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Don’t Let These Deal Breakers Ruin Your Home Sale!

Wednesday, January 17, 2018
by The Hat Team

When trying to sell your house, you want to make the best possible impression on potential buyers.  While some buyers will say that they knew a house was right for them the minute they walked in the door, other buyers will tell you they knew immediately that a house was NOT right for them. Sometimes deal-breakers are personal, but often they apply to many and can damage your chances of a profitable sale (or any sale at all).  Avoid these deal-breakers to get the best deal when you sell:

  • Pests - It seems obvious that people would be turned off by seeing bugs in a home, right?  But sometimes homeowners get used to having “bug problems” and don’t think about how they might negatively influence buyers.  Seeing one or two bugs, like maybe a fly or random little spider, might not be that big of a deal. But if a roach crawls out while people are looking at your house? Forget it.  They are out of there!  If you have any kind of infestation, you need to nip it in the bud before you start showing your house.
  • Pets - Just because you love your pets and consider your home very “pet friendly” does not mean other people feel the same way.  There are a myriad of reasons why having pets can ruin a home sale. Sometimes it’s simply that animals make people nervous.  Taking your pets out of the home during showings can solve that problem.  But other things, such as visible food bowls, kitty litter boxes etc. can turn off people who don’t live with animals.  And any kind of pet odors can do a lot of damage as well.  It is a good idea to make sure your house is free of any pet paraphernalia and pet odors before opening it up to buyers.
  • Small/Outdated Kitchens - Big, open kitchens are one of the most desirable features for homebuyers.  If you have a cramped, closed off kitchen, updating it before you put it on the market will be well worth it.  Not only will you be able to sell it faster, you will get a better price for it and odds are you will likely recoup the money you spent sprucing it up and then some.
  • Cheap Upgrades - Poor quality shows.  While you don’t want to spend a ton of money on a house that you are leaving, you also don’t want to hurt your chances of selling it by making cheap upgrades and repairs that are poorly executed.  Unless someone is looking for a “fixer upper”, they are going to lose interest quickly if they see a lot of shoddy upgrades.
  • The Roof - A roof in bad condition will scare away potential buyers quickly.  The idea of buying a house and immediately having to foot the bill for a new roof is not appealing.  If your roof is old or in need of repair/replacement, take care of it before putting your house on the market.  Otherwise, expect to have to lower your asking price. If your buyer is obtaining a loan, the lender may well require you replace the roof before closing.  A new roof will not only improve resale value, it will also boost curb appeal, both of which will increase your chances of selling and getting the best price possible!

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Preparing-to-Sell-Your-House-Getting-Organized

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/The-Pros-and-Cons-of-Having-an-Open-House

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Items-to-Throw-Out-Before-You-Move

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Titus AL Home for Sale: 225 Stoney Point Rd, Titus AL 36080

Thursday, January 11, 2018
by The Hat Team

Titus AL Home for Sale:

225 Stoney Point Rd, Titus AL 36080

MLS# 426495

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 2600 square feet | Lake Jordan

This picture- perfect house sits on 1.82 acres of private woods and professionally landscaped yard complete with a sprinkler system and a well. The living space has an open floor-plan and there's plenty of room for all your family and friends to hang out. Walk out on the huge screen porch that has a spectacular view of big water. There are double docks and water has been dredged all the way up to dock closest to the house. Walk right in and begin your life on the lake as soon as you get the key!

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

 

 

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Guide for First Time Home Buyers - 5 Steps to Get You Started!

Wednesday, January 10, 2018
by The Hat Team

Buying your first house is a monumental milestone in life.  It’s likely the largest financial commitment you will have made up to this point.  You want to get it right.  Here is a basic overview of five essential things you need to know when taking this step.

- Hire a Realtor.  Having an agent will save you time.  They can send you listings directly from the MLS that fit your wants/needs and you won’t waste time looking at properties that might already be under contract. Realtors are also often aware of new listings that are not yet on the market.  And while house hunting, there is no point in wasting your gas when an agent will pick you up and provide transportation.  The advice you will receive from a qualified Realtor will be invaluable in the buying process.

- Figure out what you’re looking for.  Searching for the right home can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not even sure what you want.  Come up with a list of must-haves and desires that you can present to your Realtor so that they can provide listings that fit those parameters.

- Get a loan.  It is smart to get loan preapproval prior to making an offer on a house…especially in a seller’s market where you may be competing with other buyers. Sellers want assurance that you will be able to complete the purchase of the home.

- Negotiate the offer. Don’t make the mistake of comparing the sale price to other homes you have seen because the truth is, sellers can ask any amount they want for a house.  Your agent can provide you with comparable sales of similar houses in the same condition and location over the past few months. Keep in mind that you may have to pay more than the list price in a seller's market.

- Do a home inspection. Some states will allow you to have a home inspection prior to making an offer on a home. In other states, the inspection becomes a contract contingency, meaning the buyer has the right to cancel the contract.  Either way, you don’t want to get locked into purchasing a home that has a faulty foundation, for example.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone! Contact Sandra Nickel and her Hat Team of professionals at Homes for Sale in Montgomery Alabama to help you find your first home today!

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Defeat-Debt-and-Become-a-Homeowner-in-2018

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Finding-Your-Dream-Home

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/The-Top-Features-to-Look-for-When-Buying-a-House

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Midtown Montgomery Home for Sale: 2340 College St, Montgomery AL 36106

Friday, January 5, 2018
by The Hat Team

 

Midtown Montgomery Home for Sale:

2340 College St, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 424670

4 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2,448 square feet | Cloverdale

Don't be fooled by look of this charming Midtown Montgomery cottage - it's actually a 4 bedroom, 3 bath split level! Located on a large lot in the heart of Old Cloverdale, this is only the second time this unique property has been on the market. Formal living room with beautiful marble fireplace, formal dining room with two built-in corner cabinets, recently updated kitchen with tiled counter tops, stone back splash and stainless appliances plus a built-in for the perfect spot for family and friends to gather. There is plenty of room to spread out with the upstairs family/rec room and the lower floor den/study. Lovely brick patio off the lower floor and large nicely landscaped back yard. Don't miss this rare Cloverdale opportunity!

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

 

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Defeat Debt and Become a Homeowner in 2018!

Wednesday, January 3, 2018
by The Hat Team

As a real estate agent, I love helping people purchase their first home.  However, there are two major challenges that I see time and time again with first time home buyers:

  1. They often carry too much debt.
  2. They don’t have enough cash for a down payment.

These two issues are strongly related in that people need to reduce debts that inhibit them from saving money.

We all know that we shouldn’t spend more than we earn, but falling into the debt trap is easy to do.  You see a pair of boots that you must have and you think, I will use my credit card now and pay for them with my next paycheck.  It sounds reasonable at the time, but next thing you know you’ve done something like that often enough that there is a beastly credit card balance hanging over your head.

So, now you’re in debt.  You have regrets, but no use doing the “should have, would have, could have” dance.  Now it’s time to move forward and take the steps needed to reduce your debt.  Here is a list of things to do to change the way you manage your money.  Follow these steps and before you know it you will be on your way to saving for a down payment on your first home!

  1. Stop adding to your debt. The first step to getting out of debt is to stop adding to your outstanding balances. To remove temptation, carry only one credit card with you…and make sure it is the one with the lowest limit so that it is impossible to get into serious trouble with it.  Leave any other credit cards in a safe place at home to keep yourself from going on an impulsive shopping spree. 
  2. Take an inventory of your spending habits. This may not be a fun activity, but it is helpful to see how you are spending.  Create a list of where your money goes each month including rent, utilities, car payments, food, credit cards etc. Once you have done this, split the list into two categories: bills you must pay every month and debts you need to pay off.  The second list then can be organized in order of urgency, either based on outstanding balance or highest interest rate.  Now you will have a clear picture of your debt situation. Financial Inventory
  3. Eliminate the largest debts first. Make a minimum payment for each of your credit card bills, but then make an extra payment on the bill that is at the top of your list. Do this monthly until that bill is paid in full.  Now take the money you were using for that bill and start applying it to the second item on your list.  Continue this until all of them are paid off. 
  4. Cutting expenses and making the payment.  If you are already in debt, how are you going to find money for an extra payment?  Well, some sacrifices will have to be made.  Cutting back on extras like trips to Starbucks, entertainment and eating out can free up cash that can go toward that extra payment each month.  Cutting Monthly Expenses
  5. Prepare for the Unexpected. Sometimes life is a struggle and unexpected challenges such as car repairs or medical expenses will pop up from time to time.  As you cut expenses and start to save money, set up an emergency savings account just for these occasions.  That way you will be prepared and won’t have to use a credit card and add to your debt.
  6. Lower your interest rates. Give your credit card company a call to see if they will lower your interest rate. If they say no, shop around for a card with a lower rate and transfer your debt (be careful of transfer fees to make sure the transfer benefits you). You can also seek out a consolidation loan from your bank. They will pay off your debt and you can pay them back at a lower interest rate. How to Lower Your Credit Card Interest Rate
  7. Stick to it!  As you see your debt decrease and see your cash increase, don’t fall back into old spending habits. As you have more money available, put it right into your savings and soon you will have the money you need for a down payment on your first home!

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Finding-Your-Dream-Home

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Energy-and-Money-Savers-for-Winter

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Mortgage-Tips-for-First-Time-Homebuyers

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Midtown Montgomery Home for Sale: 3526 Bankhead Ave, Montgomery AL 36111

Wednesday, November 15, 2017
by The Hat Team

Midtown Montgomery Home for Sale: 3526 Bankhead Ave, Montgomery AL 36111

MLS# 424476

5 bedrooms | 4 baths | 3,865 square feet | Edgewood

Wonderful family home in desirable Edgewood! Need lots of room to spread out? Look no further! This house has a lovely updated kitchen with granite, stainless appliances including a double oven with warming rack, work island and is open to the Florida room/den. The spacious master addition has its own office, coffee bar, doors to the patio and a huge master bath with double walk in closets, split vanities and garden tub. The original master is on the opposite side of the house with a cool retro bath with custom built-ins. The living room and dining room have parquet floors and stone fireplace, and hard tile, Mexican tile and wood floors in the rest of the house - no carpet at all! The lovely brick patio overlooks a huge back yard with mature trees. Great location in Midtown Montgomery! Check it out today!

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

 

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Montgomery AL Real For Sale: 2019 Clubview Street

Wednesday, November 1, 2017
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Real For Sale:

2019 Clubview Street, Montgomery AL 36106

MLS# 424033

Formerly an art gallery, an office, and a daycare, this commercial/business building could have many uses. Great reception, conference room, and open spaces to two private office/rooms with doors, and a full bath. plenty of parking in the front. Relatively new metal roof, aluminum siding, and almost new HVAC. Great location among other thriving businesses.

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The Top Features to Look for When Buying a House

Wednesday, October 25, 2017
by The Hat Team

House hunting can be overwhelming sometimes, especially when beginning the search for your first home.  Chances are you might get caught up in the process and important details might slip by you. While the number of rooms, condition of the kitchen, and size of the yard are important, there are other things to consider before you make an offer.  This list of things to look for can help get your search off to the right start.

  1.      Location

They say that the 3 most important things to look for when buying a home are location, location, location.  While a home might not be perfect, loving your neighborhood and neighbors can make all the difference in living with imperfection.  And face it…you can change almost anything about your house, but you can’t change its location or the people living nearby.  When you go house hunting, make sure to consider the home’s proximity to your work, the appeal of the neighborhood, where in the neighborhood the home is situated, ease of access, noise from neighbors, traffic, pets and access to parks, shopping, schools and public transportation.

  1.      Home Placement

Beyond location, look at how the home is situated.  If the home is on a hill does it have a view, a walkout basement, or lots of stairs to climb? Do neighbors' windows look directly into the home? Is the yard suitable for kids, pets, gardening, or other uses? Is their safe access to the home? These are all important questions to ask yourself when determining if it is the right property for you.

  1.      Check Out the Neighborhood

While it’s important for your house to meet your expectations, it’s equally important that the neighborhood meets them too. Take a drive around the development you are interested in on week days and weekends, during the day and in the evening.  Are the homes in good repair? Are yards kept clean and tidy?  Is the neighborhood safe enough for people to walk, run or bike?  Are there children playing outdoors?

  1.       Consider a Home’s Curb Appeal

You want a home that is going to reflect your lifestyle. Do you live a    casual, laid-back life? Then you probably won’t want a formal Victorian or Tudor style home.  A simple, contemporary home might better suit you.  Pay close attention to exterior features.  Think about maintenance.  For example, a brick home is easier to maintain than one with siding.  Do you like working in the yard?  If not, you might not want a house with extensive landscaping.  Is the roof in good condition?  Attention to detail will help you choose the home with the best curb appeal for you.

  1.       Size and Floor Plan

You may be thinking about buying your dream home. But is your dream home practical?  Do you need 4 bedrooms and 4 baths when you live alone? A spacious home may provide the extra room you've always wanted for a home office or a theater room, but you'll pay higher heating bills and have higher taxes. Additionally, it will take more furniture to furnish and money to decorate. Think about how the new home space will be used and whether it will fit your lifestyle now and in the future.

  1.        Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need and only    look at homes that meet that criteria.  You don’t want to fall in love with what is otherwise a perfect house if it doesn’t provide the space needed for your family.  It’s smart to consider counting an extra bedroom in that number so that you have extra space for a home office or guest room. If you think you might add on to the home later, make sure you consult an architect who can advise you on space planning and regulations.

  1.         The Kitchen

For many people, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Don’t settle for a home with a kitchen that doesn’t work for you.  Yes, you can remodel later, but at great expense.  If it’s an easy fix like replacing cabinets or countertops, get a price quote before committing to the house so that you will know if it is within your budget to take that on.

  1.          Closets and Storage

Older homes often have small closets and lack storage space.  As you’re looking at a home ask yourself where you will store your belongings.  Tiny closets don’t have to be a deal breaker.  There are ways to maximize storage without renovations. Newer homes tend to have lots of storage and you may sacrifice living space while having more closet space than you need.

  1.          Windows and Lighting

While looking at a home keep in mind your preferences regarding light and privacy.  Do you want a lot of windows to provider bright, sunny rooms?  Pay attention to the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures to make sure they will meet your lighting needs.

  1.            Finishing Touches

Even a simple home can look spectacular with the right moldings, hardware, and a fireplace.  If elements like these are important to you, look for them while house hunting. 

You may not find everything you want in one house, but keep this list handy and you are more likely to find the home that best suits your needs and desires.  Happy House Hunting!

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Mortgage-Tips-for-First-Time-Homebuyers

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Dont-Be-Afraid-to-Pursue-the-Dream-of-Home-Ownership

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/First-Time-Home-Buyers-and-Unexpected-Expenses

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Montgomery AL Home for Sale: 7932 Arrowhead Forest Ct, Montgomery AL 36117

Tuesday, October 24, 2017
by The Hat Team

Montgomery AL Home for Sale:

7932 Arrowhead Forest Ct, Montgomery AL 36117

MLS# 422900

4 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1 half bath | 2,640 square feet | Arrowhead

Wonderful Arrowhead home situated on a large corner lot on a quiet cul-de-sac. Built in 1994, this house has an open floor plan and great living space for your family. Kitchen has butcher block breakfast bar and large area for a table plus it opens to the family room/den. Nice sized bedrooms, and the 4th would make a great nursery or office. Outside is an awesome screened porch and huge patio. Come see it for yourself today!

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

 

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Don’t Be Deceived by Real Estate Myths

Thursday, October 19, 2017
by The Hat Team

Whether you are buying or selling a home for the first time or you are a seasoned veteran of buying/selling real estate, chances are you think you have the knowledge needed to navigate the process based on what you have read or heard from friends and family. Unfortunately there are a plethora of myths circulating about buying and selling houses that have become prevalent, but just aren’t true.  The pitfall of believing everything you hear or read is that real estate myths can hurt you where it counts…in the wallet.  Here are seven common ones that can cause home buyers/sellers to make unnecessary mistakes:

  • Set your home price higher than what you expect to get. Setting your asking price too high may actually reduce your net sales price. That’s because many shoppers and their real estate agents will not look at houses that are priced above market value. While it’s true that you can lower your price if you have not gotten offers in the first few weeks, “Buyers are highly suspicious of houses that have sat on the market for more than three weeks,” says Nela Richardson, chief economist for the brokerage Redfin.
     
  • You can get a better deal as a buyer if you don’t use a real estate agent.

This is a false assumption. When a house is listed with an agent, the total sales commission is already built into the price.  If the buyer doesn’t use and agent, that just means the selling agent will get the entire commission.

  • You can save money selling your home yourself.

While it is possible to successfully sell your home on your own, there is a great deal of work that goes into it. You must know how to get the home listed online, market it to prospective buyers, negotiate the contract and deal with any issues that arise during the inspection or loan application phases.  In addition, buyers will expect a significant discount, so what you might save on real estate commission may not be as much as you thought it would be.

  • The market will only go up.

Over the years, homebuyers and sellers have experienced a time of increasing home values, then a sharp decline due to the economy and then an upturn where values increase again.  But many people believe the market only goes up.  You need to be aware that prices can fall dramatically.

  • You should renovate your kitchen and bathroom before you sell.

If your kitchen and bathroom are in working order, an extensive remodel could be a mistake. Potential buyers might not like what you’ve done with the place, but they don’t want to change something that has just been renovated.  You are better off adjusting your price accordingly.

  • You’ll earn back what you spend on renovations.

Repairing things like your heating system, air conditioner or roof may help your home to sell faster, but you probably will not recoup what you spend. Per Remodeling Magazine’s 2017 cost-vs-value report, the only renovation that is likely to net you as much as you spent is adding fiberglass attic insulation. You will likely only get back 65.3% on a full kitchen renovation. And redoing your bathroom might get you 59.1%.

  • All the properties listed in the multiple listing service show up online.

Your agent must choose to let the listings show up online. Most do, but it’s a good idea to verify that yours will.

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Mortgage-Tips-for-First-Time-Homebuyers

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/Dont-Be-Afraid-to-Pursue-the-Dream-of-Home-Ownership

http://www.homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com/Blog/First-Time-Home-Buyers-and-Unexpected-Expenses

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