The Northwest Georgia Council of the Chattanooga Association of Realtors held their bimonthly luncheon meeting on Friday, April 25, in Ringgold. Speaking to the organization was Kelia Kimbell, planning director and Erosion Control and Stormwater program manager for the Walker County Planning and Development Department.
Ms. Kimbell started off her presentation by explaining the Walker County building permit process, adding that counties and states all have different standards and costs. It was a common theme that carried over to zoning, plat divisions and how taxes are levied on various types of properties throughout the region. She encourages people to contact the planning department with questions to make sure things are done right the first time to avoid added costs and delays in building and property modifications.
Another area addressed by Ms. Kimbell was the importance of flood insurance, explaining that while most homeowner insurance policies do not cover floods, any home in a floodplain is required to have flood insurance. In fact, most mortgage companies require such a policy before granting loan approval.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency identifies floodplain areas and is working with states and counties to provide better Flood Insurance Rate Maps for homeowners trying to determine if their property sits in floodplain. The most recent update to the FIRMs occurred on Sept. 5 of last year, according to Ms. Kimbell.
“Kelia is a great resource for this community,” said Denise Lindsey, president of the Northwest Georgia Council. “Realtors need to be out in front and aware of issues concerning zoning, floodplains and the process involved in property divisions. Not only can we better manage our businesses but we’re also better able to assist our clients.”
“This is good information for Realtors,” offered Ms. Kimbell, who said she is always glad to help educate and raise awareness of important county laws and policy.
“Our community continues to grow. We need to all work together to ensure this is a great place to call home,” said Ms. Lindsey.
The Northwest Georgia Council of the Chattanooga Association of Realtors unites those real estate professionals engaged in the dynamic Northwest Georgia market. Council members are a part of the Georgia Association of Realtors located in Atlanta and the National Association of Realtors in both Chicago and Washington, DC. Consumers working with a Realtor can be confident in the level of professional service they are receiving, as only Realtors set themselves apart from others in the business as industry leaders who adhere to the strict Realtor Code of Ethics.