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Why Fall Is a Smart Time to Sell Your Montgomery AL Home

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

by The Hat Team

🍂 Thinking About Selling Your Home This Fall in Montgomery?

Here's Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time…

While summer often gets the spotlight for home sales, fall can be just as powerful — especially in Montgomery’s current market. With strong buyer demand still holding steady and inventory lower than usual, listing your home this fall could put you in a great position to sell before the year ends.

Here’s why fall is a smart time to sell:

✅ Serious Buyers Are Still Out There
Many buyers want to be settled before the holidays and are motivated to move quickly. That urgency can give sellers the upper hand in negotiations.

✅ Less Competition Means More Exposure for Your Home
With fewer homes hitting the market after summer, your listing has a better chance of standing out. Buyers have fewer options — and that can work in your favor.

✅ You’ll Attract a Different Pool of Buyers
Fall often brings out empty nesters, first-time buyers, and those relocating for work — groups less tied to the school calendar. Many of them are ready to move fast and are looking for a smooth, timely closing.

✅ Fall Curb Appeal is Underrated
Cooler temps, colorful leaves, and cozy seasonal décor can make your home feel especially inviting. Take advantage of the season to make a warm first impression.

So, don’t wait for spring to make your move. If you’ve been considering selling, now is the time to take action.

📞 Call Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team at 334-834-1500
Let’s get your home listed — and SOLD — this fall!

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The Best Ice Cream in Montgomery, AL: 4 Sweet Spots You Need to Try

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

by The Hat Team

When the Alabama heat kicks in—or you just need a well-deserved treat—nothing hits the spot like a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream. Luckily, Montgomery, AL is home to some truly delicious options, from homemade scoops and Italian ice to customizable frozen yogurt bars. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this guide will help you find your new favorite frozen indulgence.

Check out a few of our favorite places to grab ice cream in Montgomery, each with its own flavor (pun intended) and charm:

1. SweetCreek Farm Market

📍 85 Meriwether Rd, Pike Rd, AL

If you're in the mood for high-quality, homemade scoops served in a cozy, Southern-style setting, SweetCreek Farm Market is a must-visit. This local gem offers more than just ice cream—you’ll also find a charming café and market full of fresh goods and baked treats. Perfect for a family outing or a casual date night, this spot brings farm-to-cone goodness with every bite.

2. Nancy’s Italian Ice

📍 7976 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL

Craving something cold, rich, and slightly sophisticated? Nancy’s Italian Ice delivers. Specializing in gelato-style frozen desserts and classic Italian ice, this spot is known for its smooth textures and vibrant flavors. It’s a great place to indulge without feeling overly heavy—and a local favorite for good reason.

3. Kraze Frozen Treats

📍 7730 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery, AL

Want control over your dessert destiny? Kraze Frozen Treats is a frozen yogurt and smoothie bar where you build your own creation—by weight. With plenty of flavor choices and fun toppings, this spot is especially popular with kids and anyone who loves customizing their treat. Bonus: they often have smoothies and other chilled options, too.

4. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

📍 Multiple Locations:
6835 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery
10684 Chantilly Parkway, Montgomery
1710 E. Main St, Prattville
2172 E. University Dr, Auburn

Bruster’s is a well-known chain with homemade-style flavors and generous portions. It’s a reliable choice when you want that nostalgic scoop of birthday cake, chocolate peanut butter, or classic vanilla. Many locations also offer no-sugar-added and vegan options, making it a flexible choice for various dietary needs.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Try First?

If you're after local, homemade quality, head to SweetCreek Farm Market or Nancy’s Italian Ice for premium flavors and a unique experience. For something fast and fun, Kraze Frozen Treats is a solid choice—especially if you’re bringing the kids along. And for the classics, Bruster’s remains a dependable favorite with all the traditional fixings.

Whether you're team cone, cup, or bowl-with-all-the-toppings, Montgomery’s ice cream scene has something for every sweet tooth. 🍦

What’s your favorite local spot for a frozen treat? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your next dessert adventure!

Stay tuned for more insider guides and local highlights!

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, I’d love to help! Along with my Hat Team of Professionals, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of the real estate process with personalized service and expert advice.

Give me a call today at 334-834-1500, or visit homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to learn more and start your journey!

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The Key Signs It’s Better To Move Than Remodel in Montgomery, AL

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

by The Hat Team

It’s a question homeowners inevitably face: should you invest in updating your current home, or is it time to pack up and move? In a market like Montgomery, where home values remain competitive and inventory is limited in certain areas, the decision isn't always straightforward. While renovations can add comfort and value, they’re not always the most cost-effective—or stress-free—solution.

So how do you know when it’s better to relocate than remodel?

1. You’ve Outgrown the Space—and There’s No Room to Expand

Montgomery’s historic neighborhoods like Cloverdale, Garden District, and Capitol Heights offer tons of charm, but often come with smaller footprints and limitations on additions due to lot size or historic zoning. If your family has grown or your needs have changed (think: home office, guest suite, or a second living space), and expanding isn’t practical or permitted, moving may be the smarter option.

2. Your Renovation Costs Could Outpace Market Value

Before diving into a major remodel, it’s important to know how much your home could realistically be worth after renovations. In Montgomery, the average cost of a major kitchen or bath remodel can range from $20,000 to $50,000+, depending on materials and scope. If your neighborhood’s home values cap out below what you'd spend (and hope to recoup), you might not see the return you expect. In contrast, purchasing a home that already has the space, style, and updates you want could offer more value for your dollar.

3. You’re Craving a New Location or Lifestyle

Sometimes, it’s not about the house—it’s about the lifestyle. Maybe you want to be closer to downtown Montgomery, within walking distance of schools or parks, or part of a newer development. No renovation can change your commute, your school zone, or your neighborhood vibe. If your needs have shifted, relocating can align your home with your life.

4. You’re Tired of the Renovation Headaches

Let’s be honest—renovating can be exhausting. Between hiring contractors, living in a construction zone, managing delays, and navigating unexpected costs, remodeling isn’t for everyone. In Montgomery’s competitive market, you may find that selling your current home (especially if it’s in a desirable location) puts you in a strong position to buy a move-in-ready property with far less hassle.

5. Your Home’s Layout Just Doesn’t Work Anymore

Even with cosmetic updates, some homes have layouts that no longer fit modern living—or your personal lifestyle. Closed-off kitchens, awkward bedroom placements, or a lack of open gathering spaces can be difficult (and costly) to reconfigure. In many of Montgomery’s older homes, structural changes can quickly become complicated due to age, materials, or local building codes. If your home’s flow feels more frustrating than functional, and fixing it would require major structural work, moving into a home that already fits your vision might be a better use of your time and money.

Bottom Line:
Every situation is unique, but if you’re feeling squeezed by space, frustrated with layout limitations, or wary of renovation costs, it might be time to explore your options. Montgomery’s market still offers opportunities for both sellers and buyers, especially if you work with a local expert who understands your goals and the neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle.

Thinking about whether to renovate or relocate?

The Hat Team has been helping Montgomery homeowners make smart moves for over 40 years! Whether you’re weighing the cost of a remodel or curious what your home could sell for in today’s market, we’re here to offer expert, no-pressure guidance.

📞 Let’s talk about what makes sense for you. Contact Sandra Nickel’s Hat Team of Professionals and take the next step with confidence.

Dial 334-834-1500 or visit 👉 homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com today!

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3240 Anne Arbor Pl: Retro Charm Meets Modern Comfort in Cloverdale Idlewild Gem!

Monday, August 11, 2025

by The Hat Team

3240 Anne Arbor Place, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 578480

4 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 2,809 Square Feet | Cloverdale Idlewild

Tucked away in a peaceful cul-de-sac is a beautifully designed 4-bedroom 3 bath home that is perfect for a family. Built in the groovy 70's makes it unique for historic Cloverdale Idlewild. The living room features a vaulted ceiling, and the stunning oversized brick fireplace and hearth adds a rustic elegance. The split floor plan offers a spacious primary bedroom suite at one end of the house, and two bedrooms and a study on the other. Upstairs is ideal for a teenager's retreat, a den or a home office. Nice fenced back yard and covered patio. Check it out today!

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

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Discover Montgomery’s August 2025 Events: Fun, Culture & Community!

Thursday, August 7, 2025

by The Hat Team

August in Montgomery is brimming with vibrant events that promise something for everyone. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a foodie, a family looking for fun, or someone eager to experience the city's rich culture, this month has it all. From thrilling concerts to community festivals, here’s a curated list of events you won’t want to miss:

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The Magic of Motown

When: Saturday, August 9^th
Doors open at 6:30PM

Where: The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre at Renaissance Montgomery
201 Tallapoosa St, Montgomery

The show’s pitch perfect harmonies, dynamic choreography, and costuming perfectly capture the sights & sound of Motown.

A Journey Through Motown's Best Including: The Temptations, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson and more!

Tickets are available via www.mpaconline.org or by calling the box office at (334) 481-5100.

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Midway Barn Bazaar

When: Saturday, August 9^th, 8AM
Where: 1555 Federal Dr, Montgomery

The Staff at the Garrett Coliseum would like to invite everyone to their First Midway Barn Bazaar, bringing together local vendors to spotlight all of their merchandise, lotions, gifts, and more.

We are also seeking our local FOOD TRUCKS to show up and show out.. We will fill the areas around the barns to give multiple choices of cuisine and more.

We didn't forget about the kids. We are booking numerous Bounce Houses, Character Actors, and Entertainment to allow for the adults to shop and enjoy themselves.

FREE ENTRY TO THE PUBLIC

This will be a 100% family-friendly event.

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2025 Main Street Wetumpka Wine Pull

When: Thursday, August 14^th, 6-8PM
Where: Wind Creek Wetumpka Casino & Hotel Penthouse Suite,
100 River Oaks Dr, Wetumpka

Main Street Wetumpka's signature Wine Pull event is BACK for the fifth year, thanks to friends at Wind Creek Casino & Hotel! The evening will offer stunning penthouse views, accompanied by splendid food and wine pairings from the award-winning Fire Steakhouse. Each pair of attendees will “pull” a bottle of wine and receive a signature wine bag!

Proceeds from this event go directly towards Main Street Wetumpka's mission of downtown revitalization.

Main Street Wetumpka Member Tickets go on sale Friday, June 13: Couple $120 & Single $75 (Subject to taxes & fees)

Non-Member Tickets go on sale Friday, June 27: Couple $150 & Single $85 (Subject to taxes & fees)

Purchase Tickets Here: https://www.bigtickets.com/e/main-street-wetumpka/winepull2025/

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River Region Lobster Fest 2025

When: Friday, August 15th, 5:30 PM
Where: 315 Clanton Ave, Montgomery

Lobster Fest is back for the 7th year! Join in for fresh Maine lobster and great fellowship! Along with your lobster, you will get sides, dessert, bread, butter and lemons. You have a choice to eat your meal by dining-in or choose to pick it up live or cooked. Dine-in also includes a 30-minute reception before the dinner.

Proceeds benefit our outreach missions including Ascension Day School and Respite Ministry.

BUY TICKETS HERE: riverregionlobsterfest.org

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Sink-A-Palooza

When: Saturday, August 16^th, 9AM to 3PM
Where: Willis Bradford YMCA, 972 McQueen Smith Rd, South Prattville

Join Prattville YMCA for its biggest pool party of the year—packed with family fun, fundraising, and non-stop splashes! The Sink-A-Palooza fundraiser helps support the YMCA facilities and is the perfect way to end your summer with food trucks, pool games, water slides, and more! Bring your friends, your floaties, and your giving spirit—it’s going to be a great day!

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Midtown YMCA 6^th Annual Tailgate Cook-Off

When: Saturday, August 26^th, 11AM to 1:30PM
Where: Midtown YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Rd, Montgomery

Join Midtown YMCA for food, family, music, and games at the 6th Annual Tailgate Cook-Off! Proceeds go toward the Midtown Montgomery YMCA!

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Library Fest 2025

When: Saturday, August 16^th, 10AM to 1PM
Where: Downtown Library, 245 High St, Montgomery

Join the Montgomery City-County Public Library for Library Fest 2025. Games, Library Resources, Mini Book Sale, DJ, Community Resources, Line Dance, Inflatable, Food Trucks, and FUN!!

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Engineering Day at the Park 2025

When: Saturday, August 16^th, 10AM to 1PM
Where: Morningview Elementary School, 2849 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery

🎉 Join in for a FREE, family-friendly STEM experience!

Get ready for a fun-filled day of hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities that will spark curiosity and creativity in kids of all ages! This annual event is designed to introduce youth to the exciting world of engineering through play, discovery, and interactive learning.

👩🏾‍🔬 What to Expect:

Exciting STEM activity stations 🎈
Special giveaways and prizes 🏅
Free lunch 🍽️
Fun for the whole family

This is a perfect opportunity for students, parents, and educators to connect with local engineers and community leaders who are passionate about building a stronger STEM pipeline in Central Alabama.

📝 Registration is Required
Spots fill up fast, so make sure to reserve your space today!

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Magical Creatures Education Program

When: Saturday, August 23^rd from 10AM to 12PM
Where: Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery

Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in the movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet these animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself.

Event fee: RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!!
-- Montgomery Zoo member: Accompanying adults*: FREE, Children (4-12 years old): $21
-- Non-Zoo member: Accompanying adults*: $19, Children (4-12 years old): $35
-- Advanced reservations required. All participants must be registered no later than Friday, August 22 @ 12pm (noon). This allows the opportunity to prepare for the proper number of participants. Thank you for your cooperation. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT!

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8^th Annual Hog Days of Summer

The Druids Charity Club is pleased to announce the 8th annual BBQ and Americana Music festival! The Hog Days of Summer is a charity event benefitting Hogs for the Cause and other carefully selected local charities.

When: Saturday, August 23^rd
Where: Union Station Train Shed, 217 Water St, Montgomery
Doors open: 1:45 PM.
BBQ: upon entry.
Music: 2:00 PM-9:00 PM

Tickets: General Admission: $20
Active Military/Police/Fire/EMS/Student GA Ticket**: $10
VIP Ticket: $250. Very limited supply.

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Red Tails Classic Pep Rally

When: Saturday, August 30^th, 6-10PM
Where: Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce St, Montgomery

Come on out and join in for a salute to the Tuskegee Airmen and the 187th Fighter Wing as we honor both the past and the future of the Red Tails. Following the salute, we will have a pep rally for Tuskegee University and Winston Salem State University that includes live music, food and fun.

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Golden Hour Festival at Montgomery Whitewater

When: August 31^st 11AM – September 1^st 9PM
Where: 1100 Maxwell Boulevard, Montgomery

Two days. Endless adventure. One unforgettable weekend.

Join in Sunday, August 31 & Monday, September 1 for Golden Hour – the Labor Day Weekend celebration packed with whitewater action, live music, races for all ages, family fun, and festive food!

Admission is always free. passes available online or onsite. Discounts apply automatically.

Golden Hour is how we say goodbye to summer the Montgomery Whitewater way. See more details at: https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcoming-events/golden-hour-festival/

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While you're out enjoying Montgomery’s exciting August events, why not take the next step toward finding your dream home—or selling your current one? Let me, Sandra Nickel, and my Hat Team of Professionals guide you through the process with expert care and local know-how.

📞 Call us today at 334-834-1500 or visit 👉 homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com to explore your real estate options in the heart of all the action!

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1126 Woodley Rd: Edgewood Gem Hits the Market for the First Time!

Monday, August 4, 2025

by The Hat Team

1126 Woodley Road, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 578731

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,961 Square Feet | Edgewood

1126 Woodley Road is on the market for the first time ever! This lovingly maintained, one-owner home was built in 1922 and sits perfectly between Cloverdale and Edgewood. This unique find boasts original hardwood floors, generous living spaces, and a sunroom that’s both heated AND cooled—perfect for year-round enjoyment! Originally a three-bedroom home, one bedroom has been thoughtfully converted into a den with a wet bar—easily converted back into a bedroom if needed. The front yard features an incredible magnolia tree, while the backyard is home to numerous crepe myrtles. Enjoy entertaining? Or quiet cups of coffee? The charming brick patio and fountain provide a peaceful and inviting outdoor space. A fan of Chuck’s Fish and the Capri Theater? This home is just a short walk from them and other Cloverdale favorites. It’s also a quick drive to Bear Elementary Magnet School. This home has been well cared for over the past century and is ready for its next owner—and its next chapter!

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

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Displaying blog entries 1-6 of 6