Real Estate Information Archive

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.

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

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!

You are a homeowner. You have gone through the process of procuring a mortgage, closing on a house, moving in, and creating a home for yourself and your family. Chances are you have developed a loving attachment to your first home, but for one reason or another, it is time to move on. Maybe you have outgrown it, or maybe you are being transferred for a job.

Whatever the reason, now it is time for you to begin the process of selling your home. This is no small task. A lot of time and energy goes into preparing your home to get the best possible price when you sell. So, if you are ready to list your house for sale, take a deep cleansing breath and take one step at a time:

1. THINK BEFORE YOU ACT

Before putting that “for sale” sign in your yard, make sure you know exactly what you want. Communicate with your partner (unless you live alone) so that you are both on the same page. Ask yourself and your partner these important questions:

• Why are we moving?
• What is our timeline?
• What do we expect from the home selling process?
• What role will we play in preparing our home for sale?

2. DO SOME HOMEWORK

You will want to have an idea what kind of real estate market you are entering. There are a lot of factors that influence the market, including fluctuating mortgage rates and inventory shifts. Educate yourself so you will know what to expect.

3. INTERVIEW & CHOOSE A PROFESSIONAL REALTOR

There is no more important relationship in your selling process than that which you have with your Realtor. The right agent will guide you, advise you, answer questions, and market your home so that you get the best possible price.

4. DETERMINE YOUR SELLING PRICE

Your Realtor can help you decide the best asking price based on current market values.

5. PREPARE YOUR HOME TO IMPRESS

These days, home buyers have free access to look at property listings online, so it is vital that your home makes a good first impression. That means getting your home in “show-worthy” condition. The time and effort you put into decluttering, making necessary home repairs, and cleaning until it sparkles will go a long way toward getting your house sold for the best possible price. Even better? Stage your home to sell. Staged homes sell faster and for better prices than those that aren’t staged.

6. MARKET YOUR HOME

You not only need your home to be visible online, but you also need it to stand out! Consider having professional photos taken that showcase the best attributes of your home. The best listings also have compelling property descriptions that generate interest. Videos and virtual tours can also be used to draw interest from buyers. Be sure that your property is being promoted in the best possible way.

7. BE FLEXIBLE WITH SHOWINGS

You want every interested party to be able to come to see your home. So, even though it’s inconvenient sometimes, make sure that you can make your home available for potential buyers to visit.

8. CONSIDER OFFERS & NEGOTIATE WITH BUYERS

Again, your Realtor will play an important role here. Professional Realtor Sandra Nickel is an expert negotiator who will assist you in deciding on a strategic counteroffer to the buyer’s offer. They will consider not only the money being offered, but the contingencies as well.

9. CLOSING THE SALE

Before you arrive to sign the final paperwork and collect your check, make sure your home is ready for the buyer’s final walk-through and take care of any last-minute issues.

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://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

3235 Wellington Road, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 563487

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,824 Square Feet |  Cloverdale/Idlewild

This adorable Cloverdale Cottage will capture your heart! Whether one, two, or a family, this home fits all. Spacious living room with fireplace and lots of built-ins for books and collectibles, dining room for big family gatherings, PLUS cozy den/family room with classic coffered ceilings will satisfy all your living needs. The kitchen overlooks gathering room/breakfast room and allows grown-ups to prepare meals while the little ones do homework or play. Elevated rear deck overlooks shady back yard, large brick patio with built-in firepit, and playground -grade jungle-gym for the kids. The backyard also boasts a wired and insulated workshop that once was a music studio with additional storage space inside. Check it out today! 

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Lauren Keen, Sandra Nickel Hat Team! 

1019 S Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL  36104

MLS# 563411

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,228 Square Feet | Garden District 

This adorable Craftsman bungalow sits on a high knoll overlooking Bellinger Hill Park. Known lovingly as the "tree house," this home in the heart of the historic Garden District has been lovingly restored and maintained by an old house purist! All the important things like roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and water heater have all been updated/replaced within the last 5 years. The inviting porch has great views of the neighborhood and the park to the south. Natural hardwood floors are gleaming, all windows have been painstakingly restored, and the kitchen was updated within the last few years. Located just minutes from bustling downtown, Maxwell AFB, and the Cloverdale dining and entertainment district. A quote from a former resident; "The Garden District is more than just a beautiful place to live; it's a true community...neighbors are friendly and welcoming, creating a close-knit and supportive environment." WOW, what a testament to historic neighborhood living!

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

Fall gardens bring to mind vivid, jewel toned colors such as scarlet, deep purples and gold.  Planning for a fall garden needs to start early so that plants are established. Even if they bloom late in the season, they will be hardier and bloom best if they’ve been in the garden longer.  Before planting, research what kind of flowers and plants will do best in your area.  To help, here are some that thrive in hardiness zone 8:

Chrysanthemums

Commonly called “mums”, these richly hued plants are true sign of fall. When buying mums, look for ones labeled “hardy mums” or “garden mums” for the best chance of having them thrive throughout the season.  Plant them as soon as you buy them.  Given the opportunity to develop a strong root system, they will last longer.

​Helenium

Part of the daisy family, this cheery flower blooms in yellow, orange and red bringing a vibrant ambiance to your garden. These tough, easy-to-grow perennials bloom late in the season and last a long time.

Asters

Available in a variety of hues in shades of pink, purple, blue and white, these perennials bloom from mid to late fall.  Loved by bees, butterflies and other pollinators, they provide a late feeding opportunity for them.  Plant them as soon as they are available in early fall so that they can establish a strong root system.

Pansies

One of the most popular cool weather annuals, pansies are favorites for fall flowerbeds. They are very hardy and can continue to bloom through winter and into spring, thereby adding lively color to your garden almost year ‘round!

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Robust, carefree, pretty, and long-lasting, sedum is about as close to perfect as you can get for a fall flower. Sedums come in many various sizes and colors, including mat forming, creeping, and upright varieties. Easy to grow, they are great for beds, borders, or even a rock garden. 

Dahlias

Known for their large blossoms, these lovely flowers boast deep pink petals with a bit of striking white around the edges. They thrive in partial shade or full sun and grow into early winter. Be prepared to prune them to have consistent blooming.

Remember, it’s not too early to start planning for your colorful autumn flowerbeds!

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!

Perhaps you have been thinking about purchasing a home, but you are not sure how much you need for a down payment. Many people will tell you that you need to have 20% to secure a mortgage. Thanks to various programs available to buyers, the truth is that’s not always the case. In fact, if you are a military veteran you could qualify for a Veterans Affairs Home Loan and not need a down payment at all! While these programs may mean that you do not have to save as much and you can get into a home sooner, there are some major benefits to making a 20% down payment if you can:

1. YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR A LOWER INTEREST RATE

Putting 20% down vs a 3-5% down payment gives your lender/bank the confidence that you are financially stable and a good credit risk. With this confidence, they will be willing to give you a lower interest rate on your mortgage loan.

2. YOU WILL PAY LESS OVER THE LONG RUN

With a bigger down payment, you will have a lower loan amount for your mortgage. That means you will be paying less interest. For example, if you make a 20% down payment, you will only pay interest on the remaining 80% of the loan. If you put only 5% down, the extra 15% on your loan will accrue interest and you will pay more over the long run.

3. YOU WILL BE MORE APPEALING TO SELLERS

Chances are, you will be competing with other buyers for the same home. Like the mortgage lender/bank, sellers feel more confident in buyers who are making 20% or larger down payment. They will see you as a buyer who’s financing is more likely to be approved, thus ensuring the sale will go through.

4. YOU WILL SAVE MONEY BY NOT HAVING TO PURCHASE PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is an insurance policy that protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage. It comes to you in the form of a monthly fee included in your mortgage payment. It is required for all conforming, conventional loans that have down payments of less than 20%. If you make a down payment of 20% or more, this insurance is not required.

5. YOU WILL HAVE LOWER MONTHLY PAYMENTS

When you make a 20% down payment it will result in smaller mortgage payments. You are starting off with a smaller overall mortgage and saving the expense of PMI, therefore your monthly payments won’t be as high.

6. YOU WILL IMMEDIATELY HAVE EQUITY

Putting 20% down means you will already have equity when you move into your new home, which means it will take less time to build up your investment in your home. That will come in handy should you need to get an equity loan or line of credit for home repairs and/or improvements.

While putting 20% down on a home is not a requirement, and you can certainly purchase a house with less down, saving for a 20% down payment may be worth it thanks to the benefits listed above!

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://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

Thanks to rising housing and healthcare costs, many families have begun sharing multigenerational homes over the past few years. A multigenerational home is one where grandparents, parents, and children all live under the same roof.  According to Pew Research, 59.7 million Americans were living this way as of 2021. More people sharing a space may not seem ideal, but it does have its perks; from saving money to being present to care for family members when needed.

Multigenerational living means enough space in homes is needed to provide comfort and privacy for all family members. 

If you are in search of a home for this purpose, here are some things to look for:

1. ACCESSIBILITY

Even if the elders in the family are getting around easily now, it is important to think ahead to when it might not be so easy for them. Open floor plans are ideal for creating spaces that are easily accessible should someone be in a wheelchair at some point. In addition, look for a home that has at least one main floor bedroom and full bath so that going up and down stairs won’t be a problem in the future.

2. MAIN FLOOR BEDROOMS

As stated above, it is ideal to have at least one main floor bedroom. But if you can find a home with more than one main floor bedroom, all the better. Having some bedrooms upstairs and some downstairs provides separation and privacy between generations.

3. ROOMS THAT SERVE DUAL PURPOSES

Keep in mind that it is easy to convert a bedroom into another type of space, but not always possible to convert another space into a bedroom. Bedrooms need windows and a closet. So, when looking for a house, look for one with as many bedrooms as possible so that they can be used for different purposes like a den, playroom or office.

4. PRIVATE LIVING SPACE FOR EVERYONE

Look for a home large enough and with enough rooms to provide a private living space for each generation. For example, an office could become a den for grandparents, family room for the middle generation and maybe a playroom upstairs for the youngsters.

5. PRIVATE ENTRANCES

Look for homes that are already set up for multigenerational families. They may have an in-law suite, an apartment over the garage and private entrances for different parts of the home. If you cannot find one already built, consider a renovation of an existing home to add these features.

Whether you find the perfect property, renovate a home, or build one from scratch, remember to consider the needs, privacy and accessibility of all your family members and you will have a home filled with love!

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!

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!