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Midtown Montgomery Market Trends - Sept 2012

by The Hat Team

With the Presidential election just around the corner, it is time to look at what effect both President Obama and Mitt Romney have on real estate.

A second Obama term could provide homeowners and real estate investors:

  • President Obama supports extending homebuyer credit to those interested in purchasing their first home.
  • The Obama administration has consistently vouched for mortgage debt relief. While the evaluation of economic observers remain mixed, the Making Home Affordable Program (MHA) offers support for mortgage payment in addition to relief for those facing foreclosure and underwater mortgages.
  • The reduction of interest rates under President Obama has made borrowing and loans easier to sustain, which could spell positive ramifications for those who handle their mortgages with prudence.

Mitt Romney as president could provide boons to homeowners and property investors:

  • Mitt Romney has frequently been critical of lowered interest rates. Increasing interest rates would prove a blessing for homebuyers with a high volume of personal investments.
  • Mitt Romney broadly endorses rolling back government programs like MHA and encouraging the capital back into the private sector. Those who advocate this position (like his recently confirmed running mate) point to it as a means of stimulating the economy and overall curtailing the recession.
  • Those who hold faith in government-exempt solutions to lifting the economic quagmire will likely take heart with Romney’s favoring of cutting targeted programs like debt relief and housing loans, and letting the private sector economic gears turn unaltered.

Whoever ends up occupying the oval office come 2013 will quickly be forced to address our national property concerns.

Lets look at the statistics in our local real estate market for August 2012.

Midtown Montgomery real estate sales statistics for August show the number of homes sold decreased by 14% when compared to August 2011. The average sales price decreased by 11% to $100,084 during the same period. The median sales prices decreased by 10%, and market times decreased by 13% or 16 days.  The highest selling home price decreased by 24%, and the lowest selling home price decreased by 33%.

Midtown Montgomery Aug 2012 Aug 2011
Homes Sold 25 29
Average Selling Price $ 100,084 $ 112,293
Median Selling Price $ 85,000 $ 94,000
Days On The Market 106 122
Highest Selling Price $ 352,000 $ 465,000
Lowest Selling Price $ 8,000 $12,000


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.

 

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

5833 Portsmouth Drive Montgomery, Al 36116

LOWEST PRICE per square foot in the neighborhood. Immaculate condition! Hurry over to see this gem as it will not be on the market long. This home features a bonus room with new wood floors and almost 150 feet of OPEN SPACE. The property features lots of storage and comes with a fridge, a stove, and NEW dishwasher. Corner lot plus original owner all equals one SATISFIED buyer.

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.

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

 

 

 

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

1816 Young Farm Road Montgomery, AL 36106

Look no further...this well maintained and elegantly apportioned garden home is waiting for YOU! The large great room with high ceilings, gas log fireplace, and built-in bookshelves provides comfortable living. Mirrored formal dining room is great for entertaining, and the big breakfast nook and open kitchen will be a delight for more intimate gathering. Split plan means privacy for the owners, who will love the big master bath with double vanities, garden tub, separate shower, and a walk-in closet with custom built-ins. Special touches like archways, beveled mirrors and better-than-average finishes make this a property to appreciate.

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.

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

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

1876 Still Oaks Drive Montgomery, Al 36117

Whether you are a first time home buyer or a seasoned investor, check out this Bell Hills deal today! Wonderful split floor plan with spacious living room, separate dining room, and large master suite with two walk-in closets. Fourth bedroom has been converted to an office with built-in’s and French doors. Huge storage building plus a relaxing patio in the backyard.

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.

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

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

4260 Abbotts Walk, Montgomery AL 36116

MLS#  295944

If you desire an almost new home with a wide open plan this home fits both requirements. The large kitchen has lots of cabinets and countertop space for the cook in the family. Located in beautiful Somer Hill this home features three good sized bedrooms and two baths. Separate huge laundry room is conveniently located off the kitchen. A soothing master suite has two large walk-in closets, separate shower, garden tub, and a linen closet. You will enjoy relaxing on the covered front or rear porch overlooking the beautifully landscaped lawn. A spacious double garage will be a comfort to you in bad weather and features lots of custom shelves to store your stuff. Call your favorite agent to see this like fresh home today. Easy to show!

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.

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

When the Obama administration rolled out the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) in 2009, officials estimated 3 to 4 million borrowers would seek relief from their mortgages through the program during the worst recession and housing market collapse in decades. More than two years later, however, those projections have proven to be optimistic, to say the least. According to the Treasury Department, only about 700,000 homeowners had sought aid from HAMP through the third quarter of 2011.

A major reason for the smaller number is that many distressed owners of Montgomery real estate are intimidated montgomery real estateby the confusing process involved in applying for HAMP and don’t know how to go about getting the help they need.  It doesn’t have to be that way, however.

Stephfan Nurse, a loan modification expert and founder of ConsumerEducationOnline.com, says, “The key is knowing and understanding your options. With education, you are empowered."  His online site is designed to give owners of Montgomery real estate the information they need to navigate the process. It includes a free pre-qualifier, where homeowners can input their figures and determine for which modification program they qualify.  It also offers software to assist in preparing financial statements and necessary documents, thus reducing stress on the applicant.

In order to make the loan modification process go as smoothly as possible, it is necessary that you, the owner of Montgomery real estate, understand it fully and seek available help. Visit Making Home Available for free HUD-approved counselors, helpful phone numbers, detailed explanations of terms, etc.

Be aware that HAMP is not your only option. The fact is that more than 70 percent of modifications now are internal modifications made available by the investor holding the mortgage note. The only way to get an internal modification is to ask for one. Worth noting: HAMP bases its modifications on gross income (your mortgage must exceed 31 percent of what you make in a month) while internal modifications are based on monthly net (after-tax) income.

Another important tip: Be complete and thorough in your paperwork. Lenders receive thousands of faxes every day, so make sure your account number is on every page and that all questions and categories are filled out. It's also best to follow up with the lender weekly.  Being diligent, informed, and proactive are effective ways to hold on to your Montgomery real estate.

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.

The Hunt For Treasures For Your Montgomery AL Home

by The Hat Team

Garage, yard, or estate sales might not be your preferred locations for finding that special jewel for your Montgomery AL home or for resale on eBay or Craig’s List, but it can happen, especially if you’re prepared, patient, and persistent. Think of such a search as a treasure hunt that well may provide fun (or extra cash) for the family, hone your negotiating skills, present you with a challenge, and even result in the discovery of a “rare” find. 

yard saleConfirmed aficionados of these sales offer the following advice for novices:

  • Be prepared:  Check newspapers, community bulletin boards, curbside signs, and local newspapers for times and locations near your Montgomery AL home.  Use on-line sources to augment this type of information. Map out the most efficient route before you start out.  It is also helpful to be aware of the “going prices” for many items, info you can find on eBay Pulse or Yard Sale Search.  Have a general idea of how much you can afford to spend.  Wear comfortable shoes and bring lots of $1 bills!  Best times to browse: at the very beginning or at the end of the day.
     
  • Know what to buy: 1). Wood furniture that is in good shape and can be rejuvenated with a new coat of paint is nearly always a good bet, yard sales gurus say.  Do consider size in terms of fitting in the perfect spot in your Montgomery AL home and in transporting the item.  2).  With many books selling for $1 or less, yard sales are the perfect place to stock up on beach reads or volumes for resale.  3). High-end clothes can be found if you’re looking in an upscale neighborhood.  Whether you're buying clothes for yourself or for resale purposes, examine them carefully for rips and stains and avoid anything that smells of smoke!  4). “Paintables” are items that can be transformed with paint.  Lamp bases (and yes, even the shades), glass bottles and jars, baskets, and pieces of pottery are all ideal candidates.5).  Young children’s clothing and games for kids of all ages.
     
  • Remember these caveats:  Resist the urge to buy every bargain you see so you don’t overload your own Montgomery AL home.  Avoid upholstered furniture and/or mattresses which may carry bugs. Be wary of used electronic gadgets unless you know what you’re doing. Stay away from bike helmets, child car seats, or cribs which may not meet current safety regulations.

Ready?  Grab your map, your pricing guide, your wallet, and your list of desired treasures.  Set out to have a good time, and Go!

 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.

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale

1272 Lawrence Street Montgomery, AL  36104

MLS#295784

Live with a few eccentricities and save thousands!! Situated in the heart of Montgomery's historic Garden District, this unassuming white bungalow has an inviting front porch and unexpected colorful interior. Your kitchen will be surprisingly uncluttered with refrigerator steps away in adjoining pantry/laundry. Sellers have reduced this bungalow more than 4k below current market value in order for new owners to neutralize interior pallet if desired. You will even have a little cash left over to remove some of the oversized rear parking pad should you desire to maintain more yard. Builder beige and boring it's not. Detached garage/workshop currently used as artist studio. HVAC less than 2 years old. Considering this homes pristine condition it may well be the best three bedroom two bath value in the old house market period. This home has been loved by the same owner for the last eight years and is not a quick flip with a thrown away yard. Turnkey, move in ready and only blocks away from restaurants, upscale bars and shopping. Please give us or your favorite agent a ring for a tour of the most interesting well maintained vintage home the Garden District currently has to offer.

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.

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

 

 

 

 

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

341 Winthrop Court Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS#295010

 

Bring your contractor and dream big! This diamond in the rough awaits an old house lover who appreciates good architecture and is not afraid of a challenge. Neglected for many years, this gem has much potential and is on one of the most desirable streets in the neighborhood.

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.

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

 

 

Costs Of Overvaluing Your Montgomery AL Home?

by The Hat Team

Despite survey after survey showing that consumers expect home prices to continue to decline next year, most owners of Montgomery AL homes still believe their houses are worth more than what their agents recommend.

Nearly three out of four home owners, 76 percent, believe their homes are worth more than the recommended agent listing price. By contrast, 68 percent of home buyers believe homes are overpriced, according to HomeGain’s latest survey, which involved over 400 real estate agents and brokers and more than 2,000 home owners nationwide. The gap between what sellers expect and what agents recommend has actually grown calculatorslightly over the past year even though national median prices have declined about 4-7 percent this year. A year ago 73 percent of owners thought their homes were worth more than their agent’s recommended listing price.

A new study by the Research Institute for Housing America, the think tank affiliate of the Mortgage Bankers Association, documents a profound market fissure caused by owners' fears and hesitation — what researchers call "negative selling sentiment.  "Nearly 80% of consumers in the study's survey think this is a great time to buy a house, but more than 92% of homeowners think it's not a great time to sell.

According to Syracuse University economist Gary Engelhardt, compared with earlier post-recession periods, today’s owners have been more deeply shocked by the extent and severe side effects of foreclosures, short sales, and unemployment. In the aftermath of earlier recessions, such as in the early 1990s, 40% to 60% of homeowners remained relatively positive about their prospects if they chose to sell — far higher than the very few who see it that way today.

Many owners of Montgomery AL homes "have not adjusted their price expectations downward" to keep pace with local declines in property values which occurred after the mortgage bust, Engelhardt says, thereby contributing to the sharp divergence in their real estate visions compared with those of buyers.

This is consistent with the results of a study conducted in mid-2011 by Zillow, the online real estate and mortgage information company. Zillow found that sellers nationwide were having trouble coming to grips with what market forces had done to their property values. They knew prices had declined, but they didn't necessarily think those devaluations applied to their Montgomery AL homes.

Click here for an approximate value of your Montgomery AL home.

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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