Real Estate Information

Owning a home is likely the largest financial investment many will make, so whether you are buying or selling a home, it is important to think about resale value. With a little research, you will find that there are some things that will get you a great return on investment and there are others that will not.

When selling your home, you may want to make some improvements that will make it more appealing to buyers, ensuring a more profitable sale. But it is when you are searching for a home to buy that you can consider options that will give you desirable resale value in the future.

Here are 5 unexpected things that may raise your home’s value:

1. LOTS OF TREES

While a brand-new house in a recently established community has its perks, what it often lacks is proximity to mature trees. Large, well-rooted trees found in older neighborhoods, not only make for a lovely landscape, but they also provide shade. They add beauty and they save energy, while also increasing your home value.

2. GOOD SCHOOL SYSTEM

It may not seem so unexpected that a home in a good school district would have increased value. But sometimes people without children do not think about this. Even if you never intend to have children, you should keep in mind that many buyers will be highly motivated to purchase a home based on the quality of the area’s school system. For the purpose of resale value, it would be smart to invest in a home in an area with desirable schools.

3. SHOPPING NEARBY

People like convenience, so if a house is near a shopping area with a supermarket, it will likely increase its value. This is especially true if it is close to higher-end stores like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods. Per Zillow, homes near these grocery stores may appreciate in value up to 40% more quickly than other homes.

4. OUTDOOR RECREATION AREAS

Living close to a park, walking trails, or other recreation areas can increase your home’s value. Things like dog parks, tennis courts, golf courses, and playgrounds are appealing to people who enjoy staying active. They will be willing to spend a little more to live close to areas where they can enjoy outdoor activities.

5. SEPARATE LIVING SPACE

Whether you have a mother-in-law suite, an apartment, or a carriage house, having a separate living space will add to the value of your home. Unlike the other items listed here, this is something you can add to a home after moving in. But while looking for a home, you may want to keep an eye out for one that already has one. Not only will it boost resale value, but it will give you the opportunity to earn rental income (depending upon the laws in your area) while living in the house.

When buying a home, it is important to find a place that feels right for you, but unless you plan to stay there forever, it will benefit you to think about resale value as well!

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!

Pumpkin is very popular this time of year. It seems “pumpkin spice” is everywhere. But if you’re like most people, you have never ventured beyond the most common way to serve and enjoy pumpkin - in a pie. Don’t get me wrong! Pumpkin pies are great! But if you love pumpkin, you might be surprised to discover there are a lot of other ways you can enjoy it! 

Check out these 6 ways to eat pumpkin (not in a pie):

PUMPKIN SOUP

If you’re looking for a simple way to enjoy pumpkin, then pumpkin soup is the way to go. Nothing says fall like a warm bowl of soup. Make it from scratch with this Simple Pumpkin Soup recipe!

TOASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS

Not only are they tasty, but they are healthy snacks! After getting the seeds out of the pumpkin, rinse them in a colander. Boil them in a pot of salted water for about ten minutes. Drain the pot and toss the seeds in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add any seasoning to taste. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the seeds start to turn toasty brown.

PUMPKIN PANCAKES

Create a sweet and tasty breakfast with these Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes! This easy recipe is made with ingredients you probably already have at home. And along with pumpkin, fall flavors like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg will have your mouth watering for this delectable dish!

PUMPKIN DIP

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering or you will be attending one, this yummy pumpkin dip is perfect for serving guests. This quick and easy Pumpkin Dip is light and scrumptious. Serve with apple slices, graham crackers or ginger cookies for a tasty treat!

ROASTED PUMPKIN RISOTTO

Looking for a savory pumpkin dish? Try this Roast Pumpkin and Feta Risotto. It’s a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roast pumpkin and the saltiness of feta cheese to create a sensational recipe. This combination of sweet and salty, this recipe is sure to please most any palate!

SAVORY PUMPKIN HUMMUS

Another savory option, pumpkin hummus is easy to make and healthy to eat. Just blend a can of garbanzo chickpeas with a can of pumpkin, season to taste, and voila! - you have a healthy hummus, perfect for snacking!

So, don’t limit yourself to pie! These are just a few of MANY recipes that include palate pleasing pumpkin. Try them and enjoy all things pumpkin!

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.

House hunting can be overwhelming sometimes, especially when beginning the search for your first home. Chances are you might get caught up in the process and important details might slip by you. While the number of rooms, condition of the kitchen, and size of the yard are important, there are other things to consider before you make an offer. This list of things to look for can help get your search off to the right start.

LOCATION

They say that the 3 most important things to look for when buying a home are location, location, location. While a home might not be perfect, loving your neighborhood and neighbors can make all the difference in living with imperfection. And face it…you can change almost anything about your house, but you can’t change its location or the people living nearby. When you go house hunting, make sure to consider the home’s proximity to your work, the appeal of the neighborhood, where in the neighborhood the home is situated, ease of access, noise from neighbors, traffic, pets and access to parks, shopping, schools and public transportation.

HOME PLACEMENT

Beyond location, look at how the home is situated.  If the home is on a hill, does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to climb? Do neighbors' windows look directly into the home? Is the yard suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is there safe access to the home? These are all important questions to ask yourself when determining if it is the right property for you.

CHECK OUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD

While it’s important for your house to meet your expectations, it’s equally important that the neighborhood meets them too. Take a drive around the development you are interested in on weekdays and weekends, during the day and in the evening.  Are the homes in good repair? Are yards kept clean and tidy?  Is the neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run or bike?  Are there children playing outdoors?

CONSIDER A HOME’S CURB APPEAL

You want a home that is going to reflect your lifestyle. Do you live a casual, laid-back life? Then you probably won’t want a formal Victorian or Tudor style home.  A simple, contemporary home might better suit you.  Pay close attention to exterior features.  Think about maintenance.  For example, a brick home is easier to maintain than one with siding.  Do you like working in the yard?  If not, you might not want a house with extensive landscaping.  Is the roof in good condition?  Attention to detail will help you choose the home with the best curb appeal for you.

SIZE AND FLOOR PLAN

You may be thinking about buying your dream home. But is your dream home practical?  Do you need 4 bedrooms and 4 baths when you live alone? A spacious home may provide the extra room you've always wanted for a home office or a theater room, but you'll pay higher heating bills and have higher taxes. Additionally, it will take more furniture to furnish and money to decorate. Think about how the new home space will be used and whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.

BEDROOMS AND BATHROOMS

Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need and only look at homes that meet those criteria.  You don’t want to fall in love with what is otherwise a perfect house if it doesn’t provide the space needed for your family.  It’s smart to consider counting an extra bedroom in that number so that you have extra space for a home office or guest room. If you think you might add on to the home later, make sure you consult an architect who can advise you on space planning and regulations.

THE KITCHEN

For many people, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Don’t settle for a home with a kitchen that doesn’t work for you.  Yes, you can remodel it later, but at great expense.  If it’s an easy fix like replacing cabinets or countertops, get a price quote before committing to the house so that you will know if it is within your budget to take that on.

CLOSETS AND STORAGE

Older homes often have small closets and lack storage space.  As you’re looking at a home ask yourself where you will store your belongings.  Tiny closets don’t have to be a deal breaker.  There are ways to maximize storage without renovations. Newer homes tend to have lots of storage, and you may sacrifice living space while having more closet space than you need.

WINDOWS AND LIGHTING

While looking at a home keep in mind your preferences regarding light and privacy. Do you want a lot of windows to provide bright, sunny rooms?  Pay attention to the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures to make sure they meet your lighting needs.       

FINISHING TOUCHES

Even a simple home can look spectacular with the right moldings, hardware, and a fireplace.  If elements like these are important to you, look for them while house hunting. 

You may not find everything you want in one house but keep this list handy and you are more likely to find the home that best suits your needs and desires.  Happy House Hunting!

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.

Halloween is around the corner, so if you are thinking of turning your home into a spooky haunted house, now is the time to start planning!  Here are some tips for creating a frighteningly fun experience for trick or treaters who come to your house this year:

• Set the Mood

Your front yard is the ideal place to start with decorations that let your guests know they are in for some scary surprises! Create a creepy cemetery using faux tombstones. Hang scream-inducing masks from trees and shrubs. Use fake spider webs around your porch and front entrance. And to really get people in the right frame of mind, set up some outdoor speakers and play some haunting music! 55 Halloween Songs to Soundtrack Your Spooky Soiree

• Play the Perfect Host

A proper haunted house needs a proper host. Have a family member dress as a witch or a mummy or another scary character of their choice and put them in charge of guiding guests to different parts of the haunted house.

• Decorate Like Crazy

First, to give your home a haunted feel, you will want it to be cold. If it’s nice and cool outside, open your windows and let the cold air indoors. If it is still warm outside, crank your AC up to provide a chilly ambiance. Put sheets over furniture and windows and keep overhead lights off. Create dim lighting with battery operated candles. Now it’s time to pull out all the stops with décor…spiders, mice, skeletons and ghosts…oh my!

• Trick Your Guests with Illusions

There is nothing more likely to give a good scare than seeing the unexpected. Create illusions that will give your guests a little shock! ILLUSIONS!

• Serve Scary Snacks

Forget caramel apples…try Black Toffee Apples instead and label them “Poison Apples”. Concoct a fizzy, green monster drink with frozen lemonade, Sprite and green food coloring. There are tons of fun recipes for “gory” ways to serve food to your Haunted House guests. Check some out here: Disgusting or Delicious?

• Play Some Ghoulish Games

Make the night even more fun with some games. You can go old school with bobbing for apples, or you can get more creative - for example, hide gummy worms in a plate of whipped cream and have the kids find them or create a spider web on the wall and play “Pin the Spider on the Web”.

• Create Mystery Boxes

All you need are some containers and a blindfold, and everyone will have fun trying to guess what kind of food is in each “mystery box”. Cooked spaghetti is perfect for brains, corn kernels make great monster teeth, and peeled grapes feel like nice, squishy eyeballs!

These are just a few ideas to help you start to plan a fantastic Halloween Haunted House! 

Happy Haunting!

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!

You may think that the only good debt is NO debt, and that is understandable. But the truth is that if you want to purchase big-ticket items like, for example, a house, you will most likely have to borrow money to do so.  A loan to purchase a home is justifiable; essential even and provides value while taking on debt. However, there are other forms of debt that can bog you down and make it challenging to manage your money.

Let’s look at what the differences are between good debt and bad debt.

What is Good Debt?

You’ve probably heard it said that “it takes money to make money”.  This is the rationale we take in determining what good debt is. If debt assists you in generating income or building wealth, it can be considered good debt. This debt adds value to your future and benefits you in some way. Here are some examples of things that can be considered good debt:

• Education: Higher education and trade schools may offer greater earning potential. Investing in a college degree or a technical trade may pay for itself within a few years of graduation. However, keep in mind that not all degrees offer the same value, so you should do your research to have an idea of how much you can potentially earn and how long it may take you to pay off your student loans.
   
• Owning Real Estate or a Home: Owning a home can generate income either by renting it out or via resale value. There are also tax breaks that benefit homeowners that are not available to renters.
   
• Owning a Business: While starting a business may require a substantial investment, that investment is still considered good debt. There are risks involved, but with hard work, being your own boss can be financially beneficial.
   
• Transportation: Depending upon where you live and work, transportation may be essential. This means possibly investing in a reliable vehicle to get you to and from work. Having a vehicle can open up opportunities for jobs that might not be available to you if you cannot provide your own transportation. But it is vital that you purchase a vehicle within your budget so that your monthly car payment is within your means.

What is Bad Debt?

If you borrow money to purchase things that depreciate, this is considered bad debt. In other words, items that either will not increase in value or bring meaningful value to your life are not worth going into debt for.

Here are some examples of bad debt:

• Clothing and Consumables: Clothes may be a necessity but are often not worth what you pay for them. Food and furniture are also essential but going out to eat every day or purchasing new furniture frequently are not good ways to live within your means. If you must use credit to eat out or if you can’t pay off a credit purchase within a short period of time, you may build up a lot of debt which can hurt you financially.
• Credit Cards: Credit cards can help you build credit, but they can be dangerous if they are not used properly. If you can’t pay your credit card bill in full monthly, interest and fees will add up quickly, putting you further into debt. In fact, you may end up paying more in interest and fees than you did for the original purchase. It is in your best interest to save credit card use for necessary large purchases or for emergencies.
  
• Transportation: As seen above in the good debt category, having a reliable vehicle may not only be necessary, but can also provide value. However, having a second vehicle or vehicular “toy” of some kind (think boats, four-wheelers) may do a number on your budget. You need to be sure that you can afford another payment before adding something else to your monthly bills. And remember that “needs” should always come before “wants” when determining your budget.

Focus on Good Debt

If you manage your good debt and have a clear understanding of what construes bad debt you are less likely to get in long term financial trouble.  But remember…even if you don’t have bad debt, it is still beneficial to pay off good debt as quickly as possible!  Doing so will help you if /when you are applying for a mortgage or other loans in the future.

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!

310 Tecumseh Court, Montgomery, AL 36117

MLS# 565170

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Bath | 1,614 Square Feet | Arrowhead

Looking for a deal in Arrowhead? Look no further!  Original 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath patio home looking for a new owner to give it some TLC and a spruce up. Great open floor plan, just needs a little updating. Established neighborhood, convenient location. Check it out as soon as you can!

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

Congratulations!  You have successfully sold your home!  What a relief, right?  Now comes the hard part. Moving.  Moving is one of the 10 most stressful life events along with job loss, death of a loved one, divorce and major illness. Sounds fun, huh?  That’s why it is important to go about moving in a thoughtful and organized manner.  The more prepared you are, the less stress.  Packing up your house can be overwhelming, but you can make it easier by spreading it out over several weeks rather than trying to do it all right before you move. 

Here is a general timeline for packing that you can use as a guide:

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE MOVING DAY: PRE-PACKING

Hopefully when you sell your house, you won’t have to immediately vacate.  About a month before moving, you can begin to pre-pack items that you won’t need or use before you move.  Out of season clothing, tools and small appliances, and collectibles/knick-knacks are items that you won’t miss. Hint: if your house is still on the market, you can take this step as well, and it will help with staging your home for prospective buyers.

THREE WEEKS BEFORE MOVING DAY: NON-ESSENTIALS

Among the items that you didn’t pre-pack, choose those that you know you likely won’t need before moving.  Books, extra linens, and kitchen items can be packed up because you likely won’t be doing much reading, and you only need enough linens, plates, and utensils for the number of people living in the home.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE MOVING DAY: THE SERIOUS PACKING BEGINS

Yes…now it is time to start paring down the amount of “stuff” still in your home. If you have children, allow them to choose a few toys/games to keep out, and box up the rest. If you have a home office, clean it out and pack what you plan to take with you.  Any jewelry and shoes that you don’t wear daily can go as well.  You may feel that two weeks is a long time to go without these items, but trust me, before you know it you will be unpacking them in your new abode!

ONE WEEK BEFORE MOVING DAY: SEVEN DAYS AND COUNTING

Now it is time to pack up all but the few things you will need to get through the last few days at your current home.  The rest of your clothes and kitchen items can go (leaving yourself what you will need until the move, of course).  Go through your medicine cabinet and toss any expired medications. Pack the rest except for the ones you take daily.

TWO DAYS BEFORE MOVING DAY: IT’S GETTING REAL YA’LL

At this point your stress level may be peaking, but if you have been following the timeline and packing a bit each week, you should be almost finished!  Box up your electronics (in their original packaging when possible), bathroom items, and any miscellaneous items that are left.  Keep a box of essential items that you will keep with you as you are moving.

MOVING DAY: IT’S HERE!

All that should be left is furniture and appliances.  Whether you have hired movers to load the large items or you are doing it yourself, it will be so much more manageable with everything else already boxed up and ready to go.

IMPORTANT TIP

Label every box. You can either write what is in the box or what room the box should go to.  Or both. You will be glad you did when you are unpacking!

Remember that this is simply a general guideline. You should do what is right for you and your family when it comes to packing and moving. But hopefully this will make what can be a trying and overwhelming time a little less stressful.

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.

754 Forestdale Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109

MLS# 563910

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,556 Square Feet | Forest Hills

Great starter home in Forest Hills, OR a good addition for your Investment Portfolio. Living/Dining combo, large eat in kitchen and den with tile flooring. Good closets and separate laundry room and nice flat back yard. Check it out today!

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

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.