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Displaying blog entries 1471-1480 of 1998

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale: 2108 Powell Lane Montgomery, AL 36110

Friday, March 16, 2012
by The Hat Team

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

2108 Powell Lane Montgomery, AL 36110

MLS# 287982

Income producing duplex located behind Garrett Coliseum.

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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.

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Montgomery Real Estate For Sale: 536 Jasmine Trail Prattville, Al 36066

Friday, March 16, 2012
by The Hat Team

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:

536 Jasmine Trail Prattville, Al 36066

MLS#287495

Fabulous Silver Hills home that is so pristine you'll think it's brand new! Seriously! One step into the foyer and you will see beautiful crown molding, grand columns and arches, and trey ceilings in almost every room. The gourmet kitchen is a cook's delight with granite breakfast bar and plenty of room for the whole family to gather. The screened in back porch opens onto a spacious brick patio, perfect for entertaining and complete with it's own water fountain, that overlooks the professionally landscaped (and professionally maintained) backyard. There's tons of storage in the attic above the immaculate garage. There are so many custom details that you have to come see for yourself!

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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.

 

 

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Montgomery AL Homeowners: Simple Ways to Go Green

Thursday, March 15, 2012
by The Hat Team

St. Patrick’s Day is an Irish holiday celebrated around the globe to honor St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is a time for shamrocks, leprechauns, parades, corned beef and cabbage, and green beer.  ‘Tis an occasion for the wearing of the green, sporting of Irish symbols, singing loudly at the neighborhood pub, and searching for a four leaf clover.  And, in addition, it can also act as a reminder of the benefits of going green in your Montgomery AL home.  

st patricks dayIn spite of the recent push for making “big item” (and often costly) environmental changes to your Montgomery AL home, there are innumerable small steps you can take before, on, or after March 17th, to benefit the earth-- and your budget.     An eco-friendly lifestyle doesn't need to be difficult or expensive, and you can begin with these tips from Good Housekeeping to create a home that'll make you — and the earth — proud.

  • Get the kids to turn off video games (both the TV and the console) after they're done playing, and you'll win back about $100 per year.
  • Turn off the water while brushing your teeth. Leaving the tap running during the recommended two minutes of brushing can waste up to five gallons of water a day.
  • Switch to Energy Star-rated CFL bulbs, like Satco's Mini Spiral S6202; they use 75 percent less energy and last 10 times longer than standard bulbs.
  • Open windows and doors or operate window or attic fans when the weather permits. Most heating and cooling systems do not bring fresh air into the house.
  • Get off junk-mail lists.  Register with the Direct Marketing Association's DMAchoice mail preference service, and you'll see a significant reduction in mail after three months.

Other suggestions include:

  • Power down computers every night for the good of the equipment and to save money. Leaving computers on all the time shortens their lifetime due to heat stress and mechanical wear.
  • Unplug cell phone chargers when not in use. Even when your phone isn't being charged, your charger is using electricity.
  • Make five minute showers a goal.
  • Visit sites such as Simple Mom, Parentdish, or Worldwatch Institute for many more easy-to-practice tips for your Montgomery AL home.

Although there is no guarantee that using these suggestions will help you find a pot of gold, you will certainly be making the earth a greener place by doing so!
 

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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.

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Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:1521 Westminster Drive Montgomery, AL 36107

Tuesday, March 13, 2012
by The Hat Team

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:1521 Westminster Drive Montgomery, AL 36107

MLS#291144

This well maintained one-owner garden home is lovely and ready to move into! With custom features like top-of-the-line gas log fireplace with beautiful mantle and trey ceilings, you immediately realize that this is not just the run-of-the-mill home. Open plan flows well, and the sunroom addition has multiple uses. Split plan allows for two spacious bedrooms, each with private baths and plenty of closet space. The real surprise, however, is the side and back yard. Beautiful lush landscaping surrounds large party deck and swimming pool! Entertain crowds or just relax alone in this totally private oasis. Priced better than its competition, this one definitely shows better than any other garden home currently offered in Woodmere. And, within walking distance to parks, jogging trails, and fishing "holes"!

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.

 

 

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Montgomery AL Foreclosure Trends - January 2012

Friday, March 9, 2012
by The Hat Team

There were 840 Montgomery AL foreclosure homes for sale with 1 in every 808 housing units receiving a foreclosure filing in January 2012. The average selling price of a Montgomery AL home was $81,926 and the average foreclosure selling price was $81,926, according to RealtyTrac.com.

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate

Montgomery interest rates averaged 3.92% in January while the number of foreclosed homes climbed from 58 to 117.

montgomery al foreclosure

Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Geographical Comparison

Montgomery AL foreclosure activity was 0.04% lower than national statistics, 0.05% higher than Alabama and the same as Montgomery County statistics for the month of January 2012.

montgomery al foreclosure 

Montgomery AL Foreclosure Activity by Month

The number of Bank-Owned properties increased from 20 homes in December to 59 in January. The number of Auctions rose from 38 to 58. There is a 6-month rising trend.

montgomery al foreclosure

Are you or someone you know behind on mortgage payments and facing a Montgomery foreclosure? You do have options. A short sale may be the answer to saving you, your family and your home. I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) with specialized training in helping families avoid foreclosure. Give me a call for a private consultation.

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.

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

 

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Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:3123 Sutton Drive Montgomery, Al 36111

Wednesday, March 7, 2012
by The Hat Team

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:3123 Sutton Drive Montgomery, Al 36111

MLS #290975

Not only is this the best deal on the block, it has been meticulously maintained and is move-in ready! Unlike your typical garden home, you won't feel squeezed in here! The soaring vaulted ceilings, open living/dining areas, and an oversized master bedroom give a feeling of space and volume. And, you will think the master bathroom goes on and on, with double vanity, garden tub, walk-in shower, and water closet with linen storage. If you are a clothes-"hog" you will most appreciate the 2 walk-in closets as well as additional closet space about the house. The breakfast nook overlooks a Florida room with wide windows that cam be opened to convert it into a screen porch in the milder months. If you need storage, there is an attached storage room as well as a detached AND tons of attic storage. Split bedroom plan allows for privacy between owner and guests. Lastly, maintenance is kept to a bare minimum with vinyl siding and trim, and VERY little yard care required. Jump on this deal and tell all your friends about the great home at a great price you just snagged!

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.

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Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:1924 Graham Street Montgomery, AL 36106

Monday, March 5, 2012
by The Hat Team

Montgomery Real Estate For Sale:1924 Graham Street Montgomery, AL 36106

MLS#290885

Classic brick Tudor Cloverdale cottage near all the hot spots and recent loft construction. Entrance foyer is columned and arched doors add to the old house feel. Main bedroom is down with great bath area. Kitchen has newer appliances and features great attached gathering room. Backyard has deck and is fully fenced for your children and pets. Detached garage offers space for your projects or even your car. Call us or your favorite agent for a viewing before it's gone.

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.

 

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Setting a Selling Price for Your Montgomery AL Home

Sunday, March 4, 2012
by The Hat Team

dollar sign and question markUnfortunately, selling your Montgomery AL home in the current real estate market can be both difficult and frustrating.  As much value as you may feel your home has, the current conditions might say differently. In this buyer’s market, accurate pricing of your home is imperative in getting your property sold quickly and for the best price possible. While this might sound simple enough, correctly pricing your property is far from easy and is a decision which requires time and effort on your part.  The following tips should help make the pricing process a smooth and beneficial one for you.

  1. Do your research: It’s important to know http://www.montgomeryhomeinfo.com/what other homes in your area are selling for right now in order to get an idea of a price point for your own property, but you shouldn’t rely on that alone. An Automated Valuation Model, better known as an AVM, is a web-based technology that immediately generates home values based on data analysis of recent area comparable sales, tax assessments and price trends.
  2. Find the right Realtor: Hiring the listing agent who quotes you the highest price isn’t always wise.  Interview at least 3 Realtors familiar with the area around your Montgomery AL home and choose the agent who supports a suggested price with comparative market data. It is the job of your Realtor to know the current market and market trends inside and out, to be closely connected to the real estate market at large, and to be aware of other properties currently for sale in your particular neighborhood..
  3. Cast emotions aside:   It’s important to remain as realistic and objective as possible when pricing your property. Although your home will most likely be invaluable to you, focus on the statistics from your research and on the advice given to you by your real estate agent for a satisfactory sale.
  4. Avoid overpricing at the outset.  Because your property has the best chance of selling within its first seven weeks on the market, the longer it stays on the market, the less it will ultimately sell for.  In addition, you will lose out on savvy potential buyers who won’t even come by to look, and fewer knowledgeable Realtors will preview your Montgomery AL home.  Lowering your price later will only result in delays and suspicions that something is wrong with the property.

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. 

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

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Midtown Montgomery Real Estate Market Trends - January 2012

Friday, February 24, 2012
by The Hat Team

2012 is off to an encouraging start. Mortgage rates have remained under 4% for nearly two months. Home sales are strengthening and pending home sales, a measure to gauge future sales, are at their highest levels since March 2010.

Job growth increased during most of 2011, with unemployment dropping to 8.4%. As more people are getting jobs, consumer confidence has also been increasing.  However, underemployment with a rate of 18.1% continues to be a problem for a stronger recovery. There are still a significant number of people working part time, who would like to have full-time work.

Even with substantial national improvements, the recovery is spotty. Payroll jobs were up in 25 states, but down in 24, demonstrating the delicate state of the U.S. economy. Global factors such as the European debt crisis are also complicating a more robust recovery. 

What does the recovery look like in our local real estate market? Take a look at January figures.

Midtown Montgomery real estate sales statistics for January show the average sales price decreased by 3% to $141,407 when compared to January 2011.  The number of homes sold increased by 39% in January 2012.  The median sales prices increased by 1%, and market times decreased by 11% or 18 days.  The highest selling home price increased by 38%, and the lowest selling home price decreased by 31%.

 

Midtown Montgomery Jan 2012 Jan 2011
Homes Sold 28 17
Average Selling Price $ 141,407 $ 145,709
Median Selling Price $ 124,450 $ 122,850
Days On The Market 140 158
Highest Selling Price $ 785,000 $ 487,000
Lowest Selling Price $ 9,000 $13,000

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.

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

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Ins And Outs Of Mortgages

Friday, February 17, 2012
by The Hat Team

If you are a potential purchaser of Montgomery AL real estate, you need to be familiar with the various types of mortgages available to you and the terminology that accompanies them.  So many choices may be a boon to borrowers, but that very variety holds the potential for much confusion.  Here is a simplified guide to terms and types.

mortgageTERMS:

  • Fixed rate:  The interest rates do not change during the life of the mortgage, thus allowing you to know the amount of your payment at all times.
  • Adjustable rate (ARM):  The interest rate is tied to a certain index and margin and can fluctuate up or down, thus affecting the amount of your payment.
  • Step:  The interest rate and monthly mortgage payment for your Montgomery AL real estate remain the same for a specified period of time, but after that the interest changes to the prevailing rate and stays there
  • Balloon:  A loan payment that expands after a specified period of time.  Similar to a fixed rate loan in the early years but with a steep payment of all money owed at the end.

TYPES:

  • Fixed rate mortgage:  Traditionally for 25 or 30 years, but also available for 15 or 20.  Although interest rates are somewhat higher than for other types of loans, that rate remains in place for the duration.  Especially good if you plan to live in your home for at least ten years.
  • 1 Year ARM:  Also has a 30 year duration, but the interest rate is adjusted each year.  It is important for you to know how often the rate can be changed and if there are annual and life-of-loan caps on the rate.  Beware of payment caps, which can result in negative amortization.
  • Hybrid mortgage:  Sometimes called a three-year fixed or five-year fixed, this type of mortgage incorporates some of the features of both a fixed rated and an ARM, meaning that the interest rate on your Montgomery AL real estate will remain the same for the first three (or 5) years but will then convert to a one-year ARM for the remainder of the loan term.
  • Balloon mortgage:  In this type of arrangement, you pay a low rate of interest for a certain amount of time.  At that point, the entire amount owed is due, requiring you to refinance your property or make a final—and extremely large—payment to the lender.
  • Interest-only loans:  As the name suggests, you pay nothing on the principal for the first five years.  After that you are expected to make regular monthly payments which include both interest and principal.
  • FHA loans:  FHA mortgage loans are insured by the government through insurance that is funded into your loan. FHA allows down payments of as little as 3%. 
  • VA loans:  Available to veterans who have served in the US military forces.  The main benefit to this type of loan is that you do not need a down payment.  The loan is guaranteed by The Department of Veteran Affairs.

Being familiar with mortgage terms and types should make it easier for you to talk with your Realtor and/or lender about which option is most beneficial for you.

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.

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

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