Real Estate Information

2804 Locust Street, Montgomery, AL 36107

MLS# 532230

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,536 Square Feet | Highland Park 

This pristine brick home has just had a total makeover and is ready to go! Beautiful hardwood floors (some are even heart pine) throughout make it easy to keep clean. The large dining area is open to the kitchen. The split plan has two guest bedrooms and hall bath in the front of the house, with private main bedroom and bath beyond laundry room at the rear of the house. The enclosed back porch/sunroom gives bonus living space, and out back is a big, covered patio area for entertaining. And, for the handyman, there is a large workshop and storage area in the basement with plenty of lighting and upgraded electrical. Fully fenced yard for privacy and security! Within walking distance to shopping, dining, and just minutes from Downtown!

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

Owning a home is part of the American dream. Working hard, saving money, finding the right house, and going through the mortgage process all pays off when you move into your own home and being to enjoy the perks that come with what is likely to be your largest financial investment. Some of those perks come in the form of tax breaks. And with tax season around the corner, it’s time to educate yourself about those tax breaks. You might be surprised to discover that many of your biggest home-related expenses are often tax deductible.

Here are the top four tax breaks for homeowners:

1. MORTGAGE INTEREST

The most significant tax break you’ll get is a mortgage interest deduction, which is nice since a huge part of your monthly mortgage payment goes towards paying off interest for a while after your purchase. All the interest you pay during the tax year will be deductible. However, if you own properties with mortgage balances over a million dollars, the IRS will limit your deductible interest. If you own a second home, your interest for that home is also deductible as long as you are residing there part of the year. If you stay there less than 14 days out of the year or less than 10% of the number of days you rent it out, the IRS may consider it a residential rental property, and in that case, you will not be able to take an interest deduction.

2. REAL ESTATE TAXES

Another large deduction you get to make as a homeowner is on your property taxes. As a homeowner, you will always have to pay some form of real estate tax. If you have an escrow account, which most mortgages do, it means you have been paying a portion of your property tax bill for the year as part of your monthly mortgage payment. At the end of the tax year, your lender will send you a statement, which will tell you what you have paid in taxes and interest and how much went into your escrow account to be used toward taxes. You will be able to deduct the amount your lender paid from your escrow toward taxes.

3. POINTS

When you purchase a home, you have the option to pay mortgage points to your lender to lower your interest rate. A point is typically 1% of the loan price, so if you bought or built a new home that cost $300,000 and you paid your lender for one origination point, this should enable you to deduct the $3,000 in closing costs paid from your taxes for the year of the home purchase.

4. ENERGY TAX CREDITS

Making improvements to the energy efficiency of your home will not only save you money on energy costs, it may also help you qualify for a tax credit. Tax credits can be better than tax deductions as they are a dollar-for-dollar savings no matter what tax bracket you are in. Things like upgrading windows, roofing, appliances and more with energy efficient equipment will often count toward a tax credit. But since the IRS does change things from year to year, be sure to check with them beforehand so you will know what tax credits you qualify for.

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.

Photo credits: bellbroshvac.com, hrblock.com, mashvisor.com, nfmlending.com, nbcpa.us

3514 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL 36111

MLS# 532113

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,150 Square Feet | South Cloverdale

Gain the perfect spot for your front porch rocker and lose your heart to this quaint Cloverdale cottage that’s priced to make your dream of homeownership come true. Vinyl siding for easy care and just the right size—like Goldilocks but not a fairy tale!

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

Have you been thinking about painting some rooms in your home? You may want to keep in mind that the colors in your home can have a huge effect on your moods. The shade of your walls has been shown to affect emotions. For example, there are certain colors that will bring you down; ones that will help you relax; and even some that will suppress your appetite. So, when choosing what colors to use in your home, take these into consideration:

Yellow for HAPPINESS

Yellow is a natural source of positive energy and sparks feelings of happiness. Shades of yellow can also activate metabolism and boost thinking.

Sky Blue for RENEWAL

Pale blues are calming and help to restore natural rhythms. Sleeping well contributes to productivity and overall well-being. Calming blues have soothing and restorative qualities that help you rest better.

Violet Black for MINDFULNESS

While it may appear dark and moody, a hidden undertone of violet in a dark background draws you in and provides a sense of escape and relaxation. This color also creates a space for focus and reflection.

Yellow-Green for OPTIMISM

This combination of green and yellow captures the essence of spring’s first bloom and the anticipation of renewal. These colors bring positive energy into a space and stimulate personal growth.

Silver-Sage for BALANCE

The blend of sage green and silvery gray provides balance and harmony. These are the perfect colors for a peaceful, refreshing, and tranquil living space.

Red for ENERGY

A vibrant color like red is an excellent choice if you are someone who often feels sluggish and lazy. Red brings on alertness. It is best used sparsely to bring a pop of color into a room. For example, you could paint your cabinets red or create a statement wall in an otherwise neutral room.

Whether you plan to paint for your own health and happiness, or you are sprucing your house up to put it on the market, choosing the right colors can make all the difference in the world!

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.

Photo credits: istockphoto.com, veranda.com, decorpad.com, houzz.com, pinterest.com, decorpad.com, houzz.com

842 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL  36106

MLS# 531784

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,508 Square Feet | Cloverdale

This ol' girl turns 100 this year, but you wouldn't know it from looking at her! Meticulously maintained for over 50 years by the same family, and thoughtfully updated over the years, this Midtown Montgomery home is ready for the next owners to love it. Situated at the foot of historic Cloverdale Park, the views are breathtaking and peaceful. Spacious rooms and craftsman-inspired detailing add old world charm. Breakfast room has two built-in china/glassware cabinets, and kitchen features two pantry areas for great storage and clutter free work areas. The rear deck affords a great view of the deep, private backyard with formal garden area and additional yard space beyond. The original one-car garage provides excellent storage and attached "keepers quarters" has endless possibilities for additional live-work/play area. Easily walk to nearby restaurants, bars, theatres, and shopping venues, and access to two of the area's main parks featuring seasonal events, concerts, and exercise/play opportunities.

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

Buying your first home is exciting. After getting approved for a mortgage loan, working with a professional Realtor and finding your dream home, it’s time to settle in and start enjoying your new digs. Then BAM!  The shock of an unexpected expense slaps you in the face. Don’t let that happen to you. Being informed about the possible expenses of being a homeowner will not make spending the money any more fun, but at least you will be prepared. 

Here are some ancillary costs of homeownership that you should be aware of:

1. CLOSING COSTS

When closing on your mortgage you will be presented with a long list of costs: mortgage taxes, lender application fees, attorney’s fees, title insurance, recording fees and any potential real estate tax reimbursements if the seller has paid them up front. Altogether, closing costs are an average of 2 to 5 percent of the total cost of the home. They will vary from state to state.

2. HOME MAINTENANCE
   

Now that you are a homeowner, you are solely responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of your property. Everything from yardwork to cleaning; pressure washing to clearing the gutters…it’s all in your hands and on your dime. Oh…and fixing things. Yeah. When the AC isn’t working or there is a leaky faucet, you will be footing the bill for repairs. This all sounds a bit overwhelming, but the key is to be prepared. Go into your home purchase knowing that you will likely be spending about 1% of the purchase price of your home on maintenance annually.

3. PROPERTY TAXES

Property taxes vary by state and can also vary based on city, ordinance, and even specific house. You can utilize a Property Tax Calculator to get an idea of what your taxes will be when planning for your expenses.

4. UTILITIES
   

If you’re coming from a rental where your utilities were included with the rent, you may not have considered how much you will need to set aside to pay for electricity, gas, water, and sewage costs. Added to internet, cable and phone bills, it can be quite a chunk of change. Planning for utility costs is crucial to making sure you can afford to live in a home of your own.

5. HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE
   
   When you get a mortgage, you must get homeowner’s insurance as well. Be sure to do your homework and shop around for the best possible price. You can get discounts for things like security systems, working from home or bundling coverage for your home with your auto insurance policy. Educate yourself on what your insurance policy covers so that you’re not left disappointed when you must pay for something you thought would be taken care of.

Don’t let these expenses scare you off from purchasing a home. Again, the key is to be aware of them going in so that you won’t be caught unawares when they come up.

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.

Photo credits: genisyscu.org, hometowninspect.com, energyathaas.wordpress.com, smt.greenwaymortgage.com

4260 Chesire Drive, Montgomery, AL  36116

MLS# 531686

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,144 Square Feet | Somerhill

This townhouse features a Craftsman exterior and is a 2-bedroom split plan. The master suite has an oversized tub and a walk-in closet, the 2nd bedroom has a bay window and a walk-in closet. The kitchen opens to the living area. Small private back yard. Somerhill is conveniently located off Vaughn Rd or Bell Rd and has lots of green space and a gazebo overlooking a lake. Check it out today!

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

Purchasing your first house is a monumental milestone in life.  It’s likely the largest financial commitment you will have made up to this point. You want to get it right. Here is a basic overview of five essential things you need to know when taking this step.

1. HIRE A REALTOR

Having an agent will save you time. They can send you listings directly from the MLS that fit your wants/needs and you won’t waste time looking at properties that might already be under contract. Realtors are also often aware of new listings that are not yet on the market. And while house hunting, there is no point in wasting your gas when an agent will pick you up and provide transportation. The advice you will receive from a qualified Realtor will be invaluable in the buying process.

2. DECIDE WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
    

Searching for the right home can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not even sure what you want. Come up with a list of must-haves and desires that you can present to your Realtor so that they can provide listings that fit those parameters.

3. GET A LOAN

It is smart to get loan preapproval prior to making an offer on a house…especially if it is a seller’s market where you may be competing with other buyers. Sellers want assurance that you will be able to complete the purchase of the home.

4. NEGOTIATE THE OFFER

Don’t make the mistake of comparing the sale price to other homes you have seen because the truth is, sellers can ask any amount they want for a house. Your Realtor can provide you with comparable sales of similar houses in the same condition and location over the past few months.

5. GET A HOME INSPECTION

Some states will allow you to have a home inspection prior to making an offer on a home. In other states, the inspection becomes a contract contingency, meaning the buyer has the right to cancel the contract. Either way, you don’t want to get locked into purchasing a home that has a faulty foundation, for example.

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.

Photo Credits: propertyupdate.com.au, landmarkhw.com, homeownershipmatters.realtor

The holidays are winding down and the new year is upon us. Chances are you are thinking about some personal goals you would like to achieve in 2023, but if you are a homeowner, you might want to add some resolutions to your list regarding your home. 

Here are some homeowner resolutions for you to consider in 2023:

1. Do a HOME INVENTORY and put together a DISASTER KIT for your home. You never know when disaster may strike, and while it is no fun to think about, it is important to be prepared. Include your home inventory and financial documents in your disaster kit so that you will be ready should the unthinkable happen. Make sure that your kit is stored in a fireproof, safe place that will be easily accessible if you need it.
   
2. Think about getting a Home Warranty. If your appliances are nearing the end of their life cycles, a home warranty could possibly help prevent high costs for replacements. Just be sure you do your research and read customer reviews regarding different home warranty options. And always read the fine print so that you don’t get blindsided by exclusions.
    
3. Thoroughly examine your Homeowner’s Insurance. You likely got a standard homeowner’s insurance policy to satisfy the lender when you purchased the home, but that does not assure that you are adequately covered. Each policy has unique coverage options and exclusions that you may not be aware of. Look it over and find out what it does and does not cover and then decide if it is adequate for you or if you need to purchase a different one.
   
4. Make saving for an emergency a priority. Sometimes homeowners are blindsided by unforeseen expenses. An Emergency Fund can be a life saver when that happens!  Think of it as a safety net for your home. An ideal emergency fund will be able to cover several months of expenses. Don’t let that overwhelm you. You have to start somewhere. Just start setting aside a small portion of your income each month and before you know it, you will have sizeable savings for emergencies.
    
5. Start building your equity. If you financed your home mortgage, it will be years before you own your home outright. But there are ways to build equity faster, which will enable you to enjoy the benefits of homeownership sooner. Home equity is a valuable asset that can be used to pay for things like home improvements or student loans. 
   

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.

Photo Credits: ready.gov, moneycrashers.com, thirdway.org

No, that title is not a type-o. And it’s not referring to the weather. But it is referring to our beautiful planet and how it’s effected by the holiday season. The truth is, a lot of what we do this time of can be a burden on our planet, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little ingenuity and effort, we can all do things that will lessen the environmental impact of the holiday season.

Here are some tips to help you enjoy the spirit of the season while also caring for our precious planet:

1. DON’T GIVE SO MANY “THINGS” AS GIFTS

Christmas gifts are meant to be ways to express love and thoughtfulness to others. And while some gifts do need to be purchased new, there are many gifts out there that don’t have to be store-bought. Think about gifting services instead of items. Things like a massage, a mani/pedi, music lessons, and movie tickets are gifts the recipient can enjoy after the chaos of the holidays are over. Even giving the gift of your own time and energy will be so appreciated. Think free babysitting, lawncare, cooking, gardening etc. Gifts like this require a lot of thought and isn’t that what gift-giving should be all about?

2. DON’T GIVE AS MANY GIFTS

If you have a large family, the number of gifts you have to buy can be overwhelming! Shortening that list can be a huge relief to you (and to the planet). Try a simple gift-giving ritual like drawing names so that each family member only buys for one other family member. If you are getting together with friends or extended family, suggest an ornament exchange or a cookie exchange so that each person only has to bring one item to participate.

3. BUY LOCAL

Shopping online is certainly convenient and makes things easier in a lot of ways. But have you ever thought of the environmental impact of having gifts shipped from all over the world? Transportation contributes greatly to greenhouse emissions and global warming. Shopping locally is not only more environmentally friendly, it can also be festive and fun. Hit the local craft fairs and artisan shops. Gifts from these sellers will likely be more unique and special than anything you can find online!

4. PICK GIFTS MADE FROM RECYCLED MATERIALS

This might be a little more challenging to do, but if you are really interested in “going green” there are many businesses that have developed products using recycled materials. Check out these ideas for eco-friendly gifts: Gifts Made From Recycled Materials

5. AVOID GIFTS THAT NEED BATTERIES

Per the EPA, about 40% of all battery sales occur during the holiday season. Sadly, when we throw away batteries, we are damaging the environment. Even rechargeable batteries are eventually thrown away

6. DON’T BE AFRAID TO REGIFT

We are not saying to just grab any old thing you don’t want and give it to someone. But if you have something you are not using and you know it would be useful to someone on your Christmas list, regifting is a thoughtful gesture that will be appreciated.

Christmas is a time to gather with family and friends to make memories you will cherish. Let’s take care of our earth so that people will be able to celebrate for generations to come!

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.

Photo credits: countryliving.com, housebeautiful.com, learn.eartheasy.com