or ‘landlord’ is someone who respects them and values their opinion. In other words, there is an increasing awareness that tenants have rights that need to be appreciated.

This has changed the way that many tenants communicate with their property owners. Tenants who have maintenance issues, questions about their rent or their lease agreement, or any other inquiries want to be able to quickly communicate with the property owner and receive a straightforward, honest response.

6. Creative/Customizable Leasing Terms

Keeping the new ‘tenant-owner’ dynamic in mind, there should be no surprise that the way leases are structured has also significantly changed. The best luxury apartments in Gainesville, Georgia will all clearly outline the terms associated with the property, including when rent is due, consequences for paying late, how to pursue inquiries, and more.

As a renter, you have more flexibility from year to year in addition to the luxury, resort-style amenities so many apartment homes are offering now. Speaking with the experts and learning more about the lease terms will provide the information you need to make the best decision. 

Conclusion

The rental market can be a scary place to navigate, especially in the fast-growing Northern Georgia (Hall County) region. However, you’ll likely be pleased to learn that there are many great options available, including the brand-new and innovative Treesort luxury living complex. We would love to invite you for a tour and learn more about how we can make Treesort your home. Learn more at Treesort.com. 

Current Rental Market Trends

Whether you are planning to rent an apartment in Gainesville, Georgia, or anywhere else, there are many things to consider when choosing an apartment. While selecting a new, luxury apartment might not be as big of a deal as buying a house, your apartment is where you will spend your downtime and make your memories. 

That is why it is a good idea to think about your priorities before making a final decision. How do you enjoy spending your time? What type of amenities interest you? What about location and access to nature, restaurants, or retail shops? Talking to the leasing manager and taking a tour of the facilities can help you gain a better understanding of what your experience might be like.

Keeping that in mind, what are the most important things to look for when comparing different apartments?

1. Amenities

One of the most important factors to consider when comparing apartments—especially luxury apartments—is the amenities that you will be able to access. For example, if you live or plan to live in a warm state such as Georgia, having access to a pool can enhance your living experience.

Other nice outdoor features might include an open-air poolside bar, an outdoor dining area (preferably complete with grills), outdoor lounging areas, a sun deck, and more. For many people, being able to access extensive outdoor spaces is even more valuable (and certainly more affordable) than having their own yard.

Other notable features might include a 24-hour recreation center, a pet park, and other highlights reserved just for residents. As you take the tour of your potential new home, try to picture what living there might be like.

2. Location

When choosing a place to live, the phrase “location, location, location” might sound a bit cliché at this point, but it really can make a major difference. Most people only spend about 12–16 hours per day at their primary residence (many of them sleeping), meaning it will be important to think about the sorts of places you have access to.

Of course, apartments in the best location will depend on several factors. Your job location, lifestyle, and preferred modes of transportation might all impact your final decision. Nevertheless, being able to easily access a highway (or other modes of transportation), a grocery store, and other ‘must-have amenities’ will all make a major difference. And if you are located less than an hour from a major city, like Atlanta, your location might be even better.

3. Floorplan

One component of a new apartment many people tend to overlook is the floor plan. After all, if you are spending a considerable amount of time in the apartment, you’ll want to assure that the floor plan is compatible with your current lifestyle. 

When comparing different apartment floor plans, it’s a good idea to ask yourself a few basic questions: How many bedrooms do I need? Which rooms will spend the majority of my time in? Do I want an open floor plan or a closed floor plan? Is it possible that my living needs might change before I want to move (working from home, getting a pet, having a child, getting a roommate, etc.)?

Only you can answer those questions. Nevertheless, taking some time to compare different apartment floorplans can help you find the perfect fit.

4. Rent

Naturally, anybody looking at a given apartment will wonder, “What is a reasonable amount of rent to pay for this apartment?”

Unfortunately, there is no universally accepted formula for what is fair. Yet if you are looking to get a good deal, you should look for relatively newer places (surprisingly, these places give you the most bang for your buck), as well as places that aren’t located in the middle of a big city. As suggested, immediate proximity to an urban center is usually a primary driver of price-per-square foot. So, if you can find a new, luxurious, place among the trees—a reasonable commute from the urban core—you’ll likely find a great deal.

5. Leasing Terms

One of the most frequently cited other ‘must-haves’ among aspiring renters is to find an apartment with excellent leasing terms. Of course, the most notable term included in your rental agreement will be the rent itself. But there are a lot of other things you’ll want to take into consideration, as well.

One of the most common leasing terms you’ll need to consider is the length of the lease. In some places, even in the Atlanta Metro Area, there are property owners who will want you to immediately sign on to a 3-year lease. That’s asking a lot. Most leases will be for only one year but that is something you’ll want to clarify in advance.

Another question you should consider is, “Will my monthly rent change in the future?” It's important for your leasing agent to inform you how rental adjustments are made in the future. You should also be sure to check in about changing the lease in the future (extending the lease, breaking it early, switching apartments within the complex, etc.).

6. Community

Finally, it is important for everyone renting an apartment to think about the community around them. There are plenty of apartments available where you can simply check in, get the keys to your door, and then check out at the end of your lease.

Places like Treesort, on the other hand, have a much more community-oriented focus. Of course, every resident can spend as much or as little time in the community areas as they want. But shared resources, such as tree-lined walking areas, a community gym, a community cooking/picnic area, and a community pool can have a major impact on your quality of life. These are the best resources for making friends and creating meaningful connections.

Regardless of the apartment you choose, be sure to do your research. Treesort will gladly answer the questions you have and can connect you with a leasing agent today. We would love to invite you for a tour and learn more about how we can make Treesort your home. Learn more at Treesort.com.