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Displaying blog entries 1201-1210 of 1998

Montgomery AL Home for Sale: 1548 College Court

Tuesday, August 12, 2014
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Home for Sale:

1548 College Court, Montgomery AL 36106
MLS# 311293

Rocking Chair Front Porch & Private Garden!

1548 college court
Location, Location, Location, walk to the Capri, Montgomery's only independent theater, Cloverdale Playhouse, and one of the areas many restaurants / hot nightspots. Not too often does a home come available on this well-kept one block dead end street! It's the kind of street where the neighbors have a key to your house and that's a good thing! Third large room with closet and fireplace could easily be third bedroom or den! Visit neighbors from your old fashion front porch and garden in your private backyard. If uneven floors and a fair amount of cosmetics are a concern, you may have to find another. If not, this could be one of the best and least expensive homes Old Cloverdale has to offer. Recent new roof and exterior paint. Call us or your favorite agent to see today!

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

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How Was It Measured?

Monday, August 11, 2014
by The Hat Team

In an attempt to compare homes, one of the common denominators has been price per square foot.  It seems like a fairly, straight forward method but there are differences in the way homes are measured.

measuring tapeThe first assumption that has to be made is that the comparable homes are similar in size, location, condition and amenities.  Obviously, a variance in any of these things affects the price per square foot which will not give you a fair comparison.

The second critical area is that the square footage is correct.  The three most common sources for the square footage are from the builder or original plans, an appraisal or the tax assessor.  The problem is that none of sources are infallible and errors can always be made.

Still another issue that causes confusion is what is included in measuring square footage.  It is commonly accepted to measure the outside of the dwelling but then, do you include porches and patios?  Do you give any value for the garage, storage or other areas that are not covered by air-conditioning?

Then, there’s the subject of basements.  Many local areas don’t include anything below the grade in the square footage calculation but almost everyone agrees that the finish of the basement area could add significant value to the property.

Accurate square footage matters because it is used to value homes that both buyers and sellers base their decisions upon.

Let’s say that an appraiser measures a home with 2,800 square feet and values it at $275,000 making the price per square foot to be $98.21.  If the assessor reports there are 2,650 square feet in the dwelling and the owner believes based on the builder, there is 2,975 square feet, you can see the challenge.

If the property sold for the $275,000, based on the assessor’s measurements, it sold for $103.77 per square foot and by the owner’s measurements, it sold for $92.44 per square foot. Depending on which price per square foot was used for a comparable, valuing another property with similar square footage could have a $30,000 difference.

The solution to the dilemma is to dig a little deeper into where the numbers come from and not to take the square footage at “face value”.  It is important to recognize that there are differences in the way square footage is handled.

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Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

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Montgomery AL Foreclosure Trends for June 2014

Friday, August 8, 2014
by The Hat Team

In June, the number of properties that received a foreclosure filing in Montgomery, AL was 57% lower than the previous month and 98% higher than the same time last year, according to RealtyTrac.com.

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Status Distribution

The current distribution of foreclosures based on the number of active foreclosure homes in Montgomery, AL.

Auctions accounted for 59.8% of foreclosure activity in June 2014 and Bank-owned properties accounted for 40.2%.

montgomery al foreclosure

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Activity by Month

The number of Bank-Owned properties decreased 78.1% compared to the previous month and increased 6.0% from the previous year in June. The number of Auctions increased 20.8% compared to the previous month and 141.7% from the previous year.

montgomery al foreclosure

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Geographical Comparison

Montgomery AL foreclosure activity was 0.02% higher than national statistics, 0.05% higher than Alabama numbers and the same as Montgomery County statistics in June 2014.

montgomery al foreclosure

Are you or someone you know behind on mortgage payments and facing a Montgomery foreclosure? You do have options. A short sale may be the answer to saving you, your family and your home. I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) with specialized training in helping families avoid foreclosure. Give me a call for a private consultation.

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home. Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

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Why Own Your Own Home

Thursday, July 31, 2014
by The Hat Team

The majority of articles advocating home ownership center around financial benefits—fixed monthly expenses, tax benefits, accruing equity, etc.—and indeed these incentives do propel many people to purchase a home.  According to two recent polls (Gallop and the Allstate / National Journal survey), however, other more intangible factors also motivate the purchase of a piece of real estate.

  • Speopleense of community:  As a homeowner, you’ll be centered in a strong community of like-minded people, which can be a valuable asset for you and your family.  Homeownership brings a sense of pride in both your home and your community.  Various studies suggest that a higher homeownership rate brings lower crime rates, higher property values, better educated children, and ultimately closer communities.  Investing in a home may also mean investing in your family and your community by getting involved.  Once you own a home, you feel more attached to the area in which you live. You're more interested in what happens in your neighborhood, to the roads, schools, and shopping areas.
     
  • Renewed belief in the American Dream:  Although confidence in that dream has faltered in recent years, the desire to own a home is rebounding, especially among younger buyers and members of diverse ethnic groups.  Pride and family stability are important factors in today’s dream. Your house is the physical manifestation of your years of hard work and financial responsibility. And nothing says “success story” like owning your very own piece of the American dream.
     
  • Higher academic achievement of children:  Consistent findings show that homeownership does have a significant positive impact on educational achievement.  Some studies find that homeownership brings residential stability, and it is this stability that raises educational attainment.  Another asserts that while homeownership raises educational outcomes for children, neighborhood stability further enhances the positive outcome.  Additional research has shown that there is an increased chance of success in many areas for the children of homeowners,
     
  • Freedom to “do your own thing.”  If you own your house, the home improvement store is your oyster! You can paint, remodel, remove, or restyle just about anything in your home to meet your individual needs and/or reflect your tastes and personality.

Owning a home is certainly a wise investment—in so many ways!

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

 

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Montgomery AL Real Estate: 2530 Agnew Street

Thursday, July 31, 2014
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real Estate For Sale:

2530 Agnew Street, Montgomery AL 36106
MLS# 311177

Stunning Townhome In the Heart Of Old Cloverdale!


Want the charm of living in Old Cloverdale, but don't want to "deal" with an older home...here is the solution! McAlpine Tankersley designed like-new townhouse located right in the heart of this beautiful historic and entertainment district. This complex of 6 luxury townhomes is securely gated with restricted access. Open floor plan feels contemporary and spacious, and has master bedroom on the main floor. Upstairs there is a den/gathering area, plus two guest bedrooms, each with its own private bath. Huntingdon alum or a football fan...sit on your side yard and see all the excitement from the college's football and lacrosse field! Walk to local restaurants, bars, and theaters. Enjoy the beautiful Cloverdale Park and lovely historic homes, mature trees, and heirloom landscaping. This townhouse is lock-it and leave-it. Perfect for lake-lovers or out-of-town business owners.

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

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Montgomery AL Home for Sale: 330 Finley Avenue

Wednesday, July 30, 2014
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Home for Sale:

330 Finley Avenue, Montgomery AL 36104
MLS# 311101

Lovely Turn-Of-The-Century Architecture!


Historic 1890's home has been completely updated. With high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, and coffered ceilings, this home will please anyone who appreciates turn-of-the-century architecture. Plenty of room for your family and guests, you will never run out of space. Large updated kitchen and open breakfast room have views of the side deck. True master suite on first floor has bedroom, sitting room/den, walk in closet, and HUGE master bath with tub and large separate shower. Upstairs you will find 3 generous bedrooms (one currently used as a spacious closet/dressing room) and a sitting area. Manicured grounds, fenced yard, and plenty of under-house storage plus detached 2-car garage with tool shed.

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

Add Comment

Midtown Montgomery Real Estate Market Report for June 2014

Monday, July 28, 2014
by The Hat Team

If you sold your primary residence and made a profit, you may be able to exclude that profit from your taxable income. Here's how it works.

Individuals can exclude up to $250,000 in profit from the sale of a main home (or $500,000 for a married couple) as long as you have owned the home and lived in the home for a minimum of two years. Those two years do not need to be consecutive. In the 5 years prior to the sale of the house, you need to have lived in the house for at least 24 months in that 5-year period. In other words, the home must have been your principal residence. Just like calculating capital gains, the formula for calculating the gain or loss involves subtracting your cost basis from your selling price.

The formula for calculating your cost basis on your main home is as follows:

Purchase price

     + Purchase costs (title & escrow fees, real estate agent commissions, etc.)

     + Improvements (replacing the roof, new furnace, etc.)

     + Selling costs (title & escrow fees, real estate agent commissions, etc.)

     - Accumulated depreciation (for example, if you ever took the office in the home deduction)

     = Cost Basis

And then calculating your profit or loss would be:

Selling price

     - Cost Basis

     = Gain or Loss

Now let's look at how many homes were sold in Midtown Montgomery during June.

Midtown Montgomery real estate sales statistics for June 2014, show the number of homes sold decreased by 27% when compared to June 2013. The average sales price increased by 3.8% to $210,426 for the month. The median sales prices increased by 6.7%, and market times decreased by 47 days from June 2013.  The highest selling price increased by 45%, and the lowest selling home price increased by 64% compared to June 2013.

Midtown Montgomery  June 2014 June 2013
Homes Sold 26 36
Average Selling Price $210,426 $151,658
Median Selling Price $155,750 $93,000
Days On The Market 181 134
Highest Selling Price $870,000 $600,000
Lowest Selling Price $15,000 $9,100

For the latest Midtown Montgomery real estate market conditions in your area, please call me at 800-HAT-LADY or visit HomesForSaleInMontgomeryAlabama.com.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

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Indecision Costs

Thursday, July 24, 2014
by The Hat Team

questionMore money has been lost to indecision than was ever lost to making the wrong decision.  The economy and the housing market have caused some people to take a “wait and see” position that could cost them in lost opportunities as well as almost certain higher costs in the future.

To illustrate what the opportunity cost might be, let’s compare what the value of the down payment two years from now would be if it was invested in a certificate of deposit, the stock market or used to purchase a home today.

A 3.5% down payment on a $175,000 home is $6,125.00.  If it was invested in a CD that would earn 2%, a person would have $6,372 in two years.  The earnings would be taxed as ordinary income tax rates.  It wouldn't earn much but it would be safe and secure.

The same amount would grow to $7,013 in the stock market if you picked the right stock or fund and it yielded 7%. The earnings would be taxed at the long term capital gains rate.  The return could be greater but so is the risk involved.

If this person were to purchase a home today that appreciated 2% in value over the next two years, the equity in the home would grow to $18,769 due to value going up and the unpaid balance going down.

Your Best Investment.png

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The question, we all must ask ourselves is “where should our money be invested?”  Try Your Best Investment to see the difference it will make based on your price range, down payment and earning rate.

Information brought to you by Sandra Nickel Hat Team Realtors.

 

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Flipping - Is It Right For You?

Thursday, July 17, 2014
by The Hat Team

If you watch home-and-garden cable channels, it looks like everyone is flipping houses. i.e. buying a piece of real estate, making minor repairs, and quickly selling it at a substantially higher price.  Basic investing 101: Buy low, sell high.

flipping real estateCertainly sounds appealing--and you may be tempted to join the ranks of those who have been successful in this field.  Be forewarned, however, that like most money-making endeavors, flipping requires time, money, patience and skill.

For tips on how to begin, steps to follow, and advice on how to avoid pitfalls, read on…

Do your research and be knowledgeable well in advance:

  • Talk to (and learn from) successful flippers, read up on the subject, follow real estate deals in the newspaper, use the Internet as a teaching resource, attend open houses and auctions.
  • Identify possible house locations, size, and style.  Educate yourself on how to recognize promising properties and how to spot a lemon.
  • Familiarize yourself with current prices, taxes, utility rates, HOA fees, municipal and restrictions in each area you are considering.   Study your market. Get to know it as well as you possibly can. Understand the trends, the kinds of houses, the neighborhoods, the streets
  • Visit the potential homes and neighborhoods in person.  Talk to residents, Realtors, and repair companies who are familiar with the area.

Set up a budget, a time line, and financing:

  • Figure out how much money you have (or can put your hands on using investors) without borrowing
  • Calculate the cost of repairs, taxes, utilities, materials, contractor/labor expenses, and the like.  Professional contractors advise flippers to add an extra 10% to their repair estimate.  Also, to be on the safe side, make sure that you’ll be able to hold on to the home as a rental property for a while, if need be.
  • Experts suggest factoring in the flip time into your budget and your potential profit before you purchase the home. According to investors, a successful flip is one that makes you around a 15% profit.

Be prepared:

  • When you find the right piece of real estate, you must act quickly to buy it.
  • Have appraisers, agents, contractors, skilled laborers lined up so they can start work immediately upon your purchase.  Remember, in flipping, time is money!
  • Be ready to make quick decisions, devote a great deal of time (and possibly sweat equity) to this project, and face unexpected expenses.

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

 

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Tips For a Green Summer Lawn

Friday, July 11, 2014
by The Hat Team

As Kermit the Frog knows, It’s not easy being green, especially so for a lawn trying to survive the heat and dryness of summer.  And for you, the Montgomery AL home owner, it’s not easy to look at your distressed and dying lawn green lawnafter all the time and effort you have put into it in previous months.  Not to despair, however; it may not be too late to revive—or at least repair---the grassy areas of your landscape. Try following the following steps:

Watering:

  • Consistently water your lawn. Most often, a lawn goes bad due to a lack of water.  Make sure to water evenly and thoroughly so that the water will reach six inches into the ground. If not, the roots may grow toward the surface and make the grass vulnerable for sun damage. 
  • Water very early in the morning to avoid losing moisture to evaporation and allow the lawn plenty of time to dry. Lawns that stay wet overnight are breeding grounds for pests and disease.
  • Keeping your lawn hydrated can be a difficult task with many local areas introducing water bans, but keep in mind that it is better to water deeply only a few times a week than lightly sprinkle the lawn every day.

Feeding:

  • Add sugar, yes, sugar.  Odd as it may sound, this practice works because the sugar protects the microbes necessary for a lawn to stay healthy. Spread approximately 1 pound of sugar to every 300 square feet of lawn area of your Montgomery AL home.
  • Leave the clippings behind when you mow your lawn.   They contain nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, all necessary for healthy lawn growth.
  • Use fertilizer sparingly. Follow directions to ensure proper use and timing.

Reseed or replace with sod:

  • When coaxing and coddling do not work magic on the damaged grassy spots, it is most likely time to start over by reseeding.  Visit eHow.com for expert advice on seed mixtures, application, and care.
  • Another option for re-greening your landscape is using sod, either to replace brown patches or to redo the entire lawn.  Step-by-step instructions for both can be found on many Internet sites.  Click here for specific advice for laying sod in patches, or visit HGTV.com for a total replacement guide.

Search all Montgomery AL Real Estate And Homes For Sale.

Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Montgomery AL real estate market. Sandra assists buyers looking for Montgomery real estate for sale and aggressively markets Montgomery AL homes for sale. Sandra is also an expert in helping families avoid foreclosure through short sales and is committed to helping families in financial hardship find options. For more information you can visit AvoidForeclosureMontgomery.com.

Interested in buying a bank-owned home? Get bank-owned listings alerts FREE!

You can reach Sandra by filling out the online contact form below or give her a call anytime.

Add Comment

Displaying blog entries 1201-1210 of 1998

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