There are some beautiful older homes in Montgomery and if you are lucky enough to own one, you want to keep it in the best shape possible. It’s important to take steps to maintain the old-world charm of a historic home. 

Here are steps you can take to keep your aging, vintage home properly protected and preserved:

• KEEP UP WITH REGULAR MAINTENANCE

Routine maintenance, like cleaning and painting (especially the exterior) is vital to minimizing issues that might mean costly repairs. It’s a good idea to develop a maintenance schedule and follow it as best you can.

 

• LIMIT CHANGES

When repairs must be made, try to keep original details intact. For example, if some trim needs to be replaced due to rot or infestation, only replace the parts that are damaged. This will save wood and money and help preserve the historic fabric of the house. If you do have to replace something completely, take photos prior to removing anything so that it can be duplicated to retain the character of the home.

• KEEP HISTORIC WINDOWS

If you have early twentieth century (or earlier) windows, you are going to want to keep them. They were made to be repaired, not replaced.It is possible to make old windows more energy efficient.

 

• TAKE SPECIAL CARE WITH MASONRY

While brick and masonry are long-lasting components, they will need maintenance and eventually, repairs. Educate yourself about proper ways to care for and repair them.

 

• EMBRACE THE QUIRKS

You don’t have to “fix” everything. You can repair and stabilize structural damage while keeping elements that show how your home has aged over the generations.

• KEEP HISTORIC INTERIOR FEATURES

While you will surely want to update some aspects of your home, try to hang on to the charming features that make it unique. Things like transoms, paneled doors, moldings and such are features that make your home special.

 

• KEEP PLASTER WALLS

Plaster is a remarkable material that is superior to modern day drywall. In recent years, preservation contractors have discovered the benefits of preserving plaster walls. Damaged plaster walls can be repaired, and if necessary, only replace the damaged portions.

 

• CHERISH THOSE OLD HARDWOOD FLOORS

Retaining the old floors in a historic house requires special care. Be careful not to over-sand them, destroying the antique character in the process. Old floors were hand-planed, and hand-sanding is the best way to maintain their character.

The most important step you can take to maintain your vintage home is to educate yourself. Lots of information can be found online and there are “Old House Specialists” that can help you!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check out  https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

While summer is considered by many to be the hottest time for selling a house (both literally and figuratively), sometimes circumstances require you to sell during a different time of the year. If there is a season for everything, autumn just might be exactly the right season to sell.

Here are some perks to selling in autumn:

1. HOMES SHOW WELL IN AUTUMN

The autumn season lends a beauty to homes that can’t be found in any other season. Colorful leaves, fall décor, and seasonal flowers provide a gorgeous, cozy aesthetic that draws a lot of positive attention to the appearance of a home. For sellers, this means prime curb appeal will draw buyers’ interest.

2. SERIOUS BUYERS

Buyers who are looking at homes in autumn likely want to buy before the end of the year, so they are serious buyers. They likely want to get settled into a new house before the holiday season begins. The pressure is on for them to find their new home quickly and this puts you (the seller) in the driver’s seat when it comes to negotiations.

3. LESS COMPETITION

There is less competition in autumn. Many sellers need to close and move before school starts, so fewer houses are for sale. With less to choose from, buyers can’t afford to be quite as picky.

4. DIFFERENT TYPES OF BUYERS

You will be dealing with different types of buyers in Autumn. Families often move in the summer to accommodate school schedules. Empty nesters and Millennial home buyers are more likely to be looking in the fall. In addition, employers who need to relocate their workers often wait for fall to avoid the hot market during spring and summer. A speedy closing is the goal of most of these buyers, which means you are more likely to get the best price possible for your house.

5. LOWER MOVING COSTS

Since autumn is not the peak moving season, movers will be less in demand than they were during the summer. This means prices for moving may drop as demand drops. So, for those moving in autumn, you may possibly be able to save quite a bit on moving costs. You can maximize your savings choosing to move mid-month and/or mid-week when rates are often even lower.

6. BETTER (SWEATER) WEATHER

It can still be pretty warm during autumn in the south, so while it might not actually be “sweater weather”, it definitely will be “better weather” for moving than it is in the heat of summer.

Autumn is pretty. The weather is cooler; the leaves are changing colors and fall décor can make homes look and feel warm and cozy. This is a great time of year to dress up your house to entice buyers!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let me, Sandra Nickel, and my Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call us today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information.

3123 Woodley Terrace, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 563782

3 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 2,048 Square Feet | Woodley Terrace

Welcome to 3123 Woodley Terrace, a delightful gem nestled on a peaceful street! As you approach, the beautiful azaleas will be the first thing to catch your eye! Step inside to see the beautifully refinished hardwood floors that flow throughout the first floor, complemented by unique detailing along the staircase. The updated kitchen features a stylish tile backsplash, elegant granite countertops, and custom cabinetry—perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining. This charming home offers two spacious bedrooms on the first floor, while the finished upstairs boasts a third bedroom and additional bathroom. This versatile space is ideal for children or a home office, providing plenty of room to grow. Outside, you’ll find a two-car garage and a nicely sized fenced yard, complete with a lovely stone walkway—perfect for your gardening ambitions or creating a nice space for outdoor gatherings. Recent updates include a new HVAC system and roof installed in 2022, along with fresh interior and exterior paint, refinished floors, and new carpet installed upstairs this year. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this Cloverdale charmer yours!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Ali Bertschy, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

338 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 563781

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,920 Square Feet | Garden District

This adorable Garden District cottage has been in the same family for over 80 years! Living spaces feature high ceilings and large open rooms. Seller says hardwoods under carpet. Spacious kitchen has original/antique built-in cabinet and fabulous farm sink. Rear section of central hallway large enough for sitting area off main bedroom. Main/rear bedroom is large and flooded in light by multiple large windows. Central hallway has large walk-in closet that would be perfect for powder room conversion. Front bedroom is spacious and also has en suite bath. Attic is floored for additional storage. Cozy and private back yard features a deck, is fenced for pets, and has an original 1 car detached garage with storage in rear. Attached 1-car aluminum carport protects from the elements. Great street and just a block from fine dining, coffee shop, bars, restaurants, and entertainment. Easy access to downtown and both interstates!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

There are a plethora of fun events happening in and around Montgomery this Fall. It’s a great season to get out and explore all the wonderful things this city and the surrounding area have to offer!

SEPTEMBER
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Montgomery Smooth Jazz Fest
9/20/24 & 9/21/24

Riverwalk Amphitheater
355 Coosa Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival celebrates various music genres with an emphasis on Smooth Jazz and R&B. Now in our 3rd year; The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival will provide two days of outstanding performances for national jazz and R&B artists.  Our main stage at the Riverfront Amphitheater will feature live performances accentuated with large video screens including a specially designed interactive screen allowing the artists to stylishly operate harmoniously with the music. We are offering music lovers top-notch entertainment with the world’s best artists in a unique setting along the Alabama River, resulting in the type of musical experience that you can’t find anywhere else. 

Click HERE for more information and purchase tickets!

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Fall Festival
Presented by The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

One Museum Drive
Montgomery, AL 36117

Saturday, September 21
Sunday, September 22
10 AM–5 PM

Fall Festival is a free event that celebrates Montgomery, Alabama’s vibrant creative culture, featuring both local and regional artists from all backgrounds. This free public event features an art market with more than 30 vendors, live music, art demos, food trucks, and tastings with local brewers. The Artist Market is an integral part of Fall Festival; booths feature fine arts and crafts for sale made locally in the River Region.

This year, Fall Festival’s theme will revolve around how art connects us. All artists will live in and make in Alabama.

Click HERE for more information!

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Ballet and the Beast

Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Boulevard
Montgomery, AL 36110

Friday, September 27
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Join us for a night of dancing under the stars and music during a performance of Ballet and the Beasts at the Montgomery Zoo, Friday night, September 27. Gates open at 6pm, and the performances start at 6:30pm. This is a FREE performance presented by the Montgomery Ballet, in cooperation with Troy University, Alabama State University, and the Montgomery Symphony.

This year’s presentation of Ballet and the Beasts will be a five-part performance with the Montgomery Ballet opening the evening with Carnival of the Animals and Animals of Classical Ballet, followed by two performances featuring the Troy University and Alabama State University dance troupes, and performance presented by a quartet from the Montgomery Symphony.

Ballet and the Beasts is fun for all ages, boys and girls. Admission is FREE, picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers are welcome.  There will be a bleacher section available for additional seating.  Select concessions will be available for purchase. Prior to the performance, the Montgomery Zoo’s Education Department will display a live animal presentation featuring various animal education ambassadors.   

In effort to help those in need, we will be accepting non-perishable and canned food donations for Heart of Alabama Food Bank. 

A VIP section is section will be made available this year for purchase.  For more information or to purchase your VIP TICKETS, please contact the Montgomery Ballet at montgomeryballet.org or by phone @ Studio (334) 409-0522 or Google Voice (334) 721-3687.

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Dino Dig at Montgomery Zoo

Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Boulevard
Montgomery, AL 36110

Saturday, September 28
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Are you ready to get a little dirty? Then Dino Dig is perfect for you. Our junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Dino Dig is an educational program with hands-on experience and fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old.

Dino Dig is a fun-filled and insightful educational program packed with:
-- a classroom lesson plan
-- real dig time (getting dirty)
-- live animal presentations
-- a take-home, keepsake goody bag

Click HERE for more information.

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OCTOBER
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Alabama National Fair
10/4/24 – 10/14/24

1555 Federal Drive
Montgomery, AL 36107

Since 1954, the Alabama National Fair has been a hub of fun and excitement for all. With a wide range of activities, exhibits, and vendors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stay safe and informed with our comprehensive safety plans and daily schedules. Explore the quick links below!

See links HERE!

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Howler Arts & Literary Festival

Union Station Train Shed
210 Water Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

Saturday, October 5 – 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

The Hilltop Art Festival was a fantastic experience, but we are shifting our focus and location a little bit, which has precipitated a name change! So come out to the Union Station Train Shed in downtown Montgomery and experience over 70 of the best authors, artists, and bakers the River Region has to offer! And hang around for lunch with the variety of food trucks that will be on site!

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Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival

301 Hill Street
Wetumpka, AL 36092

Saturday, October 19 – 9:45 AM to 4:00 PM

Every year, The Kelly holds our “Art Gone Wild” art exhibition, showcasing the truly beautiful wildlife art of our region. The Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival is an annual one-day festival celebrating wildlife art as well as the natural beauty of Alabama. Art appreciators and outdoor enthusiasts alike gather together for this festival. We strive every year to pack this festival full of educational presentations, art exhibits and classes, vendors, food, children’s activities, and expert demonstrations.

The Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival is held on a Saturday every fall in the Historic Downtown Wetumpka.

Click HERE for more information.

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Creatures of the Night: Family Fun Night at the Museum

Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Parkway
Montgomery, AL 36110

Friday, October 25, 2024
6:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Do you enjoy the dark? Are you ready to go on an adventure, with nothing but your good senses and a flashlight? If so, then you just might be the junior explorers we are looking for to attend our Creatures of the Night and Mann Museum Flashlight Tour Education Program and Family Fun Night. Peer through the darkness and discover walls lined with animal pelts of the past, see several deer species nose to nose, and if you can bear it, just around that corner may be 10 foot Polar bear just waiting to meet you. Creatures of the Night / Mann Museum Flashlight Tour is an educational program and family fun night with hands-on experience, all sorts of adventure, and lots of fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 5-12 years old, and their parents. Yes, parents, you are invited to join the fun too. 

Creatures of the Night / Family Fun Night Mann Museum Flashlight Tour is a combination of fun-filled and insightful educational program (and family fun night) packed with:

live animal presentation of creepy creatures
flashlight tour of the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum,
scavenger hunts,
live animal presentations,
discovery stations,
craft time, and
everyone leaves with a take-home, keepsake goody bag.

Event location and hours
-- Location: Mann Wildlife Learning Museum (GPS location: 325 East Vandiver Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36110)
Please do not come to the Zoo's front gate for this event. 
-- Date: Friday night, October 25
-- Hours: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Participants can come and go as they like, and may stay as long we they want within the three hours of the event.

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Participants are encouraged to wear fun, family-friendly Halloween costumes. 

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Advanced reservations required. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR ON THE NIGHT OF THE EVENT! 

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For additional information concerning the Creatures of the Night / Mann Museum Flashlight Tour Education Program and Family Fun Nights, please contact our Education Department at

(334) 625-4909
email: [email protected]
montgomeryzoo.com 

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Haunting on the Harriott II Halloween Costume Party Cruise

213 Commerce Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

Saturday, October 26, 2024
8:00 PM

Come aboard the Harriott II for a haunting good time! Wear your scariest costumes and enjoy live entertainment from a local entertainers, cash bar and concessions from our Wheel House Grille and the beautiful view of the Alabama river. Food and beverage prices vary. Be sure to taste all of our Spooky drink specials. To cruise, you must be 21 and over and wear a costume. We will host a costume contest so come prepared to scare!

Don't miss out on one of Montgomery's BEST Halloween Parties! Cruises are rain or shine. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. All seating is General Admission, first come first serve.
Don't Miss the Boo-oat!

Adult Tickets - $47.75

Purchase tickets HERE

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If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check our https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

Photo Credits: montgomerysmoothjazzfestival.org, mmfa.org, montgomeryzoo.com, assets.simpleviewinc.com, hilltophowlers.org, thekelly.org, facebook.com, allevents.in

1936 Norman Bridge Court, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 563552

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,746 Square Feet | Garden District

Welcome to 1936 Norman Bridge Court! Nestled at the end of the cul-de-sac in the historic Garden District, this house offers the tranquility of a quiet neighborhood while being just a short stroll from the Cloverdale Entertainment District. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a spacious living room, providing ample room for all your furniture and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The dining room features an impressive, oversized window which floods the space with natural light. Originally a three-bedroom home, it has been thoughtfully redesigned to include a large primary bathroom. This updated space boasts a tiled shower and a generous closet area, offering you plenty of room for a vanity and your wardrobe needs. Relax on the back deck during peaceful evenings or tackle your DIY projects in the detached one-car garage. This home combines comfort, convenience, and a touch of historic charm, making it a true gem in the Garden District.

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Alison Bertschy, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

When you are searching for a new home, location is one of the most important factors to consider. You might love a house, but if it’s not in the right community, it may not be the right house regardless of how much it appeals to you.  So, before you start scrolling through home listings online, it is smart to have an idea of WHERE you want to live. 

Here are some things to consider when searching for the right neighborhood:

• You may have heard this saying before: “It’s better to have the worst house in the best neighborhood than the best house in the worst neighborhood”. While nobody really wants to live in the “worst” house anywhere, there is some good logic behind this statement.  If you ever plan to sell your home, its value will be impacted by the surrounding homes in the neighborhood.  For that reason, you will have better resale value if you are surrounded by homes that are similar to yours.  So, it is a good idea to research home values in the neighborhoods that appeal to you.
   
• How important is convenience to you?  Some people prefer living in more rural areas, but others desire close proximity to things like major interstates, shopping areas, medical facilities, and schools.  Before you start your home search it is important to decide how much convenience matters to you. In addition, you may want to think about the fact that having a home that is convenient to highways and such can have a positive impact on your resale value.
   
• Are home values rising or falling in the neighborhood? If a neighborhood has home values that are climbing, that is a positive indication that it is a good place to buy.  However, if a neighborhood has stagnant or falling home values, it might not be the best place to look for a home.  Many things can have an impact on home values; for example, if an area is growing with new businesses, the career opportunities involved can lead to rising home values in the area.
   
• Does the neighborhood have an HOA? (Home Owners Association)?  Some people love an HOA. They appreciate how it protects home values by establishing rules for maintaining the appearance of the homes and neighborhood. They also enjoy perks such as a neighborhood pool and clubhouse, parks, and walking trails.  However, for other people, an HOA is a deal breaker. They do not care for the rules and regulations (and payments) that come with it.  HOA regulations and costs vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, so it is important to research them before you decide to live in a community with an HOA.
  
• How safe is the neighborhood?  Safety is important to everyone. Nobody wants to live in a neighborhood that is not safe.  You can research crime statistics for neighborhoods online.  If you are relocating to a new state and you are not familiar with the area, an experienced local Realtor is a great resource to help you determine what areas are safe for you and your family.

There are so many factors involved in the home buying process, but determining the right location is a decision that requires thought and research.  Once you have found the right place, then you can start searching for the right house!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500 and check our https://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

1596 Cobblestone Court, Montgomery, AL 36117

MLS# 559891

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 1,364 Square Feet | Woodmere Townhouse 

This end-unit Woodmere townhouse is perfect for first time homebuyer and would make a GREAT addition to any investor's rental portfolio. Spacious living and dining room, galley kitchen, and powder room are on the 1st floor. Upstairs are two ample sized bedrooms, each with its own full bath. Rear of property has a covered patio, small yard, and rear parking for 2-3 cars. Convenient to shopping, dining, interstate, and a lovely walking park just across the street!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

346 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 560045

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,944 Square Feet | Garden District

This vintage Garden District bungalow has all the character you love in classic homes, with great modern updates! Brick construction is hard to find in a 1915 home, when most were just wood frame. Perched on a knoll, the oversized covered front porch allows great views up and down this quiet tree-lined street. Traditional layout has large living room with fireplace and original built-ins, and dining room is spacious and great for entertaining. Original breakfast room/butler's pantry has been opened up into the updated kitchen with reclaimed wood and vintage brick accents. Primary bedroom has lots of light from triple windows across the back, and the flashy primary bath features double-vanity sinks, private WC, and walk-in shower with two shower heads! All upgraded within the last few years. Out back there is a deck, mature shade trees, and fenced back yard for pets. Located on the NE edge of the Historic Garden District, a block away shopping, dining, and entertainment!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

3513 McGehee Place Court, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 559861

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 2,532 Square Feet | McGehee Place Estates

Discover this charming home in the tranquil McGehee Place Estates. With over 2,500 square feet, this spacious 2-bedroom patio home offers plenty of room to relax. You’ll be greeted by soaring 10-foot ceilings and elegant hardwood floors that create an inviting atmosphere. The den features a cozy fireplace and built-ins, while plantation shutters add a touch of elegance throughout. The kitchen will make it so easy to cook and entertain with a generous island, double ovens and breakfast bar. Love outdoor living? You’ll adore the low-maintenance courtyard, complete with two sitting areas perfect for entertaining or relaxing in nature. Don’t miss your chance to see this beautiful and well-maintained property!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Ali Bertschy, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!