New Year’s Traditions and Celebrations Around the World

In many countries, New Year’s celebrations begin on the evening of December 31—New Year’s Eve—and continue into the early hours of January 1. Revelers often enjoy meals and snacks thought to bestow good luck for the coming year. In Spain and several other Spanish-speaking countries, people bolt down a dozen grapes-symbolizing their hopes for the months ahead-right before midnight. In many parts of the world, traditional New Year’s dishes feature legumes, which are thought to resemble coins and herald future financial success; examples include lentils in Italy and black-eyed peas in the southern United States. Because pigs represent progress and prosperity in some cultures, pork appears on the New Year’s Eve table in Cuba, Austria, Hungary, Portugal and other countries. Ring-shaped cakes and pastries, a sign that the year has come full circle, round out the feast in the Netherlands, Mexico, Greece and elsewhere. In Sweden and Norway, meanwhile, rice pudding with an almond hidden inside is served on New Year’s Eve; it is said that whoever finds the nut can expect 12 months of good fortune.

Other customs that are common worldwide include watching fireworks and singing songs to welcome the new year, including the ever-popular “Auld Lang Syne” in many English-speaking countries. The practice of making resolutions for the new year is thought to have first caught on among the ancient Babylonians, who made promises in order to earn the favor of the gods and start the year off on the right foot. (They would reportedly vow to pay off debts and return borrowed farm equipment.)

In the United States, the most iconic New Year’s tradition is the dropping of a giant ball in New York City’s Times Square at the stroke of midnight. Millions of people around the world watch the event, which has taken place almost every year since 1907. Over time, the ball itself has ballooned from a 700-pound iron-and-wood orb to a brightly patterned sphere 12 feet in diameter and weighing in at nearly 12,000 pounds. Various towns and cities across America have developed their own versions of the Times Square ritual, organizing public drops of items ranging from pickles (Dillsburg, Pennsylvania) to possums (Tallapoosa, Georgia) at midnight on New Year’s Eve. 

No matter how you choose to celebrate the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022, have a safe, happy and healthy NEW YEAR! 

Info courtesy of History.com

Sometimes we try so hard to achieve holiday perfection that by the time New Year’s Eve rolls around we are exhausted. But then there is the added pressure of finding something fun to do for New Year’s Eve. It is 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 are hosting 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:

1. 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 is supposed to be like - perfect sparkly outfit, a cool venue, lots of drinks...you know the drill. But honestly, the 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.
   
2. You will stay safe and cozy. Chances are that it is going to be cold on New Year’s Eve. Possibly even snowy and icy. 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 front of a roaring fire 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.
    
3. 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 is 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. 
    
4. 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 You might even have some leftover from Christmas. 
   
5. 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 do not 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 is totally up to you!

Some people really enjoy going out for 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 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: kickkicksnare.com, positiveroutines.com, bhgre.com

If you are preparing to list your house for sale, you may be wondering if the financial reward will be worth the time, effort and money to fix up things that are in disrepair or that are dated.  The answer to that question depends on a myriad of circumstances such as the current real estate market, the condition of competing inventory and whether the renovations that need to be made generally provide a return on investment.

Some home buyers are looking to purchase a “fixer upper”. They are looking for properties priced to sell, perhaps because they don’t qualify for more expensive homes or maybe because they want to make a profit by fixing the home up themselves. Most fixer buyers want to do simple repairs such as painting walls, replacing light fixtures and putting in new carpet. Only a few want to take a house down to the studs and completely redo it. These potential buyers will want a price for the home that will allow for all the repairs, the inconvenience of doing the work, and often a bit more. For example, if a home is worth $200,000 fixed up but needs a new roof, and the roof costs approximately $10,000, a buyer most likely will not offer $190,000 for this home. The reason is that they can probably find a similar house that already has a new roof for $200,000 and save themselves the headache of replacing it themselves. A buyer in this situation might offer $175,000 or less, in which case it would make more sense for the seller to replace the roof and sell it for $200,000.

It is important to note that there are also many buyers looking for “turn-key” homes. They fear having to make major repairs because they might be costlier than anticipated or other problems might be revealed. Even if the price is right, homes listed for sale in “as is” condition might not attract as many buyers.

However, before doing major renovations, there are many things to consider. 

Smart sellers will research what their home’s market value will be once improvements are made and compare it to the cost of the renovations. If an upgrade will not provide return on the investment, it probably does not make sense to do it.  Knowing the condition of your competition is helpful. For example, if other homes for sale in your neighborhood all have modern kitchens, it might make sense to update yours. This does not mean you should tear it down and start from scratch. Often a minor kitchen remodel will suffice. Also, keep in mind that kitchen and bathroom remodels are known to bring the best return on investment.

Start by making a list of the things in your home that are dated or in disrepair and then prioritize.

Here is a list of 10 minimum improvements to make before putting your house on the market:

• Patch all holes and cracks in walls and ceilings.
• Fix all appliances and HVAC systems.
• Repair leaky faucets.
• Replace worn carpeting.
• Repaint dark or marred walls in neutral colors (not white).
• Replace broken windows.
• Repair the roof.
• Change dated light fixtures/ceiling fans.
• Replace old linens/window coverings.
• Fix any code violations.

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: youtube.com, hookedonhouses.net, smartasset.com

3933 Hickory Drive, Montgomery, AL  36109

MLS# 507365

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 2,262 square feet | Dalriada

Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath move in ready home in desirable Dalriada. Nestled in the heart of this great neighborhood amongst the beautiful oak trees. Original crown molding throughout the house as well as hardwood floors. Carpet covers the left wing of the house and tile dominates the kitchen and breakfast nook areas. Living room has a burning gas fireplace and den area has a wood burning fireplace, perfect for those cold winter nights coming in January. Master bedroom has walk in closest with a bathroom that boasts double vanities, garden tub and separate shower. On the right side of the home is the laundry room which is very spacious. The breakfast nook is as cute as can be with good natural lighting and open views to the backyard for that morning coffee. The kitchen was updated less than 10 years ago and has granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances with ample room for cooking. The backyard is large and spacious and has two storage sheds and a playset. Breathtakingly beautiful almost half acre lot! HVAC system is 5-ton Trane and less than 4 years old, security system with cameras, and multiple parking spots on driveway. Within walking distance to the shops and restaurants which include SOL, Shane's Ribshack, The Wharf, Publix and more! Call me or your favorite realtor today to view!

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

During the holiday season, when life can be hectic and exhausting, everyone needs a respite…a tranquil place to relax and unwind. Your bedroom should be that haven for you. But if it is cluttered, it won’t feel relaxing. It will just add to overwhelming feelings of stress and anxiety. With Christmas and New Year’s Eve around the corner, now is a good time to turn your bedroom into the relaxing oasis you deserve, and the first step is to declutter!

Here are some tips for doing just that:

• Utilize under-the-bed storage. If you have random items cluttering up your bedroom because you just don’t know where else to put them, under-the-bed storage is your answer. It is great because it is not visible, but it is still easy to get to. Things like gift wrap, extra linens, books and off-season clothing will fit nicely in storage containers that fit under your bed. Rolling storage containers are especially efficient and help free up space in your bedroom.
  
• Use racks to store your blankets. All your cozy blankets, quilts and throws can take up a lot of space, but if you love them like I do, you always want to have them handy. A pretty blanket rack is the perfect place to store them where you can easily get to them when you want. Not only does it provide a neat, tidy place to store them, it also adds a pretty touch to your bedroom décor.
   
• Hang photos and artwork on the walls. Putting artwork and photos on the walls instead of on your dresser, nightstand or vanity will help keep your surfaces clear and will give your room a less cluttered, more streamlined aesthetic. Small bedrooms in particular will benefit from having less clutter on surfaces.
  
• Store pillows in baskets. When you decide you want to relax in your bed, throwing decorative and/or extra pillows on the floor will make the room feel messy. A pretty basket is a great place to store pillows when you are not displaying them on your bed.
  
• Organize your room in sections. Don’t let the idea of decluttering your bedroom overwhelm you. Take it one step, one spot at a time!  Do you have a messy closet?  Organizing your closet first may just give you the storage you need to declutter the rest of the room. Next you can clear the surfaces of your dressers, nightstands and vanity.

We all need a place to escape to now and then. By decluttering and organizing your bedroom, you will create a peaceful retreat where you can rest and rejuvenate every day!

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: goodhousekeeping.com, hgtv.com, kelleynan.com, nytimes.com

2005 N Country Club Drive, Montgomery, AL  36106

MLS# 506595

Here is your Midtown Montgomery opportunity of starting your own school on a quiet cul-de-sac! This campus is literally the perfect blend of old and new with the Admin Building being a Postbellum house converted into a lovely reception area, conference room, 3 offices downstairs, full kitchen, and 3 large offices upstairs. The newer Staff Development Building transformed into a training room, a huge meeting room, a large office with cubicles, a smaller office, and a full kitchen. The Classroom building has over 22 large classrooms, several more offices and a cafeteria with a commercial kitchen. Classroom furniture included.

View the Floor Plans here! 

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

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 surprising things that will raise your home’s value:

1. LOTS OF TREES – While a brand-new house in a recently established community has it’s perks, what it often lacks is a proximity to mature trees. Large, well-rooted trees found in older neighborhoods, not only make for a lovely landscape, 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 who do not have children do not think about this. Even you 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 in close proximity to 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!

Photo Credits: homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com, visitingmontgomery.com, riverregiontrails.org, homelight.com

1100 Woodward Avenue, Montgomery, AL  36106

MLS# 505861

2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,670 square feet | Cloverdale

Great home to make your own or for an investment opportunity! LOADS OF POTENTIAL! Located in the heart of Cloverdale within walking distance to everything this great community has to offer. Texas style bathroom in master is extremely spacious. Kitchen has been updated from original bones. Open floor plan. Great front porch to sit outside on throughout the year. NEW HVAC in 2017 and NEW ROOF IN 2021. TLC will go a long way with this home. Call me or your favorite realtor today to see!

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

Trust me when I say that lenders WANT to help you get a loan for your mortgage, but sometimes clients make impulsive decisions that can derail their chances of getting a mortgage loan approval.

Here are ten things you SHOULD NOT DO if your goal is to get approved for a mortgage loan:

1. DO NOT buy a car (or boat, RV, four-wheeler etc.) If you are trying to buy a home, now is NOT the time to buy a new vehicle of any kind.
    
2. DO NOT be late on credit card payments. In fact, now is a good time to limit your credit card use as much as possible. You definitely don’t want to hurt your credit report by being late on payments.
    
3. DO NOT quit or change jobs or become self-employed. Lenders want to see steady employment and income consistency. Once you get into your new address, then you can change jobs.
   
4. DO NOT apply for credit. If you’re shopping in a store and they offer a credit card application for a discount on your purchase, JUST SAY NO. Any credit application means a credit inquiry, and that will impact your credit score. Lenders will be looking at your credit report just before closing, and any new activity may result in delays.
    
5. DO NOT purchase big-ticket items. Just like with vehicles, it is prudent for you to wait until after you are in your new home to buy expensive items like furniture or appliances.
    
6. DO NOT spend your savings. The last thing you want to do is to get your loan approved, but then not have the money you set aside for your down payment!  Leave your savings intact!
    
7. DO NOT make unusually large deposits into your accounts. If you suddenly come into a large amount of money, that will raise flags to your lender and will require an explanation. In some cases, you can use gifted funds to purchase a home, but you need to talk to your mortgage banker about how that money needs to be documented.
    
8. DO NOT hide things on your loan application. Things like owed back taxes, liens or other liabilities WILL be discovered. Be honest from the start so there are no surprises (and disappointments) down the road.
   
9. DO NOT co-sign a loan for someone else. Co-signing on a loan for someone else can lower your credit score while also raising your debt-to-income ratio. This, in turn, may affect your chances of qualifying for a mortgage loan.
    
10. DO NOT open, close, or change bank accounts. Even if you are moving to a new state, don’t close your bank accounts or change them until your home loan has closed. If you have new bank account activity, it will require a paper trail and may delay your loan process.

Mortgage bankers are on your side. They want you to get a home loan as much as you want to get one. Be sure to avoid these “DO NOTS” to help the process go as smoothly as possible!

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: loans.usnews.com, thebalance.com, bakersfieldcreditrepair.com, vergecampus.com