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Displaying blog entries 391-400 of 1998

Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Home

Wednesday, October 28, 2020
by The Hat Team


Buying a house is a HUGE decision, but once you have made it, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing your new home. Do not let that excitement overshadow common sense. Do your homework and be sure you know what you are doing so that you can avoid costly mistakes. Also, take advantage of the expertise of an experienced Realtor like Sandra Nickel and allow her to guide you through the process.  Here are some common home buying mistakes that you will want to avoid:

  • Falling in love with a photo. Don’t do it. Pictures are worth a thousand words, but they do not tell you everything! Keep in mind that online real estate tools are great and keep improving. And home sellers work hard to show their home in the best possible way to impress potential buyers. So, if you see what you think is your dream house online, don’t get attached until you see it in person!
     
  • Starting your home search before getting pre-approved for a mortgage loan. You will be so disappointed if you find the perfect home but lose out on it because another buyer with a pre-approval was more enticing to the seller. Sellers want a sure thing and know that someone who is pre-approved, and knows how much they can afford, will likely have no problems obtaining a mortgage loan. Five Things You Need to Be Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
     
  • Neglecting to budget for home maintenance. If you are going to be a first-time homeowner, you might not realize how expensive a house can be. With furnishing, decorating, landscaping and maintenance you can spend a big chunk of change. That doesn’t even take into account repairs you may need to make. So, keep that in mind when creating a budget to determine how much house you can afford.
     
  • Going over budget. Being house poor is no fun. You will feel trapped in your home if you have to use too much of your income to pay for it. Be sure to set a budget for yourself that will allow you to maintain an enjoyable lifestyle…then stick to it!
     
  • Failing to negotiate. This is one area where having a Professional Realtor on your side will pay off. They are expert negotiators and understand the nuances of real estate transactions. 
     
  • Assuming a listing agent is your agent too. A listing agent will certainly assist you in purchasing a home they have listed, but remember, they represent the seller’s interest, not yours. Listing Agents and Selling Agents - What's the Difference?
     
  • Skipping the inspection. Big mistake! It is imperative that you hire an insured, professional inspector. They might discover a flaw in the home that could cost you a bundle down the road.
     
  • Buying the “biggest and best” house in the neighborhood. If you fall in love with a neighborhood, consider purchasing a smaller or more modest home because it will be more challenging to sell and get a good return on investment on the biggest, fanciest home.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home, let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call them today at 334-834-1500!

Photo Credit: nerdwallet.com

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Halloween Safety for 2020

Wednesday, October 21, 2020
by The Hat Team


Halloween is going to feel a little different this year. But that does not mean it can’t still be fun! The CDC has released guidelines for keeping everyone safe while trick or treating:

  • Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
  • Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
  • Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
  • Wash hands before handling treats.
  • Wear a mask.
  • Try to say 6 feet away from people who do not live with you.
  • Bring hand sanitizer along while trick-or-treating and wash hands thoroughly when you get home and before eating treats.

If you don’t feel safe with trick-or treating, don’t despair! There are lots of other ways to have spooky fun on Halloween:

However you choose to celebrate Halloween this year, please follow the guidelines from Alabama Public Health to keep you and your family as safe as possible.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home, let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs!  Call them today at 334-834-1500!

Photo Credit: outschool.com

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Negotiating for the Best Deal When Buying or Selling a House

Wednesday, October 14, 2020
by The Hat Team


Negotiation is important in the world of real estate because the truth of the matter is, if you do not ask…you do not get. While sellers want the highest price and buyers want a bargain, they must meet somewhere in the middle for the deal to close. Negotiating is a vital part of selling or buying a home because it is the largest asset people own and there is a lot of money at stake. Here are some guidelines for what sellers and buyers might ask for in real estate negotiations:

  • Price

Negotiating the best price means different things for sellers and buyers.  The seller wants the highest price and the buyer wants to pay as little as possible.  For a successful transaction, they must compromise and come up with a price that is acceptable to both.

  • Closing Costs

Prepaid closing costs are paid by buyers for their mortgage. These are funds that the mortgage lender holds in escrow for expenses like taxes and insurance.  A buyer may ask a seller to cover some or all their closing costs either with a flat dollar amount or up to a percentage of what is an allowable contribution for a lender. If a buyer asks the seller to do this, they are likely going to pay a higher asking price. Escrow:  What is it and How Does it Work?

  • Closing Date

Sometimes sellers want to get out of a home quickly because they need the capital from that house they are selling to put toward a new real estate purchase. The closing date will also affect the buyer’s monthly cash-flow because when a buyer closes on a house, they skip the next month’s mortgage payment. Therefore they may want to negotiate to close at the beginning of a month.

  • Financing Contingencies

When there is a financing contingency in place for a real estate transaction, it can tie up a seller’s property for a required 30 to 60 days.  For this reason, many sellers prefer buyers coming to the table with cash offers. If you are competing with cash buyers, you may want to figure out if you can drop the financial contingency, which will shorten the closing time line. You can do this by getting pre-approved for a home loan prior to making an offer.  Mortgage preapproval shows that your finances are in order and you can afford the home. 5 Things You Need to be Pre-approved for a Mortgage

  • Home Warranty

As a buyer, you can request a home warranty. As a seller, you can offer one. This home protection plan covers things like appliances and systems such as the hot water heater or air conditioning, in the event they need repair or replacement.

  • Leaseback

The moving process is stressful and labor intensive.  Sometimes a seller will need extra time to get into their new home. When this happens, buyers can offer a zero-cost rent-back for 30 to 90 days to persuade the seller to accept their offer over others. 

  • Home Repairs

With a home that needs a lot of updating there comes ample opportunity for negotiation. Buyers need to consider the cost of bringing the home up to current standards and use the estimate of that cost to request a lower asking price. The seller, on the other hand, can specify that the house is being sold “as is” and not offer any repairs.

  • Appraisal Contingency

A seller can push for a buyer to waive the appraisal contingency,  however, if for some reason the appraisal falls short of the expected amount, they need to be prepared for the amount of cash they might have to pay should the bank only be willing to lend them money based on the appraised value. Understanding the Appraisal Contingency

  • Furniture

Personal property such as patio furniture, window treatments and chandeliers is all up for grabs. The buyer can ask for these things to be included in the contract. Sellers need to determine what they are willing to leave behind. And any exclusions need to be specifically listed in the contract as well.

  • Appliances

Depending on the market, sellers don’t always leave every appliance for the buyer.  They may include the dishwasher, stove and built in microwave in the contract but not the refrigerator, washer and dryer. Sometimes they don’t want to give everything away up front so that they can use these as items for negotiation.

  • Condo/Co-op Assessments

These are fees that are used to maintain common areas in a community. If there is an open assessment, it can become a negotiation between the buyer and seller as to who will pay for it.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home, let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs!  Call them today at 334-834-1500!

Photo Credit: grenadabroadcast.com

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3436 Wellington Rd: Custom Man-Cave or She-Shed to Enjoy

Wednesday, October 14, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Home For Sale

3436 Wellington Rd, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 479562 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,800 Square Feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild

Custom Man-Cave or She-Shed to Enjoy

3436 Wellington Rd

Virtual Tour

If you like woodworking or have ever had the desire for your own custom workshop, man-cave, or she-shed, look no further! This Cloverdale/Idlewild gem in Midtown Montgomery has a meticulously appointed whopping 20x24 workshop in the back that is heated and cooled and could be used for multiple purposes based on your wants! Relax on the cozy covered side porch or in the pretty sunroom off the living room. Any cook would enjoy the open kitchen with granite countertops and all new appliances, large formal dining room, and sunny breakfast nook. Bathrooms have been updated, a French drain system has been added, and there is a brand new HVAC package unit and updated ductwork! This is your dream home so call your favorite agent to schedule an appointment to see it before someone else snaps it up.

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

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3228 Lexington Rd: Enjoy Striking Architectural Detailing

Wednesday, October 14, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Home For Sale

3228 Lexington Rd, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 479877 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,072 Square Feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild

Enjoy Striking Architectural Detailing

3228 Lexington Rd

Virtual Tour

This unassuming Tudor-style cottage in Midtown Montgomery has striking architectural detailing. Living room features classical barrel-vault ceiling and tons of natural light gives a feeling of openness. The "Moorish" fireplace between the living and dining rooms seems to float and has a unique niche built in for displaying treasured objects. A wide central hallway is great for displaying artwork or even large pieces of furniture. If you love art deco, you will appreciate the main bath with original black and yellow "Chrysler building" tile work. Two rear bedrooms share a bath. Off the living room is a private decked courtyard that leads to an open back yard with a detached garage. Unfinished basement area has potential for storm shelter, workroom, or additional storage.

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

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377 Winthrop Ct: Entertainers Delight In the Garden District

Wednesday, October 14, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate

377 Winthrop Ct, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 479617 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,610 Square Feet | Garden District

Entertainers Delight In the Garden District

377 Winthrop Ct

Virtual Tour

This is an incredible property on one of the best kept streets in the Garden District of Midtown Montgomery! If you love to entertain then put this at the top of your list! This property has been meticulously maintained and has lots of high end updates! Literally a chef's kitchen (the owner is one himself) with top grade granite, many built-ins, pull-out shelves in the pantry, ceramic subway tile and on demand boiling water. A wet bar has recently been added that opens the kitchen up to the dining room, which has double doors to the fabulous huge covered deck for great flow. The den features heart pine floors, fireplace, book shelves, rough sown cedar walls and also a door to the deck. The yard has gorgeous landscaping. Downstairs, the bath features black and white marble flooring and custom vanity. A spectacular main suite upstairs features three large closets, bookcases and built in window box drawers. The upstairs office could be a nursery. The downstairs office has upholstered walls and could serve as extra living area/den. An electric gated entry drive provides lots of privacy. Your clients won’t be disappointed!

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

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332 Winthrop Ct: Located On a Quiet Friendly Street

Tuesday, October 13, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate

332 Winthrop Ct, Montgomery AL 36104

MLS# 480005 | 4 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths | 3,020 Square Feet | Garden District

Located On a Quiet Friendly Street

332 Winthrop Ct

Virtual Tour

Welcome to the Historic Garden District! Located on a quiet and friendly street in Midtown Montgomery, this fabulous property has so much to offer! Starting with the huge front porch with ornate original tile, just imagine yourself sipping coffee in the mornings and waving to the neighbors. Step inside to find a lovely foyer and staircase. The formal living room has coffered ceilings, built-in bookcases and a huge fireplace. The formal dining room also has a fireplace and leads into the large eat-in kitchen with plenty of cabinets and counter space, a farm sink and stainless appliances. Four nice sized bedrooms upstairs, all with hard wood floors, a large main bath with claw foot tub, double vanities and separate shower. Don't miss the cheery laundry room and large storage room. If you enjoy entertaining family and friends and spending time outside, the back yard is where you will hang out for sure! With the covered back deck, Gunite sitting pool, fire pit and yard, you will have plenty places to enjoy and relax with a cocktail. Come see for yourself today!

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

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224 S Capitol Parkway: Quit Dreaming & Grab This Beautifully Renovated Home

Tuesday, October 13, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate

224 S Capitol Parkway, Montgomery AL 36107

MLS# 479908 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,141 Square Feet | Capitol Heights

Quit Dreaming & Grab This Beautifully Renovated Home

Virtual Tour

WHERE YOU LIVE HAS A LOT TO DO WITH HOW YOU LIVE. You’ve struggled with a tiny, cramped kitchen and virtually no storage space. You’ve dreamed of having all the space you need…at a price you can afford…and absolutely move-in ready as well. Quit dreaming and grab this sensitively renovated Capitol Heights home that delivers every one of your wants, and even some things you hadn’t thought of yet. We dare you to find a better home in a better location at a better price. And when you’ve moved in and started really living well, you’ll be mighty glad you took the dare!

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

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1432 Woodley Rd: 20th Century Mission Style Home Repurposed for Modern Living

Tuesday, October 13, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate:

1432 Woodley Rd, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 478857 | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths | 4,124 Square Feet | Edgewood

20th Century Mission Style Home Repurposed for Modern Living

1432 Woodley Rd

Virtual Tour

This one-of-a-kind early 20th century eclectic Spanish Mission style home has been completely updated and re-purposed for today's modern living. Situated on almost a half-acre in the center of Midtown Montgomery, this majestic home has over 4,000 square feet of grand living space. The expansive living room and dining room are perfectly balanced with a cozy sun room. The spacious upscale kitchen features a large center work island and Bosch appliances, plenty of cabinets and counter space, plus great built-ins in the breakfast room. The first floor master suite features a huge master bath, garden tub, separate shower, split vanities and walk-in closet. The main floor has an additional guest bedroom and bath, large laundry room, powder room, and tons of built-in storage in the hallway. Upstairs boasts a loft sitting area, two bedroom suites each with private baths, and a "hidden" playroom that will delight any kid. A covered back porch overlooks a rear deck and open back yard with plenty of lush landscaping. Relax on the deep covered front porch and perhaps enjoy a soccer or softball game across the street at Huntingdon! There is plenty of parking in front and rear of the house for you and your guests. Electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems have all been updated; two instant water heaters and additional spray foam insulation make for great energy efficiency.

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

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2662 Woodley Rd: Build Your Dream Home!

Monday, October 12, 2020
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate For Sale

2662 Woodley Rd, Montgomery AL 36111

MLS# 413374 | 1.1 Acres 

Build Your Dream Home!

 

Build your dream home here! Seller financing on this nicely treed lot in Midtown Montgomery keeps your credit unencumbered so getting a construction loan is possible. Surrounded by lovely executive residences and conveniently located to Baptist South complex, Alfa, downtown and businesses along Zelda Rd.

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

 

 

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Displaying blog entries 391-400 of 1998

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