All About Montgomery Real Estate

Montgomery Home Buyers Get Free Credit Report

2007-02-02T15:18:00.000-06:00

One of the first steps a Montgomery home buyer needs to take when preparing to buy a home is to get their finances in order. This includes a credit report review to determine if there are any discrepancies and then to take the steps necessary to get the discrepancies corrected.

Under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act, we are all entitled to a free annual report from all three major credit bureaus–Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion–available at www.annualcreditreport.com.

If you find an error, contact the bureau immediately (the address is on the report). By law, the credit bureau has 30 days to investigate and respond. The bureau must correct, or remove, inaccurate information and send a revised report to anyone who has requested your report in the past six months.

If you have any questions concerning your credit report or need a referral to a well-qualified mortgage lender, give us a call. We are here to help.

Americans Migrating West & Southeast

2007-01-27T07:30:00.000-06:00

United Van Lines has released its 2006 Migration Study. A strong mobility pattern continued in 2006 as many Americans packed up their belongings and headed to the West and Southeast parts of the country, while the Central Northeast region of the country experienced an increase in residents departing. The statistics are among the findings of United Van Line’s 30th annual “migration” study that tracks where its customers, over the last 12 months, moved from and the most popular destinations. The findings were announced by Carl Walter, vice president of United Van Lines, the nation’s largest household goods mover.

The report shows Alabama (57.5%) experienced its fourth year as a high-inbound location. Many Americans have learned what Alabamans have know all along. Alabama is a great place to live!

If you are interested in Montgomery AL real estate, vist my website to view all real estate listings, get new listing alerts, and learn what makes Montgomery special.

Midtown Montgomery Housing Market Expected to Rise in 2007

2007-01-19T14:10:00.000-06:00

"After bottoming in the fourth quarter of 2006, existing-home sales are expected to rise through 2007 and into 2008, while new home sales should turnaround by summer, according to the latest forecast by the National Association of Realtors." Is this an accurate forecast for Midtown Montgomery? Let's take a look.

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery (Midtown consists of neighborhoods south of I-85 between Exits1 and 6) in December was down 25 percent compared to December 2005. The number of pending listings remained unchanged. December 2005 saw market times of 83 days compared to this December's 103 days, a 24 percent increase.

The average sales price in December increased 16 percent to a price of $148,942.

Now, let's take a look at the year end statistics for Midtown. Sales in 2006 were down from 2005 by 10 percent. A better stat than December's 25 percent, indicating the fourth quarter was not as strong as the beginning of the year.

Market times actually decreased in 2006 from 100 days on the market to 83 days on the market. This is a dramatic and very positive difference from the December figure.
2006 appreciation is 16 percent (same as December), with the average price being $151,018 compared to $129,851 in 2005.

Montgomery remains a strong market and avoided the price decreases experienced throughout much of the country. Based on buyer activity early in January (calls, walk-ins, open house attendance, etc.), 2007 will be a very strong year.

Wondering what prices are doing in your neighborhood? Visit MontgomeryHomeInfo.com. A market evaluation will be emailed to you.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Published by the Montgomery Advertiser

2007-01-12T04:48:00.000-06:00

The Montgomery Advertiser has published my article, "Vacant Lots, Buildings Disappear with Infill Housing" which addresses development in Midtown Montgomery. The article was originally written for our monthly newsletter, Midtown Living, which was referenced is the previous post.

Are you interested in buying Midtown Montgomery real estate? If so, you can sign up for a FREE email home search at EmailMontgomeryAlabamaHomes.com. It's fast, easy, convenient, no obligation and most of all FREE!

Infill Housing in Midtown Montgomery

2007-01-08T07:46:00.000-06:00

We are proud to present the January/February 2007 edition of Midtown Living, featuring articles concerning:

Infill Housing in Midtown
What's Ahead for 2007
Predicting Midtown's Future
Heater Safety Inspections & Guarantees by Hans Heating & Air
Homes For Sale in Midtown
and more...

CNNMoney.com Reports Increase In New Home Sales

2006-12-28T13:01:00.000-06:00

New homes sales increased, unexpectedly, in November according to CNNMoney.com. November sales did not compare to the to the red hot market of 2005, but came in 7 percent higher than July sales which were the lowest this year. It looks as though sales have bottomed out and are on the rise again. Read the full story...

Midtown Montgomery Housing Report

2006-12-22T07:46:00.000-06:00

David Lereah, National Association of Realtors chief economist, said a fairly steady pace of home sales can be expected for the next two months. "It's important to focus on where the housing market is now - it appears to be stabilizing, and comparisons with an unsustainable boom mask the fact that home sales remain historically high - they'll stay that way through 2007." he said. "In addition, a temporary correction in prices distracts from the fact that it is primarily the number of homes sales that affects the economy, and the number for this year will be the third highest on record." How do local home sales stack up to this prediction?

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery (Midtown consists of neighborhoods south of I-85 between Exits1 and 6) for November is down 11 percent compared to November 2005. The number of pending listings are, also, down by 29 percent. November 2005 saw market times of 115 days compared to this November's 85 days, a 26 percent decrease. A decrease in market times is very unusual in a slower market and is an indication the Midtown market will remain strong. The average sales price has decreased by $1,390 or 1 percent.

When thinking about selling your home, be sure to give us a call. We have the market knowledge and expertise needed to help you price your home correctly thus assuring a successful sale and putting the most money in your pocket.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Interest Rates Continue To Fall

2006-12-08T06:01:00.000-06:00

Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey reports the average interest rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage to be 6.08 percent for the week ending Dec. 7. This is down from the previous week's 6.14 percent and the lowest rate this year since mid-January.

"Continued signs of slowing in the housing market and weakness in the manufacturing sector helped keep mortgage rates down this week," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist.

Is a new home on your wish list this holiday season? The falling interest rates can help make your wish a reality. Visit MontgomeryAlabamaHomeSearch to view all Montgomery real estate listings. And give us a call. We have the expertise, knowledge and experience to make your new home a reality!

Tips For Selling A Home In A Buyers Market

2006-12-01T15:23:00.000-06:00

For the past few years, sellers have been in control of the real estate market, calling on the shots. All buyers could do is say, "How high?" With the current transition to a buyers market, homes are staying on the market longer and buyers have regained some of their negotiating power.

BankRate.com has a great article for seller's with tips on how to sell in a buyer's market. The tips include:
1. Prepare yourself mentally for what you're about to go through.
2. Get ready for picky buyers.
3. Educate yourself about your neighborhood's real estate market.
4. Hire an inspector.
5. Consider paying the buyer's discount points.

If you are thinking about selling your home, the article is worth a full read! Then visit my website or give me a call. I'm here to help with all your real estate needs.

Midtown Montgomery Home Sales Coast Into 2007?

2006-11-26T06:57:00.000-06:00

Existing home sales are expected to coast into 2007 at roughly the same level as 2006, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Even though existing home sales are expected to fall 8.6 percent this year, 2006 remains the third-best year on record. What are Midtown Montgomery sales doing?

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery (Midtown consists of neighborhoods south of I-85 between Exits1 and 6) for October is down 19 percent compared to October 2005. The number of pending listings are, also, down by 7 percent. October 2005 saw market times of 98 days compared to this October's 72 days, a 27 percent decrease. A decrease in market times is very unusual in a slower market and is an indication the Midtown market will remain strong. The average sales price has increased by $7,892 or 6 percent.

Home prices are continuing to rise, which is good news for Midtown sellers. But, there is more competition for ready, willing and able buyers. Homes must be priced right and in excellent condition to attract today's buyer. Give us a call if you are thinking of selling your home. We have the knowledge, experience and expertise needed to get sellers the highest possible price for their homes.

If you would like to view all Midtown real estate listings, visit MontgomeryAlabamaHomeSearch.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Learn About Mold Inspections

2006-11-17T08:22:00.000-06:00

Join us for the Montgomery Real Estate Podcast. This month's edition covers Montgomery Real Estate market trends and information buyers need to know concerning mold inspections and air quality.

Features special guest Terri Murphy of US Learning.

Download podcast mp3 file subscribe to podcast feed.

Give us a call if you are interested in selling your home or visit our website, www.HatTeam.com.

Should You Try to Sell Your Home During the Holiday Season?

2006-11-13T16:49:00.000-06:00

A common misconception is that trying to sell a home during the holidays is a bad idea. If you are serious about selling, it can be an excellent time to list. During the holidays buyers are more serious. They have a different motivation like using vacation time to search for property. They're doing that because they have to buy, rather than want to buy. Remember Thanksgiving and Christmas is one day a piece not two months.

10 reasons why you should list your home during the holidays

1. Most November and December buyers are particularly serious and very likely facing some sort of deadline.
2. January is the biggest transfer month of the year and job transferees use the holidays to house hunt.
3. Many people want to buy before the end of the year for financial and tax reasons. Investors usually want to close escrow by year-end for tax purposes.
4. Most sellers wait until spring or summer to list their home. This means that during the winter months your property will have far less competition versus any other time of the year.
5. Homes show well when decorated for the holidays creating a sense of family and people are much more emotionally drawn to the house, emotion sells.
6. Many people take vacation around the holidays allowing more time to look for a home.
7. Remodeling, decorating, appliance installation and other services are more available and at less of a premium.
8. There is plenty of mortgage money available for buyers.
9. Lenders aren't as busy and can process loans faster.
10. Showings will be fewer and less intrusive, but more likely to be fruitful with motivated, qualified buyers.

Give us a call if you are interested in selling your home or visit our website, www.HatTeam.com.

10 Mistakes To Avoid When Flipping Property

2006-10-28T12:34:00.000-05:00

Your goal may be to build wealth quickly by buying and selling properties. But the reality is that flipping properties is a tough business. Here are 10 mistakes that could turn a flip into a flop.

1. Liar loans. "Lying on a mortgage application is a federal crime," says Joseph Falk of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. "It includes bank fraud, wire fraud and mail fraud and potentially a host of state offenses. This can result in jail time."

2. Overpaying. No matter how promising the property, the bottom line is trump.

3. Lacking cash. Desperation makes investors do crazy things. When you act in haste, you're more likely to make poor decisions.

4. Quitting your day job. A steady source of cash staves off desperation.

5. Hiring unlicensed contractors. Not only do they present an insurance risk, but worse yet, often they don’t get the job done.

6. Buying sight unseen. You can bet it will be uglier than the seller said it was.

7. Buying property far, far away. Even the tiniest repair can mushroom into a crisis.

8. Buying too many properties too fast. Too much money, too little time.

9. Underestimating remodeling costs. There’s no such thing as a cheap and easy fix.

10. Having a poor exit strategy. Running out of cash and living on credit cards doesn’t work.
Source: USA Today, Noelle Knox (10/23/2006)

If you are thinking of buying Montgomery investment property, visit our website, InvestInMontgomeryAlabama.com.

Midtown Montgomery Real Estate Prices Continue To Rise

2006-10-20T14:38:00.000-05:00

Home sales appear to be bottoming out with lower home prices attracting buyers in many areas of the country, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Is this happening with Midtown Montgomery real estate?

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery (Midtown consists of neighborhoods south of I-85 between Exits 1 and 6) for September is down 6 percent compared to September 2005. The number of pending listings are, also, down by 15 percent. Whereas, last month (August) there was a 14 percent increase.

During this same time period, there has been a dramatic decrease in market times. September 2005 saw market times of 109 days compared to this September's 90 days, a 17 percent decrease.

The average sales price has decreased by $13,523 or 9 percent. This is the first decrease in the average sales price this year. We have seen a steady increase in prices each month until now. This month's decrease may be an indication that the market is leveling off. Or, it could be a more normal fall market for Midtown when prices soften a bit compared to the previous spring.

It would be easy for buyers to overpay for a Midtown Montgomery home in the current market. We have the experience, market knowledge and negotiation skills needed to get you the best possible deal.

Letter To The Advertiser

2006-10-14T05:30:00.000-05:00

Wanted you to be aware of a letter I have today sent to Ken Hare at the ADVERTISER.
________________________________
Last month, Volkert Engineers under contract with the Alabama Department of Transportation presented a comprehensive presentation about the proposed I-85 extension that would connect Montgomery to Meridian Miss.

What bothers me most is the lack of attendance and public awareness of the opportunity for the public to see and participate in the planning process, point out concerns and make suggestions as to the proposed route. I understand that packed houses attended similar presentations in Selma and Demopolis, yet the one held in Montgomery was the least attended. In spite of the fact that the ramifications of a decision will have lasting impact on the city's future direction, our local media did not even cover it in advance or during the event.

On the eastern end of the project, two alternatives are proposed. One would go south of Montgomery, through Lowndes County, the other would go north of the city through northern Autauga County.

Without doubt, there are some legitimate concerns to the proposed I-85 extension, but I cannot understand the public apathy when this decision will impact our region's economy and growth patterns for a century.

Thankfully, much time remains for those with concerns to seek answers and express reservations.

The firm charged with the I-85 corridor study seems genuinely interested in doing this the right way. They know what elected officials know that this Interstate is meant for the benefit of this region of the state, not it's detriment. So it is a reasonably safe assumption that they will seek to choose the most acceptable route for this longterm project.

Surely, any of the proposed routes will upset some. That is the inevitable by-product of progress. While it may be easy for us to say such when we have no property to be lost in the project or personal gain to be made by its location, we have a responsibility to express our views and insure accountability for the decisions ahead.

Nonetheless, there are great benefits in the I-85 extension project. Not only will it provide access to jobs for some of the state's poorest counties, it will open a new east west route across the US from the port of Savannah to the West Coast. It will lower mileage costs to truckers, and it will open up Montgomery as an even better distribution center. Plus, it will make leisure travel much easier and shorter, not to mention providing a new evacuation route from the Gulf Coast.

As a member of the Montgomery Chamber's I-65 Corridor Committee and a champion of Montgomery and the River Region, I encourage all citizens to educate themselves about this project and become involved in future public hearings, the next of which will be held in February 2007. This project may take years to finish, but the work being done now holds great ramifications for future decisions. Officials hope that this fast track planning will permit fast track completion of this important project.

For those who did not attend the public meeting, there is a public web site at www.I85extension.com where citizens have an opportunity to see what is proposed and to express an opinion. They may also call toll free at 1-866-485-7623.

This may be the most important economic decision of the century, and we should all feel a responsibility to be involved. After all, they asked for our input up front, not after decisions are made.

Sandra Nickel
1200 S. Lawrence
Montgomery 36104
834-1500

Alabama National Fair Opens Today

2006-10-06T07:39:00.000-05:00

Opening Day for the Alabama National Fair

One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Alabama National Fair, opens today in Montgomery and runs through October 15.

The Alabama National Fair organizers' philosophy this year is to give fairgoers more. That means more variety in the music acts, more rides and more activities. We hope to see you there!

_________________________________
If you are thinking of buying or selling Montgomery real estate, visit our website to view all Montgomery real estate listings, get the current market value of your home, and more!

Tags: Alabama State Fair, montgomery real estate, montgomery homes for sale, montgomery real estate listings

Montgomery Housing Market Defies Predictions

2006-09-30T09:07:00.000-05:00

Housing prices are expected to continue to have a limited fall throughout 2006, according to testimony submitted by the National Association of Realtors® at last week's Senate Banking Committee hearing on the economy. The Midtown Montgomery housing market is disregarding this forecast, however, with increased sales and increased prices.

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery for August is up 64 percent compared to August 2005. The number of pending listings, which is a leading indicator of the future of the market, has increased by 14 percent. At the same time, there has been a dramatic decrease in market time. August 2005 saw market times of 178 days compared to this August's 84 days, a 53 percent decrease. The average sales price has increased by $10,860 or 8 percent.

Even with all this activity, homes must be staged well and priced correctly to attract today's savvy buyers. Contact us if you are thinking of selling your home. We have the experience, market knowledge and marketing expertise needed to sell your home in today's market! You can also visit our website to view all Montgomery real estate listings, get the current market value of your home and more.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Tags: national association of realtors, montgomery housing report, montgomery real estate listings, selling a home in montgomery

Montgomery & Air Force Swap Land

2006-09-22T14:14:00.000-05:00

Montgomery and Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base finalized a land swap yesterday that was 20 years in the making.

The south and west portions of the Riverside Heights will go to the Air Force in exchange for Maxwell Heights, the location of former military housing. Maxwell-Gunter needed the property at Riverside Heights for base housing because it is adjacent to the base and allows for tighter security. Montgomery's plans for the former Maxwell Heights land is still under consideration, but most likely will not be residential, as it is close to the runway.

Residents of the subsidized housing area were given vouchers to help with relocation to other parts of the city.

Tags: maxwell-gunter air force base, montgomery & air force swap land, Riverside Heights, Maxwell Heights

Identity Theft

2006-09-15T08:14:00.000-05:00

Identity theft is a serious crime impacting more than 10 million victims each year. Often, consumers first learn they are identity theft victims when they are in the process of buying or renting a home. The National Association of Realtors is working with the Federal Trade Commission to educate comsumers to minimize the risk of identity theft. This new initiative, Deter-Detect-Defend is focused on empowering consumers to protect themselves against identity and to minimize its impact.

‘Deter’ Tips to Share with Consumers
1. Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.

2. Protect your Social Security number. Your Social Security number is the key to your identity and must be closely protected. Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.

3. Don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing with.

4. Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a Web address you know. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer; keep them up-to-date. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.

5. Don't use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother's maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

6. Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.

‘Detect’ tips to share with consumers

Be alert to signs that require immediate attention:
1. Mail or bills that do not arrive as expected

2. Unexpected credit cards or account statements

3. Denials of credit for no apparent reason

4. Calls or letters about purchases that were not made

Inspect:
1. Your credit report. This contains information about you, including what accounts you have and your bill paying history.

** The law requires the major nationwide consumer reporting companies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to give you a free copy of your credit report each year if you ask for it.

** Visit http://www.annualcreditreport.com/ or call 1-877-322-8228, a service created by these three companies, to order your free credit reports each year. You also can write: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

2. Your financial statements. Review financial accounts and billing statements regularly, looking for charges you did not make.

‘Defend’ tips to share with consumers
1. Place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports. A fraud alert on your credit report tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open any new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts. Each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies has a toll‑free number you can use to place an initial fraud alert. Only one call is necessary; the company you call will notify the other two. An initial fraud alert is active for 90 days. If you want to place an extended (seven-year) fraud alert, you must follow additional procedures.

** Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
** Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
** TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289

Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open, and debts on your accounts that you can’t explain.

2. Close accounts. Close any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.

* Start by calling the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your authorization. Follow up in writing and include copies of supporting documents.

* Use the "ID Theft Affidavit," available at ftc.gov/idtheft, to support your written statement.Get written verification that the disputed account has been closed and the fraudulent debts have been discharged.

* Keep copies of documents and records of your conversations about the theft.

3. File a police report. File a report with law enforcement officials – for example, state or local police. It will help you work with creditors who may request documentation that a crime has occurred.

4. Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Your information helps law enforcement officials across the country with their investigations.

**Online: ftc.gov/idtheft
** By phone: 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338), or TTY,1-866-653-4261
** By mail: Identity Theft Clearinghouse Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC 20580

Tags: identity theft, national association of realtors, federal trade commission, deter-detect-defend,annual credit report

Help Create A New Montgomery

2006-09-07T10:41:00.000-05:00

Dover Kohl and Partners, the design firm hired by the city for more than $300,000 kicks off its weeklong visit here Friday, and they want input from Montgomery residents. They want to know if you would paint the town purple, ban all traffic lights or maybe sell cotton candy on every street corner. Whatever it is, Dover Kohl and Partners want to hear it. "What we will then do is take all the different ideas and refine those ideas throughout the week to create one unified plan."

The design team has already presented a housing analysis to city council predicting potential for approximately 2,600 households in downtown.

Residents are invited to participate in a weeklong planning session beginning Friday. The purpose is to make downtown Montgomery livable and walkable for everyone. Here are the events:

Friday: Community kick-off presentation at Troy University Montgomery's Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturday: Hands-on design session at Lockhart Gym, Alabama State University, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday through Wednesday: Open design studio at 2 Dexter Ave., 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday, 9 to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday

Thursday: Work-in-progress presentation. Location: Davis Theatre, Troy University Montgomery. Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Tags: Dover Kohl & Partners help redesign downtown Montgomery, planning session for Montgomery, shape downtown Montgomery, make downtown Montgomery livable

Podcast: Mistakes Montgomery Sellers Make

2006-09-01T10:13:00.000-05:00

Montgomery Real Estate Podcast

This month's edition of our Podcast, the Montgomery Real Estate Podcast discusses Montgomery real estate market trends, as well as, exploring the four biggest mistakes sellers make when putting their home on the market.

Our special guest speaker is Terri Murphy of US Learning.

Enjoy listening!

Tags: Montgomery Real Estate Podcast, mistakes Montgomery sellers make, Montgomery real estate

Montgomery Beats The Housing Slump

2006-08-24T09:23:00.000-05:00

Montgomery Housing Market Not In A Slump

The Montgomery Advisor writes, "While Montgomery is showing some signs of slowing, by and large the market here remains strong and homes continue to sell. The reason: Montgomery wasn't on the bubble. According to some estimates, home prices here were as much as 10 percent undervalued at the start of the year."

We didn't get to participate in the run-up, and we are definitely not going to have to participate in the fall-off. Take a look at the July figures for Midtown.

The number of sold single family homes in Midtown Montgomery for July is up 14 percent compared to July 2005. The number of pending listings, which is a leading indicator of the future of the market, has also increased by 27 percent. Market times are relatively unchanged for the same time period.

This is all great news for Montgomery buyers and sellers, but the best news is the increase in the average sales price from $136,105 to $176, 540 or 30 percent.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

Tags: montgomery beats housing slump, no housing bubble for montgomery, midtown montgomery july housing statistics

Montgomery Public Schools Open

2006-08-17T08:31:00.000-05:00

Montgomery Children Are Back to School This Week

With the opening of Montgomery Public Schools this week, we thought we would share convenient links to the public school sites, safety and anything else we can find that is school related.

Montgomery Public Schools - find school calendars, lunch menus, link to individual schools, Board of Education, job openings and more.

Alabama Schools Online - links to all Alabama public schools and institutions of higher learning.

Montgomery Private Schools - list of private schools in Montgomery

Back To School Safety Checklist - by the U.S. consumer Product Safety Commission.

Homework Alabama - Alabama's free live online homework help center.

Alabama Public Library Service - news for Alabama's public library system.

Alabama Public Library Live Homework Help - free live online homework help.

Kids Health - dealing with back to school jitters.

Alabama Homeschooling - comprehensive guide to homeschooling in alabama.

Tags: Montgomery schools open, Montgomery public schools, Montgomery private schools, Alabama homeschooling, Alabama public library offers live homework help,, Alabam homework help center

2006-08-10T16:03:00.000-05:00

Mortgage Closing Costs - How High Is Too High?

Closing costs. We all hate them and think it is money down the drain when we are buying a home, but if we are financing our home purchase with a bank loan they are unavoidable.

A closing cost survey comparing costs from 10 lenders in all 50 states was conducted by BankRate.com. The survey ranks Alabama as the 10th most expensive state to obtain a loan. This is up from the number 12 position in 2005.

Lender, title and settlement fees totaled an average of $3,o24. Alabama's costs are #3,189.
The number one position goes to New York with costs totalling $3,887 and Missouri comes in last with $2,713 in costs.

If you in the market for a home contact us so we can counsel you on how to get the lowest closing costs possible!
_______________________________
Buying or selling a home in Montgomery? Visit our website to view all real estate listings, get the current market value of your home, free reports and more!

Tags: closing costs, mortgage, loan, Bankrate.com, Alabama, New York, Montgomery, buy, sell, home, real estate, listings, Hat Team

2006-08-03T10:35:00.000-05:00

Where The High Tech Jobs Are

When looking for high tech jobs, San Francisco, Boston, Washington DC, and New York immediately come to mind. But you might want to consider Montgomery, AL!

Paul Maidment's latest article in Forbes.com sings Montgomery's praises with jobs 'aplenty' and much lower costs of living than the big guys. "A programmer earning $100,000 per year in San Jose, Calif., for example, would only need to earn $61,515 in Montgomery, according to data from ACCRA, a nonprofit that compiles cost-of-living data."

Where are the jobs you ask? Maxwell Air Force base is the computing hub for the Department of Defense and the 754th Electronic Systems Group. Oracle and Dell have offices in Montgomery to support these operations.

"For IT, this is the center of mass for change," says Greg Garcia, director of the 754th. He just moved there a year ago from Tucson, Ariz., and says he loves the schools for his two daughters, the southern hospitality and, of course, how much further his dollars go.

"It's great," he says. "For the price of a house in Boston, you'd get three in Montgomery."

When considering an IT job in Montgomery, visit our website to view all real estate listings, learn about our community and the best real estate Team in town!

Tags: Forbes, Forbes.com, IT Montgomery, Alabama, Maxwell Air Force base, Oracle, Dell, jobs, real estate, relocate, listings, homes for sale, Sandra Nickel, Hat Team

2006-07-28T03:56:00.000-05:00

Hyundai 'Halo Car' Shines On Montgomery

The Birmingham News has reported of "talk that Hyundai wants to add a sports car and a pickup truck to its U.S.-produced lineup. This talk fuels speculation that the Korean automaker will follow Mercedes-Benz and Honda and expand its Alabama plant.

John Krafcik, vice president of U.S. product development and strategic planning for Hyundai, told Reuters the company wants to have a so-called "halo car" at its dealerships and is in the early stages of planning a pickup for the U.S. market.

A halo car is meant to draw customers to dealer showrooms where they can see all of an automaker's offerings.

Hyundai's Montgomery plant now produces the Santa Fe SUV and the Sonata sedan. The plant is considered one of the world's most automated and flexible, capable of producing several different models. There is room for expansion at Hyundai's 1,744-acre site near Hope Hull."

Job growth is always good for the local real estate market. Are you thinking of buying or selling real estate in Montgomery? If so, visit our website to view all real estate listings, get the current market value of your home, free reports and more.

Tags: Hyundai, Montgomery, Alabama, halo car, SUV, Santa Fe, Sonata, Birmingham, real estate, buy, sell

2006-07-20T14:02:00.000-05:00

Summertime And The living Is Easy!

The living is easy and so are the June 2006 sales statistics for Midtown Montgomery. We have been experiencing double digit increases in sales for the last couple of months, but June brought a slow down. Not that the market is slow...we are still having the best year on record!

Let's take a look at the June numbers. Pending listings in June 2006 are the same for June 2005 at 73. Sold listings are also exactly the same at 66. Even with these sales numbers being the same as last year, the average market time has decreased by 24 days or 28%. And the average sales price has increased by 19% or $24,977.

What do these numbers mean?

Market times have gone down since last year which is an indication there are more buyers in the marketplace and competition for the good homes is tight. Buyers will want the counsel of our Buyer Specialists when preparing an offer for their dream home. With appreciation at almost 20%, sellers won't be very negotiable. If buyers are in a bidding situation, they will want to make the best offer they possibly can. Give us a call so we can put our negotiating skills to work for you.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.
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Thinking of buying or selling a home in Montgomery? Visit our website to view all real estate listings, get a FREE home valuation, free reports and more.

Tags: montgomery, alabama, midtown, real estate, sell, negotiate

2006-07-13T13:06:00.000-05:00

The Green House

"Go Green" or "Green House" are terms that are popping up more and more lately, but many of us don't know what it means. Going "green" means utilizing sustainable materials and resources. As our natural resources dwindle, use of sustainable materials becomes more and more important.

The 5 Principles of Sustainable Design include:

1. Optimizing use of the sun

2. Improving indoor air quality

3. Using the land responsibly

4. Creating high-performance and moisture-resistant houses

5. Wisely using the Earth’s natural resources

Incorporating these principles when building, remodeling or renovating promotes more healthy, efficient, and sustainable living for all of us.

Green design in home building is explored comprehensively for the first time by the National Building Museum in "The Green House: New Directions in Sustainable Architecture and Design." The milestone exhibition will remain on view for an entire year and includes a wide array of tours, talks, workshops and special family programming; and a website focusing on the marketplace, methods, principles, and history of sustainable design. After its showing at the National Building Museum, "The Green House" will travel nationwide. Potential venues include museums in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. NAR is among the supporting organizations of the exhibit. (Source: Nation Building Museum) More information . . .

My husband and I experienced this exhibit last month. It is inspirational, informative and thought provoking. Don't miss it if it comes to a city near you!
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For all your Montgomery housing needs, green or otherwise, visit our website and let us know how we can help!

Tags:green, montgomery, natural resources, national, building, renovate, remodel, housing

2006-07-06T10:53:00.000-05:00

The Best Addresses

Thinking about buying, selling, renovating or bulding a home? You will be amazed at what you can find on the interent to help with each process! Here are websites I consider some of the best:

1. What can I afford - www.Mortgage-Calc.com

Great calculators for mortgages, rent vs. buy, debt consolidation, amortization and how to become a millionaire.

2. Help with the Honey-Do list - www.DoItYourself.com

Step-by-step instructions for just about any project you can think of.

3. How much will my move cost - http://Moving.Move.com/move/tools/movingcalc.asp

Calculates the cost of your move based on how far you are going and the number of furnished rooms you have.

4. Your home's value - www.MontgomeryHomeInfo.com

Get an accurate estimate of your Montgomery home's value without speaking to an agent.

5. Compare prices - http://hcpi.coldwellbanker.com

Compares housing prices in over 300 cities.

6. Build your dream home - www.Homeplans.com

You can buy thousands of readymade blueprints. Search by square footage, style and number of rooms. You can also customize designs with their in-house design team.

7. Going solo - www.ForSaleByOwner.com

Not interested in the assistant of a professional? Here you can go it alone.

8. Start your remodel - www.LetsRenovate.com

Guides you through the remodel process from beginning (deciding to renovate or move) to end
(final inspection).

9. Window shopping - www.MontgomeryAlabamaHomeSearch.com

Browse Montgomery homes for sale until your hearts content.

10. Legal advice - www.Real-estate-law.FreeAdvice.com

Get basic legal advise concerning common issues facing buyers and sellers.
WARNING: If you are in a dispute, this does not take the place of personalized legal advise from your attorney.

11. Bird's-eye view - www.HomePages.com

Enter an address and discover what retailers, restaurants, schools and other places of interest are nearby.

12. Be prepared - http://Iii.org/individuals/homei

Explains different insurance policies and what is the best for you. There is also home inventory software so you can determine the value of your possessions.

13. Mortgage shopping - www.Bankrate.com

Shop for a loan online. Gives good information but there is nothing like talking to a local lender!

14. Looking at schools - www.SchoolMatters.com

See how schools compare in relation to size, test scores, teacher/student ratios, etc.

15. Best darn Realtors in Montgomery - www.HatTeam.com

Give us a call when you need a Montgomery, Alabama Realtor!

2006-06-30T07:20:00.000-05:00

Interest Rate Hiked

The Federal Reserve on Thursday raised a key interest rate for the 17th consecutive time but signaled that any further rate hikes would depend on economic developments.

The Fed's rate hikes have raised the borrowing costs for millions of Americans on everything from home mortgages to auto loans.

If you are in the market to buy a home and want to know what this rate hike means to you, contact us or visit our website. We're glad to put you in touch with a well qualified, experienced and knowledgeable loan officer.

2006-06-22T05:46:00.000-05:00

Small Kitchens Aren't Always a Bad Thing

Buyers who immediately disregard homes with small kitchens may be severely limiting their options. After all, small kitchens don’t have to be cramped; they can be comfortable and efficient. Here are some tips for making the most of the space from Tampa, Fla., interior designer Jay Tenuta, owner of La Bella Interiors.

1. Buy a 24-inch deep refrigerator instead of the standard 30-inch one.

2. Add glass-fronted door to cabinets. They create the image of greater space. If that's too expensive, open shelving is another alternative that will give an open, airy look.

3. A fold-out table provides a breakfast nook, then disappears when it isn’t needed.

4. Don't use the tops of your cabinets for decorative display when you can use them for storage. Affordable baskets and boxes are a perfect option.

5. Create an island on casters that wheels out of sight when it’s not needed.

6. Surf the Web for space-saving ideas. For example, Ikea.com provides kitchen planning ideas, storage containers, and furniture made specifically for small spaces.

Source: St. Petersburg Times, Elizabeth Bettendorf (05/26/2006)
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Thinking of buy or selling a home in Montgomery? Visit my website to view all local real estate listings or do get a Free home evaluation.

2006-06-15T08:48:00.000-05:00

Apartment Rents Increase In 2006

The National Association of Realtors is predicting a 5.3% increase in rents this year. This is more than double the 2005 increase and the largest increase since 2000.

The only way to control your housing budget is to own your own home and not be at the mercy of your landlord. Home prices continue to rise, but buying at today's prices is an investment in your future. Montgomery is seeing double digit appreciation which you can only benefit you if you own your own home. A mortgage payment is investing. A rent payment is throwing money away.

We would be glad to show you a rent vs. buy comparison, so you can determine if buying a home is the right decision for you. So, contact us, today!

2006-06-08T09:44:00.000-05:00

Who Needs A Survey?

A property survey is a map of a property showing where structures, easements and boundaries are located. To most buyers, being required by the mortgage company to have an updated survey for closing just seems like a waste of money. And, who wants to spend more money than absolutely necessary?

But, a survey is like insurance. The chances of you ever really needing it are slim, but if you ever do need it, you will be glad you have it. CNNMoney.com has a great article about folks who wished they had a survey. Be sure to take a look.
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Thinking of buying or selling a home? Visit our website. Here you can look at all homes listed for sale in Montgomery and get a Price Valuation.

2006-06-06T10:19:00.000-05:00

What Is A Contingency Contract?

Buyers walk into your home and fall in love with it. There is one problem--they have to sell their home before they can buy yours. Their offer to purchase your home contains a "contingency clause" which makes the purchase dependent upon, or contingent upon, selling their present home. Should you accept a contingent offer?

Your decision should be based on several factors.

1. Is their home being professionally marketed at this time, or are they trying to sell it themselves? How long has it been on the market? Is it overpriced? What are the average market times in their neighborhood?

2. If the house doesn't sell in a specified time period, can the buyers take out a bridge loan or make other financial arrangements to get to the closing table?

3. How important is timing for you? Are you on a time schedule to relocate to another city or are you flexible?

4. Will the buyers agree to let you continue marketing your home and accept a non-contingent contract (and void theirs) if their house does not sell?

Contingent contracts often work out well, but you need the help of a professional to weigh the pros and cons. So, contact us. We are pleased to be able to help and will provide you with top-notch service!

2006-06-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Painting Tips

Tis the season for do-it-yourself projects. The honey-do- list at our house is a mile long and I am always looking for a way to make the job I am tackling easier. Sam Miller, an excellent Realtor in Mount Vernon, OH has a post with interior painting tips. If painting is on your list of projects, take a look.
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If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, visit my website. Here you can view all local real estate listings.

2006-05-31T13:35:00.000-05:00

Mistakes Home Sellers Make

Orange County Realtors, Drew and Linda Hartanov, have a great post on their Blog... 4 Common Mistakes Home Sellers Make and How To Avoid Them.

Take a look and then contact us, 800-428-5239 with any questions you might have about how these mistakes relate to the Montgomery housing market.

You can receive a Market Valuation of your home by visiting: www.montgomeryhomeinfo.com

5 Powerful Buying Strategies

2006-05-25T16:01:00.000-05:00

A post on Hampton Roads Real Estate Blog by Realtor and friend, Dave Macklin in Virginia Beach, Virginia gives 5 Powerful Buying Strategies for today’s buyers. These strategies include:

1. Don't Get "Pre-Qualified!" Get "Pre-Approved"

2. Sell First, Then Buy

3. Play the Game of Nines

4. Don't Be Pushed Into Any House

5. Stop Calling Ads!

Read this important post and put yourself in the best possible position to buy a home. Then contact us, or visit our website, so we can represent your best interests when buying your Montgomery home. We will take care of you just like family.

Montgomery Keeps On Going And Going...

2006-05-18T06:35:00.000-05:00

WOW! Look at the appreciation we are seeing in Mid-town Montgomery. The averge sales price in April was up $40,251 compared to April 2005 or 33%. Year-to-date, sales prices are up a total of 20%.

This double digit appreciation is coming at a time when many U.S. markets are seeing a softening of prices. I have always said, "Montgomery zigs when the rest of the country zags."
The number of sales was down in April by 20 homes, but this is a reflection of a leveling of the market, making the market more balanced for buyers and sellers.

Spring is the busiest time of year for Montgomery real estate. Folks are trying to purchase a home so they can move during the kids' summer vacation. Sellers, this means May and June is a perfect time to get your house on the market. This is when the most buyers are out there looking and are ready, willing and able to buy. Buyers, you will need to really understand what is going on in the market to get the best possible deal.

We have the experience needed to help you get the best possible deal whether buying or selling. We have buyer and seller specialists that have their thumbs on the pulse of the market. Contact us today so we can help you with your next purchase or sale.

Information is provided by the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

2006-05-11T10:32:00.000-05:00

Just thought you might like a reminder that Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 14. Need an idea of something special do to with Mom?

Check out the local activity listings by clicking here. Ideas include performances for numerous area plays, Mother's Day brunch at Shall We Paint and a travel back in time to Whistler's Venice for period cuisine and music from 19th century Italy.

Happy Mother's Day!!
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Interested in buying or selling a home? Visit our website to get the current market value of your home and to search all the Montgomery real estate listings.

2006-05-04T07:58:00.000-05:00

Post-Contract Pitfalls

Selling a home is like climbing Mount Everest – getting a signed contract is a great accomplishment, but that's only half the journey. The typical home sale today involves more than 20 steps after the initial contract is accepted to complete the transaction.

Much of what needs to be done before the closing is the responsibility of appraisers, loan processors, attorneys, and inspectors — my role, as your REALTOR®, is to coordinate those responsibilities, helping to ensure that others do their jobs promptly and correctly and that the closing isn't jeopardized.

Many steps between contract ratification and closing involve the cooperation of both buyer and seller, and it takes attentive REALTORS® on both sides of the transaction to troubleshoot and keep everyone on track. When things go wrong, closing can easily fall behind. Here's how much time to expect on particular delays:

One-Week Delays
1. Buyer submits incorrect information to lender.
2. Source of down payment changes.
3. Escrow fails to notify parties about missing documents.
4. Principals leave town without signing all necessary papers.
5. Unknown defects are discovered in the property.
6. Last-minute liens discovered.
7. Cloud on title.
8. Move-out date changes.

Two-Week Delays
1. Lender decides at the last minute it doesn't approve of the borrower or the property.
2. Lender raises interest rates.
3. Lender requires last minute reappraisal or repairs.
4. Appraisal too low.

We have extensive experience in handling problems that may arise during the time between contract and closing; we can anticipate difficulties and address them in time to ensure a smooth settlement for all involved.

To ensure a smooth settlement when buying or selling your home, give me a call, 800-428-5239. We're here to help!

2006-04-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

Considering a Home Remodel? Make Sure It Will Pay Off

If your family has to wait in line to take a shower, or if you're storing pots and pans in the laundry room due to lack of cabinet space, it could be time to consider a home remodeling project. Not only will an updated space make your house more pleasant for you and your family, it can pay off in higher resale value.

To find out if your project will add to the resale value of your home, take stock of other houses in your neighborhood. Have many of them been upgraded in the past few years? If everyone on the block has added a bathroom or upgraded their master suite, these projects would be worth considering. On the other hand, you may not want to price your house out of the market by adding a third or fourth garage if that's not the standard in your area.

Remodeling Magazine conducts an annual survey that compares construction costs with resale values. Over the past four years, bathroom and kitchen remodeling have consistently shown good returns on investment. In 2005, a kitchen remodel that included updating cabinet fronts; replacing the oven, stove, sink and faucet; adding new paint or wall coverings; and replacing existing flooring recouped 98.5 percent of the job cost at resale time as a national average.

Bathroom remodels pay off even better. Updating a bathroom that is 25 years old with new fixtures, tub, and toilet; adding new tile, a solid surface vanity counter, ceramic floor and wallpaper recoups on average 102.2 percent.

Of course, you won't want to tackle a home improvement project solely for the resale value, especially if you intend to stay put for a while. A remodel can contribute to a better quality of living for your family while your house increases in value. "Choose an improvement that makes sense for you and your family and one that you can afford," says Maxine Sweet, vice president of public education for Experian, a global information solutions company.

To decide if a home remodeling project is right for you, make a list of features that you would like in the room to be renovated, taking into account how you and your family use the space. Consider traffic patterns, lighting and special features you'd like, such as a wet bar or walk-in shower.

Next, figure out how much you can spend on the project. You might want to consider taking out a home equity loan to finance the remodel. Because the loan is secured by your home, it will likely have a lower annual percentage rate, and you may get some tax breaks, too. The amount you can borrow is limited by the equity you have in your home. Other factors that may influence the amount you can borrow include your credit history, income and current financial responsibilities. Also, be sure to have a plan for how you will repay the loan. You don't want to put your home at risk or add too much stress to the family budget.

To make sure your financing is ready when you are, visit a credit reporting company online such as www.experian.com to quickly and easily access your credit report. "If you notice anything questionable, such as accounts you don't recognize, or payment disputes, deal with those issues before applying for a home equity loan," says Sweet. "It can also be helpful to have your credit score which will tell you specifically the factors in your credit history that could be considered risky by lenders."

Finally, get bids from several contractors to see how your budget and the cost of your dream remodel compare. Ask friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations, or ask your lender if they're familiar with the contractors you're considering. Another great way to check out a company is SmartBusinessReports, also available through Experian. These business credit reports provide consumers with background information, comprehensive financial information and credit risk facts about the business they are considering using in an easy-to-read, online format.

As with any big project, you'll need to be flexible and not let the inevitable glitches get in the way of the big picture - when you're done, you'll have a beautiful new space for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. (ARA)

If you would like input from a real estate professional as to whether or not your home improvement project will add resale value to your home or if you are over-improving for the neighborhood, just give us a call at 800-428-5239. We are glad to help.

You can also receive the current market value of your home by visiting, www.MontgomeryHomeInfo.com.

2006-04-20T06:40:00.000-05:00

Montgomery Real Estate Market Blooms!

Mid-town Montgomery's March home sales reflect the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® revised 2006 housing sales forecast. In a report released last week, NAR is now calling for sales prices to level out and remain at historically high levels.

Mid-town home sales this March are down slightly compared to March 2005, with 58 Mid town homes selling in 2006 compared to 66 in 2005. However, pending sales increased over last year by 7 which indicates an active spring market. The number of new homes on the market decresed from 112 in March 2005 to 105 in March this year.

Buyers will have less homes to choose from and more competition. Buyers will have to make their offers more favorable to sellers than they did a few months ago and should take advantage of buyer representation to assist them in negotiating the best possible terms.
Sellers will want to be represented by a Realtor who has experience in the market and can educate you to the nuances of this spring's market.

If you are thinking of buying or selling, give us a call, 800-428-5239. We have the experience needed to help you get the best possible deal whether buying or selling your Montgomery home.

2006-04-13T10:32:00.000-05:00

Housing Market To Stay on High Plateau

Home sales should remain strong this year according to a report just released from the National Association of Realtors. The association expects sales to move up and down somewhat over for the rest of the year, but are predicting 2006 as being the third strongest year in history.

NAR President Thomas M. Stevens from Vienna, Va., said home prices are expected to cool, but not as much as in earlier projections. Click here to read the full report.

So if you were waiting for the real estate market to go bust before you buy, you probably shouldn't hesitate any longer. Visit our website, www.HatTeam.com or contact us by phone, 800-428-5239, or e-mail. We will show you how you can take advantage of this strong market and low interest rates.

2006-04-06T06:59:00.000-05:00

Important Tax Information

The April 15 tax deadline is only a few days away and hopefully you are well on your way to completing your tax return and you won’t be one of those people in line at the post office late at night on April 14!

If you purchased a home in 2005, you will need the HUD-1 Statement from the closing on your new home, when calculating your taxes. This is the document itemizing the monies at closing. Your accountant or tax advisor will be able to tell you which of your closing costs are tax deductible.

The mortgage interest that is reflected on the HUD-1 is not calculated in the interest reflected on your year end statement that you will receive from your mortgage company. So, be sure to add the interest in the HUD-1 to other interest paid for the year.

If we can help with any other questions concerning the purchase of your home last year or if you are considering buying a home this year, give us a call, 800-428-5239. We're glad to help. Or visit our website, www.HatTeam.com. You will find a wealth of information there.

2006-03-30T10:46:00.000-06:00

Montgomery 5 Year Appreciation

To piggyback on my last post that the Montgomery housing market is strong, healthy and a good investment, I wanted to share with you the appreciation rates for the last 5 years.

As you can see, Montgomeryreal estate is experiencing strong, steady grow.
If you are considering investing in the local housing market, take a look at our new site: www.investinmontgomeryalabama.com. There's lots of good info there.

2006-03-25T15:31:00.000-06:00

When the world zigs, Montgomery zags!

Montgomery is a funny market. Whenever the rest of the world is zigging, Montgomery real estate zags. And if you don't believe it, just consider this:

The Saturday MONTGOMERY ADVERTISER quoted a Friday U.S. Commerce Department report that nationwide sales of new single-family homes dropped by 10.5 percent in Feburary--the largest decline in almost 9 years.

Meanwhile...back in Montgomery...new home sales ROSE 14 percent. And new home prices were up from $139,018 to $161,375. Clearly, there is no bubble bursting here. On the contrary, the Montgomery market is healthy AND still undervalued by most all indices.

AUM economist Keivan Deravi observes that the overall economy will continue to protect Montgomery's housing market.

So sleep well tonight knowing that your investment in your home is secure...and growing.

If you're thinking about investing in real estate--perhaps as a way to fund college for a child--the timing could not be better. We have a lot of good information about the climate for investing at our new site: www.InvestInMontgomeryAlabama.com. Give it a look.

2006-03-23T09:53:00.000-06:00

A More Level Playing Field

Mid-town Montgomery's February home sales reflect the more level playing field for buyers and sellers that is forecast for 2006 by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.
Home sales in Mid-town this past February are down by 13 compared to February 2005 sales and pending sales are down by 7. However, inventory remains stable with 247 new homes on the market.

These statistics mean buyers have more choices and should take advantage of buyer representation to assist them in negotiating the best possible terms.

Sellers should price their homes for the realities of this new market. An overpriced home will sit on the market, taking longer to sell and ultimately at a lower price.

Interested in the current value of your home? Click here. Your report will be emailed to you.

2006-03-16T08:07:00.000-06:00

Money-Saving Tips For Your Home

According to the Alliance to Save Energy, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency, American consumers and businesses spend some $21 billion annually, on lighting alone, and could cut their costs in half with energy-efficient light bulbs and fixtures while improving the environment. Installing efficient lighting in American homes and businesses would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 140 million tons each year--as much as eliminating all the carbon dioxide produced by the state of New Jersey! Isn't that amazing?

I found a website (sponsored by the EPA and the DOE) that shows how to save money on energy bills by incorporating their energy efficiency suggestions. It's http://hes.lbl.gov.

Whatever stage you are at with your housing needs, I would like to meet you and get to know you and your family. That way you won't be working with a stranger it comes time to make important real estate decisions. Remember, I am here to help! You can give me a call at 800-428-5239 or visit my website, www.HatTeam.com.

2006-03-02T05:15:00.000-06:00

What Is Your Home Really Worth?

A new website claims to give the numbers in Montgomery and beyond. Wherever you live in Montgomery, from Midtown to, Lake Jordan, to McLemore, if you plan to buy or sell a home, one of the most important pieces of information you will need is the home's current value in reasonably accurate terms.

Well, Zillow.com is a new national website that purports to be able to tell you that so that you - uh - won't need a Realtor like me. Well, I just read a good post on this by my friend Margaret Rome in Baltimore, Maryland and want to share it with you. It really says it all: "In the last few days, a new Web site launched with great fanfare but spotty performance. When CNN included a story about it on their evening news, the site couldn’t keep up with the hits. Why all the fuss? Zillow promises to give homebuyers and sellers up to date and complete information about the value of their home and comparables in their area.

Some have suggested this will make real estate agents obsolete because people will be able to price their own homes to be competitive. The early returns are that the site’s information is incomplete and sometimes wrong, which makes the suggested price ranges they give hard to justify. In some cases, the range is optimistically high, and for others, I’ve negotiated sales higher than their top amount. The site depends on public records for its data. But public records will not show factors, like recent additions and improvements or the condition of the interior, that affect price. Public records can also be wrong; a friend of mine checked her house and said she wants that fireplace she’s supposed to have, but will not give up the second bathroom they didn’t count. If the information about a house is wrong, how valid is the price estimate? In time, the site will undoubtedly improve, but for now – caution.

There is no question about real estate agents becoming an endangered species because of this or any other site. Price is only one factor in buying or selling your home, and getting to the settlement table means avoiding traps and overcoming obstacles. A top agent will be experienced at: negotiating the terms of your contract, making sure only qualified buyers troop through your home, meeting and dealing with appraisers, and working with home inspectors and title companies to be sure you are protected from start to finish.

Buying or selling a home is an emotionally-charged transaction. Now more than ever it pays to have an experienced professional on your side. Embrace the benefits of new technology, but don’t fall into the trap of believing it will replace market knowledge and personal service.
The end of real estate agents? Not any time soon. Margaret"

Visit Margaret Rome's Blog here.

We are glad to provide you with a complete, accurate home evaluaton. Click here for your no-obligation report.

2006-02-23T06:01:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Things You Can Do To Add "Curb Appeal"

1. Paint your house! This may be an obvious one, so I have to get it out of the way first. Even so, not enough people do it. Most houses need it anyway. Go crazy, do what you have always wanted. Many tones of the same hue can really add dimension to the house. And remember, decorative moldings on older houses give license to use more than one color. Good prep work, like sanding off worn and chipping areas and priming, can make an exterior paint job last a lot longer and look better.

2. Change out-dated light fixtures -- or add lights if you don't have some already. Light up your doorways and walkways. Better to have more lights at lower wattages than one, very bright one.

3. Add landscaping. Consult your local nursery for plants and shrubs that work best in your area. If you're an urban dweller, don't let cement stop you -- add potted planters. The right landscaping around a property will make all the difference in the world.

4. Replace a worn-out garage door with a new, decorative model. This will have a big impact especially if you have a front-facing garage. Manufacturers offer many designs and decorative accessories so it's easy to find a door that will complement the architecture of your home.

5. Illuminate your landscape. This will completely change the look of your property at night. Angle low lights to point up at trees and bushes and point down along a pathway for safety. Keep it simple. Use solar lights that charge during the day and you won't have to run wires.

6. Resurface your driveway. Instead of a tarred or cement driveway, consider installing one with a woven stone and grass pattern. This can do wonders for curb appeal.

7. Add details such as shutters, decorative moldings and fun elements like weathervanes to the outside of your house. Make bland windows come alive and define the architecture of your house with mullions, moldings, decorative eaves, fixed shutters or iron scrollwork.

8. Add a stone walkway or path going to the house instead of grass or a wide berth of cement.

9. Replace a chain-link fence with one of wood or aluminum. Be unpredictable.

10. Plant a tree. Nothing will appreciate more in value than what this tree will look like 10 years from now.

If you are thinking about selling and would like a more personal assessment of fix-ups for your home, give us a call, 800-428-5239 or send us an e-mail. Of course, you can find us on the web, www.HatTeam.com.

We are glad to help!