Real Estate Information Archive

610 Ponce De Leon Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 535236

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,521 Square Feet | Cloverdale/Idlewild 

Have you always dreamed of living in a Cloverdale cottage? Well, here is your opportunity!! Spend your evenings walking to nearby parks and restaurants or relax on your front porch swing. Conveniently located near Cloverdale Bottom Park where you can enjoy the Spring Concert series and the Cloverdale entertainment district. As you enter this lovely, freshly painted home you are greeted with a bright living room, fireplace, window seating and built-in bookshelves. The French doors separate the living room and dining room while looking great both open and closed. The breakfast room has a built-in china cabinet with glass doors for additional storage space. The updated kitchen boasts granite counter tops, a stainless-steel refrigerator, smooth top range, dishwasher and microwave; all of which will remain with the home. The spacious deck holds built-in seating while the fully fenced yard supplies all the space needed for entertaining. The beautiful hardwood floors are in pristine condition while the crystal doorknobs and transom windows add so much Cloverdale charm. Don't miss the opportunity to call 610 Ponce De Leon, in Midtown Montgomery, home!!

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

With spring’s arrival and summer just around the corner, many people enjoy spending time outdoors to savor the warmer weather. Unfortunately, there are some not-so-pleasant aspects of spending time outside such as bugs, rain, and hot, humid days.

Whether you have a deck, patio, or balcony (any outdoor space will do!), the following tips will help make the time you spend outside more comfortable in any situation:

• BUGS 

Yuck. Whether you are hosting an alfresco dinner party or 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.
   
• 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.

• 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.

• 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 small fountain near your seating area for a more tranquil atmosphere.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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
  
   
• HAVE BLANKETS FOR CHILLY EVENINGS

Keep some blankets nearby. Old wool camp-style blankets, light weight Kantha Quilts, or fringed throws work well. Your guests will thank you on chilly evenings in the garden!

• HAVE ADEQUATE NIGHTTIME LIGHTING

Your outdoor space will really come alive at night with the right 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 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: mountainliving.com, homedepot.com, housedigest.com, yardenvy.com

1906 Mabry Street, Selma, AL 36701

MLS# 534871

2 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | 896 Square Feet | South of Jeff Davis to Alabama River

CALLING ALL INVESTORS! Here is your chance to add an income-producing property to your portfolio located in the "Queen City" of Alabama's Black Belt - Selma! Tenant in place until Feb. 2024 at $600/month and to remain. Property has great rental history. Package this with 1904 Mabry and 1906 Mabry and you've got triple the possibilities! 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, hardwood floors throughout, fresh paint with newly tiled kitchen and bathrooms. The carport off the side of the home allows for entrance into the kitchen. Showings granted with accepted offer. Please do NOT attempt to approach the property or tenants beforehand!

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

1904 Mabry Street, Selma, AL 36701

MLS# 534870

2 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | 927 Square Feet | South of Jeff Davis to Alabama River

CALLING ALL INVESTORS! Here is your chance to add an income-producing property to your portfolio located in the "Queen City" of Alabama's Black Belt - Selma! Tenant in place until Feb. 2024 at $600/month and to remain. Property has great rental history. Package this with 1902 Mabry and 1906 Mabry and you've got triple the possibilities! 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, hardwood floors throughout, fresh paint with newly tiled kitchen and bathrooms. Showings granted with accepted offer. Please do NOT attempt to approach the property or tenants beforehand!

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

1902 Mabry Street, Selma, AL  36701

MLS# 534869

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,528 Square Feet | South of Jeff Davis to Alabama River

CALLING ALL INVESTORS! Here is your chance to add an income-producing property to your portfolio located in the "Queen City" of Alabama's Black Belt - Selma! Tenant in place until Feb. 2024 at $702/month and to remain. Property has a great rental history. Package this with 1904 Mabry and 1906 Mabry and you've got triple the possibilities! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, over 1,500 SF, hardwood floors throughout, fresh paint with newly-tiled bathrooms. Detached storage. Please do NOT attempt to approach the property or tenants beforehand!

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

2318 Yancey Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36107

MLS# 534937

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,472 Square Feet | Capitol Heights

Storybook cottage is adorable and ready to move into! This Capitol Heights beauty has updated lighting in the living room and dining rooms. Nice hardwood floors means NO carpet to deal with! The cute kitchen has room for a small breakfast table or moveable island and cooks delight gas range. Three bedrooms and two baths make it a great home for one or more. The side patio overlooks the large shady back yard with an additional patio perfect for grilling and chilling. Convenient to downtown, shopping, and dining! Also, would make a great addition to any rental portfolio.

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

Purchasing your first home is a huge milestone…and not one that should be taken lightly. It is a big commitment, and you want to make sure you get it right. Educating yourself before you begin the home buying process will help you find the right property and procure the financing for it. 

Here are some things you should know as a first-time homebuyer:

PEOPLE INVOLVED IN THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Entering the home buying process for the first time might feel a little overwhelming. You will have a lot of questions, but don’t worry, there will be people who will guide you through. The first thing to do is to find an experienced, professional Realtor. Your Realtor will assist you in finding your starter home, making an offer, and negotiating with sellers. Another person you should meet with prior to starting your home search is a mortgage lender. Your mortgage banker will help you complete your loan application along with determining the amount you qualify for.

Getting preapproved for a mortgage is an important step that will set you on the right course for buying your first home.

STARTING YOUR HOME SEARCH

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “location, location, location” in relation to real estate. It exists for a reason. Because location is one of the most important aspects in choosing a home. The first thing you must do when searching for your starter home is determine the area you want to live in. You should take many things into consideration when making this decision. Do you want city, suburban, or country living? What is the reputation of the school system?  Are there shopping, dining, and entertainment activities nearby?  The answers to these questions aren’t just important for you when you are living there but may also have an impact on resale value. Remember, this is your starter home; not necessarily your forever home. So, you should take resale value into consideration when choosing the location. Once you have determined WHERE you want to look, you can create a list of what you are looking for in a home. You may have to compromise on some things, but going into your search knowing what you want will make things less confusing. 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

When buying your starter home, there may be some expenses that you didn’t anticipate. Don’t risk being blindsided by unexpected expenses. Do your research and make sure you know what you are getting into. Here are some costs you may not have thought of:

• Closing costs
• Home inspection
• Moving expenses
• Setting up your new house

Remember that your Realtor and Mortgage Banker are there to answer questions you may have, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of their expertise!

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: pwcva.gov, findmywayhome.com, financebuzz.com

1240 Magnolia Curve, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 534930

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 3,055 Square Feet | Cloverdale

This wonderful Old Cloverdale home is spacious and pristine! Large formal dining and living rooms are perfect for entertaining. Kitchen large enough for multiple cooks and features tons of cabinets, center work island, and breakfast bar. The breakfast room looks into a spacious den/family room with built-ins, wet bar, and wall of windows overlooking beautiful backyard. Upstairs there is a HUGE main bedroom (runs the width of the house) with three closets. Two guest bedrooms share a bath, and a hall walk-in closet for even more storage. Corner lot has mature trees, two car detached carport, large brick patio, and your own private half basketball court! And, you have a view of Huntingdon's football field at the end of the side street, Carlton. Location can't be beat, in the heart of historic Cloverdale, in Midtown Montgomery!!

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

Does growing a lush and vibrant lawn seem out of reach for you? Don’t worry! The grass CAN be greener on your side of the fence. With spring imminent, now is the perfect time to start working on a thick carpet of grass for your yard.

Here are some tips for growing and maintaining a lawn that will have your neighbors GREEN with envy:

1. Start by reseeding and fertilizing. If you have bare spots in your grass, taking the time to reseed now will pay off this spring. Make sure you fertilize for optimal growth and keep the area moist until you see new growth. If you don’t have time to do this yourself, think about hiring someone to do it. You will be glad you did!
   
2. Look for problems that will hinder growth. Steep slopes and shady trees can potentially keep grass from growing. You may want to consider hydroseeding in sloped regions. And planting fescues in shady zones will help as well.
    
3. Patch dead areas with sod. Re-sodding is the best bet if you have large dead areas. Sod can be installed any time of year…just make sure you water it frequently until it sets.
   
4. Properly mow your grass. If you’ve just seeded, your lawn will need to be mowed early and frequently leaving 1.5 to 2.0 inches of grass. After your lawn is fully established, reset your mower blade to its highest setting, leaving 2 to 3.5 inches of grass.
    
5. Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. This will assist in the process of breaking down and returning nitrogen to the soil which will satisfy your lawn’s nitrogen needs.
   
6. Look into xeriscaping. No matter what climate you live in, xeriscaping is the best way to weatherproof your lawn. This low maintenance, low-cost method of landscaping will keep your lawn looking beautiful during all the seasons!

What is xeriscaping? Per pbs.org, xeriscaping is a landscaping method in which the goal is to use a minimal amount of water while still maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and echo-friendly landscape.

Once you have your lawn looking fabulous, you can create a fun outdoor living space to enjoy with your friends and family. And when you’re ready to sell your home, the first impression potential buyers get from your curb appeal will have them waiting in line to see your house! 

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: gardenerspath.com, bengertgreenhouses.com, theturfgrassgroup.com, marthastewart.com

March is here and chances are the winter doldrums are getting to you. Now is a good time to start tackling some home maintenance tasks that will remind you that spring is right around the corner!

Clean Your Gutters

Once the last frost of winter has passed, it is important to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and, if necessary, repaired. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause wood trim in the eaves to rot and that can leave an opening for all kinds of critters to invade your house. If you’re not sure what to look for, you can have a home inspector come and look for you.

Another benefit to cleaning out your gutters and downspouts early in the season is that it can help to prevent damage from spring rains. If they are installed and cleaned properly, they will divert water away from the house and keep it from collecting around your foundation.

Prep Your Yard

Your lawn may be looking sad as the winter months have taken their toll, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Giving your lawn a little attention toward the end of winter will make for a lush, green lawn this spring and summer.

The first step is to aerate your soil. When soil is compacted, it is too hard for water, air and roots to penetrate. That makes it hard on grass. You can rent a core aerator from a local equipment rental store. A half day’s rental generally costs about $40. This machine, which resembles a large rotary tiller, uses steel tubes to take plugs of soil from the lawn and deposit them on the ground. You can reduce compaction by aerating once a year and this will increase the vitality of your lawn.

The second step is to mow the old grass low. If you have cool-season grass such as bluegrass, fescue, or perennial ryegrass, you can skip this part. But if you have warm-season grass such as Bermuda, buffalo grass centipede, St. Augustine or Zoysia you will want to mow that old, brown grass low at the end of winter to remove the accumulation of thatch, an accumulation of dead stems and leaves. If you leave the thatch, it will prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots and will encourage disease. Cut Bermuda lawns to ½ inch and leave the clippings in place to decompose. Mow the other types to 1 inch. If you use a regular mower, bag the clippings; then compost or discard them. Mowing low allows more sun to reach and warm the soil which helps the grass to green up.

The final step is to stop weeds. As the temperatures rise and reach 70 degrees, the seeds of lawn weeds begin to sprout. Late winter is a good time to stop them by applying a pre-emergence lawn weed preventer. When used properly, it creates a barrier atop the soil to keep weeds from sprouting. Be sure not to aerate after using the weed preventer or you will break the barrier. Do not use this type of product if you are planting new grass though, because it will keep grass seeds from coming up as well.

Once you have your lawn ready, then you can start thinking about selecting plants and flowers for your home garden!

Caulk Windows and Doors

Winter can be hard on your home. Now is the time to inspect the caulking around your windows and doors and to repair any damage left behind by old man winter. Check around your windows, doors, and corner trim to prevent water infiltration and avoid costly repairs.

Using high-quality siliconized acrylic latex caulk that is rated for exterior use will cut down on the amount of caulking you will have to do. It has good adhesion and flexibility, cleans up easily with water, and is paintable as well. Make sure you know what you are doing and avoid common mistakes in caulking.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, spring home maintenance is a step toward making your house more alluring to potential buyers. 

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: facebook.com, hrpressurewashing.com, peterdoranlawn.com, mrhandyman.com