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Displaying blog entries 41-50 of 614

Buying or Selling a Home? Here’s Why You Should Hire a Realtor!

Wednesday, July 5, 2023
by The Hat Team

Whether you are looking to purchase a home or getting ready to sell one, the process of doing so will go much more smoothly if you have an experienced Realtor to represent your interests.  You might be thinking that you can save money by trying to do it on your own, but the truth is that the time, energy and stress a Realtor will save you is priceless! 

Here are the top five reasons why you should hire a Realtor when buying or selling a house:

  1. EXPERTISE


Experienced real estate professionals will know all the ins and outs of buying and selling homes. Real estate has a language of its own, and Realtors will speak it fluently. They are not only familiar with all the forms, reports and disclosures involved, they understand them and can explain them to you. They will work to get you the best deal possible and help you avoid costly mistakes.

  1. ACCESS

Realtors can search listings that the public does not have access to. They will know immediately when a house goes on the market; long before you can find it on the internet. Local Realtors will also have a lot of knowledge about different neighborhoods and areas that may appeal to you.

  1. NEGOTIATION

Realtors are trained negotiators. It is their job to get you a first-rate deal. With fierce competition for homes and the chance of a bidding war, you are going to want a shrewd and experienced negotiator on your side.

  1. CONNECTIONS

They know who’s who in every aspect of a real estate transaction. They can hook you up with a mortgage lender, home inspector, real estate attorney, home stager, etc. And, since the best deal for you benefits them as well, they are going to make sure to recommend the top people in their professions.

  1. TIME


While searching for a new house, or getting one ready to sell, chances are you’re still working full time, taking care of a family, and feeling a little stressed about everything you need to do. Slow down, take a deep breath and let your Realtor alleviate that stress a bit. Being a Realtor is a full-time job that you don’t need to add to your to do list.

The bottom line is, you probably can buy or sell a home on your own, but that doesn’t mean you should. Hiring an experienced professional like Sandra Nickel will make your home-buying/selling experience less stressful and more successful.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let me, Sandra Nickel and my Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call us today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information.

Photo Credits: fairfield-park.com, calbizjournal.com, rd.com

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Are You House Hunting? Follow These Tips!

Wednesday, June 21, 2023
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. 


Here are things to look for to get your house hunting off to the right start:

  • 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.

  • 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 there safe access to the home? These are all important questions to ask yourself when determining if it is the right property for you.

  • 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 weekdays 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?

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Decide how many bedrooms and bathrooms you will need and only look at homes that meet that criterion. 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 is 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.

  • 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 is 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.

  • 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.

  • 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 provide bright, sunny rooms?  Pay attention to the locations of electrical outlets and fixtures to make sure they will meet your lighting needs.      

  • 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!

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let me, Sandra Nickel and my Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call us today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information.

Photo credits: ramseysolutions.com, statefarm.com, verv.com, bobvila.com

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440 Martha St: Modern Feel in this 1900 Cottage in Popular Cottage Hill!

Monday, June 19, 2023
by The Hat Team

440 Martha Street, Montgomery, AL 36104

MLS# 540154

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,891 Square Feet | Cottage Hill

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This circa 1900 shot gun style cottage in popular Cottage Hill has an open floor plan with a modern feel! From the large covered front porch, you can see straight through to the back deck, making entertaining a breeze. Formal living room, huge dining room, newly updated kitchen with large granite island brand new gas range with flush mounted vent hood. Brand new wood flooring in family room/den, custom tiled gas fireplace with new French doors looking out to the deck and lovely back yard. Master suite has been updated with a new tile shower, a walk-in closet, and a laundry room! Two other nice sized bedrooms and a brand-new hall bathroom with an awesome tiled tub/shower. The original heart pine floors are gorgeous lots of large windows that let in tons of natural light. Make your appointment today!

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

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3431 Country Church Rd: Spacious 5-Bedroom Carriage Hills Home!

Friday, June 2, 2023
by The Hat Team

3431 Country Church Road, Montgomery, AL 36116

MLS# 539528

5 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1 Half Baths | 2,580 Square Feet | Carriage Hills

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Need more space for your growing family? Welcome to this 5-bedroom home in Carriage Hills! With the formal living room, dining room, family room/den and breakfast nook you will have plenty of living space. The bright white kitchen has plenty of cabinets for storage and the sink in the island has a great view of the private backyard with mature tree line. Three of the bedrooms have walk-in closets. New laminate flooring and fresh paint throughout. Check it out today!

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

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6716 Cherrywood Trail: Move-in Ready in Bell Meadows!

Wednesday, May 31, 2023
by The Hat Team

6716 Cherrywood Trail, Montgomery, AL 36117

MLS# 539465

4 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,202 Square Feet | Bell Meadows 

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This move-in ready home is like new and ready for its next owner! Spacious layout has separate living and dining rooms, plus a large den/family room with cozy fireplace. Galley style kitchen has smooth surface stovetop and double ovens. New carpet throughout, and three guest bedrooms plus oversized primary bedroom with double closets and private bath. A large, fenced backyard allows plenty of room for children and pets to roam. Quiet neighborhood that is convenient to shopping, dining, and entertainment!

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

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The Best Weekend Getaways in Alabama

Wednesday, May 24, 2023
by The Hat Team

Memorial Day is around the corner and with it comes the unofficial start of the summer vacation season. If you’ve been thinking about where you can go to “get away from it all” this summer, you won’t have to venture far. From relaxing coastal beaches to historic inns and B&Bs, Alabama is home to many wonderful places to visit for a weekend getaway.

Here are 5 of best weekend getaways in Alabama:

  1. Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa

    Located in the charming little beach hamlet of Point Clear, AL, this resort offers a relaxing, entertaining oasis to guests of all ages and interests.  It boasts two exceptional golf courses, a 20,000 square-foot Grand Spa, a fabulous pool complex for kids of all ages, ten tennis courts, and miles of white sand beaches stretching along Alabama’s beautiful Gulf Coast.  You’ll enjoy dining at the Saltwater Grill seafood restaurant, and the Grand Steakhouse.  Elegant rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and include all the amenities you could ever want - free Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, a coffeemaker, fridge, and a work area with an ergonomic chair.
     
  2. Magnolia Springs B&B

    This romantic Inn is set on a tree-lined street in the heart of Magnolia Springs, Alabama.  Charm oozes from this historical landmark which offers beautiful accommodations, scrumptious homemade breakfasts and a tranquil ambiance that makes it impossible not to relax.  Ideally located for exploring the area, you can venture out for a scenic drive to nearby Mobile Bay on the Gulf of Mexico or play golf at one of the several courses in the area.
     
  3. Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa

    If you’re looking for elegance and romance, this is the place for you.  This resort offers 259 guest rooms with private balconies and lake views.  Upgrade to a high-level room and enjoy scenic views and a private Jacuzzi.  Lots of activities are available from jogging/walking trails to a saltwater swimming pool, to a well-equipped fitness center. Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, or just kick back and admire the breathtaking Alabama views.
     
  4. The Hotel at Auburn University

    Located on the Auburn University Campus, this is the premiere hotel facility for all things Auburn.  Filled with charm, it offers sleek guest rooms and suites with top-of-the-line amenities for their guests, like premium linens, flat screen televisions, and walk-in rainfall showers.  You can upgrade to a room with a private living room and wet bar. Enjoy upscale dining onsite at the Mediterranean restaurant Ariccia Trattoria, and kick back and relax while listening to jazz at the Piccolo cocktail lounge.  Other amenities include an outdoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and the 22,000-square foot Dixon Conference Center.  There is a lot to do and see in and around Auburn, so check out this list of the 15 Best Things to Do in Auburn Alabama.
     
  5. The Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast

    How could anyone resist a place called The Mistletoe Bough?  This quaint, romantic bed and breakfast offers a choice of five different rooms and suites with private bathrooms and Victorian-style décor.  Relaxation is the name of the game whether you are strolling through lovely gardens or sipping sweet tea while sitting on the wraparound veranda.  Historic downtown Alexander City and several restaurants are walking distance from the B&B. But don’t worry about breakfast, because a buffet is served every morning in the Victorian dining room. Complimentary coffee, tea, and cool drinks are available throughout the day.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a home (or both), let me, Sandra Nickel and my Hat Team of Professionals assist you with all your real estate needs! Call us today at 334-834-1500 and check out https://homesforsaleinmontgomeryalabama.com for more information.

Photo credits: booked.net, magnoliasprings.com, travel.usnews.com, ocm.auburn.edu, romancetheusa.com

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713 Maryethel Dr: Adorable 3 Bedroom Gunter Grove Home!

Friday, May 19, 2023
by The Hat Team

713 Maryethel Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109

MLS# 537515

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,489 Square Feet | Gunter Grove

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Welcome to Gunter Grove! This adorable home has fresh interior paint, brand new laminate floors and a new garage door. The family room/den has a vaulted ceiling and brick fireplace. The eat-in kitchen has a huge bay window with lots of natural light. Master ensuite bath has a walk-in closet. Nice flat back yard with new deck area. Convenient location. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, MAY 21st 1:00-2:00. Seller is participating in a 1031 Exchange at no cost to the buyer.

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

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4401 Ray Dr: Lovely 3 Bedroom Johnstown Home!

Friday, May 19, 2023
by The Hat Team

4401 Ray Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109

MLS# 537509

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,750 Square Feet | Johnstown

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Welcome to Johnstown! Situated on a large corner lot, this home has fresh interior paint and laminate flooring throughout. The eat-in kitchen has a flagstone floor and a door to a large laundry room. Living room/dining area can be configured to suit your family. Extra-large garage for plenty of storage room. Convenient location, check it out today! OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, MAY 21st 1:00-2:00. Seller is participating in a 1031 Exchange at no cost to the buyer.

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

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1124 Westmoreland Ave: Conveniently Located Cloverdale Cutie!

Friday, May 12, 2023
by The Hat Team

1124 Westmoreland Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS# 537785

2 Bedrooms | 1 Bath | 1,097 Square Feet | Cloverdale

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Come check out this Cloverdale cutie! From the beautifully shaded front yard to the 'perfect for entertaining' back yard, you will fall in love with this Midtown Montgomery home! Upon entering this home, you will immediately feel relaxed with the perfectly picked colors on the freshly painted walls. The quaint kitchen boasts new LG appliances and adorable shelving for all your cooking needs. Each bedroom is nicely sized and custom shades were recently hung in the master which is large enough for a king-sized bed. Enjoy entertaining? The large deck is perfect for friends and family at all the get-togethers you will be having! The back yard comes with an extra half lot and is perfect for summer activities including bonfires in the unique firepit. There is a detached garage that is ideal for a small car and/or storage. The crawlspace was recently incapsulated with a new dehumidifier and sump pump. Don't miss your chance to be within walking distance of all the entertainment Cloverdale has to offer!

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

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101 S Capitol Parkway: Vintage Historic Capitol Parkway Home!

Tuesday, May 9, 2023
by The Hat Team

101 S Capitol Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36107

MLS# 537695

3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths | 2,188 Square Feet | Capitol Heights

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Do you love the charm and character of classic historic homes but don't want to deal with old house issues? Well, here is the perfect house for you! This vintage historic Capitol Parkway home is the best of both worlds! Meticulously renovated inside and out to include a new roof, new electrical and plumbing, new HVAC, new kitchen and baths, and addition of guest powder room! Gleaming hardwood floors greet you upon entering the spacious living room, which opens to the traditional dining room with bay window. Off the living room is a well-proportioned den/family room/study with French doors back out to the big covered front porch. Two guest bedrooms share a wonderfully modern updated bath, and the private primary suite has a contemporary bath with a large walk-in shower and heated towel bar. Stunning kitchen is sleek and open, with plenty of cabinets and loads of counter space...and the gorgeous countertops are built from the reclaimed floor out of the old downtown YMCA! Rear laundry/mudroom offers access to the big backyard with lots of potential for outdoor living. Located minutes from downtown, shopping, dining, and schools.

Marketed by Montgomery AL Realtor, Billy Young, Sandra Nickel Hat Team

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