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Montgomery Real Estate Blog

The Hat Team

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Displaying blog entries 651-660 of 1998

Resale Value - What Matters Most

by The Hat Team

Unless you plan to stay in a home for the rest of your life, resale value should be a major consideration when purchasing a house. Home-ownership is a huge financial investment and the goal should be to get as much monetary return as possible when you sell.  While you can’t always predict what the future holds for the real estate market, there are some basic guidelines for what kind of properties have good resale value.  Don’t make the error of focusing only on what you want when doing your home search.  Think about the following factors that will affect the resale value:

  1. LOCATION - This should be a primary consideration when looking for a home that will provide a good return on your investment.  A desirable location is likely to remain a hot market for home sales.  Think about the school district you will be in.  Even if you don’t have children in school, a top district will draw many buyers.  Different people will be looking for different things, but most buyers will want basically the same things from the location of the home. Home Buying: Location Matters
  2. NUMBER OF BEDROOMS - A house with more than two bedrooms will sell faster and for a better price than one with only one or two bedrooms.  Even a couple with no children will want extra space for an office or guestroom (or both).
  3. NUMBER OF BATHROOMS - Buyers will expect to pay much less for a home with only one bathroom.  If people are choosing between a house with one bathroom and one with two, they will almost always be willing to spend a little extra to get that additional restroom.
  4. GATHERING SPACE - Buyers want a large, informal space for relaxing and entertaining family and friends.  You will get more value out of a spacious family room than you will out of a formal living room. 
  5. STORAGE - These days people have a lot of “stuff” and they need places to put it all.  Storage space, including closets, a pantry and loads of cabinets will improve the odds of getting high bids for your house. 
  6. GARAGE - People who live in suburban areas need places to park their cars.  A covered parking place or two is ideal.
  7. OPEN FLOORPLAN - Buyers are looking for homes with open spaces and rooms that flow from one to the next.  A house with an Open Floorplan will improve your chances for a profitable resale.
  8. OVERALL CONDITION - A property that is well-cared for, updated and remodeled will greatly enhance resale value.  Focus on rooms that matter most to buyers - kitchens and bathrooms. Make sure everything is in good working order.  Some people might be looking for a fixer upper, but many buyers are willing to pay a premium for a move-in ready home.

If you are in the market for a new home let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of professionals assist you in finding your dream home.  Call them at 334-834-1500 today!

340 E Fairview Avenue, Montgomery 36105 

MLS# 436581

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,794 sqft | South Hull District 

You will get the best of both worlds with this sweet South Hull District cottage. With all the charm and character of Cloverdale, but half the price! Pack your things and get ready to move into this home featuring hardwood floors, built-in corner china cabinets in dining room, classic transoms (that still work) and a cool, retro double drainboard porcelain sink in the kitchen. Enclosed sun porch on the front and covered back porch make great places to relax, and the large back yard is perfect for kids, pets, and grown-up games! And, within minutes to Cloverdale's entertainment districts as well as all that is happening downtown. Charming home close to Midtown Montgomery and all Cloverdale has to offer! 

The Top Five Reasons to Hire a Realtor

by The Hat Team

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. Glossary of Real Estate Terms
  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 a lot of 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 you 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.  Call her today at 334-834-1500!

Photo Credit: wondersunn.com

Celebrate Independence!

by The Hat Team

 

2243 Country Club Dr, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 436401

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 2,222 square feet | Country Club Estates

Sought after Country Club Drive in Midtown Montgomery! Huge great room with wood burning fireplace open to eat in kitchen!!! Former living room can be used as formal dining. Oversized main bedroom with fireplace. Wonderful screened in rear porch. Hardwood floors.  Two more good sized bedrooms and hall bath. Beautiful small fenced back yard. Property backs up to a private park. Be the first to see this desirable property!


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

 

 

643 Felder Ave - Grand Tutor in Old Cloverdale!

by The Hat Team

643 Felder Ave, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 435539

3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 3,886 square feet | Cloverdale

Incredible rare opportunity to own in one of the best locations in Old Cloverdale. Grand Tudor offers more details and charm than can be described. Not available in over 40 plus years. Grand front foyer with beautiful staircase. Formal parlor and dining room. Kitchen offers separate breakfast area. Three large bedrooms upstairs. Updated master bath. Laundry and loft also on 2nd floor. Walk up attic. Upstairs balcony across rear of home. Beautiful lot in Midtown Montgomery near all Cloverdale has to offer!

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

 

3235 Wellington Rd - Adorable Cloverdale Cottage!

by The Hat Team

3235 Wellington Rd, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 436424

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,824 square feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild

Set on a quiet side street, this adorable Cloverdale cottage in Midtown Montgomery will capture your heart! Whether it's for one person, a couple, or a family, this home fits all. Spacious living room with fireplace and lots of built-ins for books and collectibles. Dining room for big family dinners. PLUS a cozy warm den/family room with classic coffered ceilings that will satisfy all your living needs. Kitchen overlooks gathering room/breakfast room and allows grown-ups to prepare meals while the little ones do homework or play. Elevated rear deck overlooks shady back yard, large brick patio with fire pit, and playground-grade jungle gym for the kids. Back yard also boasts wired and insulated workshop that once was a music studio with additional storage attached. And, this one is move-in ready, so call your favorite agent for a private tour and start packing!


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

3235 Wellington Rd

Fun Food for a Festive 4th!

by The Hat Team

Independence Day is just around the corner many people will celebrate by gathering with family and friends for a cookout or picnic.  Make your July 4th meal a special treat with these creative, patriotic recipes: (click on links for recipes)

PATRIOTIC FRENCH TOAST
Do you have guests staying with you for the holiday?  If so, what better way to start Independence Day than with a patriotic breakfast?  Serve up this red, white and blue french toast to start the day of with a bang!


Photo Credit: allrecipes.com

RED, WHITE & BLUE POTATO SKEWERS
Simple to prepare and serve, these tasty potato skewers are sure to be a hit at your July 4th gathering!


Photo Credit: fitfoodiefinds.com

STAR SPANGLED SALSA
This festive salsa is a tasty sweet and savory snack; perfect for the 4th of July!


Photo Credit: twopeasandtheirpod.com

PATRIOTIC POPSICLES
You know it’s going to be hot outside on this summer holiday, so let your guests cool off with these refreshing patriotic popsicles!


Photo Credit: thelittlekitchen.net

PATRIOTIC CHICKEN DIP
Add some color to your table by creating red and blue crumbs to add stars to your favorite dip. Serve with crackers or red and blue tortilla chips for a yummy appetizer or snack!


Photo Credit: hungryhappenings.com

STARS, STRIPES & SHORTCAKE
No celebration is complete without a yummy dessert!  This easy-to-make, fun and festive dessert is sure to please!


Photo Credit: bakersroyale.com

WISHING YOU A SAFE AND HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

If you’re in the market to buy or sell a home in the Montgomery area, call Sandra Nickel at 334-834-1500 and let her and her Hat Team of professionals put their skills and expertise to work for you!

610 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106 

MLS# 435532 

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,521 sqft | Cloverdale

A delightful covered front porch and swing invite you into this quaint Cloverdale cottage! Once inside you will find all the charm that makes homes in this historic neighborhood so special. Window seats, French doors, transoms, and wonderful refinished oak and heart pine floors. Cozy breakfast room has space to seat a table of four comfortably, and has a classic built in china cabinet. Updated kitchen with granite counter tops means all you have to do is start preparing meals! Third bedroom can easily be accomplished in the rear den, with addition of a wardrobe. Back yard is an outdoorsy-type's dream, with deck overlooking large fenced yard. Storage galore, with tons of space under the expanded deck and a detached metal storage unit for all your tools. Conveniently located so you may stroll to all Cloverdale has to offer including Spring concerts in the park. Hurry to see this Midtown Montgomery home today!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Re

altor Agent

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Sandra Nickel Hat Team! G

 Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor Agent, Frank Powell, Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Re

altor Agent

s Name,

Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Re

altor Agent

s Name,

Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Re

altor Agent

s Name,

Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Re

altor Agent

s Name,

Sandra Nickel Hat Team!

Outdoor Living Spaces 101

by The Hat Team

During the summer, many people spend time outdoors to savor the warm weather.  Unfortunately, there are some not-so-pleasant aspects of spending time outside this time of year as well.  Bugs, rain and hot, humid days can make you want to stay indoors.  The following tips will help make the time you spend outside more comfortable:

  1. BUGS.  Yuck.  Whether you are hosting an alfresco dinner party or just simply trying to relax with a good book on your deck, nothing will send you running back inside faster than nasty, annoying bugs.  If mosquitoes are a problem in your area, dealing with them is imperative if you want to be able to enjoy the outdoors.  Screening in a porch is an ideal way to be able to feel like you are outside without all the awful bug bites.  Other ways to keep insects away:
  • Do not keep any standing water on your property.  Even a single forgotten flowerpot full of rainwater can become a mosquito breeding ground.
  • Make water features running rather than standing, or treat them with Mosquito Dunks
  • Install ceiling fans on porches - flies and mosquitoes do not like moving air.
     
  1. USE OUTDOOR FABRICS IN EXPOSED AREAS.  If your porch is covered, you may be able to get away with using more delicate furniture and cushions not specifically made for outdoor use.  But if your seating area is exposed to the elements, you will want to invest in fabrics and furniture made for outside use.  They will likely be more expensive, but they won’t fade in the sun, will resist stains and are water resistant.  The cushions are stuffed with material that sheds water easily so that they won’t stay waterlogged if they get wet.
     
  2. UTILIZE A STORAGE BENCH.  While outdoor cushions are designed to stand up to repeated soakings, they will still be wet for a while directly after a rainstorm.  You can avoid having to sit on damp cushions by keeping them in a covered storage bench when you know there is a chance of rain.  If they won’t fit in a storage bench, lean your larger cushions against the wall of the house.  Do the same with any lightweight folding chairs.
     
  3. MASK SOUNDS WITH RUNNING WATER.  If noise is an issue that prevents you from indulging in a peaceful outdoor experience, try using a water feature to drown out the distraction.  Water is a great way to gently camouflage sounds from close neighbors.  Try installing a fountain near your seating area for a more tranquil atmosphere.
     
  4. MUSIC. If the water feature doesn’t appeal to you, soft music playing in the background can be just as effective at masking sounds.  With wireless speakers, you don’t even need an outlet to play your music.
     
  5. SHADE.  Even when you are craving the warmth of the sun, sitting outside without any shade on a hot, sunny day will send you running for the AC before too long.  There are a lot of options for adding shade to your yard. Try freestanding umbrellas, a cloth overhang, lattices, a shade tree or a pergola.
     
  6. PUT TOGETHER AN OUTDOOR DINING KIT.  Dining alfresco will be easier if you have a kit ready and waiting.  Put your frequently used outdoor items in a basket or on a big tray with handles so you can just grab it and go.  Here are some things to include:
  • Unbreakable wineglasses and plates
  • A carafe for water, wine or tea
  • Big napkins
  • Candles and matches or a lighter
  • A wicker or mesh dome-shaped cover to keep flies off the food
  • Unbreakable outdoor serving pieces
  • A bottle opener
  1. HAVE BLANKETS FOR CHILLY EVENINGS. Keep some blankets nearby.  Old wool camp-style blankets, lightweight kantha quilts, or fringed throws work well.  Your guests will thank you on chilly evenings in the garden!
     
  2. HAVE ADEQUATE NIGHTTIME LIGHTING.  Your outdoor space will really come alive at night with Outdoor Lighting. Try placing lighting under a bench seat for subtle illumination, make a ring of lanterns on the grass around your dining table or hang strings of lights overhead.  Landscape lighting will add to the ambiance as well.

If you’re looking for a home with a beautiful space for outdoor enjoyment, let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of professional Realtors help you find the right home for you and your family!  Call them today at 334-834-1500!

Photo Credit: durhamhill.com

Displaying blog entries 651-660 of 1998

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