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Montgomery Real Estate Blog

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Displaying blog entries 621-630 of 1998

357 Felder Ave: Classic Style with Updated Features!

by The Hat Team

357 Felder Ave Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 442316

3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2,808 sqft | Garden District

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You get the best of everything...classic style and updated features! This elegant Federal style 2.5 story home boasts both formal living and entertaining spaces as well as more casual living areas. The cook in the family will delight in the custom designed kitchen with high end appliances. Spacious den/family room is large enough to spread out in or have several more intimate seating/lounging/reading areas. Out back you will enjoy a big covered deck overlooking private back yard with in-ground salt water swimming pool. Master bedroom retreat on second floor runs the width of the house and has a cozy seating area around antique mantle. Access the third floor bonus rooms from a spiral staircase and find a wonderful split design with another full bath...perfect for teen retreat, rec room, home theater...use your imagination! Detached two car garage out back provides great off street parking. Call your favorite realtor to schedule a private tour of this marvelous Garden District charmer.

How to Pack Like a Pro!

by The 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.  CDs and DVDs can go as well.

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! 5 Ways Children Can Help During a Move

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 time-line 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 for 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 sell or buy 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!

967 Green Forest Dr: Immaculate Home in the heart of Dalraidia!

by The Hat Team

967 Green Forest Dr, Montgomery, AL 36109

MLS# 442245

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,980 sqft | Dalraida

Great home in the heart of Dalraida on a quiet street. This lovely home is in immaculate condition. Plenty of living space with a living room/dining room and huge family room/den across the back with a "Sunsetter" shade to keep the room cool in the afternoon sun. Entertain in style in the updated kitchen with granite counter tops, large island, bamboo floors and breakfast room that opens to the family room. Tons of storage including large laundry room and attached storage off the screened porch. Speaking of the screened porch...the best room in the house with a 6-person hot tub that the owner will miss terribly. The private back yard is fully fenced with nice landscaping, sprinkler system and a detached storage building. This one is move-in ready, check it out today!

1904 Norman Bridge Ct, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 442027

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2,639 sqft | Garden District

Situated on a large corner lot in the historic Garden District, this Southern Colonial charmer will steal your heart! Catch a summer breeze on the wide front porch while enjoying the mature landscaping including azaleas, crepe myrtles, and Japanese maples and majestic magnolias. Entertain on a grand scale in the ample sized living room and formal dining room. Butler's pantry features built in storage and a large pantry for storage, and the cook's delight kitchen has plenty of cabinet/counter space, newer appliances, and work island. Relax in the cozy den/family room off the kitchen complete with media closet. Main bedroom on first floor with built in mirrored vanity and bath with wide tub and separate shower, and has access to sunroom. Upstairs there is a cozy window seat on the landing, perfect for reading. Two upstairs bedrooms are literally HUGE (15x25) and each boast spacious walk-in closets, cedar lined window seats, and share a large bath, also with tub and separate Nubath lined shower stall. Location is perfect, with proximity to Maxwell AFB, Downtown, Cloverdale, two hospitals, Huntingdon and ASU.
 

Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Home

by The Hat Team

Have you been thinking about redoing the floors in your home?  There are so many flooring options available that it can be confusing and overwhelming trying to decide what you want.  Floors are a significant part of what defines the style and function for every room, so it’s important to make sure you choose something that you not only like, but that will hold up and look good for years to come.  Here are some current flooring trends you may want to consider:

  • BAMBOO

Bamboo flooring has been around for a couple of decades now, but recently advances in manufacturing have strengthened its durability and diversified its appearance.The introduction of super-dense “strand-woven” bamboo means that it can be made into boards that are two and a half times as hard as red oak.Various wood-look styles are available in bamboo as well, meaning there are many options for style.Since it is made from a natural plant, bamboo is eco-friendly. So, if you are environmentally conscious it is a good choice for you.

  • LARGE FORMAT TILE

For a modern style, consider large format tile.Whether you want a rustic stone look, a minimalist, industrial feel or a sleek, high-gloss finish, you can find what you are looking for in large format tile.It can make a small space look larger and can give a more streamlined look to a large space.And with fewer grout lines, it is easier to clean. Large Format Tile Images on Pinterest

  • LUXURY VINYL

When you think of luxury, vinyl is probably not the first thing that comes to your mind.But luxury vinyl is worth looking in to.It’s nothing like the peel-and-stick flooring that people used to install back in the day.It is a new type of flooring that combines a high-end look with the durability of vinyl. Unlike wood, it stands up well to moisture and is therefore great for kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. comes in a variety of looks - from hardwood to stone - and looks so real that people will be surprised to discover it is vinyl!

  • CUT & LOOP CARPET

If you love the comfort of carpet, but want a different look, then cut and loop carpet may provide just what you’re looking for.Using a technique that combines both loops and cut loops, manufacturers can create a carpet with eye-catching patterns that add depth and style to your floors. And, with new technology, carpeting is being produced with softer fibers than in the past.Carpet padding has come a long way as well and offers more protection that it used to.

  • CONCRETE

If a sleek, industrial look is what you’re after, concrete is the way to go. This durable flooring comes in a variety of textures, colors and finishes, so it can complement almost any décor. Concrete floors are long-lasting and easy to clean and maintain.But they are also hard and cold, so you want to keep that in mind when choosing where to use them.They are not going to be comfortable to stand or walk on all day long.

  • AMERICAN HARDWOOD

For beauty and durability, you cannot go wrong with American hardwood.It’s also a great choice for the environmentally conscious.Since it is made here and not shipped from the other side of the world like bamboo, you are reducing your carbon footprint a bit by purchasing wood from trees closer to home.In addition, the United States takes the issue of deforestation seriously, and replenishes forests as they cut trees down. With choices like oak, hickory, maple or heart pine, you can fill your home with warmth and allure while also being environmentally friendly.

If you are in the market to see or buy 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: consumerreports.org

1827 Ridge Ave, Unit 7: One-of-a-Kind Converted Carriage House!

by The Hat Team

1827 Ridge Avenue, Unit #7, Montgomery 36106

MLS# 440081

2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,845 sqft | Cloverdale

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Simplify Without Compromise!

Cut down both on space and yard work (NONE if you choose) but still live surrounded by custom-designed beauty, you’ll be proud to call your own.  A condo that’s free-standing!  This early twentieth century carriage house was converted into a family home in the 1960's by noted architect and designer Arthur Joe Grant with meticulous attention to detail. Over the years it has been lovingly maintained and updated by several notable owners, all with exquisite taste. Though a small cottage with modest upkeep, its rooms feel spacious, and can accommodate two or 20 effortlessly. Throw lavish dinner parties in the grand formal dining room, or serve everyday meals in the oversized breakfast/keeping room, which is open to the beautifully updated kitchen. The elegant living room overlooks the walled front courtyard and boasts a rare marble fireplace that has a gas fired coal grate making cold nights warm and cozy. The front guest suite has bonus dressing room and updated bath, while the well-appointed master bedroom has plenty of built-in shelves and two walk-in closets. And, don't let the term "cottage" make you think that there is anything lacking in this home, as you will see there is more storage space than most homes twice its size! Front courtyard is like having two additional living rooms, open air! Intimate covered dining area plus large central section allow for multiple seating, all shaded by a majestic 50+ year old Japanese maple tree. This gem sits in the middle of historic Old Cloverdale, walking distance to dining and entertainment districts.

662 Ponce de Leon: Craftsman Style Starter Home in Cloverdale!

by The Hat Team

662 Ponce de Leon, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 440381

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,992 sqft | Cloverdale

If you are looking for a charming Cloverdale Craftsman style starter home, this one is a must see. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has 1992 sq ft full of 1930's architectural appeal and is situated on a 90x190 lot. Both the living room and the dining room have fireplaces, original hardwood floors and crystal chandeliers. The large kitchen has a breakfast bar and room for a big table or make it your family room/den. Outside is a wonderful front porch, a covered side and back patio, as well as a huge wired workshop, another storage building and two car carport. Walking distance to the Capri Theatre, restaurants, shops and concerts in the park at a great price!

Cleaning Your Home After Selling

by The Hat Team

SOLD!  What a relief!  Your house is sold and soon you will be moving out.  Pride in ownership means that you will likely want to leave your house in good shape for its new owners. In some states, the Real Estate Purchase Contract may stipulate that the home is to be “swept clean”, meaning the seller should at least sweep the floors and leave walls and ceilings bare.  But the language can often be vague.  Here is a list of cleaning tips for home sellers to help you leave the house reasonably clean and to create a feeling of goodwill toward your buyer:

Cleaning the Interior of the Home Before Moving Out:

  • Remove all personal property.
  • Vacuum the floors.
  • Clean kitchen appliances including the inside of the refrigerator and over.  Wipe down the counters.
  • Scrub sinks and tubs.
  • Wipe down interior cabinets and shelves.
  • Wash tile/vinyl/wood flooring.

Cleaning the Garage Prior to Closing:

  • Remove personal belongings.
  • Throw away trash.
  • Properly dispose of toxic chemicals.
  • Sweep the floor.
  • Stack items pertaining to the home such as paint cans, roofing materials or extra flooring.  Check to make sure the buyer wants the extra materials first.

Basically, you want to leave the home in the condition that you would like to find your new home.  Your buyers will appreciate it!  What Are House Cleaning Expectations When a Seller Moves

If you are in the market to sell or buy 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: tm-cleaning.com

3418 Wellington Rd Montgomery 36106

MLS# 440417

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2,013 sqft | Cloverdale

Full of character, this Cloverdale home will steal your heart and please your senses! Living room has cozy fireplace and wonderful built-ins to display your books and treasures, and the bay window lets in lots of light. Cooking is a joy in the updated kitchen with granite countertops and ample storage in the large pantry. Just a step down you will find the once-carport turned into big laundry/craft/utility room. Central hallway makes a great spot to highlight artwork and even has room for a few pieces of furniture. Crafty owner turned basic old master bath into big walk-in closet, and added a fun. bright, and splashy new master bath addition on the back, complete with jetted tub, glass block walk-in shower, and great dressing/make-up area. All three bedrooms are unusually spacious for a home of this vintage. Wonderful quiet street and nice neighbors!

Surprise! You Don’t Need a 20% Down Payment to Buy a House!

by The Hat Team

You are ready to purchase your first house.  Your credit score is great.  You know you can afford a monthly mortgage payment based on your budget.  You are sure you will be approved for a mortgage loan.  But that down payment!  How the heck are you supposed to come up with 20%?  Don’t despair, because the truth is, you don’t need a 20% down payment to purchase a house!

Saving for a down payment on a house can seem overwhelming for many people.  Keep in mind that it can come from various sources.  Funds can come from bank accounts, stocks or mutual funds, an inheritance, or a gift from a family member.  Some people will even use assets from their retirement portfolio.  Requirements regarding where the money comes from for your down payment depend on the loan type.  Also, purchasing a primary residence usually requires a lower down payment than if you are purchasing a second home or buying an investment property. The Different Types of Mortgage Loans in 2018, Explained

The myth about down payments is that 20% is the norm. While that may have been true in the past, it’s not anymore.  The fact is that per the National Association of Realtors, a majority of homebuyers purchased their home with a down payment of 6 percent or less. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t even consider buying a home because they still think they need 20% down.  The NAR'S Aspiring Home Buyers Profile 2018 found that 36% of non-owners believed that saving for a down payment would be very difficult. Chances are they still believe in the 20% down myth and it is just not the case anymore!

So, now that you know you don’t have to have 20%, perhaps buying a home seems more within reach.  But there are still some things you should be aware of before taking that first step toward homeownership.  Various factors are at play in determining if you should take on a mortgage with lower down payment.  For example, the less you put down, the larger your mortgage payment will be each month.  That is because you will have a larger loan amount, possibly a higher mortgage interest rate, and the added cost of Mortgage Insurance.  So, while you don’t have to come up with more cash, your monthly costs go up.

Once you have educated yourself about the requirements, you can make informed decisions about your budget and how much you can afford.  Don’t let the 20% down payment myth stop you from pursuing your dream of home ownership! 

If you are in the market to sell or buy 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!

Displaying blog entries 621-630 of 1998

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