Real Estate Information

Investing in real estate is a time-tested way to successfully build wealth. While there are many ways to invest your savings, investing in real estate is unique in that it offers cash-flow, liquidity, profitability, and tax and diversification benefits that other investments do not.  If you’ve been thinking about how to build wealth for your retirement, you would be smart to consider investing in real estate.

There are four primary ways to make money in real estate:

1. Appreciation

When a property increases in value, you have real estate appreciation. Sometimes it happens due to changes in the market and other times it may be due to upgrades made on the property.

2. Cash flow income (rent)

Cash flow income is a nice perk of real estate investment that you don’t have in other types of investments. It is generated when you purchase a home or apartment building or an office building and rent them out.

3. Real Estate Income

This is income earned by people who earn commissions through real estate transactions or buy property managers who oversee the operations of rental properties.

4. Ancillary Real Estate Income

This can be a huge source of profit. Things like application fees, vending machines and laundry facilities are money makers that go beyond the monthly rent.

While there are certainly risks involved with real estate investing there are a lot of benefits that outweigh the risks:

• Real estate is something that people who grew up lower to middle class are familiar with.  They may not have been exposed to things like stocks and bonds, but they likely know the importance of owning a home. Buying a home is an investment that is reachable for them.
• Having an investment that you can see; something that is tangible, is psychologically important.
• You have control in a real estate investment.  You don’t have to worry as much about being defrauded the way you might when entrusting your money to someone else to invest for you.
• You will reap the benefits of tax advantages.
• You can leverage your debt to buy more real estate and increase your net worth.

Whether you are thinking of purchasing a home for yourself and investing in your own future by building equity or you are considering buying property to rent out, investing in real estate is a great way to build wealth!

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! 

Sometimes we try so hard to achieve holiday perfection that by the time New Year’s Eve rolls around we are exhausted. Then comes the added pressure of finding something fun to do for New Year’s Eve. It’s the last night of the year and we feel we must celebrate in some big, memorable way.  Because of that we might make plans to go out with friends to restaurants, bars, or hotels that host expensive, fancy parties. Or we might not be able to say no to an invitation to attend a fun house party given by friends. But guess what?  Going out on New Year’s Eve is highly overrated. And we CAN say NO to those invitations. 

Does a stress free, relaxing night at home sound good to you?

Here are some good reasons for staying home for New Year’s Eve:

• You avoid the anxiety that comes with trying to plan the “perfect” night. We tend to attach grand expectations to New Year’s Eve.  And we have a vision of what it’s supposed to be like - perfect sparkly outfit, a cool venue, lots of drinks...you know the drill. But honestly, reality rarely matches up with the picture we have created in our head.  And often we end up slightly disappointed that we went to all the trouble and expense.
  
• You will stay safe and cozy.  Chances are that it’s going to be cold on New Year’s Eve. You can be out and about shivering in your fancy clothes, driving at a time when there might be other people driving under the influence, OR you can be home in your most comfy pajamas. No worrying about drunk drivers when you are not on the roads. Also, you can enjoy an adult beverage or two without having to drive anywhere yourself.
   
• You will save money.  So much money.  The outfit. The dinner out. The pricey party package.  The babysitter.  Sure, you will be home with your kids, and maybe that’s not how you envisioned spending New Year’s Eve, but if they are little you can put them to bed early and if they are older, you can plan fun things to do together as a family. 
   
• You can eat and drink whatever you want, for a lot less money than you would spend going out. Don’t feel like cooking and doing dishes?  You don’t have to! New Year’s Eve is a perfect night to indulge in easy party foods. Even if you indulge in having food delivered, it won’t be as expensive as a night out.
  
• You can choose whatever activities you want…or none at all. Whatever suits you and your mood. Have you ever made big plans and then the day comes, and you just don’t feel it anymore?  You don’t have to worry about that happening if you spend New Year’s Eve at home. It can be a family game night, or you can cuddle up with your partner (or your kids, or your dog) and watch a movie. Heck…you can take a long, luxurious bath if you want.  It’s totally up to you!

Some people really enjoy going out on New Year’s Eve and that’s great.  But if you want a relaxing, stress-free night, try celebrating at home this year. Either way, have a safe and happy new year!

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! 

Whether you are looking to purchase a home or getting ready to sell one, the process of doing so will go much more smoothly if you have an experienced Realtor to represent your interests. You might be thinking that you can save money by trying to do it on your own, but the truth is that the time, energy and stress a Realtor will save you is priceless!

Here are the top five reasons why you should hire a Realtor when buying or selling a house:

1. EXPERTISE

Experienced real estate professionals will know all the ins and outs of buying and selling homes. Real estate has a language of its own, and Realtors will speak it fluently. They are not only familiar with all the forms, reports and disclosures involved, they understand them and can explain them to you. They will work to get you the best deal possible and help you avoid costly mistakes.

2. ACCESS

Realtors can search listings that the public does not have access to. They will know immediately when a house goes on the market; long before you can find it on the internet. Local Realtors will also have expansive knowledge about different neighborhoods and areas that may appeal to you.

3. NEGOTIATION

Realtors are trained negotiators. It is their job to get you a first-rate deal. With fierce competition for homes and the chance of a bidding war, you are going to want a shrewd and experienced negotiator on your side.

4. CONNECTIONS

They know who’s who in every aspect of a real estate transaction. They can hook you up with a mortgage lender, home inspector, real estate attorney, home stager, etc. And since the best deal for you benefits them as well, they are going to make sure to recommend the top people in their professions.

5. TIME

While searching for a new house, or getting one ready to sell, chances are you’re still working full time, taking care of a family and feeling a little stressed about everything you need to do. Slow down, take a deep breath and let your Realtor alleviate that stress a bit. Being a Realtor is a full-time job that you don’t need to add to your to-do list. 

The bottom line is, you probably can buy or sell a home on your own, but that doesn’t mean you should. Hiring an experienced professional like Sandra Nickel will make your home-buying/selling experience less stressful and more successful. 

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! 

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! And if you have your house on the market, you might be packing up everything you own very soon. The last thing you want to do is unpack all your Christmas decorations only to have to pack them back up again. In addition, if you are showing your home to potential buyers, you are going to want to keep your holiday décor as simple as possible.

You don’t have to be a “Scrooge” though!

You can decorate beautifully without spending a lot of money and without having to unpack all your personal treasures.

Here are five inexpensive ways to decorate for Christmas:

Make Homemade Garland

A lot of craft stores have great sales and coupons this time of year. Grab some greenery and then head over to a dollar store and pick up some pretty ornaments. You can find DIY instructions for making a festive garland on YouTube. 

Use a Real Tree

If you have been using an artificial tree and don’t want to unpack it, this is a good time to buy a real tree. Some can be very expensive, but you can find a pretty tree for as little as $49 in some places. Consider using a smaller tree and placing it on a tabletop instead of on the floor. Decorate with old-fashioned strings of popcorn and cranberries. And you might be surprised at the sparkly ornaments you can find at very little cost.

Display Wrapped Gifts

Beautifully wrapped gifts can be used to create any aesthetic you desire. For a more formal look, wrap gifts in shiny silvers and golds. Want to go whimsical? Try wrapping paper in fun shades of red, green, pink and white. And if you’re going for a winter wonderland look, use blues and silvers. The point is that you can use the gifts themselves to create gorgeous holiday décor.

Create “DIY” Christmas Wreaths

All you need is a hot glue gun, some inexpensive ornaments, ribbon, and a coat hanger and you can make pretty wreaths. There are lots of other ways to make them too. Check some out here: 36 Christmas Wreaths You Can DIY

Showcase Poinsettias

You can find pretty poinsettias just about anywhere this time of year. Care for them properly, and they will last the whole holiday season. Display them in reds, pinks and whites to create a classy ambiance in your holiday home.

So, don’t let your house being on the market keep you from enjoying this festive season! Enjoy some new Christmas décor that won’t break the bank and might just get a “SOLD” sign in your front yard before the new year!

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! 

3386 Lexington Road, Montgomery, AL  36106

MLS# 566736

5 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 3,134 Square Feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild

Great investment opportunity in historic Cloverdale/Idlewild! This charming duplex was originally a lovely 3-bedroom 1 bath home with all the character you expect in the Cloverdale area, and over the years, the attic space was expanded and converted, making the property a spacious, functioning duplex. First floor boasts living room, dining room, and huge eat-in kitchen with tons of counter and cabinet space. This unit also has a laundry room, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, and a huge screened-in rear porch that runs the width of the property. Upstairs unit boasts a HUGE living room, kitchen with breakfast nook, two spacious bedrooms, 1 bath, and a laundry/utility room plus walk-in floored attic storage space. With $1,800 income per month, this is a no-brainer! Both units are currently rented.

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

 

4105 Ford Circle, Tuskegee, AL 36083

MLS# 566675

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,325 Square Feet | Tuskegee/Southlake Meadows

Welcome to 4105 Ford Circle, located in the peaceful Southlake Meadows Subdivision! This property offers great potential for those looking for a home with some TLC. Whether you're seeking a cozy residence or an income-generating rental, this home presents an excellent opportunity. Situated just a few miles from Tuskegee University, it’s a prime spot for student housing. With some updates and care, this home could easily become a comfortable living space. Don't miss the chance to unlock the full potential of this property!

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

 

The statistics for household childhood injuries are staggering. Over 3.4 million children experience some kind of accidental injury in the home each year. While there is no way to guarantee child safety at home, there are certainly many things you can do to help prevent accidents and injuries…especially during the holidays! 

Here are some tips for keeping kids safe at home during the holiday season:

• BE AWARE OF POISONING RISKS

You might not realize this, but many plants commonly used as decorations during the holidays are considered poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children. These include mistletoe, holly, poinsettias, and Jerusalem cherry plants. Symptoms of plant poisoning can include rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you ever think your child has ingested part of a plant, immediately call your pediatrician or the national poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

• CHOKING AND SWALLOWING OF SMALL ITEMS

This is something you must be extra careful to prevent during the holidays. Young children are attracted to all things bright and shiny…and this time of year there is a lot of bright and shiny! Things like tree ornaments, ornament hooks, light bulbs, tinsel and small toys are all potential choking hazards for small children because they may block the airway. If something is small enough to fit in a young child’s mouth, chances are it will find its way in! So, keep small items out of reach and watch little ones carefully!

• FALLING CHRISTMAS TREES

Make sure your Christmas tree is very secure in its stand and can’t be pulled over easily. The last thing you want to find is your little one trapped under a fallen tree. And trust me, they will pull at it if given the opportunity.

• KITCHEN ACCIDENTS

Sadly, kitchen accidents increase during the holiday season. Many people spend a lot of extra time in the kitchen preparing special meals and baking sweets to share. Young children want to help…and they should. It can be a fun experience for the whole family! But be aware of potential hazards that can happen when you’re busy in the kitchen.

Again, while childproofing your home will not guarantee safety, it will go a long way toward protecting your children from injuries or worse. The peace of mind you will have knowing you have done everything you can to protect your children will be well worth the effort and time put into making sure your home is as safe as possible, especially during the holidays!

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! 

The holiday season is in full swing and for some that brings on a lot of stress. The cooking, the shopping, the hosting…it can all feel like a bit much. The holidays should be peaceful and fun, not stressful! Here are some tips to help you enjoy a calm and bright holiday season:

Don’t Strive for Perfection

Stop watching holiday influencers on YouTube and focus on what is important.  What is the point of having perfect decorations, meals and gifts if you are not enjoying yourself? Stop killing yourself trying to create and image of a perfect holiday and let yourself EXPERIENCE the season. Pick and choose what you want to do.  Baking with your kids, decorating the tree…whatever makes you happy. You don’t enjoy entertaining guests? Then don’t do it. Keep it simple and enjoy!

Shop Online

Avoid traffic, parking garages and crowded shopping centers by doing your shopping online. If a trip to the mall during the holiday season is something you look forward to, then by all means, go for it! But if fighting the crowds is not your thing, then put on some comfy pjs, fix yourself a cup of hot cocoa and shop until you drop…only you won’t actually drop because you won’t be so tired!  Shopping online will also save you a lot of time which you can use for RELAXING. Take note…all the stores have Black Friday sales online too!

Delegate Responsibilities

Who said you must do it all yourself? If you have older children, have them decorate the tree. If you have guests coming over, make it a potluck…you provide the main course and have them bring side dishes and desserts. Have your spouse pick up what you need from the grocery store on the way home from work. With everyone chipping in, chores and events won’t feel so overwhelming.

Find Ways to Save Time

Here are some ideas for saving time during the holiday season:

• Don’t be afraid to say NO. Stop wasting time on activities you don’t want to do.
• Purchase pre-printed holiday cards and envelopes.
• Keep your decorations simple.
• Make a list of what you need at the store so that you can complete your shopping in one trip.

Be Compassionate

The joy that comes from doing something kind for others may be all you need to relieve the stress that accompanies the holiday season. 

Take care of yourself and stress LESS!

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 http://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information!

The Holiday Season is here and there are lots of festive events going on in and around Montgomery to help you celebrate! Keep this list of Holiday Happenings handy and enjoy all that this great city has to offer during this special time of year.

_______________________________

CHARLES DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL

November 21, 2024 – December 29, 2024

Alabama Shakespeare Festival
1 Festival Drive
Montgomery, AL 36117

ASF’s full production returns with miserly Ebenezer Scrooge’s overnight voyage of epic proportions begins. Journey with Scrooge as he learns from his ghosts (and Bob, Tiny Tim, and the Cratchits) a heartwarming lesson in forgiveness and the change we can make around us.

Purchase tickets HERE

_______________________________

HOME ALONE IN CONCERT

November 22, 2024

Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts
251 Montgomery Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams' charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who's accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is holiday fun for the entire family!

Purchase Tickets HERE

_______________________________

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

November 25 & 26, 2024

Cramton Bowl
1022 Madison Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36104

SANTA WILL APPEAR AT MONTGOMERY’S CRAMTON BOWL FOR FREE PHOTOS!

Taking pictures with Santa at Christmas is a time-honored tradition for many families. That’s why this year, The Vance Law Firm, WSFA 12 News, and the City of Montgomery are making the holiday tradition FREE!

Monday, Nov. 25 and Tuesday, Nov. 26, from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m., photographers and Mr. Claus himself will be at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex.

It’s open to the first 2,000 people who register. Up to six people are allowed per photo.

Sign Up HERE

_______________________________

THE ANNUAL TURKEY DAY CLASSIC PARADE

November 28, 2024

The Annual Turkey Day Classic Parade will kick off at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28, on Dexter Ave., in downtown Montgomery.

More than 160 campus organizations, businesses and churches traditionally participate in the annual Turkey Day Parade, and this year's Parade is expected to be bigger and better.

For more information click HERE

_______________________________

WHOBILATION CELEBRATION BRUNCH

November 30, 2024

The Bubbly Hen
7915 Vaughn Road
Montgomery, AL 36117

Step into a magical morning straight out of Whoville, where the spirit of cheer and joy fills every corner.  Come have brunch with some of Whoville's most beloved characters, spreading laughter and holiday excitement.  

Early bird prices are $25 per child and include a meal. Tickets are limited.  

Join us for a morning of fun, food, and Whoville magic.

Every child must have a ticket.  Only two adults are allowed per family.

Purchase Tickets HERE

_______________________________


CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FESTIVAL AT THE MONTGOMERY ZOO

December 6 through December 31, 2024

Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Boulevard
Montgomery, AL 36110

See Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland displaying thousands of sparkling and twinkling lights and festive decorations at Christmas Lights Festival.  Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a brisk train ride. Safely visit Santa and the Christmas Tree Village at the Mann Museum, enjoy the live entertainment at the Overlook Cafe, and no winter night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies from the Overlook Cafe. Make plans to swing by the Zoo and Museum Gift Shops for last minute gift purchases, souvenirs, and to participate in the Zoo Animal Angel Tree, helping conservation efforts at the Zoo and around the world.    

For more information click HERE

_______________________________

ALABAMA GOVERNOR’S MANSION CANDLELIGHT TOURS

December 9 & December 16, 2024

1142 Perry Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

Holiday Candlelight Tour Dates 2024

Holiday Candlelight Tours will occur on Monday, December 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Monday, December 16, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

This is a FREE self-guided tour that requires a ticket to enter. Beginning October 28, 2024, tickets will be available at the Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop (30 Finley Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104) and the Sweet Home Alabama gift shop (401 Adams Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104). For questions regarding the Holiday Candlelight Tours, please contact us at: [email protected] or call 334-425-2818.

_______________________________

A CELTIC CHRISTMAS BY A TASTE OF IRELAND

December 10, 2024

Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts
251 Montgomery Street
Montgomery, AL 36104

Prepare to be enchanted with some of the world’s finest Irish dancers and musicians bringing the spirit of Christmas to life, in a show that will make you laugh, cry, and sing into the night. After captivating audiences across New York, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland has entertained thousands around the globe and now returns to the U.S. this holiday season. Experience the magic as world-class performers blend melodic folk mashups, acapella tap battles, and heartwarming storytelling in one truly unforgettable performance. Featuring former World Irish dance champions and stars from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Celtic Christmas delivers a holiday spectacular packed with Irish wit, traditional tunes and heartfelt ballads, alongside all your favorite carols. The show’s exciting mix of electrifying rhythms and extraordinary talent promises an evening brimming with Irish charm and enthralling entertainment, all in one powerhouse event.

Purchase tickets HERE

_______________________________

CAPITAL CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 13, 2024 – 6:15 PM

29 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36104

Join us downtown on Dec. 13th for the annual Christmas Parade on Dexter Avenue!

For more information click HERE

_______________________________

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: experiencemontgomeryal.org

2044 Ridge Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 566362

3 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | 1,646 Square Feet | Cloverdale

Best buy in Old Cloverdale! If you have always wanted to live IN the OC, but thought it was too pricey, here is your opportunity. This 1925 cottage is pretty much original and needs some TLC and cosmetics, but oozes charm and potential. Sitting on a picturesque nearly half-acre lot dotted with mature shade trees, there is plenty of yard space for recreation (or expansion!) Detached wired workshop is a handyman's or hobbyist's dream. Walking distance to all the dining and entertainment offered in the 2 adjacent districts!

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