If you watch home-and-garden cable channels, it looks like everyone is flipping houses. i.e. buying a piece of real estate, making minor repairs, and quickly selling it at a substantially higher price.  Basic investing 101: Buy low, sell high. Certainly sounds appealing--and you may be tempted to join the ranks of those who have been successful in this field.  Be forewarned, however, that like most money-making endeavors, flipping requires time, money, patience and skill. For tips on how to begin, steps to follow, and advice on how to avoid pitfalls, read on… Do your research and be knowledgeable well in advance: Talk to (and learn from) successful flippers, read up on the subject, follow real estate deals in the newspaper, use the Internet as a teaching resource, attend open houses and... 07/17/2014

As Kermit the Frog knows, It’s not easy being green, especially so for a lawn trying to survive the heat and dryness of summer.  And for you, the Montgomery AL home owner, it’s not easy to look at your distressed and dying lawn after all the time and effort you have put into it in previous months.  Not to despair, however; it may not be too late to revive—or at least repair---the grassy areas of your landscape. Try following the following steps: Watering: Consistently water your lawn. Most often, a lawn goes bad due to a lack of water.  Make sure to water evenly and thoroughly so that the water will reach six inches into the ground. If not, the roots may grow toward the surface and make the grass vulnerable for sun damage.  Water very early in the morning to avoid losing moisture to eva... 07/11/2014

It certainly appears that summer heat is here to stay.  While we humans have the ability to limit our time outside and escape to the relief of air conditioning and fans, the plants in the gardens of your Montgomery AL home are not so fortunate and must withstand high temperatures and frequent dry conditions. Just as we make an extra effort to watch over young children and the elderly during the summer months, so, too, we need to be aware of the needs of our plants.  The following tips should be useful in ensuring enduring greenery through the fall: Dead heading:  Remove the spent flowers (called "deadheading") as they die, so the plant can put its energy into producing more flowers. This is particularly beneficial for geraniums, marigolds, roses, and most perennials.   Cutting back: Whe... 07/03/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 377 Winthrop Ct, Montgomery, AL 36104 377 Winthrop Court 3Bd/2.5Ba Single Family House   $259,000 Year Built 1935 Sq Footage 2794 sqft. Bedrooms 3 Beds Bathrooms 2.5 Baths Floors 15 Parking 3 Off street Laundry In Unit Lot Size 10542 Square Feet Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION Incredible property on one of the best kept streets in the Garden District! Lots of high end updates! Beautiful hardwoods and heavy moldings! Kitchen has top grade granite, many built-ins, lazy susan’s, ceramic subway tile and on demand boiling water. Den features heart pine floors, fireplace, book shelves and rough sown cedar walls. Dining room looks out to a wonderful covered deck and yard. Downstairs bath features black and white marble flooring ... 07/02/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 2110 Mona Lisa Dr, Montgomery, AL 36111 Bring Your Imagination! 3Bd/2Ba Single Family House   $39,900 Year Built 1960 Sq Footage 1664 sqft. Bedrooms 3 Beds Bathrooms 2 Baths Floors 1 Parking 2 Off street Laundry In Unit Lot Size 0.32 Acres Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION How's your imagination? If you can look past dirty carpet and envision the hardwood below, you'll see that this well-loved house has the potential to be your new home. Kitchen and baths are modern and in great shape. An oversized laundry room has space for crafts or work-shopping. And the huge fenced yard cries out for kids and/or pets. Great peach trees, too, and within walking distance of Baptist and Alfa so call now!   Montgomery see additional photos ... 06/30/2014

All-cash offers are an unusual real estate tactic, but often times are a winning strategy at the negotiating table, and are presently on the rise. The National Association of Realtors® reports market share of all-cash purchases has risen and currently makes up 33 percent of the market. This is a unique trend, especially since the market has experienced a decrease in distressed homes and investor activity. Economists point out many reasons for this popular trend. One is restrictive lending standards have caused many buyers, especially wealthy ones, to forgo a loan. Another is the aging baby boom generation, many of whom are trading down and paying for their purchase with cash accumulated from decades of equity. Some also point to foreign buyers; home purchases by foreign buyers in the U.... 06/26/2014

As a seller, you most likely already know that today's breed of buyers is unlike the generations that came before. Tech savvy and always on the go, Millennial buyers—a blanket term that includes Generation Y and the Echoboomers—have different expectations from their parents when it comes to buying a Montgomery AL home. A recent survey of Millennials (ages 18 to 34) by the home builder PulteGroup found that among the top home desires are an open layout for the kitchen and family rooms that allow for easy entertaining. Ample storage is high on the “must have” list, and large, walk-in closets are coveted. The next generation wants space for TV, movie, and sports watching.  Many buyers now prefer high-tech rooms with surround sound, large-screen TV’s, and the most up-to-date A/V equipment t... 06/20/2014

Buying a Montgomery AL home, especially if for the first time, requires a large investment of both your money and your time, for the experience can be complex and sometimes even intimidating.  Depending on professional advice and knowing the right questions to ask, however, will expedite the process, boost your confidence, and help you make a wise decision. Before you begin to ask questions, you need to check your credit score, analyze your finances, obtain mortgage pre-approval, and find a Realtor who is very familiar with and an expert on the precise neighborhoods that interest you. Then you may want to ask the following questions: 1. Where do I want to live—and why?  Think about your lifestyle and what is important to you.  Investigate the schools, nearby amenities, house prices, com... 06/15/2014

In April, the number of properties that received a foreclosure filing in Montgomery, AL was 22% lower than the previous month and 37% higher than the same time last year, according to RealtyTrac.com. Montgomery AL Foreclosure Status Distribution The current distribution of foreclosures based on the number of active foreclosure homes in Montgomery, AL. Auctions accounted for 64.4% of foreclosure activity in April 2014 and Bank-owned properties accounted for 35.6%. Montgomery AL Foreclosure Activity by Month The number of Bank-Owned properties decreased 50.0% compared to the previous month and increased 54.2% from the previous year in April. The number of Auctions increased 11.7% compared to the previous month and 28.8% from the previous year. Montgomery AL Foreclosure Geographical Compar... 06/06/2014

Montgomery AL Home for Sale: 6421 Ashton Circle, Montgomery AL 36117MLS# 309790 Gem Of a Townhouse! Don't blink or you will miss this gem of a townhouse tucked away in a private neighborhood just off Atlanta Highway in the heart of shopping and dining! This updated spacious home boasts a large great room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace. Open kitchen allows the cook to interact with family and friends. Large master bedroom has bonus room addition that could be a nursery, den/study, home office, or workout room. Private fenced back yard has covered porch and great gas fire pit (connected to city gas, so you never have to worry about changing out LP tanks!) Corner lot means no neighbors to the right. Priced to sell, so call your favorite agent NOW to view this home before someone beats ... 06/06/2014

Each year around 65% of all household moves take place between May and September, so obviously you need to plan ahead if you’re moving to a new Montgomery AL home this summer. While the act of relocating a new place can certainly be exciting, there are, of course, challenges to be met, especially during a hot, busy summer season.  Although there are no foolproof ways to make the experience totally stress-free, there are, thankfully, actions you can take to make your “adventure” a more positive one. Sage advice to heed includes: Plan ahead!  Contact moving companies or truck rental firms at least six weeks in advance if possible. Try to schedule your move for a weekday and at a time when traffic is less heavy.  . Make prior arrangements for the care of young children and pets on moving d... 05/30/2014

The spring housing market is beginning to heat up. National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist Lawrence Yun predicts sales activity to steadily pick up, provided more inventory reaches the market and job growth continues. Yun says price growth is also rising. This year’s spring market offers many opportunities for those thinking about selling their home.  Before a home is listed for sale sellers should prepare it with an eye toward what appeals to today’s buyers – something a Realtor® can help sellers with. Enhancing curb appeal and showcasing areas like kitchens and bathrooms is helpful. Also, make sure the home is well-maintained, small repairs are completed and the home is free of clutter.    Take a look at sales figures in our local real estate market for April 2014. Midtown ... 05/22/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 1044 Rosedale Dr, Montgomery, AL 36107 Just Some Rouge and Lipstick Needed! 3Bd/1Ba Single Family House   $39,000 Year Built 1956 Sq Footage 1276 sqft. Bedrooms 3 Beds Bathrooms 1 Bath Floors 1 Parking 1 Carport Laundry In Unit Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION Take life easy! Perfect low-maintenance home for first-timer or downsizer. Quiet area just minutes from the action downtown and jobs at the Capitol complex. Bring your paintbrush to "add lipstick and rouge" and some value as well.   Montgomery see additional photos below Unit Features - Living room - Master bath - Range / Oven - Dishwasher - Yard - Central A/C - Hardwood floor - Tile floor ADDITIONAL PHOTOS   Contact info: Sandra Nickel Sandra Nickel, REALTOR 334-834... 05/12/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 5920 Provost Ave, Montgomery, AL 36116 Yours For Just A Little Bit Of Money! 2Bd/1.5Ba Townhouse   $5,000 Year Built 1976 Sq Footage 1050 sqft. Bedrooms 2 Beds Bathrooms 1.5 Baths Floors 2 Parking 2 Off street Laundry In Unit Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION A lot of house for a little bitty bit of money! Sale includes all appliances including washer, dryer and refrigerator so you can move right in with a minimum of expense. Dead-end street with lots of kids and some shopping available right around the corner. So little grass you could cut it with a weedeater! Short sale so seller cannot afford to make any improvements.   Montgomery see additional photos below Unit Features - Living room - Dining room - Range / Oven - Refr... 05/05/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 1614 Limestone Ct, Montgomery, AL 36117 What A Deal! 3Bd/2.5Ba Townhouse   $56,500 Year Built 1979 Sq Footage 1532 sqft. Bedrooms 3 Beds Bathrooms 2.5 Baths Floors 2 Parking 2 Off street Laundry In Unit Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION What a deal! This spacious Woodmere townhouse has an open floor plan and a great kitchen. Great location convenient to I-85, restaurants, and shopping. Easy lock and leave property with little upkeep.   Montgomery see additional photos below Unit Features - Living room - Dining room - Range / Oven - Dishwasher - Microwave - Garbage disposal - Yard - Fenced yard - Heat: forced air - Central A/C ADDITIONAL PHOTOS   Contact info: Sandra Nickel Sandra Nickel, REALTOR 334-834-1500 For sale by Age... 04/11/2014

Montgomery AL Home For Sale: Guest Suite Offers Lots Of Privacy! 2212 Vaughn Lane, Montgomery AL 36106 MLS# 308331 Lots of privacy even for an extended family! If you have an elderly parent, adult child, or other relative all living under one roof, this property was MADE for you! Spacious design includes a true mother-in-law suite with living area (kitchenette), bedroom, and bath on one end of the house. It even has its own separate entry! Other areas include formal living and dining rooms, den/family room open to breakfast area and kitchen. Large master bedroom with 3 walk-in closets and split design features two vanity areas, garden tub, and separate shower. Another bedroom and bath reside on the first floor, and there is a guest suite and private bath on the second floor. AND, don't ... 04/07/2014

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | 334-834-1500 2114 Mount Meigs Rd, Montgomery, AL 36107 Perfect For Small Business! 1Bd/1Ba Single Family House   $18,900 Sq Footage 1120 sqft. Bedrooms 1 Bed Bathrooms 1 Bath Floors 1 Parking 4+ Uncovered Website www.homesforsalei... DESCRIPTION Classic cottage in good condition is perfect for your office or small business. Great traffic and visibility, and close to downtown and Interstate. Plenty of parking on site with spaces in front and in rear.   Montgomery see additional photos below ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Contact info: Sandra Nickel Sandra Nickel, REALTOR 334-834-1500 For sale by Agent/Broker Posted: Feb 13, 2014, 3:03pm EST 02/13/2014

Montgomery AL Real Estate: 516 E Fairview Ave, Montgomery AL 36106MLS# 305627 Grand old house with magnificent spaces, architectural detailing and across from LeGrande!   What a grand old house! From the moment you and your guests walk through the front door, everyone will find that this is no ordinary home. Magnificent spaces and architectural detailing provide the perfect backdrop for your treasured possessions. More than ample parking also helps enable entertaining on any scale, whether it be intimate family gatherings or parties for a huge crowd. It needs only your vision to create the kitchen that will make those occasions a pleasurable part of the process. Situated on an incredible lot right across from LeGrande Park, means it's close to some of the best restaurants, shopping and ... 11/22/2013

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | (800) 428-5239 1440 Wedgewood Dr, Montgomery, AL Charming Edgewood Home - Move-In Ready! 3BR/2BA Single Family House   offered at $94,500 Year Built 1957 Sq Footage 1,694 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 1 Parking 1 Covered spaces Lot Size 16,600 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Charming move in ready ranch in Edgewood. Pretty hard wood floors throughout, zero carpet. Living room and cozy den with glass doors to backyard. Nice workable kitchen with separate laundry room. Detached carport and storage. Great deal for the neighborhood.   Montgomery see additional photos below ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Front Front Living Room Living Room Dining Room Kitchen Kitchen Kitchen Den Den Den Master Bedroom Bedroom Bedroom Bath Laundry Yard De... 10/30/2013

  Sandra Nickel | Sandra Nickel, REALTOR | (800) 428-5239 363 Ryan St, Montgomery, AL Move-in Ready 2BR/2BA Single Family House   offered at $46,000 Year Built 1989 Sq Footage 1,125 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 1 Parking 1 Uncovered spaces Lot Size Unspecified HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Like new low maintenance patio home is fresh and ready to move into! Convenient to I-85, shopping, and dining...this open floor plan home makes a perfect first home, downsize home, and works beautifully for a room-mate situation. New carpet, fresh paint, plus refrigerator, washer, and dryer. All for less than you would pay in monthly rent for the same quality space! Sandra Nickel and the Hat Team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the market. Sandra assists buyers looki... 10/10/2013