Step into timeless elegance in the heart of Historic Cloverdale. Built in 1920, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom home offers the perfect blend of historic character and modern upgrades. From the moment you enter, you'll be captivated by gorgeous crown molding, original light fixtures, gleaming hard wood floors, and a classic layout featuring a formal living room, dining room, library, and two spacious family rooms/dens. The updated kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting marble countertops, two separate sinks, work island an lots of cabinets. The primary suite features an updated bath with walk in shower, jetted tub and two walk in closets. Two bedrooms upstairs with the second family room/den. Outside you will enjoy a stone patio surrounded by lush, landscaped gardens with archways, and a charming guest cottage perfect for visitors or rental potential. This home also includes a basement and attic, offering even more storage space and flexibility. This rare Cloverdale gem is the perfect combination of traditional yet modern - don't miss your chance to make it yours!
Let’s be honest — moving is a lot, even when you're well-prepared. Between packing every single thing you own, changing addresses, and adjusting to a new home (or city!), it's no wonder some important tasks slip through the cracks.
To help your move go as smoothly as possible, here are five commonly forgotten tasks that can lead to unnecessary headaches if overlooked — plus how to avoid them.
1. ❌ Cancel Local Memberships & Subscriptions
When you’re knee-deep in boxes and logistics, it’s easy to forget about that gym membership, yoga studio, or local subscription box that won’t transfer with you.
✅ Pro tip: Cancel at least 30 days ahead if you're billed monthly, and double-check your bank or credit card for any auto-renewals you might’ve forgotten about.
2. 🚗 Call Your Car Insurance Company
Most people don't realize that moving—yes, even across town—can affect your car insurance rates. Rates often vary by ZIP code, and if you're moving out of state, you may need an entirely new policy to meet local minimums.
✅ Before your move, call your insurer to update your address and confirm your coverage still meets your new state’s requirements.
3. 📬 File a Change of Address (Early!)
The USPS Change of Address form is simple and online—but don’t leave it until the last minute. Waiting too long can delay mail, bills, or important documents from reaching you.
✅ Submit your change of address at least two weeks before your move date to keep your mail flowing without interruption.
4. 💸 Stay on Top of Finances
With all the moving parts (literally), it’s easy to miss a bill. Lost paper statements, disconnected Wi-Fi, or misplaced mail can lead to late fees.
✅ Set up auto-pay for essentials like rent/mortgage, utilities, and internet. And create a designated mail drop zone in both your current and new homes to avoid losing anything in the shuffle.
5. 💳 Update Your Billing Address on Credit Cards
This one catches people by surprise: many retailers require the correct billing ZIP code to process payments. If your address has changed and your card doesn’t reflect it, your transaction might be declined.
✅ Take 5 minutes to log in to your credit card accounts and update your billing address.
🔌 Bonus Tips for a Smooth Move
🧹 Schedule a Deep Clean (Both Places)
People often forget to clean their old place after moving out—or arrive at a new place that hasn’t been cleaned properly.
✅ Schedule a cleaning service (or DIY it) before handing over the keys, and consider a move-in clean for your new place before the boxes arrive.
🐶 Don’t Forget the Pets!
Pets can get anxious during a move and require special care.
✅ Have an overnight bag with their food, toys, and comfort items. Update microchip info and vet records with your new address.
🛠️ Make a First-Night Essentials Box
Nothing’s worse than digging through 15 boxes just to find toilet paper or phone chargers.
✅ Pack a clearly labeled “Open First” box with:
Toiletries
Chargers
Paper towels
Basic tools
Cleaning supplies
Snacks & water
A few dishes
Bed linens
Final Thoughts
Yes, moving is still stressful — but taking care of these small (but crucial) tasks ahead of time can make a big difference.
📞 Ready to buy or sell a home in Montgomery?
Let Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team of Professionals help guide you every step of the way. Call us at 334-834-1500 — we’re here to help make your next move your best one yet.
Montgomery, Alabama, offers a diverse array of parks that cater to nature enthusiasts, families, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a place for recreation, or a spot to reflect on history, Montgomery's parks have something for everyone.
Here's a guide to some of the city's standout green spaces:
🌳 Top Parks in Montgomery, Alabama
1. Blount Cultural Park
Spanning over 290 acres, Blount Cultural Park is a central hub for recreation and culture. It features miles of walking trails, open spaces for picnics, and is home to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The park also houses the Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park, a well-maintained dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs.
2. Riverfront Park
Located along the Alabama River, Riverfront Park offers a scenic setting for various activities. Visitors can enjoy riverboat rides, attend concerts, or relax in the grassy amphitheater. The park also features a children's splash pad, making it a family-friendly destination.
3. Lagoon Park
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Lagoon Park encompasses 176 acres with miles of natural surface trails suitable for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The park meanders through hardwood forests, meadows, and along a scenic lagoon, providing ample opportunities to connect with nature.
4. Oak Park
A historic park dating back to the 1880s, Oak Park features 40 acres of gardens, a fish pond, playgrounds, and numerous mature trees. The park also includes multiple walking trails and picnic shelters, making it a popular spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park is also home to W. A. Gayle Planetarium.
5. Wright Brothers Park
Situated along the Alabama River, Wright Brothers Park offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. The park is named in honor of the Wright Brothers and features a full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer. Amenities include picnic shelters, trails, and a playground, making it a great spot for family outings.
6. Freedom Monument Sculpture Park
Opened in 2024, the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, a 17-acre park developed by the Equal Justice Initiative, serves as a powerful tribute to the history of slavery in America. The centerpiece is the National Monument to Freedom, a 43-foot tall wall inscribed with more than 100,000 surnames of formerly enslaved individuals. The park also features historical artifacts and art installations that encourage reflection and dialogue.
7. Cloverdale Parks
The historic Cloverdale neighborhood boasts several small parks, including Old Cloverdale Park, LeGrand Park, Milo Howard Park, Fitzgerald Park, and Mary Ann Neeley Park. These parks offer green spaces, playgrounds, and community gathering areas, contributing to the neighborhood's charm and sense of community.
🌿 Tips for Visiting Montgomery's Parks
Check for Events: Many parks host seasonal events, festivals, and concerts. It's a good idea to check the city's official website or the parks' social media pages for upcoming activities.
Pack Accordingly: Depending on the park and your planned activities, consider bringing essentials like sunscreen, water, comfortable footwear, and picnic supplies.
Respect Park Rules: Each park may have specific guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Be mindful of posted signs and regulations.
Montgomery's parks offer a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, learn about the past, or simply relax, these parks provide the perfect setting. Plan your visit today and experience all that Montgomery's green spaces have to offer.
🌿 Love Montgomery’s parks as much as we do?
Imagine living just minutes from your favorite trails, picnic spots, or riverfront views. Whether you're buying your first home or selling to start a new chapter, Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals are here to help you find the perfect place to plant roots.
This Hillwood gem has a classic design and has been tastefully updated! Entertain in style with the spacious living room and formal dining room. Cook's delight kitchen boasts granite countertops, newer appliances, and plenty of storage. Oversized den/family room (great room) has volume ceiling and cozy fireplace, and can accommodate plenty of seating for family and friends. With room to spread out, you and your family will enjoy 4 well-proportioned bedrooms (two sharing a walk-through bath.) Primary bedroom has trey ceiling and is large enough for a king bed and a seating area, and the primary bath is inviting with separate vanity areas, soaking tub and separate shower. Rear patio overlooks large grassy back yard, and the lot backs up to MA's sports fields. Located close to schools, shopping, and dining, and just minutes from I-85, downtown, and Maxwell AFB.
Autumn is in the air here in Montgomery! While we may not get the dramatic leaf displays of New England, Alabama still experiences the shift: cooler mornings, shorter days, and yes—those falling leaves. As the summer heat fades, fall is the perfect time to take care of important home maintenance tasks before winter settles in.
Here are the top fall home maintenance tips for homeowners in Montgomery, AL to help you stay cozy and safe this season:
🍂 1. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
With leaves from oaks and maples piling up, now’s the time to clean out your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage or foundation issues. Consider installing gutter guards to cut down on future cleanings—especially helpful during rainy Alabama winters.
🪵 2. Inspect Exterior Wood Trim
Check for signs of rot or damage on wood trim around windows, doors, decks, and railings. Alabama humidity can speed up deterioration. Seal small cracks with caulk and replace any wood that’s soft or crumbling.
🏠 3. Inspect Your Roof
Storm season in Montgomery can be tough on roofs. Look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles. Check around chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes for leaks. If your roof is more than 15-20 years old or showing signs of serious wear, consider hiring a licensed roofer for a full inspection—or replacement.
🔥 4. Service Your Fireplace & Chimney
If you use a wood-burning fireplace, fall is the best time to schedule a professional cleaning and safety check. Creosote buildup can cause chimney fires, and blockages may lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks.
🎨 5. Refresh Exterior Paint
Autumn’s lower humidity and mild temps in Montgomery make it a great time to repaint or touch up your home’s exterior. Fresh paint helps protect against moisture and pests—and boosts curb appeal, too.
🌬️ 6. Check Your Heating System
Montgomery nights can get chilly, especially in late fall. Make sure your heating system is ready by replacing air filters and scheduling a licensed HVAC contractor to inspect your furnace or heat pump. Regular servicing ensures it runs efficiently and reduces your winter energy bills.
🪟 7. Seal Windows & Doors
Drafty windows and doors can sneak up on you. Check for leaks both inside and out. Caulk gaps and apply weather stripping to keep your home warmer and your energy bills lower.
🔋 8. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These devices save lives, so don’t skip this step. Replace batteries and test all detectors. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, now’s the time to install one—especially if you use gas heating or a fireplace.
✅ BONUS: Schedule Help Before the Busy Season
Many local contractors get booked quickly as cooler weather sets in. If you need help with roofing, HVAC, painting, or chimney work, don’t wait—schedule now to avoid delays.
Need a Trusted Local Pro? We Know Who to Call!
If you’re not sure where to turn for help with inspections, repairs, or seasonal services, give us a call. We work with trusted professionals right here in Montgomery and can connect you with the right people for the job.
🛠️ Tackle these home maintenance tasks now, and you’ll enjoy a warm, stress-free winter in your Montgomery home.
🍁 Thinking about buying or selling this fall? 🍂
Let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals help you turn over a new leaf in real estate! Whether you're cozying up in a new home or ready to list before the holidays, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Fall is packed with exciting events in and around Montgomery, making it the perfect time to get out and enjoy everything this vibrant city and its neighboring areas have to offer!
_______________________________
🍂 Fall Festival
Presented by The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
One Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
📅 Friday, September 12
Chalk Walk | 🕕 8 AM–2 PM
Artists of all ages are invited to transform our sidewalks with this year’s theme: The Harlem Renaissance —in acknowledging the cultural rebirth here at the MMFA.
Preview & Party | 🕕 5:30 PM–8 PM
Kick off the weekend with:
- Early access to the Artist Market
- Live music by Jonathan Michael
- Bites from Funky Forte
- Hands-on art activities
- Specialty cocktails
📅 Saturday, Sept 13 | 🕕 10 AM–5 PM
The Fall Festival is a FREE celebration of creativity and culture featuring:
- 30+ local & regional artists
- Live music + artist demos
- Food trucks + local brews
- Kids’ art classes with Abrakadoodle (ages 5–12) — make your own fall wreath!
📅 Friday, September 12, 2025 | 🕕 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water St., Montgomery, AL 36104
Why You Can’t Miss It:
Grab your boots and get ready for Montgomery’s much-loved fall festival—Riverbend Brewfest & Country Jamboree! For just $35 (or $25 for military), enjoy an evening packed with:
Live music featuring The Brandon Jordan Band, fronted by an Alabama Army National Guard veteran, alongside Scott Bartlett of Saving Abel fame
Craft beer tastings—your ticket includes a keepsake tasting glass and access to over 40 brews to sample.
Entertainment for all tastes, including line dancing, DJ performances, a mechanical bull, axe throwing, and lawn games.
Delicious eats from food trucks and vendors like The Peanut Plug and Shuck N Jivin.
Optional VIP experiences, including exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities—especially for veterans and military attendees.
Don't forget the clear bag policy and dress code enforced by the City of Montgomery to ensure a safe, family-friendly vibe.
Bring your friends, dress in your best lederhosen and get ready for an unforgettable Oktoberfest celebration filled with music, contests, rides, and plenty of fun!
📅 Sunday, September 14, 2025 | 🕕 5-8pm 📍 Red Bluff Bar at the Silos, 335 Coosa St, Montgomery, AL
Get ready for Shindig 2025, a family-friendly outdoor event benefiting Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center—and it’s packed with fun for all ages!
🎶 Live Music by The Kept
🎨 Face Painting by local artist Alyssa Miché
🎁 Raffle Prizes from River Region businesses
🍔 Food, drinks & good vibes courtesy of Red Bluff Bar at the Silos
🎯 Games & kid-friendly activities
💵 FREE entry, but a $10 minimum donation is highly encouraged to support Child Protect’s mission of helping children and families in crisis.
Come out, have fun, and make a difference—because every child deserves to be protected.
_______________________________
🐾 Zoobilation 2025 – The Wildest Party in Town!
📅 September 18, 2025 | 🕕 6-10 pm
📍 Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum
2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36104
Get ready for a wild night at Zoobilation, Montgomery’s ultimate 21+ party under the stars—hosted by the Montgomery Zoo and Montgomery Area Zoological Society. It’s the perfect date night or friends’ night out, with live entertainment, food, drinks, and more!
🎟 Tickets:
Individual: $65
Group (10–29): $60/person
Group (30+): $55/person
👉 Available online in advance or at the gate
🌟 Must be 21+ to attend
📌 Group discounts available – book early!
Don’t miss your chance to party for a purpose at the wildest event of the year!
🦪 Montgomery Oyster Festival – A Shuckin' Good Time in Old Alabama Town!
📅 September 20, 2025 | 🕕 3-7 pm CDT
📍 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104
Get ready to savor Alabama’s finest oysters at the Montgomery Oyster Festival, one of the River Region’s most flavorful and anticipated events! Hosted by Lightning Line and benefiting the Landmarks Foundation, this celebration of local oyster farmers and chefs supports historic preservation in Central Alabama.
🎶 Live music by:
Electric Blue Yonder
BB Palmer
🍻 General Admission includes:
Entry + 12 tickets (redeemable for oysters or beer)
🥂 VIP Ticket includes:
Everything in General Admission
Exclusive VIP seating area
VIP oyster roast by Chef Ban Stewart
VIP bar (PBR & cocktails)
Unlimited ticket refills for oysters & drinks
🎟 Tickets:
Very Early Bird: July 7–13 (limited!)
Early Bird: July 14–20 (even fewer!)
Regular pricing until sold out
Don’t miss this unique culinary celebration in the heart of Montgomery—where great food meets great cause!
🗓 Grab your tickets, gather your crew, and get ready to make some incredible memories.
✨ Whether you're a foodie, music lover, animal enthusiast, or simply looking to support a great cause, these events offer something special for everyone.
_______________________________
🍁 Thinking about buying or selling this fall? 🍂
Let Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of Professionals help you turn over a new leaf in real estate! Whether you're cozying up in a new home or ready to list before the holidays, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Discover the perfect blend of country living and modern convenience on this 2.6-acre property for anyone craving peaceful wide-open space. The property is fully fenced and gated in three sections, ideal for your horses, goats, or garden dreams - bring your lifestyle with you! Need space to store tools or equipment? You'll love the 16' x 20' wired workshop, with a 16' awning - ready for a 4-wheeler, boat or outdoor toys. Split floorplan with primary bedroom on one end and the other two bedrooms on the opposite side. Don't miss the step-down man cave, perfect for a personal retreat, game room or studio. Whether you are looking for a homestead, hobby farm, or just a quiet spot to call home, this property offers a rare blend of privacy and functionality while just minutes from I-65 and Montgomery. Don't miss out on this one - schedule your private tour today!
🍂 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.
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.
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.
(11).png)
.png)
(10).png)
.png)
(9).png)
.png)
(8).png)
.png)
(7).png)
.png)
.png)
(6).png)
.png)
(5).png)
