Guide Me Home 2 Montgomery - Hometag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012:mephisto/Mephisto Drax2012-05-23T23:06:06Zadmintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-05-17:474932012-05-17T00:00:00Z2012-05-23T23:06:06Z136 Trillium Court, Wetumpka, AL
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Trillium%20House%20for%20Sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7509" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Do you love awesome views, the rustle of leaves blowing in the wind, and total privacy? Well here it is--this hidden jewel, surrounded by 5.6 acres of natural beauty, is the perfect location. Hidden away even though it is only 3-5 minutes to shopping and restaurants. It doesn't get any better than this! If you love the country and acreage but hate the maintenance, well this is your dream location. No grass to mow, just natural beauty surrounds this unique home. This gorgeous home is designed and decorated as an old Italian Villa, It is very unique and one of a kind with beauty, personality and character. This is a home that you will truly love for privacy, peace, and relaxing. BUT-- if entertaining is part of your life then outdoors you can host parties or barbeques on huge deck, two balconies or open space in front and side of home.</p><p>Want to sit quietly on a chilly day and enjoy a good book? Just cozy up in front of the remote gas fireplace in the den or enjoy outdoor views through all the glass in the den and dining room. Just a step or two and you are ready to serve a glass or two of wine from the wine niche.</p><p>Usually guest bedrooms are not afforded the niceties of a main bedroom but not here. Anyone would love the spacious bedroom and closet downstairs with its own double patio door access to outside. Better yet, the upstairs bedroom has its own gas log fireplace and double doors to a private balcony with awesome views. There is even a sparkling new jetted tub in upstairs bath.</p><p>With the two offices upstairs maybe you want to share and let one be for your work and have one for homework or college studies? Everyone will want to be upstairs having fun in the game-room overlooking your wooded acreage.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Trillium%20Bedroom-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7510" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The large Master bedroom and bath downstairs is truly a hideaway. The bath includes relaxing views and claw-foot slipper tub, two antique vanities, totally tiled ceiling to floor shower with two shower heads, a rain-head, and a bench.</p><p>Time to eat? Use your stainless steel appliances to prepare meals and serve them on your beautiful granite counter-tops. No matter how much laundry, you have ample room in your large laundry room with cabinets, folding space, storage and even a ceiling fan.</p><p>If you are looking for a one of a kind home that you will totally love, where you can enjoy new and awesome views with each changing season, and experience peace, quiet and privacy, or if you just like feeding the deer or birds. This unique and beautiful home will awaken your senses to the best natural gift in the world. Don't miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity to have your own piece of paradise or private retreat.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/LisaLynn.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7511" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Please call Alfa Realty Agent <a id="a-Lisa815"></a> (334-657-9596) to set an appointment to <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36092/136_TRILLIUM_CT/AGT-186287837-665848/index.html" target="_blank"> view this great home</a>.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-05-16:463572012-05-16T00:00:00Z2012-05-14T21:28:14ZLet Me Introduce Grover Cornett
<p>As an ongoing process, we are introducing to you our agents. This week I gathered information from <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/GroverCornett" target="_blank">Grover Cornett. </a></p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Grover%20Cornett.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7438" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“My name is Grover Cornett. I am a Christian who strives to put God first in my life every day. Everything else seems to fall into place with Him out front. I am a member and regular attendee of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. I am also an ordained deacon. I have been happily married for many years. I have two grown children and identical twin granddaughters.</p><p>As a graduate from Troy State University, I spent a long time in the banking business in several capacities not the least of which as Vice President and Senior Loan Officer. I also completed numerous courses associated with the industry including Appraising/Evaluating Residential Property.</p><p>Being a past President of the Montgomery Chapter of Bank Administration Institute, past President of Montgomery East Kiwanis Club, and Tallassee Kiwanis Club. I also served as Lt. Governor of the East Alabama District of Kiwanis.</p><p>With my extensive knowledge of the banking industry and my personal experience of buying and selling foreclosed properties will be a great asset to you throughout the process of assisting you in buying or selling your home or investment property.</p><p>As a member of the National Association of Realtors, I am bound by a strict code of ethics. My commitment to all my clients is honesty, integrity, and quality customer service.</p><p>Call if you have questions about this process. Let me answer your questions and guide you through it. I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because I’m experienced, because I’m professional . . .and because I care.”</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-05-14:463552012-05-14T16:24:43Z2012-05-14T21:24:50ZKudos
<p class="MsoNormal" style=""><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Faye%20Long.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7434" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />With the real estate business being so complex it is always nice when a past client takes the time to praise an agent (in writing) for the job they did. <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/FayeLong" target="_blank">Faye Long</a> is one of Alfa Realty’s “gems.” Below is a commendation on the way that Faye worked on behalf of her client:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">“In these days where most of us are quick to complain, I’d like to take the opportunity to commend one of your ALFA agents, Ms. Faye Long, for a job well done. I recently sold my home in Montgomery and I selected Faye to handle that transaction for me. We “closed” this Monday past and Faye’s work and actions were exceptional by all measure! I chose Faye due to her character and honesty and that I could place my trust in her actions. It was also well documented that ALFA Realty would stand behind us in this endeavor. … I was updated daily and at times two or three times a day…. In conclusion I will say, should I be asked by someone for a recommendation of a real estate agent it will most certainly be “The ALFA Team” as they will become your “partner” in action!"<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">--Paul F. Robinson Owens Cross Roads, AL</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Allow Alfa Realty to partner with you in all your real estate transactions!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-04-27:446322012-04-27T16:45:43Z2012-04-27T21:45:48ZThe Fastest Realtor?
<p class="MsoNormal">I thought you might get a kick out of knowing that Realtors now have their own race car! It will be competing in the ARCA race on Friday, May 4th in Talladega. Come down to the new SandBAR downtown at the river to check it out tomorrow from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The driver is a 3rd generation Realtor, Thomas Praytor, who is from Mobile.</p><table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Realtor%20Car.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7379" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/SandBar.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7380" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p class="MsoNormal">If you need a realtor fast call Alfa Realty….but, we probably will need to do the speed limit.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-04-24:443802012-04-24T17:03:52Z2012-04-24T22:03:57ZInvestment
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Investor.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7365" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />A recent study showed that approximately 25% of all homes purchased were purchased by investors. I wanted to argue that 100% of all buyers are investors, right? Of course, the reference was to buyers that buy multiple properties and either rent or resale in a fairly quick time frame.</p><p class="MsoNormal">When you purchase your home you should look at the prospective home with investor’s eyes also. You are investing your finances on a monthly basis in a home and you want to know you have invested wisely. The difference is an investor needs to purchase the home for an amount where he can immediately make repairs (or not) and then sell for a profit. Where a normal buyer tends to have the luxury of spending personal time (years) in a home and making repairs or changes in an easier time frame for him/her.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Your Alfa Realty agent can help you look at the market and decide if the property you are considering to purchase is priced according to the selling history of like houses. Remember, everyone wants to win in this situation and the owner of the house for sale wants to come out on the positive side of the transaction also.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Contrary to the current general media hype, our area did not have the HUGE markup that other parts of the country had. So the market price correction that the housing market is going through in those areas is not necessarily reflected in our pricing here. It was already lower.</p><p class="MsoNormal">This, combined with the lower interest rates, makes for a fabulous time to buy a home in the River Region of Alabama. Let an Alfa Realty sales associate help you in your search!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-04-02:427692012-04-02T05:52:59Z2012-04-02T10:59:53ZMontgomery Corporate Challenge
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Montgomery%20Corp%20Challenge.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7291" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Several years ago, in a land far far away (not really, just always wanted to say that) I participated in the <a href="http://www.montgomerycorporatechallenge.com/" target="_blank">Montgomery Corporate Challenge</a>. I am not sure if they have had one recently but either way it was a ton of fun. When I got home the evening after the event, I was tired but it was the kind of tired where you know you have good healthy fun.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Whether you work for a large corporation or small one you need to check this out. According to the City of Montgomery website, this challenge promotes fitness, fellowship, and of course-- fun-- for participants with athletic activities to challenge both the mind and body with a little corporate competition.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The teams must consist of full-time employees who will compete in the age category determined by their age. There are four different team sizes which is determined by the number of full time employees so that like sized companies compete against each other. There are swimming events, track and field, 10K run and 10K bike. Swimming events and track events will be held at different days and locations.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you would like to volunteer to help in organizing, officiating, etc. the <a href="http://www.montgomerycorporatechallenge.com/" target="_blank">click here</a> to find out how.</p><p class="MsoNormal">With the beautiful weather we have had don’t sit at home—get out and enjoy another event that Montgomery has to offer!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-03-16:413872012-03-16T17:48:48Z2012-03-16T22:49:26ZSpring Beauty
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Halcyon%20Forest%20Bird.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7246" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />With temperatures floating between the high 60’s to low 80’s, now is the perfect time to take advantage of that outdoor room. Sometimes stepping out into or out to (not sure of the proper lingo) almost makes it feel like “at home” takes relaxation to another level. The sounds of birds chirping and of course, any water feature (pool) you may add to the formula brings you a sensation of peace. Take a deep breath and let the nagging frustrations from that day at the office just slide right off your shoulders. Sit down on that comfy cushion with some kind of iced cold refreshment on the table beside you and watch the blue jays, chickadees, red-winged black birds (among others) fly from tree to tree. Of course, if you happen to have a bird bath or feeder you will really be in for a treat.</p><table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Halcyon%20Forest%20Trail%20porch.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7245" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Halcyon%20Forest%20Trail%20Pool.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7247" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p class="MsoNormal">Our early spring arrival and wonderful warm temperatures means "pool time" is just around the corner! Imagine enjoying and relaxing around this very inviting pool at <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/7736_HALCYON_FOREST_TR/186291260/index.html" target="_blank"> 7736 Halcyon Forest Trail</a>. With the awesome pool that even includes a slide, extended deck area and cozy covered porch, this classic and beautiful home is awaiting your presence. Complete with blooming azaleas and low maintenance yard, professionally landscaped by Southern Homes & Garden, what more could you ask for to enjoy this special time of year. Five bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths with study are just a small part of the amazing floor plan this home includes. Beautiful hardwood flooring, extensive crown moldings, decorator-style updated kitchen with glazed cabinetry and granite countertops are just a few of the upgraded features in this remarkable home. And don't forget the supreme location of Halcyon Forest...only minutes to shopping, hospital and I-85! Call Alfa Realty agent <a id="a-tiaglenn318"></a> (334)462-1563 today to see this amazing "Spring Beauty!" </p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-03-09:409552012-03-09T17:16:34Z2012-03-09T23:16:40ZTIME CHANGE
<p class="MsoNormal">So, I waited to the last minute (no pun intended) to remind you about the time change this weekend. I went in search of the reason my sleep is interrupted annually. Here is what I found:</p><p class="MsoNormal">During WWII the federal government wanted to conserve energy for war production so they took advantage of the longer summer days by creating Daylight Savings Time. Since then the issue has been knocked around by the states, standardized by Congress, generally reshaped and revamped. Seven years ago, it was changed again to assist with the energy crisis.</p>Matt Rosenberg with About.com said, "Daylight Saving Time is four weeks longer since 2007 due to the passage of the Energy Policy Act in 2005. The Act extended Daylight Saving Time by four weeks from the second Sunday of March to the first Sunday of November, with the hope that it would save 10,000 barrels of oil each day through reduced use of power by businesses during daylight hours. Unfortunately, it is exceedingly difficult to determine energy savings from Daylight Saving Time and based on a variety of factors, it is possible that little or no energy is saved by Daylight Saving Time.”<br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Hm-m-m. </p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, nevertheless, it is currently approaching so remember, Saturday night, CHANGE THE CLOCK BACK AN HOUR.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-03-09:408942012-03-09T00:00:00Z2012-03-08T23:00:17ZWhat to do?
<p>With all the media hype there are people who keep waiting. They are thinking that the housing market is going to suddenly change. They are waiting for a good time to place their house on the market. Would it be better to wait a while and gamble that you will sell for a higher price or sell the house now so you can move on and purchase one of the great deals that exist today? Factor in the extremely low interest rates that are available now and it is a no brainer.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/sales%20analysis-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7212" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />What you need to consider is why you want to sell. Is your commute time to work the equivalent of two hours or more per day out of your life? Are you currently heating, cooling and maintaining an empty nest? Or is the reverse true—you are busting out at the seams with a house that is way too small. Would you like a newer house at a better price with a lower rate?</p><p>All of the motives for moving are excellent savvy ones. If it has been a while since you purchased a home, you need to be aware that selling your home in these economic times is a bit more complicated probably than when you originally bought. Another thing to remember is the longer you wait the more you are sinking into the current house with each monthly payment.</p><p>Talk to an Alfa Realty agent to find out what a probable sales price would be based on the history of like houses in your area and what they have sold for. Ask your agent what you can do to increase the appeal of your home. The next question would be, if you sell, what are your new options.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/nester.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7211" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Alfa Realty agents average around 15 years of experience—you need someone with experience in your area also. Arrange for your Alfa Realty agent to come to your house to prepare a snapshot of what homes similar to yours have recently been selling for and how long they took to sell. This report will also include what your competition is. This is a “competitive market analysis” and is a common agent practice but will be provided at no charge by your Alfa Realty agent.</p><p>Remember, if you put your home on the market for more than market value you run the risk of your home not making through the independent appraisal process if, by chance, you do find a ready, willing, and able buyer.</p><p>Let Alfa Realty educate you on what your options are—everyone has unique motivations and we are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-03-07:408322012-03-07T18:54:15Z2012-03-08T00:54:23ZEasy Cleanup tips
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Clean%20Home%20gloves-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7204" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />When I started to write this blog post I was considering a interesting title. So I came up with Elbow Grease. I went in search of the origin of the phrase found in the American Heritage Dictionary: Strenuous physical labor and effort.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, that got me to thinking…all of the fixes actually do not take a lot of elbow grease by the above definition.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Placing your home on the real estate market to sell requires a little bit of work (unless you are a major neat freak!) Below are five brief tips that will help you get your house into shape for viewing by potential buyers.</p>Clean is the word when it comes to starting out with the right impression. Recently, a friend showed me the secret…microfiber cloths make a hard job quick and easier. I know it may sound a bit crazy and they feel so soft that you may think they will not be able to take care of the cleaning jobs around your house. Don’t be fooled---these cloths handle tough jobs with a minimal amount of moisture. Where you may have used a chemical cleaner and a sponge to scrub, these can complete some jobs with little to no water and leave a shine! They are great for polishing up the chrome on fixtures, cleaning mirrors and taking the dust off of plants whether they are artificial or real. Tile counter tops sparkle when you use these. Wash in the washing machine to reuse. I picked mine up at Costco. Now the secret is out! I better hurry and buy stock.In homes that have painted windows, there is a tendency for windows to stick so-o-o…. First, be sure they are not painted shut. If that is not the issue then here is another simple way to try to fix that issue. Put a little spray lubricant on a rage and rub it on the window tracks. Be sure to spray the rag and not the track as the lubricant may stain your flat painted wall surface if you have overspray.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Chandelier.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7203" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Have you ever walked into somebody else’s home and noticed cobwebs on the chandelier? When you live in a home you normally focus on what is happening in your home underneath the lighting right? A simple way to clean up chandeliers is to use inexpensive cloth gloves. Place glass cleaner on one glove and nothing on the other glove. The glove hand with the glass cleaner cleans and you use the other gloved hand to wipe dry. Throw them in the washing machine for the next time you clean.If you ever used decals in the bottom of a tub here is a quick fix for removal. You will need to use WD-40 and spray each decal and the edges and let it sit for a few minutes. Then use a credit card or edged plastic instrument to scrape the decal of the tub bottom. Do not forget to wash the floor of the tub with a degreasing agent like dish detergent.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/tub%20decals.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7205" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Speaking of tubs, older tubs get stains on them. To remove the stain mix together like-size amounts of cream of tartar and baking soda along with enough of the juice from a lemon to create a paste-like cream. Using your fingers or a soft cloth rub the mixture into the stain and let it sit for approximately 30 minutes then rinse.<p>Talk to your Alfa Realty about things that a prospective buyer for your house may see. Use your Alfa Realty agent’s experience to help ferret out what you can do to help sell your home. We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-22:394352012-02-22T00:00:00Z2012-02-21T23:14:18ZLet me introduce Lisa Lynn
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Lisa%20Lynn%20home%20sold.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7101" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Born and raised here, Lisa Lynn graduated from Auburn Montgomery with a degree in Marketing. After trying a couple of career paths, her dad wanted to build and develop a subdivision so Lisa decided to get into real estate. Unfortunately, Lisa’s dad passed away after beginning the subdivision, so Lisa and her husband decided to complete her Dad’s dream.</p><p class="MsoNormal">With that as a start, Lisa found that she liked working with people and helping them with their dream of homeownership. “I love the look on their faces when we walk in after seeing several homes and they say, ‘This is it!’ and they light up like a light bulb.” She enjoys walking into a potential seller’s home, helping stage it for buyers, finding a buyer and then helping the seller find a new home.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Lisa married her high school sweetheart, Terry, and has two sons and a new daughter-in-law. When she takes a little time off from her real estate career, Lisa and her family likes to go to the beach, deep sea fishing, and going to the lake (I see a pattern here).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Lisa%20Lynn%20Family_800.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7100" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Lisa was awarded the Top Sales Agent award previously and has sold homes in the Tri-County area along with the Gulf Coast. Lisa is an Accredited Buyer Representative and has completed advanced courses including Residential Marketing Master.</p><p>To see a selection of her properties <a href="http://www.lisalynn.net/my_listings.php" target="_blank">click here</a> or <a id="a-lisa844"></a> to set an appointment concerning selling your home and or buying another!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-21:394332012-02-21T17:06:35Z2012-02-21T23:07:46ZKrispy Kreme Changes
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Krispi%20Kreme.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7096" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />For years one of my favorite “stops” along the Atlanta Highway is Krispy Kreme. I do not know about you, but my automobile manufacturer put a “Hot Donuts Now” sensor in my dash board. When that sign is flashing, the turn signal on the steering wheel automatically clicks on and away my car goes to the front of the donut shop before I know it! And to think, some people have a car that automatically parks itself….I did not have to pay an extra fee for my Krispy Kreme feature!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, that being said, I found out from my commercial broker, LeRoy McEntire, that he just brokered the renewal for that Krispy Kreme little-piece-of-heaven.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/LeRoy%20McEntire.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7097" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“Krispy Kreme was founded in the 1930’s in Winston Salem North Carolina, and I was given the enviable task of renewing their ground lease at the corner of Atlanta Hwy and Eastern Blvd in the free standing building in front of Plaza East.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Many people think renewing leases is a perfunctory process about as complicated as renewing your driver’s license. I maintain in today’s real estate world realistic Landlord’s, Shopping Center owner’s, and savvy business people have one important task these days… RETAIN YOUR TENANTS!</p><p class="MsoNormal">The Krispy Kreme in front of Plaza East has been in that location since the 1960’s. It is a rare opportunity in the retail leasing world to actually participate in history during the course of a deal, but in the course of the year long process of getting this deal done I felt as though I had been a part of the history of development along the Atlanta Highway corridor. In fact, I think it is a bit ironic that last week the city of Montgomery hosted a charrette concerning the Atlanta Highway all the way out to the Eastern Boulevard.”</p><p>Did I mention they are adding a drive through—HELLO! So all you folks coming out of <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36109/801_MICHELLE_CT/186288134/index.html" target="_blank"> Carol Villa</a>, <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36109/355_BOWLING_GREEN_DR/186289428/index.html" target="_blank"> College Grove</a>, Fox Hollow and other areas, remember—It will be a lot easier in the future to get a little bite of heaven from Krispy Kreme!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-20:393872012-02-20T17:07:20Z2012-02-20T23:07:33ZHunting for Hunting Land?
<p class="MsoNormal">Looking for that perfect hunting land? What are some good features to consider when going through your search? Well, BANG, here you go….</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Deer%201.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7089" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Consider hunting land that has a water feature of some sort, whether it is a pond, creek or river frontage. Border fencing is of importance along with established food plots for deer and turkey. Also consider the manmade additions, as in gates, fencing, deer stands, lodge etc. These improvements can be added later. Remember, price per acre will be reflective of how hunt-ready the land is. If the land price is low, check to see if it needs to be prepared for hunting (create food plots, work open areas or clear the stream bed, etc.). You may need to weigh the cost to prepare plus the cost of the land against acreage that is already set up for hunting.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Turkey%201.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7090" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Be ready to go over the land so that you know what you are buying. Google has a great feature that shows a satellite view of land that may be of use to you. Of course, if the property is being currently used as hunting land, the owner may be able to give you numbers, size, type of animals that are on the land. The local county extension service or game warden may be of assistance in the research to see if this is the land you are interested. The State of Alabama has multiple <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.al.us/research-mgmt/Landowner/" target="_blank"> resources online</a> to help also.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If the property has a house that could be used for the hunting camp it will need to have a home inspection just to be sure that there are no unforeseen issues. Yes, sometimes the hunt camp house is more along the lines of “roughing it” but you do not need additional expense after the sale. After <img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/DBrewer.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7091" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />all the discussion about the land the house on the land seems to be the least important but again needs inspection before purchasing.</p><p>Best of all, you should use the services of an agent who is a hunter also. Alfa Realty hunter (for land, houses and game), <a id="a-don928"></a> would love to be of assistance in your search for that hunt camp/home away from home.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-11:386352012-02-11T00:00:00Z2012-02-11T01:57:49ZCash Buyers
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/DonnaCox-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7063" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Donna Cox, a Realtor with Alfa Realty, recently closed another home sale with a cash buyer. I asked her about some tips she may have for the readers about purchases of this kind…</p><p>“Many buyers are electing to buy real estate for cash due to dropping home prices, a large inventory of foreclosed and distressed properties, and poor return on other types of investments. Another reason is because mortgage lenders have tightened credit standards which make the loan process more difficult and time consuming than it has been in the past few years.</p><p>Cash buyers can be very attractive to sellers, whether it is an individual, a bank, or mortgage company. This type of buyer usually does not come with contingencies, does not need time to secure traditional financing, and can usually close more quickly.</p><p>The only legal requirement for a cash purchase is to have the necessary verifiable money to purchase the property and close. There are still several important things to consider if you are a cash buyer:</p>Home Inspection – It is a wise decision never to purchase a property without a home inspection.Appraisal – Since no lender is involved, an appraisal is not required; however, having an independent appraisal done is the way to make sure that the purchase price is reasonable.Survey – A survey is always recommended for land, but it is also recommended for an unplatted property.Hazard Insurance – It is always a good idea to have the property insured from the closing date and not put this off.Flood Zone Determination – A lender will always checks on this and so should a cash buyer.Termite Inspection – A termite problem can be a major expense. Termites are definitely an issue in the southern part of the country.Check Previous Water Bills – Check recent water bills to make sure they are not uncharacteristically high. High water bills could signify a leaky or broken pipe.HOA Dues or Condo Fees -Always ask about pending assessments or an expected increase in dues – also check the foreclosure rate, owner/occupancy rate, and the financial stability of the complex or association.Owner’s Title Insurance – This is important for the cash buyer especially when buying a foreclosed or distressed property through a short sale.<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cash%20buyer.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7062" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Do not be insulted if the owner of the house requests written proof of funds at some point during the contract process. This is typical and the seller just wants to be sure that the funds are actually available before taking the house off the market for other potential buyers.”</p><p>If you are considering purchasing a home, call <a id="a-DonnaCox3175943"></a> 334-324-3175. Donna will be glad to work with you whether you are going to finance the home, looking for owner financing or a cash buyer.</p><p>We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-10:386342012-02-10T19:28:13Z2012-02-11T01:32:59ZWynlakes Beauty
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Bent%20Brook%209717.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7058" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Wynlakes is one of the premiere golf course communities in Montgomery, Alabama. Wynlakes was literally “ahead of its time.” Through the vision of Jim Wilson, one of the premiere developers in the South, this beautiful community was established on the then, outskirts of the city of Montgomery. The city has slowly grown toward the subdivision and now has surrounded it with strategically placed shops, grocery stores, and schools. Convenient to I-85, without the noise, you can live in beauty and be 10-25 minutes from the largest employers in the area.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Golf%20Course%20Wynlakes1-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7057" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Rambling through the community are multiple lakes with fountains, gorgeous common areas and the golf course and country club. This championship course covers 200 acres throughout the subdivision along with 14 peaceful scenic lakes.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/TiaGlenn.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7059" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you are considering a golf course community or just a beautiful place to call home then this is it! With homes ranging up to $795,900, the home at <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/9717_BENT_BROOK_DR/186288596/index.html" target="_blank"> 9717 Bent Brook</a> is wonderfully priced! This 3,316 square foot home priced at $384,900 has elegance and comfort all wrapped in one beautiful package. If you love to cook you can entertain your passion and your guests with the big kitchen and ample gathering room. Call Tia Glenn at 334-462-1563 or <a id="a-tiaglenn460"></a> for a personal appointment to view this beautiful home.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-07:383852012-02-07T18:10:30Z2012-02-08T00:30:10ZTops in Training
<p class="MsoNormal">Alfa Realty has made a serious commitment to providing the most comprehensive training resource available to its Realtors. In today’s complex market the typical agent needs a professional source for top shelf training to enable them to more effectively serve the ever changing needs of their clients in the River Region? Through its affiliation with the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World Alfa has been able to deliver dozens of video training topics, certifications and a resource library to its team on 90+ agents. These high impact courses are taught by recognized industry experts and available 24/ 7 through this <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com" target="_blank">internet site</a>.</p><p class="MsoNormal">As an incentive for its Rea<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/CONTEST%20LOGO%20BLACKRED.jpg" id="imgSupplemental7012" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />ltors to aggressively embrace this training tool Alfa Realty is announcing a training contest that will run for six weeks. Every agent will have a chance to win the three day two night vacation weekend to Orange Beach. Each agent will receive an entry into the drawing for every five courses they successfully complete. The winner will be announced at sales meeting on Tuesday, April 10, 2012.</p><p class="MsoNormal">In addition to the online classes, Alfa Realty also offers regular instructor training and guest speakers to address relevant local topics that are of interest to our Realtors.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Last, but not least, is Alfa’s commitment to attract and educate new licensees through its partnership with Fraser Sparkman and the Alabama School of Real Estate. Fraser teaches courses that are required by the Alabama Real Estate commission in order for you to take the test to be able to get a real estate license. He also teaches post licensing and continuing education classes.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Alfa Realty continues to be the leader is real estate education for the Montgomery, Pike Road, Prattville, Millbrook and Wetumpka areas.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-05:381012012-02-05T00:00:00Z2012-02-03T23:20:30ZSchralping the Pow
<p>The other day I was talking to Alfa Realty agent, Ruth Prendergast. We were talking about real estate (of course) and understanding the average buyer or seller…</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Ruth%20Prendergast-6.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6996" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“Throughout our lives we learn many languages, and I don’t mean the typical English, Spanish, Italian. I mean the languages of music, trade, math, work, etc. The other day I was watching a movie, and I had no idea what they were talking about because I don’t know the language of horseracing. I also get really confused when my daughter, who lives in Steamboat Springs, Colorado talks about “shredding the gnar,” or “schralping the pow.” I’m from Montgomery, Alabama; I don’t know the language of snow. I do, however, know the language of real estate.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Schralping%20the%20pow.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6995" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />One of the reasons it is important to use a Realtor when buying or selling a home is because real estate has a difficult and changing language, and it is critical to have someone working for you who understands and can negotiate it. The burgeoning foreclosure market has brought with it an entirely new vocabulary, which we in the real estate industry have had to learn. At Alfa Realty we make it a priority to stay on top of the nuances and linguistic changes in the language of real estate so that we can more effectively serve the public.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">So, as there is no “pow” to “schralp” this week, it would be a great time to look for the home of your dreams…Call Ruth Prendergast 318-1830 to help you in with your search!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-02:380112012-02-02T17:58:22Z2012-02-02T23:58:42ZDon't forget Valentine's Day!
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Valentines%20Day.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6983" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Here is a little tidbit that has just come in from the City of Montgomery. On Valentine’s Day, if you want to be REAL sweet to your Valentine, take him/her downtown to one of the several dining establishments listed below. These eateries will feature a special Valentine menu, white tablecloth dining, and a complimentary rose…</p>DreamlandCantinaThe Alley BarSaza’sCentral @ 129 CoosaThe HouseOlive RoomMontgomery Café at the Embassy Suites<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20ov%20love-6.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6984" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />So plan to dine OUT of the home and enjoy a night on the town—downtown that is! And, if your sweetie offers to buy you a house while you are at dinner—well—remember you heard it here first! We are here to help! Alfa Realty 334-213-2532.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-02-01:379182012-02-01T19:03:30Z2012-02-02T01:03:36ZShed a Little Light
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/garden-lighting-1-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6968" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />So, last night I went home and someone (who shall go nameless) had pulled some solar landscape lighting from the box where we had packed it from the old house. He had taken the four lights and put one in the hanging tomato planter (?), then, placed three within three inches of each other and about five feet from the edge of the patio. Considering that my back yard is about 100 x100, the “cluster” of lights looked like a small iceberg in a sea of black (let’s not even discuss the tomato planter).</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let’s talk about the opportunity of illuminating the casual or not so casual exterior of your home. Given the average temperature of the River Region, you can use outdoor space for a majority of the year. Your patio is like another room of the house. You cook, eat, entertain, and just plain relax there. So why would you not set it up for those wonderful mild evenings that are so prevalent in our area?</p><p><a href="http://www.Gardenlightsguru.com" target="_blank"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Home%20patio%20lighting.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6967" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Garden Guru</a> says, “When you’re trying to come up with great patio lighting ideas you need to first take into account the size of your patio. How many lights will it actually take for the patio to be lit? Also think about what type of mood you want to set and what you are going to be using your patio for. If you’re planning on having romantic dinners the lighting that you’ll want to install will be much different than if you were planning on reading or setting up an outdoor bar. If you are planning on installing a bar, the <a href="http://outdoorbarguide.com/" target="_blank">outdoor bar guide</a> is a great resource for setup and lighting options. Once you’ve decided what level and color of light that you want, you can move on to installing the light fixtures.” They go on to discuss the different types of patio lighting fixtures for your home which include torches, embedded lighting, mounted lights and post lights(my personal fav), wall lights and holiday lighting.</p><p>In my personal search for the covered patio lighting of my home, I found a really cool battery operated (yep battery operated!) chandelier for the patio. Prices for the different sizes that I found ranged from $25.00 up to $90.00. These means no additional wiring etc. and you can make it more formal on a whim!</p><p>There is yet another lighting opportunity for the exterior of your home. I recently stumbled on lighted planters. This is not the typical form of lighting but for houses with formal gardens and large spaces you may consider the planters as another source of light for your entertaining. I found these at <a href="http://certified-lighting.com/garden-lighting.php" target="_blank"> Certified Lighting</a> and thought I would share.</p><p>If you are considering putting your house on the market don’t forget to accent this area so that people do think of it as extension of your home! Check out this home for sale at <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36116/8306_CHADBURN_WAY/186289737/index.html" target="_blank"> 8306 Chadburn Way</a>, listed by Lisa Lynn with Alfa Realty. It has a great covered patio for entertaining!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-30:377732012-01-30T12:17:27Z2012-01-30T18:18:19ZCloverdale Playhouse
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cloverdale%20Playhouse-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6946" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Let’s take a look around and see what is out there to do (and what it is near!)</p><p class="MsoNormal">February 2nd-February 12th The Cloverdale Playhouse -The Gin Game</p><p class="MsoNormal">This is a great play for the small stage. It is completely entertaining with lots of humor and insight.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The Cloverdale Playhouse is located at the corner of Cloverdale Road and E. Fairview Avenue. The actual address for you GPS’ers is 960 Cloverdale Road. <a href="http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for ticket information.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20built%20in%201865-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6945" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The Cloverdale Play house is situated deep in the heart of the Historic Cloverdale District. It is less than a block from several wonderful restaurants. El Rays, Sinclair’s and Jubilee (great seafood!) are just a few of the restaurants you could dine at before the show.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Want to live where you are close to this neat entertainment area? The surrounding area has many opportunities to purchase a home. Houses for sale for investment start at $29,000 and go up to the luxurious home for sale listed at $865,000( a 4800 square foot beauty built in 1865.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Call Alfa Realty for you appointment to check out these great houses!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-28:376042012-01-28T00:00:00Z2012-01-28T00:36:27ZPet Supermarket at Perryhill Place
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Pet%20SuperMarket.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6938" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />I recently ventured over to Pet Supermarket to find a ball that my Australian Shepard couldn’t bite a hole in (I am a dreamer). It is a great store with lots of accessories for our canine, feline, avian, etc. friends. This prompted me to talk to LeRoy McEntire, a commercial broker with Alfa Realty who recently leased this space…</p>“Have you ever noticed no matter how bad the economy or how tough times might be we always take care of our PETS!<br /><br />Just prior to Christmas, Pet Supermarket opened up at Perryhill Place Shopping Center at the corner of Perryhill and Carmichael Road.<br /><br />The interesting thing is PET SUPERMARKET doesn’t sell dogs and cats. In fact, most pet stores these days don’t sell pets… they sell pet accessories. The discretionary income spent on our pets is interesting to me. Frankly, I would consider this expenditure a little on the ridiculous side until I reflect on my own situation. My family currently “houses” four cats (only one was purchase all others are rescue felines), one snake, one lizard, and five horses.<br /><br />At one time we had four dogs, but slowly and sadly all of our old dogs have passed away and I thought thankfully we were out of the dog business. After all, we do have two kids out of the house and we are down to one.<br /><br />My college student daughter bought “herself” a puppy over the summer. I pointed out I didn’t think college dorms allowed puppies. I was curious why she was calling this animal her dog? Two of our cats arrived being rescued by the same daughter, and I don’t even LIKE cats! I have one mammoth gray tabby from Lake Martin, and another fat calico from college. Now don’t get me wrong I like animals, but WC FIELDS used to say anybody who hates dogs and children is not all bad, and I tend to think WC wasn’t half wrong.<br /><br />Let me take a brief aside here… do you know the term PUPPY DOG SALE? I have been taught through the years various sales techniques. The assumptive sale, the close on a negative sale, the hand on the door knob sale… but the strongest sale may be the PUPPY DOG SALE. Imagine a puppy dog salesman convinces a family to take a puppy home for the “weekend for a trail run.” He knows that the kids will forget about the cute little creature by Sunday… but the parent will have fallen in love… Here comes WILLIE.<br /><br />Sure enough I was less then excited when my daughter said she had rescued a pound puppy in Nashville and was bring the dog home… but it was her dog she had even named the puppy RUFUS (a fine name except my only living Uncle has the same name and he likes it himself. Beside imagine calling out RRROOOOFUUSS in the neighborhood).<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dog%20Willie.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6937" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />No, this black and brown prize with a ridiculous curled up tail is a WILLIE. The puppy dog sale worked to perfection. My wife fell completely in love with the dog even though we need another animal like we need tooth decay….and that gets us back to PETSUPER MARKET… Willie’s special puppy food, Willie’s various chew toys (including most of our furniture), Willie’s bed, Willie’s personalized collar… Yep we are living proof that Montgomery NEEDS pet stores!" </p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-27:376012012-01-27T17:45:44Z2012-01-27T23:45:49ZTeachers of the Year
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Quebe%20Bradford.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6933" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Two Montgomery teachers have been announced as receiving an award for Montgomery Public School’s Teachers of the Year. MPS Superintendent Barbara Thompson announced that Quebe Bradford (Jefferson Davis High School) and Clark Waggoner(Vaughn Road Elementary) were the recipients for this award. These two teachers will go on to represent our district in the 2012 Alabama Teacher of the Year Program.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Clark%20Waggoner.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6932" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In talking about these recipients, Superintendent Thompson said, “It takes a special person to be a good teacher and I believe we have a number of talented teachers in our district.” She went on to say, "Mr. Waggoner and Ms. Bradford have demonstrated a unique capacity to bring out the best in their students. They excel at motivating and inspiring students even when barriers to achievement exist. They are committed to professional development because they want to be the best for their students, and serve as a model for their peers. I couldn’t be happier for our nominees. I know they will represent us well.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20in%20Green%20Acres.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6931" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Jefferson Davis High School (Go Volunteers!) is located on Carter Hill Road and is bordered by the subdivisions of <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36111/2412_HERMITAGE_DR/186289604/index.html" target="_blank"> McGhee Estates</a>, Brentwood, and Gay Meadows. Vaughn Road Elementary is located on Vaughn Road and is bordered by Heatherton Heights, <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36106/1905_WORLEY_LN/186283157/index.html" target="_blank"> Green Acres</a>, Young Farm, and <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36106/4555_MIDDLEFORK_RD/186288096/index.html" target="_blank"> Young Place</a>.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-24:373552012-01-24T17:35:43Z2012-01-25T12:46:55ZLet me introduce Becky Breeding
<p>Integrity is a word that describes veteran realtor Becky Breeding! 15 years of practicing real estate in the Tri-County area have earned Becky the trust and respect of her clients.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Becky%20Breeding.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6906" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Becky attended Western Kentucky University where she was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. She and her husband, Joe, have lived throughout the southeast USA. They also spent three years in Manchester, England on a corporate assignment with her husband’s company, Neptune Technologies Group. This assignment afforded Becky the opportunity to travel the United Kingdom and Europe. Working with people from different parts of the world is one of her greatest pleasures! Becky is the proud mother of two grown daughters, Susan and Lauren. Susan and her husband, Josh, are the parents of Becky’s two granddaughters, Kyla, 6, and Meira, 3.</p><p>Becky is a member of Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, and is active in RG3, Realtors Giving God the Glory, a Bible Study for women realtors that meets bi-monthly. She is also active in the city-wide Women’s Prison Ministry. Becky and her husband began serving on the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Team immediately after the Twin Towers were attacked. They spent a week in New York City coordinating the cleaning of apartments that surrounded Ground Zero, and they have been faithfully serving at disaster sites ever since. She has also participated in two church-building trips to Brazil, the most recent one with her daughter, Lauren.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/screen-capture-2-17.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6907" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Becky has served as a member of the Grievance Committee and the Professional Standards Committee of the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors. She is a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), Certified Destination Services Specialist, Certified Marketing Assistance Specialist, and is E-Certified.”</p><p>For a realtor with the experience and integrity you want, call Becky Breeding. <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/BeckyBreeding" target="_blank">Click here</a> for a list of Becky’s listings and contact information.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-19:370562012-01-19T00:00:00Z2012-01-19T22:56:15ZMarco's Pizza
<p class="MsoNormal">Well, here we grow again! <a href="http://www.marcospizza.com/" target="_blank"> Marco’s Pizza</a> has opened its second location in Montgomery!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/photo-4.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6889" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Marco’s first pizza location was opened at Sturbridge Village at the corner of Vaughn Road and Taylor. Jay Love, the owner, is somewhat of a renaissance man having previously owned and operated a chain of Subway Sandwich stores in Montgomery. Given his experience in the restaurant business in the area, it is natural that his first location would take advantage of the busy east Montgomery Sturbridge location.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Sturbridge offers the pickup pizza business from the homes in Sturbridge, Wynlakes, Deer Creek, New Park, and Breckinridge to name a few (not to mention the apartments surrounding the area). In addition to the residential business he receives by locating his first store in east Montgomery at Sturbridge Village, Jay has located his pizza operation in the closest shopping center location to the brand new high school that is under development on the interconnector road between Vaughn and Taylor Roads.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Having “tied down a location in the east” it was natural that Mr. Love would then turn his attention to a location between Montgomery Academy and Trinity, just off the Interstate, at the major north south connector of Perryhill Road at Perryhill Shopping Center. Jay indicated that the Perryhill location has included a lunch buffet station-- so you can stop by on your lunch hour and have plenty of time to enjoy!</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you purchased <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36106/4132_TANDY_DR/186289563/index.html" target="_blank"> this cute patio home</a> just around the corner you could have pizza in five minutes!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-18:369182012-01-18T00:00:00Z2012-01-18T00:36:44ZFor Sale by Owner
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/FSBO%20question.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6883" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Have you ever thought of selling your house FSBO (for sale by owner)? Of course as real estate agents, we like to think that we have all the information (we do have the majority of the listing and selling comparable house data) and can do the best job for you(we are trained in it and licensed). But, I learned a long time ago the best way to explain it is to ask one question, "Would you pick up a hitchhiker?" When someone tries to sell their house by themselves, they never know who they will be letting into the house. Realtors talk to their buyers, spend time with them, and usually find out if they are prequalified or at least headed to the lender.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Would you pick up a hitchhiker?</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-17:369142012-01-17T17:46:24Z2012-01-17T23:46:35ZDon't Sell Your Closet Short
<p class="MsoNormal">If you are thinking of putting your house on the market to sell, one of the big ways to get your house ready is to organize your closet. Ok, I know--What are people looking in my closet for?! Because, hopefully, it will be their closet and when they look, they need to see it organized to show off the maximum amount of room. So here are a few tips to use:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20organized%20closet-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6879" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />First, clear you closet of clothes that you can’t/don’t/won’t wear anymore. Many of us think that “I will save that pair of pants for when I lose a few pounds (some save them till they come back in style! Uh-oh)." Go ahead and purge your closet of these items—you will be amazed that you don’t miss them at all!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Second, some people sort their hanging clothes by color while others sort by the articles of clothing. For instance, all shirts, all jackets, all skirts, all pants and all suits, etc. Your will be amazed that what a difference this one makes.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Third, if you keep the box that your shoes came in, put at label on the end with a color and description of what is inside. Use the same style label on each box so that there is uniformity in the process. The other thing that you can do is purchase the clear plastic shoe boxes so you can see what is inside.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you are not going to box them then invest in a rack. Whether it is over the back of the door or placed in a convenient spot that is left over under the shorter items that are hung on the bar.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Fourth and last, but not least, remember the item that your clothes are hung on. The industry has flooded the market with color coordinated non-slip hangers that are relatively inexpensive. They are great for your hanging items but due to the fabric construction, they keep the delicate fabrics, camisoles, and the ever elusive scarves off the floor.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/43%20Waters%20View%20Drive.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6880" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />California Closets are a wonderful addition to any home. Just by the design, the organization of the closet is an easy setup. Check out this <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/PIKE_ROAD/36064/43_WATERS_VIEW_DR/186284893/index.html" target="_blank"> listing in The Waters</a> that has these wonderful closets.</p><p class="MsoNormal">When you are selling your home, don’t forget to take the time to organize the smallest room in the house too!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-17:365942012-01-17T00:00:00Z2012-01-13T18:40:22ZThank you Chad!
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Emerson%20Chad.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6855" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Recently, Chad Emerson, Director of the Development Department for the City of Montgomery, spoke to the agents here at Alfa Realty. The agents in this office have houses to sell in Montgomery and work with buyers who want to buy houses that are for sale in Montgomery and the surrounding area. Chad talked to them about the different areas of focus that the city is currently working on. All of those areas will be discussed over a series of blog posts. Some of the ones that he highlighted were the Maxwell Gunter, Capitol Heights area, West Fairview, and Oak Park/ Centennial Hill, among others.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The city has a developmental process where it discusses its intent with citizens and other people of interest. It announces a series of planning meetings which are called charrettes. To put it simply, a charrette is a planning session to collaborate on creating a vision for a possible development or revitalization. One of the upcoming charrettes is for section of the Atlanta Highway which will be held February 9-12th. These meetings are held at the Development Office located in the building recently renamed as 1 Dexter Plaza. This particular office looks out onto the Court Square Fountain side of that building.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Montgomery%20project.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6856" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There should be a future charrette that will discuss the area around Crampton Bowl with the new sports complex, The Armory, Patterson Field, and Capitol Heights. The Capitol Heights area has significant historical residential value being one of the first true subdivisions here in the city. There is so much opportunity for this area. When I find out the date for that charrette I will post it on this blog.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Alfa Realty and its agents, through these meetings and other educational endeavors, try to stay on top of what can affect the sale of your home or the purchase of your next home. We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-16:365182012-01-16T00:00:00Z2012-01-12T21:41:06ZLet me introduce, Norman Schlemmer
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/NormanS.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6843" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Norman Schlemmer was born in Victoria, Texas to a lieutenant in the United States Air Force. After a short stay in Texas and Birmingham, Alabama, his family moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where his father worked as an engineer for NASA during the heyday of space exploration. During those years he concentrated his activities around playing high school basketball and participating in the Boy Scouts where he earned the Eagle Scout award. After graduating from high school it was off to Auburn University, where he was actively involved in Campus Crusade for Christ. It was during the summer before his senior year that he met his future wife, Rhonda Stricklin.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Upon graduating, with a degree in English, Norman moved to Birmingham, Alabama and began a career in the mortgage business and later, as a broker for a new home construction company. During his ten years in Birmingham, he married Rhonda and saw the birth of his first three children. In 1987 he and his family moved south to Montgomery to accept a position as broker for Alfa Realty (and still is). In the ensuing years, he has become known as one of Montgomery’s top <img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/SchlemmersWeddingPic.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6844" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />producers as his family grew from three children (a respectable size family by most accounts) to eleven children. The question he has been asked over and over is “do you know what causes that?” Having finally figured out the answer, he is now working on grandchildren (number eight is on the way).</p><p class="MsoNormal">Other than his passion for family and faith, Norman loves helping his fellow Realtors at Alfa Realty. He is constantly looking for new and better opportunities to insure the success of his agents as they serve their clients in the River Region. That may help explain why Alfa Realty is consistently ranked as the number one company in the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors with services that include existing home sales, new home development and sales, land and acreage sales, relocation and corporate services and commercial sales.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-15:363432012-01-15T00:00:00Z2012-01-26T23:49:29ZLet me introduce, Sherri Gleaves
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Sherri%20Gleaves.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6828" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Sherri Gleaves chose Real Estate as a career because she loves helping people make their dreams of owning a home come true. Showing homes to prospective buyers and searching for the right property for each individual's needs are two aspects she really enjoys. She also loves helping sellers get the best possible price for their home and works hard to bring success to them.</p><p>As someone who has moved many times in her life, Sherri knows the stresses and challenges involved in the entire process and she enjoys making the transition smooth for her clients. Sherri considers herself a "people person" and believes that her enthusiastic personality lends itself to the success she’s enjoyed in this business.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Sherri%20Gleaves%20and%20Quilt.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6827" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Sherri is also an award-winning quilt-maker, whose quilts have been seen at the International Quilt Festival in Houston, TX and other quilt shows. She also sings alto with the Montgomery Chorale. Born in Alabama, she attended Faulkner University and knows the city of Montgomery well. Let her help you realize your real estate dreams, whatever they may be!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Her clients want you to know…..</p>"You represented me with integrity and honesty. I am thrilled to own this property, and so pleased it was done with you in the lead. Thank you." --Nelda Lee Sturgeon"She listened to our needs.... Regardless of the price range of properties, we would recommend Sherri as a capable, honest real estate agent—and a true delight with whom to work.” --Cordially, Dr. Jim and Pat Jackson<p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-14:363412012-01-14T00:00:00Z2012-01-10T16:31:39ZWetumpka Crater Tours
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Meteor.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6824" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In a past blog post, we talked about a meteor crater that is part of the City of Wetumpka. In preparing to write this blog I wanted to get the facts straight. A meteor is the streak of light or “falling stars” that we see when it hits our atmosphere and burns up. A meteoroid is the interplanetary debris of the meteor that does not make to earth. If it does make it to earth then it will be called a meteorite. I give you all this wonderful information (from the Hubble website) because it more than likely was a meteorite due of the size of the crater. People who are much, much, smarter than me will be conducting lectures and tours around the site of the meteor crater.</p><p>Dr. David King, who is a Professor of Geology, at Auburn University confirmed the discovery of the crater in 1998. When the meteorite struck (85 million-ish years ago) there appears to have been a small sea in that location so it is considered to be a marine impact crater. Each year the Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission and the City of Wetumpka sponsors lectures and tours. This year, Dr. King will give lectures and tours, February 2nd through the 4th. The lecture and tour that is on Friday, February 3rd will be open for schools and Saturday, February 4th will be open to the public.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Meteor%20Crater.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6823" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Call Tiffany Robinson with the City of Wetumpka at 567-5147 to make your reservation for the tours.</p><p>There are numerous subdivisions in and around the crater site. There are homes for sale in Wetumpka from $36,000 up to a $1,975,000 lake property.</p><p>If you are interested in buying a home for sale in Wetumpka, please call us! We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-13:363402012-01-13T00:00:00Z2012-01-10T16:26:12ZLet me introduce, Bill Ashley
<p>Bill is a native of Montgomery from a family long associated with the real estate and insurance business. His uncles, John and Albert Ashley, both had been presidents of the Montgomery Area Association of Realtors. Bill was the 1999 President. He currently serves on the Board of Directors and is active in several committees.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Bill has over 30 years in the real estate business. He is currently the broker of the Prattville office of Alfa realty, a position he has held for over 15 years. He holds many national designations: Graduate of Realtor Institute (GRI), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Certified Broker Manager (CRB), and Accredited Buyer Agent (ABR).</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/BillAshley.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6822" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />A 1975 graduate of Auburn University, where Bill was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. At Auburn he met his wife of over 35 years, Mary Peerson Ashley. They have two children, Mrs. Margaret Bridges of Vestavia Hills and William Ashley, III, who is an attorney in Montgomery. Bill has been blessed with two grandchildren, Haines and Sarah Bridges.</p><p class="MsoNormal">A member of the Montgomery Kiwanis Club for over 18 years, he also serves on the Board of Directors of The Alabama National Fair. The Fair is the major fund raising event of the club.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Bill is a long time member of First United Methodist Church where he is currently on the Administrative Board. Bill also is a weekly volunteer with the television broadcast and web cast of the church’s 11:00 service on WSFA.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Bill recently expanded his knowledge of real estate by attaining his <a href="http://images.propopoly.com/document/203K%20Specialist%20Certification%20Bill%20Ashley.pptx" id="aSupplemental6821" target="_blank">203K Specialist Certification</a>. If you are considering purchasing a home that may need this type of financing, be sure to <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/BillAshley" target="_blank">give Bill a call</a>.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-12:362322012-01-12T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T04:19:21ZLet Me Introduce, Calix Vilme
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/CalixVilme.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6810" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Since 2004, Calix has been serving customers from all over United States. Calix started his career in real estate as a sales associate and today is an Associate Broker. Why is this important? Real estate transactions can become complicated and frustrating. He knows the market and understands the many steps involved while keeping things as simple as possible. His years as a multi-million dollar producer, along with a deep understanding of the market and procedures, will be helpful to anyone seeking to sell or purchase property. Calix’s goal is to always find you the best home for your money.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Calix says, “Our customers at Alfa Realty become our friends and we take great pleasure in providing the very best of service to them.” That is why Alfa Realty is ranked the number one real estate company in home sales in the River region area which includes Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, Lowndes, and Macon Counties.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Hornet%20symbol-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6811" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />As a resident of Montgomery, Alabama, he is very familiar with the schools (attended ASU), service, and business in the state, as well as the social and recreational establishments. Nothing gives him more enjoyment than helping the customer have a satisfying and successful real estate transaction. Calix says, "My parents taught me that the harder you work, the luckier you will get."</p><p class="MsoNormal">By the way, he speaks English, Creole and French and is also a Foreclosure and Short Sale specialist.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Calix looks forward to meeting and serving you. Buying or selling "KEEP IT SIMPLE!”</p><p class="MsoNormal">For a list of <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/CalixVilme/Listings" target="_blank"> Calix’s listings</a> click here. Check out Calix on Facebook—he would love to “hear” from you.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-11:362312012-01-11T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T04:15:31ZJo Glenn New Montgomery Area Association of Realtors President
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Jo%20Glenn.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6807" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The Montgomery Area Association of Realtors® has recently installed Jo Glenn as the incoming President of the association. Jo Glenn is the Broker of the Alfa Realty River Regions Commercial Sales office in Wetumpka, Alabama, and has been in the real estate business for the last eleven years. Jo brings a lot to the table when it comes to leadership and sound business thinking. Jo has owned and run a very successful laundry business for years in Elmore County and is a former two term Mayor for the City of Wetumpka. Jo chose not to run for Mayor the last term so she could devote her time exclusively to her real estate business. While Mayor, she was instrumental in bringing new business to the area and left the City of Wetumpka on very sound ground financially. Jo Glenn is very personable. She has strong political connections to the surrounding city governments of Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. This is important when it comes to making important association decisions regarding real estate in the River Region Area.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Click here to check out the <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/JoGlenn/Listings" target="_blank">current listings</a> that Jo has to offer and check back as she is always listing and selling these properties. We are certainly proud to have Jo Glenn as our new President and on board at Alfa Realty!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-10:362302012-01-10T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T04:11:02ZLet Me Introduce Ruth Prendergast
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dog%20House.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6802" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ruth Whitesell Prendergast is a Montgomery native who has replaced her two grown children with four bad dogs and a cat. She and her husband now spend their free time vacuuming animal hair, refereeing dog fights, and supporting their local vet.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Ruth%20Prendergast-5.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6803" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ruth entered the real estate field after her children left home. Her mother, however, was a long time Montgomery realtor so she feels as if she has been selling real estate her whole life. Ruth’s real estate philosophy is simple: Don’t buy it unless you love it. Ruth feels that finding a house is like finding a spouse…when you find the right one, you’ll know it. Her favorite part of real estate is this match-making process. She loves watching people “fall in love” with a house she has found for them.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dogs%20Need%20Love%20and%20Attention-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6804" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />With 2,805 active listings in the River Region, it isn’t always easy to zero in on “the” house, but Ruth is committed to finding you the right one. Don’t just settle. Call Ruth and she will put you and your dogs in the house of your dreams.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-09:362282012-01-09T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T03:53:07ZGood News for Home Sales
<p>NAR has just announced the most recent index figure last week referencing homes under contract that are slated to close. The figure shows that for two months in a row that number is going up. The better part of that announcement is that the index number has now broken 100. The reason this number is important is that since housing sales took such a huge negative turn, the only time the index reached this was when the home owner tax credit was in effect. This shows that the housing market heading toward a recovery on its own without any outside stimulus in play.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">According to NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, the indicators in several areas are heading upward. Another key indicator, besides home sales, is housing starts which are up also and prices are stabilizing in a lot of markets and up in others. If there are declines in other areas they are not big ones. As a broader picture the U.S. economic signs are more positive which includes the jobs number. For more information click here for the <a href="http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1785312249?bclid=1740033302&bctid=1349318834001" target="_blank"> video</a> from Realtor TV.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-09:362802012-01-09T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T19:54:56ZTax and Home Purchase
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Tax%20piggy.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6815" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />How does buying a home affect my taxes?…. One of the advantages to purchasing a home is that it can have positive income tax parameters. If this will be your own personal residence and you are placing a mortgage on the home, when you pay your monthly mortgage payment there is a large percentage of it that goes towards the interest rate. This is on a sliding scale zeroing this out at the end of your full mortgage term. 100% of your mortgage interest that you pay each year should be deductible on your taxes. At the beginning of each year your mortgage banker should send you a letter telling you the precise amount that you paid in interest. (This is usually available online also.)</p><p>Depending on the negotiations for your home, there's a chance that there will be a certain amount that is paid in advance. When you sit down with your lender to go over your costs they should be able to tell you how much interest you will be paying in advance. At every closing, each party to the transaction gets a copy of the Housing and Urban Development(HUD) settlement statement. You should be able to find out how much you advanced to the lender (if any) at the closing table also.</p><p>There may be other deductions connected to your home purchase that would be available to you. These deductions depend on your personal situation and things that were negotiated to make the deal work.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Tax%20preparer.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6816" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />To be sure, you should use a tax professional to help you figure out what deductions apply to you the first year that you own this home. A tax professional can give you an idea of what records should keep in regards to the house and repairs and use of it.</p><p>Even though there is some expense to using as a tax professional they can explain to you what your new deductions are and how things in the future could be deductible surrounding your house.</p><p>Be sure to use a tax preparer that is local and experienced. When it comes time to file your income taxes you will probably be happy you did. <a href="http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p530.pdf" target="_blank">Click here</a> to check out the information that the IRS has available for new home owners.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-07:362272012-01-07T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T03:20:31ZNew Year--Best Time to Buy a Home
<p>It’s a new year and many first-time homebuyers made a resolution to stop throwing away money on rent. The decision to step into the elite group of homeowners is an exciting and positive step. As you begin your search, you will help your Alfa Realty buyer’s agent and yourself if you go ahead and erase any preconceived notions or rumors that are “out there” about the buying process. Here are a few:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6791" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“My new house has to have a greatroom that is 20x15“or “I have to have my child in a specific school zone,” etc. Do your own research or verification as it is important to you. School zones change and list agents in the River Region rarely quote room measurements so bring a tape measure when you go looking for houses. Call the specific County Board of Education to verify if a house is in your required school zone. Information entered in MLS is not always correct so if it is an important issue be sure to check on it.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I am on a search to find the “perfect home..." Do not walk into a house thinking that all things on your wish list have to be in that house. If your wish list has eight items and that house has all but one of those it may be a keeper. Make a reasonable list of “must haves” and “would likes” and tell your agent which would be a “deal breaker.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">My Lender says I can afford $XXX, XXX…..Be realistic in your purchase price. If the mortgage company or bank loan office gives you a dollar amount maximum remember it is a maximum. Ask what that payment per month would be and per thousand dollar of purchase price how does that increase your monthly payment—in these times, people probably should back off to an amount that they are comfortable with and see what that will buy them. I always say, ”Having a new house is great but you may not want to sit in it ALL the time." You will want the payments to allow you to enjoy your house AND your life. Remember, we all would like to have a brand new house with 4,000 square feet, new everything, etc. for $50,000 but that is probably not a realistic thought process. If you start too far below the amount quoted by the lender you may not like what you see—talk to your agent about what you are seeing , liking, or not liking—they will do their best to find it if it is available.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Unsure%20of%20process.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6792" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Well, they accepted my offer without haggling over it—I must have offered too much… Seasoned real estate agents recognize these comments as “buyer’s remorse.” Remember you and your agent discussed the price, or should have, before submitting it to the seller. Quite often we do not know the reason the house is on the market so if they accept your offer it could be that it fit their parameters to sell (and in the current economy probably their time frame). Do not second- guess yourself.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Settle down and enjoy the ride—this is going to be fun! Call Alfa Realty to help you in your search for your first, second, third and beyond home to purchase. We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-07:362292012-01-07T00:00:00Z2012-01-09T04:05:06ZFresh Market Freshens Up Their Location By Going INSIDE the Bypass
<p class="MsoNormal">I was talking to LeRoy McEntire, Alfa Realty’s Commercial Broker the other day and asked him about one of my FAVORITE places to shop for groceries—Fresh Market. I figured he would be enjoying the new location as I thought he lived INSIDE the bypass…This is an excerpt of that conversation where Leroy let the “cat out of the bag,” so to speak:</p><p class="MsoNormal">“Okay I have a deep dark secret to divulge… I live in Pike Road.” said McEntire.</p><p class="MsoNormal">"To several of my friends admitting that I live 'outside the by-pass,' is the beginning of fighting words. People who think I am supporting the creation of a city to the detriment of the CITY of MONTGOMERY aren’t married to someone with four horses. I’ve lived 'outside the by-pass' long before Eastchase, Wynlakes, Sturbridge, Chantilly, or even the by-pass of the by-pass were on the drawing boards."</p><p class="MsoNormal">When it comes to retail commercial leasing in Montgomery with my association with Eastchase, Sturbridge, and Chantilly I have a rather EASTERN outlook on retail. So the Fresh Market Perryhill Place grand opening has been a refresher course on Montgomery retail demographics.</p><p class="MsoNormal">FRESH MARKET had an unbelievable grand opening…. INSIDE THE BY PASS! Perryhill Shopping center was originally developed with a Delchamps Grocery Store. After Delchamps sold to Jitney Jungle (for about two days) Bruno’s bought the Delchamps lease and opened a wonderful Bruno grocery store. Perryhill Place was 100% leased with a Rite Aid, Movie Gallery, and Chappy’s as the anchors. In fact, Bruno’s, Movie Gallery, and Chappy’s had their number one stores in the market at Perryhill Place.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The plight of Bruno’s, Bi Lo, Ahold, Southern Markets, and Lone Star Funds is well documented. Unfortunately, for the owners of Perryhill the demise of Bruno was timed, unfortunately, just as Publix was opening at Zelda Place and Walmart was opening at Midtown. At the same time Movie Gallery filed chapter 11, Rite Aid closes, and the occupancy level of Perryhill takes a dive inside the by-pass.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Enter Fresh Market. Apparently when Fresh Market first surveyed Montgomery they wanted to be perfectly positioned midway between Wynlakes and Montgomery Country Club. They accomplished that feat, but a significant number of grocery buyers just didn’t want to shop "all the way out there?”</p><p class="MsoNormal">"I have another admission to make," McEntire continued, "My son attends Montgomery Academy… so even though I am an “Eastern” my world for the last twenty-something years has revolved around the Perryhill I-85 exit to the Ann street I-85 exit. This is an interesting area of influence forming a circle around the two Montgomery Academy campuses including Perry hill Place, Zelda Place, and Westminster shopping center. I have many friends and relatives who live in an area bounded by Huntingdon College to the West, I-85 to the north, McGhee Road to the south, and the Eastern Blvd to the East. These folks love their neighborhoods, and are quite happy to shop 'their stores.'</p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, I have been practically a daily shopper at Fresh Market after dropping by MA in the morning or the evening for the carpool line. My faith in the retail market INSIDE the BY PASS has been renewed. The sales people report to me sales volumes doubling their previous location, and most surprisingly their Grand Opening sales have out distanced same day Fresh Market new store openings outside Chicago and on South Beach (Miami)! Okay so there may be a few more things to do in South Beach than Montgomery, and Chicago is mighty cold in the winter…. But Montgomery certainly got the Fresh Market Greensboro home office’s attention.</p><p class="MsoNormal">My eighty-five year old momma once told me she was NOT going to drive half way to Auburn to shop for anything. She has yet to eat at BONEFISH! That’s okay, Eastchase is doing quite nicely without her business, but the manager of Fresh market who had also managed the Twin Oaks store told me a ton of new customers had “discovered” the new and improved Perryhill Place Fresh Market.</p><p class="MsoNormal">From a retail commercial brokerage basis Alfa Properties definitely sees these distinct retail segments in the Montgomery retail market. Sturbridge Village at Vaughn and Taylor, and Westminster Shopping Center at Vaughn and Carterhill serve two distinct and unique customers. There is a reason Starbucks is at Eastchase and Zelda. Chappy’s Deli has figured out the business at Perryhill Place and at Peppertree. There is a reason Publix is a Zelda and Cornerstone… Fresh Market moved off Vaughn and Eastern by-pass and they are doing great business at Perryhill Place shopping Center INSIDE THE BYPASS.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://images.propopoly.com/document/Fresh%20Market%20Opening%20Video.wmv" id="aSupplemental6799" target="_blank">Click here</a> to check out the grand opening announcement from WSFA Channel 12.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-06:358512012-01-06T00:00:00Z2012-01-03T23:55:18ZLet me introduce, Donna Cox
<p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p>Alfa Realty lists and sells homes throughout the River Region. Because we cover such a wide area of Alabama, we have multiple offices to service homebuyers and sellers. One of our offices covers the Lakes, Jordan and Martin, but the agents in that brokerage also list and sell in all River Region counties. Today I am going to introduce you to one of the Realtors from the Alfa Realty Lake Martin office, Donna Cox. I asked Donna to give me a little information about herself and her motivation in the real estate business:</p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/DonnaCox.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6761" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“My life has been one great adventure after the other. I was born in Greenville, South Carolina the daughter of a career Air Force dad. We lived in all areas of the United States. To date, I have been in 48 out of 50 states. I will say that every area of this great country has its own uniqueness, beauty, and wonderful people. We may all have our different way of speaking and ways of saying things, but no matter where I went, people were still the same. They loved their families, country and God. </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">My family has now grown to my wonderful two children, three grandchildren, and three stepchildren that have brought real joy to my life. My husband, Eddie, has been very supportive of my career and is my greatest cheerleader and motivator. </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">My first venture into the real estate business was as a commercial property manager. I enjoyed doing that, but in 2007 decided to get into residential sales and that became my passion. I have never looked back. I truly love what I am doing and look forward to each day because no two days are the same. </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">I love helping people <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/TALLASSEE/36078/5376_CHEROKEE_TRL/186285038/index.html" target="_blank"> sell their home</a> or buy a home. First time homebuyers are always such a blessing because everything is new to them and they go through it looking to you to help them through the process. What a joy that is! Each client I meet teaches me something new about life, and I cherish each and every one of them. I have made wonderful lifelong friends throughout the years.</p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">I am constantly taking classes to keep up with current trends and to gain as much knowledge in my field as I possibly can. My goal is to make the house selling/buying process go as smoothly as possible for my clients.</p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">I take great pleasure in coming up with the perfect marketing plan for each client and am always trying to think out of the box and set myself apart from all the other Realtors in the area. I want my clients to be clients for life, and the greatest testament to my success is when a former or current client refers a friend or family member to me!” </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;">Call Donna Cox to list your home to sell or help you find a home to buy or both! Here is a sample list of the <img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cherokee%20Trail.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6762" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />houses Donna currently has for sale: </p><p class="MsoSubtitle" style="text-align: left;"> </p><a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36107/2409_POPLAR_ST/186286797/index.html" target="_blank">2409 Poplar St.</a><a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36109/801_MICHELLE_CT/186288134/index.html" target="_blank">801 Michelle Ct.</a><a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36109/3720_PELZER_AVE/186286332/index.html" target="_blank">3720 Pelzer Ave.</a><a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/944_COUNTRYSIDE_LN/186286442/index.html" target="_blank">944 Countryside Ln.</a><a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/TALLASSEE/36078/5376_CHEROKEE_TRL/186285038/index.html" target="_blank">5376 Cherokee Trail</a><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-05:360022012-01-05T14:29:08Z2012-01-05T20:08:29ZLet me Introduce, Kathryn Jones
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Kathryn%20Jones-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6779" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></p><p>Born in Mobile, Alabama, Kathryn Jones moved to Montgomery as a young child. Kathryn has one brother and a married nephew with 2 small children so she is always on the lookout for “baby stuff.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">Kathryn went to school in Montgomery through high school and then attended merchandising, design and finishing school in Atlanta, Georgia. With lots of experience in real estate, Kathryn enjoys working with people and marketing and <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/7113_MITYLENE_FOREST_TRL/186283386/index.html" target="_blank"> selling of their homes</a>. One of her favorite things about the business is that she gets to meet all kinds of interesting people. Being a dog and cat person (though she does not have any of her own), she carries pet food in her car just in case she sees one that needs a treat!</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dog%20and%20cat-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6778" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Speaking of treats—Kathryn loves to bake brownies and cookies for her co-workers at the Alfa Realty office. (And Kathryn, we certainly appreciate it! Yum! )</p><p class="MsoNormal">Traveling is one of Kathryn’s passions. She has been to England, Rome, Florence, Paris, Egypt, Israel, Greece and Mexico. Kathryn is taking another trip in January—a trip down the aisle! Kathryn reports that there is no room for retiring “yet”! With her marriage in January she will have a “house divided”….Roll Tide and War Eagle!</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal">Call Kathryn at 334-224-9199 if you are looking to buy or sell your home. <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/agents/KathrynJones" target="_blank">Click here</a> to see Kathryn’s homes that she has listed for sale. She would love to work with you on these or any other homes you may be interested in.</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal">Best wishes Kathryn!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-04:353702012-01-04T00:00:00Z2011-12-30T01:23:43ZTom Clark
<p>Over the next few months we are going to introduce you to some of our agents and staff. We are very proud of these folks and think you should get to know them:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Tom%20Clark.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6742" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Tom Clark is the son of a Naval Officer. He was born in San Diego in 1941 and has lived all over the United States while growing up. He attended Auburn University, graduated in 1963 with a BS in Business Administration. He was also commissioned an Ensign US Navy and married college sweetheart, Jan, in August 1963. Tom served on Atlantic ships and was at the NAS Jacksonville until 1967. Tom retired as a Commander USN. He joined his retired father in Montgomery, Alabama in the Real Estate and Homebuilding business.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Tom was licensed a Real Estate Broker in 1967 and served as President of the Greater Montgomery Homebuilders Association in 1978. He operated his own real estate company while building homes and developing subdivisions in the River Region area. Retiring from private business around 2000, he associated with Alfa Realty, Wetumpka office. His hobbies are his Orchard and hunting. Tom has lived in Elmore County on Lake Jordan for 40 years. Tom loves selling Elmore County and the Lake—why not let him help you?</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/356%20Rays%20Cove.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6741" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Check out Tom’s listing at Lake Jordan at <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36092/356_RAYS_COVE/186287324/index.html" target="_blank"> 356 Ray Cove</a>. He will be glad to set an appointment for you to look at this beautiful lake property and any others you may be interested in.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-03:353692012-01-03T00:00:00Z2011-12-30T01:07:58ZThe Green Bottle Store
<p>A national merchant once told me, “Landlords would lease to a green bottle store just to keep up with the current retail fad.”</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/LeRoy%20McEntire.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6737" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />I recently sat down with LeRoy McEntire, Alfa Realty’s commercial broker, to discuss a retailer that I would love to have in our area. The following is an excerpt from that conversation:</p><p>Montgomery, Alabama is blessed with a diversity of citizens and a variety of retail ideas. One of the greatest challenges, and interesting parts of the commercial retail brokerage business is meeting people and hearing their ideas for stores.</p><p>Montgomery is a creative city with all manner of folks who have brought ideas for shopping centers from other markets into our city. Alfa Properties just had a grand opening with GiGi’s Cup Cakes at Sturbridge Shopping Village, and that unique operation is based in Nashville with operators coming from Auburn.</p><p>Recently, I received an inquiry from a computer engineer who wants to open a coffee and computer bar. Another young man has dreams of putting his mom in the Cajun food business. A local business owner is interested in opening a western wear shop, and a Texas couple wants to open a donut shop? A recent college graduate created a long term business plan to open a learning center franchise that has been in business for fifty years. A woman once told me she was interested in opening a water bed store that also sold women’s apparel? (Hmmm on that one!)</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/MACC_Member_logo_WEB_800.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6738" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Being the salesman, leasing representative, owner’s agent, and gate keeper for four highly successful shopping centers in Montgomery sometimes places me in the awkward but interesting position of “pulling for the little guy.”</p><p>Landlord’s love to lease space to triple A rated national retailers with hundreds of locations. Most of small tenants in strip shopping centers in Montgomery are actually local tenants. Selling a Landlord on a local “startup” tenant is often a challenge, but can be a good deal for all. Local tenants often are as strong as national tenants. In fact, in Westminster Shopping Center KUT ABOVE has been in the shopping center over thirty five years!</p><p>I hear myself everyday going through a mental check list of questions that shopping center owners want answered right away when evaluating a prospect. For instance:</p>Do you currently operate a store?How long have you been in the business?What kind of volume are you doing now? What type of volume do you project?How many square feet do you need?Who is your banker?Who is going to guarantee the lease?<p>Now is a great time to start a business in a shopping center in Montgomery. Here is some helpful advice: If you don’t have a clear answer to any one of these questions you might want to do some business planning. There are retail vacancies with favorable rental terms, but landlords want a track record of success for the retail use… or a clear business plan with sweat equity backing up the concept.</p><p>People who are new to the retail business have a great source of information and guidance with the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce <a href="http://www.montgomerychamber.com/page.aspx?pid=465" target="_blank">Small Business Resource</a> Center. The Resource Center helps with the baby steps of the entire process</p><p>Here are the centers and their location that have leasing space available:</p>Westport Shopping Center is at the intersection of Highway 31 and US 80 anchored by a Winn Dixie shopping center a mile from the airport. Vista View is a couple of blocks north of the Alabama Department of Transportation near the Zoo and right at the intersection of Coliseum Boulevard and the Northern By Pass anchored by Winn Dixie. Westminster Shopping Center is at the intersection of Carter Hill and Carter Hill, Vaughn, and Zelda a block from Montgomery Academy. Sturbridge Shopping Village is at the intersection of Vaughn and Taylor anchored by Rite Aid and Winn Dixie.<p>If you are thinking of opening a retail, service, or office operation in a strip shopping center in Montgomery, Alabama, LeRoy would love to talk to you.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2012-01-02:353642012-01-02T00:00:00Z2011-12-30T00:29:39ZWhat Makes for a Good Neighborhood?
<p>If you are in the market for a new home in Montgomery there are certainly many good communities to consider. Perhaps one neighborhood that has escaped your attention is Copperfield. This neighborhood offers location that is hard to beat and a price range that makes owning a home even more attractive than renting. Copperfield is conveniently located off of Taylor Road between Interstate I-85 and Atlanta Highway allowing for easy access to downtown Montgomery, shopping at The Shoppes at East Chase or Eastdale Mall. If it's education you are looking for, then Auburn University at Montgomery is literally just up the street. Did I mention that Baptist East and the One Day Surgical center along with numerous medical offices are across the street? What is there not to like about such a commu<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/7153%20Breckenridge.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6729" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />nity?</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you are in the market for a home in Copperfield then <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/7153_BRECKENRIDGE_DR/186289307/index.html" target="_blank"> 7153 Breckenridge</a> would be a perfect fit. This three bedroom two bath home features many attractive amenities including a circular driveway, a covered front porch, a raised wood deck, a privacy fence and a separate custom built wired workshop. The interior of this home features new upgraded tile floors, a huge great room, refurbished kitchen cabinets and a spacious master bedroom.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Don’t procrastinate this New Year. Invest in a home today while prices are affordable and interest rates are at historical lows.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-31:353652011-12-31T00:00:00Z2011-12-30T00:38:19ZTake a Stroll at Vaughn Park
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Lady%20in%20the%20Park.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6732" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In the old days, a lot of social interaction took place when ladies and their parasols took strolls in the park. In those days it was more to see and be seen than actually getting any exercise. That has all changed! The park is a great place to catch a glimpse as someone jogs by or you might catch them while they are stretching before their run.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Park%20Jogger-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6733" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Some of the nicer parks have playgrounds like the one at Vaughn Road. When I use to live near there, I would do my walking at this park in the summer at night—I have walked there as late as 10:00 p.m. when I had a walking partner. A slight incline gives a little more challenge than a few of the parks in the area. Good parking helps when you are trying to get someone out of the car to take advantage of the playground amenities.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20in%20Vaughn%20Meadows.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6734" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Vaughn Meadows is the subdivision that is immediately adjacent to this park. This subdivision is bordered by Vaughn Road and parts of Carter Hill Road. Adjacent subdivisions are Brentwood and Green Acres. <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36106/2231_VAUGHN_LN/186279842/index.html" target="_blank">Houses</a> in this big subdivision area range from as little at $65,000 up to $439,000. This is less than a mile to Montgomery Academy on Vaughn Road and the primary school on Perry Hill. The new Fresh Market is across the street from the Academy primary school along with several other great retailers. It is also less than a mile to I-85 if you are going to the Maxwell Air Force Base or the State of Alabama office locations downtown.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let us show you this great location and any of the homes that are on the market there! We are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-30:353612011-12-30T00:00:00Z2011-12-29T23:39:42ZKeep An Eye Out
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Camera%20Clock.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6726" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />With the economy being what it is, crime, unfortunately is on the rise in a lot of the country. With that in mind, I went in search of what is out there security wise to protect the home without spending a fortune. Below are a few of the neat new gadgets that are out there in the market that will ease your worry about leaving someone you care about in the hands of someone in your home, leaving the house or personal security at home at night:</p>Hidden Cameras: Nanny cams (usually stuffed in a bear or toy) have recently been on the news showing some interesting things that can go on when you leave the children at home with a baby sitter. What you don’t realize is that these tiny cameras can be put in just about any item these days. Just to name a few: clocks, pens, hats, etc. They can record straight to the VCR and, due to the size, do not give any audio (by law).Security software: You can now set up your home computer to watch what is happening at your home. Software is available allows your computer at your house to check out what is going on within its view. You can usually add other wireless cameras and webcams to this surveillance system. So just think when you are on vacation, at work, wherever you can access that computer via the internet to check out things at the house!<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Protection%20Home.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6725" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Watchdogs (my personal favorite): I do not know about you but the sound of a viciously barking dog would make me want to rethink entering a house. There is a <a href="http://www.barkingdogalarms.com/Home-Safety-Why-a-Barking-Dog-Alarm-Protects-Your-Home-So-Well.html" target="_blank"> new gadget</a> out there that can look through walls and knows when someone is approaching. It starts barking when the “intruder” gets within 20 feet and gets more vicious the closer the person gets to the house. <p style="">These are just a few of the available options to your security in the home and when you are away. Hope you never have to use them!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-28:351772011-12-28T17:41:42Z2011-12-28T23:41:52ZSchedule Your Home Care
<p>Uh oh, summer has come and gone and you forgot to get your roof checked out by a contractor. One of the items you need to stay on top of (no pun intended) is roof maintenance.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Repair%20Your%20Roof%20before%20you%20sell-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6720" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Most people have a very small understanding of the concept of preventative routine maintenance. To overlook this can lead to much more costly repairs if not caught in time.</p><p>Except in cases where you happen to be great at home maintenance tasks, there is some cost to maintain a property as it should be. But there is a benefit at the end of the line. Purchasers spend more and buy more readily with regard to houses that are well-maintained as well as demonstrate careful pride of ownership.</p><p>Schedule your preventative maintenance annually:</p>Roof maintenance and checkups (including gutters and downspouts) should be done when the weather is not hot so spring or late fall each year. If your contractor finds that the roof is damaged due to storms check with your homeowner’s insurance company as if whether is covered. Remember, the amount to be paid for repair or replacement if covered by the insurance company will be minus your deductible. Another item to consider, if you have had multiple claims your insurance company may not renew your policy.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20system%20repair.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6721" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Weatherproofing: This is an interior and exterior fix. Check for daylight around doors and windows that let in hot or cold air.Be sure that your heating and air conditioning system is regularly checked to head off any problems there.If you are one of the River Region homeowners who have gutters and downspouts be sure to clear them of debris when the seasons change. Pine straw (abundant in our area), and leaves can clog this drainage system and cause overflow against the surfaces of the roof and eaves. Not only can it cause wood rot, it can weaken the gutter system to the point that it pulls away from the house.<p>At the beginning of each year mark your calendar so you can start to schedule these checkups a month before they are to be done.</p><p>Be the conscientious homeowner and protect your investment—it pays out in the end!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-27:346752011-12-27T00:00:00Z2011-12-23T01:44:06ZReal Estate License
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Real%20Estate%20School_800.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6692" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />We recently posted a blog about whether the real estate profession is for you. If you decided that you would like to pursue that career, contact Alfa Realty about the Alabama School of Real Estate classes that will be held at our office in 2012. The following is a guideline on procedure for getting your license:</p>Age: Must be at the very least 19 years of age to actually receive your license. You can start the course before you turn 19, but must be 19 to get the actual license.Residency: If you are not a United States citizen then you must have a green card (permanent resident status).Background check: Before you get your license the AREC (Alabama Real Estate Commission) will do criminal background check. If you have convicted a crime that is a felony or that concerns your moral turpitude then you will not be able to receive you license.In the past two years, if you have been turned down in another state or had a real estate license taken away in any state then you cannot get your license.Minimum education requirements: Graduated from high school (or have a GED) and be able to submit proof of same. Attendance and completion of a 60-hour Alabama real estate course (live or online) and passing the final exam for that course.Examination: The State of Alabama requires that after you have attended and completed the course work mentioned above, you must take and pass the Alabama Real Estate Commission license exam.Probation period: Once you have completed the State’s exam (and passed) you will need to apply for a temporary Alabama real estate license. You have 90 days in which to make a decision about what you would like to do with the license. You have the option to place it active with a broker and start work or have it held at the AREC on inactive status if you are not sure what you want to do.<p class="MsoNormal" style=""><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Real%20Estate%20School%20Pic.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6691" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you decide to start this line of work, choose a broker to hold your temporary license that has a good reputation and strong training. Your active temporary license is good for six months, during which time you must take and complete a 30 hour post license training course. The post license course goes over the “real world” training (as opposed to pre-license which is theory and law). Once you have passed the post license course you can apply for your original salesperson’s license.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Call our office at 334-213-2532 and ask for Norman Schlemmer for more information on the school and the career after!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-26:345672011-12-26T00:00:00Z2011-12-22T00:14:44ZNose, Eyes and Ears
<p>Your home needs to appeal to the nose, eyes and ears! Here are several quick tips to have a great first impression on a potential buyer for your home… What’s that smell? When a prospective home buyer enters your home the smell sets the stage for the rest of the showing. Bake some cookies an hour or so before the showing (and leave them out with a “Welcome Home Buyer” sign beside them). Cigarette smoke odor and pet odor should not be noticeable. Have a “dry run” with a friend or neighbor and beg for honesty. Put your feelings aside when you ask for the real truth in the matter.</p><p>What will I see upon entering? Try to be creative about making the buyer feel at home.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Kitchen%20House%20for%20Sale-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6680" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Dining room and kitchen eating areas should be set as if someone important (they are!) was coming to dinner, with nice dinnerware or if appropriate, a seasonal decoration. Put away items that are not essential from counters. This will make the counters a focal point.</p><p>The visual space in each room is very important. Take out at least one piece of furniture from each room to create more space. Place the pieces in the garage or a storage facility until you are ready to move into your next home.</p><p>Company is coming so use the best towels and remove everything except décor items on the counters of each bathroom. Shower curtains should be clean and attractive. Scented soaps smell nice and make the buyer feel pampered.</p><p>There is something about fresh flowers that makes a room feel special while it puts color in the room. You can always place a color throw over a sofa or chair.</p><p>De-personalize your space—Family pictures should be kept to a minimum. Magnets (and artwork) should come down from the refrigerator to make the kitchen less visually busy.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Fireplace%20Henley%20Way.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6681" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you have a fireplace, be sure it is clean. If you have gas logs that do not need tending and it is the appropriate season then a fire in the fireplace would be pretty. If it is not in the cold season place something on the hearth that is colorful and appropriate. Great spot for flowers, again!</p><p>What’s that I hear? A little gentle music that plays quietly in the back ground is a nice addition to the tour for the buyer.</p><p>What will I see when I drive up and ring the doorbell? Rotted wood and or flaking paint will set the stage for a harsh inspection vs. a comfortable tour of your home. Don’t forget to “beef up” the visual aspects of the front entry. A pretty door mat and nice greenery is always appealing. Even if you have the greenery or flowers in pretty clean pots or urns it is an easy way to spruce up that entry. Flower beds and grass should be neat. The buyer looks when they drive up and walk up to the entry. They always look again when they leave so make the best first and last impression there.</p><p>(Homes pictured here are <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/6168_HENLEY_WAY/186283598/index.html" target="_blank"> 6168 Henley Hedge</a> and <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/PIKE_ROAD/36064/8957_SAW_TOOTH_LOOP/186280535/index.html" target="_blank"> 8957 Sawtooth Loop</a>. If you are a buyer and interested in seeing either of these homes please give us a call.)</p><p>These tips and more are all available through your Alfa Realty agent. Whether you are looking to sell your home in Montgomery, Prattville, Wetumpka, or the surrounding areas we can place it on the market to sell!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-23:345222011-12-23T00:00:00Z2011-12-21T12:06:27ZTo Key or not to Key
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/key%20door%20lock.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6668" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />After having a long day at work recently, I left the office and went home. When I got to my front door I tried to use the remote unlock for my car to get in. Did I say I was tired? Okay, come on we have all done it, right? Just humor me.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, that got me to thinking. What is out there for locks on doors at your home that can be opened remotely? I don’t think I can get carpal tunnel from turning the key in the door but just in case...</p><p class="MsoNormal">I went in search on “Nextag.” It is a great site to cross check prices on tons of items. Prices on this started at about $77 for one lock up to about $280. Some have remotes and some have touchpads like the keyless entry on some cars. Some of the locks <a href="http://www.keylesspro.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=18" target="_blank"> mentioned</a> that when you use the remote it has a chime to tell you that it is locked or unlocked or even when the battery is low. This particular one runs on four AA batteries and has a standard residential door mount so no wiring or special carpentry aspects to it.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Remote%20Key%20dead%20bolt.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6669" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you are thinking about buying a new home or upgrading yours in anticipation of putting it on the market you may want to consider the keyless or remote entry locks.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I need to check and see if I can still catch Santa—I have got to get me one of these!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-22:346772011-12-22T19:58:02Z2011-12-23T01:58:09ZMerry Christmas
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Merry%20christmas.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6695" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The agents and management at Alfa Realty wish you a very Merry Christmas!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Enjoy your holiday and may the peace and happiness of this season prevail through the New Year!</p><p>Please remember us and if we can help you in your real estate needs just give us a call!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-22:345192011-12-22T00:00:00Z2011-12-21T12:00:51ZHome for the Holidays
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Fireplace.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6665" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Some of the most welcoming words we hear have to do with our home, for example: “Home sweet home,” “Home is where your heart is,” “A man’s home is his castle.” All of these sayings deliver the same universal message to us-we need a home. What better profession to choose than helping someone pick out a house that they will be transformed into HOME. Realtors at Alfa Realty have the blessed opportunity to invest their time and talents into a process that can create years of memories. What is it that creates a cherished memory? An inviting fireplace on a cold night, a flower garden in the back yard, the aroma of apple pie baking in the oven or children playing ball with their neighbors?</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Fireplace%20christmas.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6664" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The answers vary as much as the people who are making them. In today’s economic environment, now is the best time in decades to invest in making such a memory. With a large selection of available homes for sale and historically low interest rates, there is no reason not to make an investment in creating memories that will last forever. There are thousands of houses in a myriad of neighborhoods that could be the perfect home for you. Now is the best time to text, email or call your favorite Alfa Realty agent. They are waiting to help you unlock your dreams. It is not too late to be home for the holidays.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-21:345122011-12-21T05:26:25Z2011-12-21T11:26:32ZNo More Excuses
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Pylon%20Sign.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6649" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Leasing commercial retail space in shopping centers always draws critics. Recently Alfa Properties leased seven thousand square feet to the YMCA in Westminster Shopping Center for a much expanded Y’s UP YMCA branch facility. Mary Brocious the director of the YMCA branch facility is very excited about the new location. Looking at the December Group Exercising Schedule with Cycling Classes, Cardio Circuit, Pilates, Wild Wednesday, Simple Strength, and Child Watch I’m convinced this location conveniently offers something for everybody… Even ME!</p><p class="MsoNormal">LeRoy McEntire, commercial broker for Alfa Realty said, “A buddy of mine who fancies himself a leasing critic told me 'I wish you hadn’t leased to the YMCA.'” One of the 'blessings' a commercial retail real estate broker has is the preponderance of people who suggest prospects for their neighborhood shopping centers. Alfa Properties owns, Westminster Shopping Center, Vista View Shopping Center, Sturbridge Village, and Westport shopping Center in Montgomery; so I am 'blessed' with a lot of suggestions for prospects.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Wise%20Up%20Westminster%20Banner.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6652" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Westminster Shopping center has a long history of stable retail tenants some of whom have been in the shopping center since the 70’s. Examples of our excellent local tenant line up are: Kut Above, Jim Massey Cleaners &Formal, Chantilly, and Jan’s. I tend to be a little defensive when people say things like… “I wish you hadn’t leased to the YMCA.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Inside%20YMCA.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6650" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Actually the space we leased had been reserved for a restaurant use. In fact, I hear a lot of “I wish you could get us XYZ store at XYZ shopping center” and the most frequent request is for a restaurant or some food use. I wish you could get us a PF CHANGS, a Qudoba, a Ruth Chris Steak House, a Dunkin Donuts, or my personal favorite a California Pizza Kitchen. Common suggested tenants are a good hardware store, a good gift store, a designer dress shop, and from my own dear mom…. WHY CAN”T YOU GET ME A FIVE AND DIME? Let’s forget for a moment that most folks born in the last thirty years don’t know what the term FIVE AND DIME means!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Inside%20YMCA%20II.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6651" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />LeRoy said, “The YMCA doesn’t serve food, but what it does do for my middle age, overweight, sedentary colleagues is remove a big excuse for postponing working out. There is an entire community bounded by Huntingdon College to the west, the eastern by pass to the east, McGee Road to the south, and I-85 to the north that no longer can say… “GEE I DON”T HAVE A CONVENIENT PLACE TO WORK OUT BEFORE OR AFTER WORK OR AT LUNCH.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/YMCA%20ACTITIVY%20BOARD.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6653" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In my over sensitive, defensive reaction to my buddy’s comment… “I WISH YOU HADN”T LEASED To THE YMCA” I didn’t realize he wasn’t promoting another tenant that I should have recruited. He actually wasn’t even complaining about the use in the shopping center. He WAS lamenting that as a resident of McGhee Estates his wife was now telling him…. YOU HAVE NO MORE EXCUSES TO PUT OFF WORKING OUT! Me neither.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Westminster is bordered by several subdivisions Brentwood, McGehee Estates, and Hillwood just to name a few. If you are considering purchasing a home and want to be near shopping AND a workout facility then you may want to think about these…No more excuses!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-21:345102011-12-21T05:14:47Z2011-12-21T11:14:53ZWetumpka Alabama The Outdoorsman's Paradise
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/DBrewer.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6648" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In the course of searching for a home there are so many things to consider when deciding on the perfect home for each individual. You might think that the physical structure of the <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36093/121_HARROGATE_SPRINGS_RD/186284416/index.html" target="_blank"> home</a> and what it has to offer at the most affordable price is the top of the list in choosing a home. Don Brewer, broker for Alfa Realty’s Wetumpka office says, “Not so fast my friend…..think about the loves of your life…things like family, friends, community atmosphere, convenience to shopping and schools...and for those that love the outdoors being just minutes from so many great outdoor activities and resources might just be the thing to catch your eye and take a closer look what Wetumpka Alabama has to offer.”</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Christmas%20on%20the%20Coosa%202011.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6646" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If your interests are drawn toward white water canoeing on the Coosa River, fishing and water sports on <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36092/282_TANKERSLEY_RD/189268305/index.html" target="_blank"> Lake Jordan</a> or <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/JACKSONS__GAP/36861/358_CRADDOCK_DR/186277987/index.html" target="_blank"> Lake Martin</a>, hiking along the rivers and streams of Elmore County or just seeing the spectacular scenic views that the hills of Wetumpka has to offer may be just what you are looking for in your home search. Family recreation, a new sports complex, beautiful golf courses and for the hunting enthusiast there is a wealth of deer, turkey and game birds…all of this is just minutes from Wetumpka…</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Asteroid%20Drop-5.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6647" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Upcoming event—the New Years Eve Asteroid Drop!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Come spend some time with us…..I think you might stay!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-21:343342011-12-21T00:00:00Z2011-12-19T22:25:38ZHoliday Trip Stress Relievers
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Car%20for%20trip.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6640" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></p><p>If you are considering traveling to your relatives or friends, here is a list of top ways to reduce your stress in the time leading up to (and after) the Christmas and New Year holidays.</p>You need to reduce distractions on the road. Texting and talking on the phone while driving is hazardous at best. Consider taking a couple of rest stops and make your calls and texts then. Also, be sure that items that will be used by your children in the back seat are already there before you start the trip. Trying to hand things to them can certainly be dangerous and should be avoided till you get to that next rest stop.Don’t forget to have your vehicle serviced before any trip. Tell the technician that you are planning a trip and were curious if things were in good order (do not tell them when you are going).Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. Usually there is more traffic so if you know you have a bit of a pad in the time frame then the trip is less stressful. Enjoy the scenery—it's Christmas!Emergency kits are a must. You can buy them already stocked. If you decide to pack your own be sure to include bottle water, a couple of blankets and a flashlight with good batteries.Be sure that your cell phone has coverage outside your normal area. Talk to your service carrier about your coverage to be sure. The website <a href="http://www.cellreception.com/" target="_blank">CellReception.com</a> has searchable databases of thousands phone tower locations as well as cell phone carrier comments from actual customers using their service throughout the country. You may want to check that site!<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt;"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cottage%20for%20sale-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6641" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />And finally, if your home is on the market to sell while you will be away be sure to inform your agent of your travel time and the best way to be reached. You would be surprised at the houses that sell when the owner is out to town. Because Alfa Realty is a member of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, we can fax your offer into one of those offices for you to come by, sign off, and fax back. We are here to serve you (and so are they!) and would love to be of assistance.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-20:343252011-12-20T00:00:00Z2011-12-19T18:12:22ZThey make a great Christmas present!
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Christmas%20House.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6636" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Here is a Multiple Listing Service snapshot of the properties for sale that were actively on the market as of 12/19/2011. Everyone is has different abilities and interests in what they want in a home, but it does finally revolve around the price of the home. Look at the opportunities you have to find a home to purchase in your price range:</p>81 homes on the market under $25,000167 homes on the market under $25,001-$50,000544 homes on the market $50,001-$100,000645 homes on the market $100,001-$150,000483 homes on the market $150,001-$200,000294 homes on the market $200,001-$250,000239 homes on the market $$250,001-$300,000213 homes on the market $300,001-$400,00086 homes on the market $400,001-$500,00078 homes on the market $500,001+<p class="MsoNormal">As of this writing, there are 139 houses that currently have contracts on them that are going through the inspection period or are contingent on a home selling so the house can close. Also at this time there are 230 houses that are pending and proceeding to close. In this season of gift giving and getting that means that there are 369 homes that someone will be getting. If you go to <a href="http://www.AlfaRealty.com" target="_blank">www.AlfaRealty.com</a> you can enter the price range you are interested in and set up and update to receive new listings as they come on the market.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Santa%20selling%20house.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6637" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Santa says you have been nice and deserve one but he can’t quite get it on his sleigh (and Rudolph and rest of the reindeer would go on strike). The elves (translation=agents) at Alfa Realty would love to help you purchase your home or sell your home right now and/or in 2012!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-19:340742011-12-19T00:00:00Z2011-12-16T23:23:39ZThinking of purchasing a foreclosed home?
<p class="MsoNormal">Here are four important pieces of information that will help you through the process.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/foreclosurehouse-7.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6628" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Make a plan! Is this purchase because you personally need more space, different location, etc. or do you want to invest in the current market for a great buy? Write down what you want to buy. For instance: 4 bedroom 3 bath home with 2100 square foot minimum in Buck Lake subdivision for no more than $250,000. Create a wants and needs list (two different things depending on your motivation).</p><p class="MsoNormal">Seek help! Do not be afraid to ask questions but be sure to ask professionals. Information that you get from friends and coworkers could be erroneous so gather it from people in the know. Talk to lenders, attorneys or a real estate agent in reference to foreclosures. Educate yourself about the process. The state of Alabama has a Right of Redemption period where the owner potentially could redeem back into the home after you bought it. Be aware of the status date for the Right of Redemption period expiration. Your Alfa Realty agent can search through the available houses in the area you were thinking off and tell you if any are available.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/203K%20Specialist%20Certification%20Bill%20Ashley.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6627" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Check condition! Some homes that have gone into foreclosure have been empty for a long time. They may need to be updated or repaired. Utilize the services of a home inspector (your expense but worth it) to find out the level of repairs needed. Some houses may not have utilities on for the inspection and the turn on will be at your expense but worth it for a system check. Ask your real estate agent to get permission to do this kind of checkup before submitting an offer. Understand that if the repairs are too costly you can walk away. There are some loan programs that allow needed repairs to be taken care of after the close of the loan. Talk to your Alfa Realty 203K Loan Specialist for more details on the program.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let’s make an Offer! Now you have found THE house for sale and feel it is one you want to make an offer on—what next? Your Alfa Realty agent can write up the offer for you or enter your bid depending on the system used by the asset management company or bank that has the house. Should you win the bid then you will be heading towards owning this house. If you do not win the bid or cannot negotiate with the owner then start looking for another house. Understand that with foreclosures you are negotiating with someone who has never lived in the house and it is just a file. They may have guidelines that they cannot go outside of. It is a process and your Alfa Realty agent is there to help.</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-18:345182011-12-18T00:00:00Z2011-12-21T11:51:10ZColor Forecast
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Grey%20Repurposed%20design.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6661" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Get ready for the changes in interior decorating for the New Year. Here is what we are hearing is happening!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Gray is the new tan! Varying shades of gray will appear in the newer interiors from dove gray to charcoal gray in the fabrics on furnishing, window treatments and walls.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Yellow will be the new accent color. A dash of yellow with the gray background will bring sunshine into the room. This will be the new trendy color scheme through 2012.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Yellow%20%20Grey%20Pillow.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6659" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Furniture pieces are going back to natural finishes or reclaimed pieces. Repurposing commercial/industrial fixtures for lighting or independent furniture seating etc. will see a strong resurgence.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">Sofas, lounges, and chairs will be lower to the ground. Small apartments and homes are great a great place to utilize the scale of your furniture compared to the space. Downsize the items that are typically in a room. Half round tables for accent pieces. Lower sofas and chairs, etc.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="">On the flip side artwork should be large and dominate the wall space.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Grey%20and%20Yellow%20Home%20Accents.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6660" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Changing your color scheme will be a breath of fresh air! So when you are looking for a home to buy (with your Alfa Realty agent) consider the space and the new possibilities on your color accents!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-16:340722011-12-16T17:12:57Z2011-12-16T23:13:02ZIcing on the Cake. Cupcake.
<p>“We must have a cupcake store!”</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Gigis%20Sturbridge.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6624" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Leroy McEntire, Alfa Realty’s commercial broker, tells the story of when this statement was made by Susan Forbus, the Alfa Properties Property manager for Sturbridge Village Montgomery, Al owned by Alfa Properties.</p><p>“I will admit my reaction wasn’t one of immediate excitement,” says McEntire.</p><p>As a mall manager, peripheral property salesman, leasing representative, and a senior vice president for a regional mall developer; I’ve seen some specialized retail stores in my time… but cupcakes?</p><p>In fact, I’m reluctant to admit I have personally negotiated leases with a parasol store, a daiquiri bar, pretzel shops, car tag kiosks, cinnamon roll stores, and a women’s apparel store named UNITS (I’m still not sure what they sold)… So I was just a bit skeptical and was even reminded of the Saturday Night Live skit from the eighties that made fun of the fantasy mall stores: THE SCOTCH TAPE STORE, and PIZZA in a CUP…</p><p>Sturbridge Village is part of a mixed use development that has continued to prosper for twenty years on the east side of Montgomery south of I-85 and north of highway 21. The land has been developed slowly over time with residential- Sturbridge neighborhood, office--Parliament Place and Seaton Place, and retail Sturbridge Shopping Village.</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Gigis-Snowman-300x286-8.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6626" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Sturbridge Village has a grocery store--- Winn Dixie, a sit down restaurant—Somer’s Place, a cleaners and formal wear--- Jim Massey, a deli—Momma Goldberg’s, a pizza restaurant- Marco’s, two hair salons- Garbo’s and Hair Force, a drug store--- Rite Aid, and specialty shops like Nancy’s Italian Ice, You--nique, Comic book store, Covent Gardens Florist, and GNC… Sturbridge Village has a great merchandise mix already… You can even learn Taekwondo… Not a bad line up for a neighborhood shopping center…</p><p>Cupcakes?</p><p>Enter Patrick and Jennifer Cooper… The Cooper’s opened GiGi’s cupcakes in Auburn, Alabama on the south side of town in a CVS shopping center across from the Publix a year ago. They purchased the franchise rights for Auburn, Montgomery, and Columbus, Georgia. At our first meeting I admitted I was not an enthusiastic proponent of the concept, but then I learned the Coopers were no ordinary wet behind the ears, untrained franchise owners.</p><p>Patrick had been working in the family sock manufacturing business in Fort Payne, and Jennifer had previously taught school. They were both battle tested for cupcake baking. In fact, when I challenge them on their commitment to this endeavor they invited me to visit their Auburn store</p><p>Upon entering the store two women were leaving with multiple boxes of DOZENS of cupcakes under their arms, and both women were from Montgomery and asking “WHEN ARE YOU COMING TO THE GUMP?” In fact, Patrick told me GiGi’s had already gotten over 500 FACEBOOK FRIENDS in Montgomery….and they still didn’t have a location.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/GigisMinis.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6625" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Hmmm… maybe there was something to this after all. My own daughter expounded on how special GiGi’s Cup Cakes with real cream cheese, and yummy variety of icing tops were in the store she enjoyed in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The franchise is based in Nashville, Tennessee so they are moving out throughout the country.</p><p>One night, I noticed a program on TV… CUPCAKE WARS? So this phenomenon is so pervasive it has compelled people to fight over cupcakes?</p><p>Patrick and Jennifer opened their store in Sturbridge Village at the corner of Taylor and Vaughn Road next to Flips restaurant, across the street from Rave Movie Theater on Friday December the ninth. The Montgomery store is number fifty one in the franchise line up… GiGis’s and the Cooper have set a two day grand opening sales record for Gigi’s.</p><p>Susan Forbus Alfa Properties was right… WE NEEDED A CUPCAKE STORE!”</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-14:339412011-12-14T17:51:37Z2011-12-14T23:51:43ZIs a Real Estate Sales Career for you?
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Real%20Estate%20Agent%20Selling%20House_800.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6614" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Selling Real Estate is definitely a career choice that can be profitable and exciting. It isn't exactly for everyone. For your self-motivated individuals, the freedom to produce your individual schedule and seize control of your time is wonderful. It is best if you are disciplined and can manage your very best resource-- your time and your energy. However, some people get distracted and do not do the things that make money--the result is no commission earned.</p><p class="MsoNormal">So if you are the individual that can do these things…how can you become successful in a real estate career? Being able to communicate properly will be a big help. You simply cannot spend some time in your own home behind a PC making money at real estate. You need to be able to start a conversation with others, both personally and also on the telephone. Selling yourself is key. You need to be able to confidently negotiate on behalf of your client and with other real estate agents.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Organization will help you also. For every home sale the numerous details are very important. As an agent you are responsible for maintaining and recording the particulars. If you are great at multi-tasking and keeping your home sale transaction in line, then it will be a profitable career.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Home%20Purchase%20Time%20Management-4.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6613" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Are you open to learning? Just like everything else this business is subject to change. New state and federal regulations, how you can contact and do business with clients, changes constantly. You need to be ready and willing to watch for the newest information and learn how to apply it. Setting it into practice will help you succeed.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Just remember an effective real estate agent handles their time properly, talks to people with ease and confidence, oversees the details on their transactions effectively, constantly seeks to know and apply whatever new information and new practices evolve. These things are what it takes to make the career of real estate sales a good and profitable one for you.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Call us -- we would love to talk to you about joining the Alfa Realty real estate sales team!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-12-13:338682011-12-13T17:10:40Z2011-12-13T23:10:46ZWhat About a New Home for Christmas?
<p class="MsoNormal">Some people are thinking about the bigger present that they want for Christmas… To buy a home for the holidays!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Just to give you an update you can buy a new home in the Montgomery area from $99,860(condo units) up to $400,000+(single family home). Many builders are offering single family new homes for sale with the average cost per square foot being around $109.00.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/StoneParkBoulder.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6606" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />For instance new homes for sale in <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/PIKE_ROAD/36064/105_STONE_PARK_TRAIL/AGT-186288188-665822/index.html" target="_blank"> Stone Park</a> actually start at around $100.00 per square foot. Some people like to know the cost per square foot, but for me I like to know the actual number, so that means $198,000 is the current starting point for new homes for sale in this subdivision. Houses in Stone Park have varying upgrades that are better than a lot of new home subdivisions. To name a few of these smooth ceilings, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, open plan and great kitchen layout. Double vanities(so you don’t elbow your partner brushing your teeth! Did I mention a tiled separate shower and garden tub. From previous blog posts you will find I love porches and some of these have covered front and back porches. The "Harley Room" in garage for extra storage would certainly appeal to a lot of folks who have a special ride whether it has two wheels or four (riding lawn mower). Some energy saving features include foam insulation and tankless water heaters which reduces monthly utility bills. Some even include a sprinkler system!</p><p class="MsoNormal">It puts a new twist on, “I’ll be Home for Christmas!”</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-11-22:325552011-11-22T17:08:23Z2011-11-22T23:08:29ZKeep the Heat!
<p class="MsoNormal">When you are considering selling your home you still need to make it energy efficient for you with the cold weather coming in. Talk to your Alfa Realty agent about marketing your home in Montgomery, Prattville, Wetumpka or any part of the River Region.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Below are some good places to start tightening up your home before the winter:</p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/weatherstripping%20your%20home.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6482" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Repair or replace Weather-stripping: Replace your worn-out weather-stripping or add some if it is missing. Check out the seals on your doors which get a lot of use-such as front doors or the doors going from the house to the garage.Improve Windows: If you’re not able to buy new windows, fix up those you have by replacing the window latches that don’t hold the window closed securely, and adding weather-stripping or fixing storm windows which are stuck open. You can even build simple interior or exterior storm windows. Storm windows inside or outside of a single pane window actually doubles the heat retention value.Check your Heating System: Contact your local reputable heat and air repair company and get a tune-up. Your gas heating should be tuned up every two years or so. You should schedule this as soon as possible before the really cold weather comes in.Window Air Conditioners: There is no efficient way to insulate a window air conditioner. You can remove it or install an insulated cover on through-the-wall air conditioners. Consider replacing these units and going with a central air unit if your budget allows it.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/heatloss.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6481" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Watch for ways that Heat Escapes: Have a look around your house on a bright morning and check your crawlspaces, rooms above the garage or attic space. Use spray foam (ask the folks at your local home improvement store for which kind) to seal any gaps that are showing the daylight. Another place to seal is where the pipes and wires enter the attic.Insulate Drop-Down Stairs: This area is an ongoing culprit for heat loss. Because it is hoods have been created to cover the openings for these stares. You can purchase one or if you are handy build a cover for these type stairs.Fireplaces: If Santa can come down it and back out then so can air! When not in use close the damper. Mount air-tight glass doors over working fireplaces.<p>If you take care of these issues they may cut down on issues brought in on a home inspection from a prospective buyer. Ask your Alfa Realty agent for more information on ways to prepare to sell your home</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-11-17:322592011-11-17T17:19:44Z2011-11-17T23:19:48ZEasy upgrade #1
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Adding%20Crown%20Molding.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6451" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Looking for a great way to improve your interior space? Try putting up new molding. You will find many different kinds available that will help you accomplish the look you are considering. Listed here are the most typical molding types:</p>Frieze, or dentil molding, is really a horizontal row of squares that suit beneath crown molding to melt the transition between your crown molding and also the wall.Crown molding, also known as cornice, surrounds the area in which the wall meets the ceiling. Choose crown molding based on the architectural type of an area. Detailed molding is ideal for formal or period-style houses, while simpler molding looks more sleek and modern. Ceilings tend to look higher with crown molding.Picture rails and chair rails can be run around an area to safeguard the walls. Picture rails placed where the wall meets the ceiling to help hanging pictures without damaging walls. Usually chair rails are 32 to 36 inches from the floor, the average height in which a chair may scuff the wall.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Baseboard%20Molding.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6452" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Baseboard moldings run along the area in which the carpet or floor meets the wall. This frequently is similar in fashion to crown molding, just a bit less elaborate.Window casings and door casings define the area around doors and home windows. These range from the basic shaped strip of wood or metal to elaborate wood designs and carvings. Whatever look you are trying to achieve, by adding <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36093/1930_EMERALD_MOUNTAIN_PKWY/186287567/index.html" target="_blank"> decorative molding</a> you can infuse your room with style.<p>Your Alfa Realty Sales Associate can make suggestions like the ones above to help you get your home ready to put on the market for sale. We can also help you find investment homes and give you suggestions on how to rehab that home so you may use it as a rental home or place it back on the market for sale!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-10-28:310392011-10-28T17:50:51Z2011-10-28T22:51:50ZPike Road Halloween
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/PikeRoad%20Decorating4.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6281" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Pike Road, Alabama, has a lot going for it. Not the least of which is a close knit feeling of community. At Halloween the different subdivisions decorate hay bales (yes, hay bales). This year is no exception. The Haunted House at Oak Ridge, Angry Birds at Woodland Creek, The Purple Lady at the Pike Road Post Office and don’t for Frankenstein at Timber Creek just to name a few.</p><p class="MsoNormal">With the new millage rate passed by popular vote, Pike Road is looking towards a new and bright future for its constituents. The new school system will certainly enhance the promise of a brighter more educated tomorrow for children of the city. If every goes as it has in other Alabama cities, which have pulled away from their county system, then property values will begin to climb. There is a little time before the actual school is built due to an agreement with the City of Montgomery but it would be a good idea to get in “while the getting’ is good” as they say.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/PikeRoad%20Decorating3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6282" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There are currently 133 homes for sale in the City of Pike Road. Alfa Realty sells homes in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. We would love to help you list yours or buy one!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Just a few of the <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/PIKE_ROAD/36064/67_FARMINGTON_TRACE/186287739/index.html" target="_blank"> Homes for sale in Pike Road</a> range from:</p>$141,000-$219,900 in Bridle Brook$184,000-$309,900 in Woodland Creek$189,000-$288,000 in Stone Park$325000-$1,199,000 in Foxwood<p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-10-06:291852011-10-06T17:40:51Z2011-10-06T22:41:05ZThree Explorers Who Also Discovered America
<table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/quote-7.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6093" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p>Do any of these names sound familiar?</p>Leif EriksonZheng HeAmerigo Vespucci<p><a href="http://www.mnc.net/norway/LeifErikson.htm" target="_blank">Leif Erikson</a> was the son of the famous Viking, Erik the Red. Born around 960 A.D., Leif is thought to be the first European to set foot in the “New World” (North America) — in 1001 A.D., nearly 500 years before Columbus.<br /><br />According to Gavin Menzies, a former British Navy commander, we have the Chinese to thank not only for fireworks, spaghetti, gun powder but for… America itself? In 2002, Menzies published a book entitled “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060537639/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=g08b-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0060537639" target="_blank">1421: The Year China Discovered America</a>,” which posits that a Chinese admiral, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/17/international/asia/17map.html" target="_blank">Zheng He</a>, happened upon the North American continent some 72 years before the famed Spaniard.<br /><br />Christopher Columbus was 41 when he <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voyages_of_Christopher_Columbus" target="_blank">set sail on the Niña, Pinta and the Santa Maria</a> to find a westerly route to Asia and stumbled upon the great land mass of North America. It is as a result of his voyages that commerce and colonialization between Europe and the New World was initiated — and from the perspective, in the annals of Western Civilization, he is properly credited with the “discovery” of America in 1492.<br /><br />In the early 1500s, a German cartographer produced a new world map that included the continents between Western Europe and Eastern Asia — he named them “America” after the Italian explorer, <a href="http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Amerigo_Vespucci" target="_blank">Amerigo Vespucci</a>, who sailed across the Atlantic three times between 1495 and 1502. Vespucci is credited with determining that South America was a large land mass of its own and separate from Asia.<br /><br /><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Old%20Map.jpg" id="imgSupplemental6092" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />It is Vespucci’s letters, reprinted and distributed throughout Europe in 1503, that are thought to have opened Europe’s eyes to the existence of the New World, and the potential it held.<br /><br />As James Joyce once said, “Christopher Columbus, as everyone knows, is honored by posterity because he was the last to discover America.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">There are wonderful areas in the River Region of Alabama to discover. Let Alfa Realty be there to guide you in your search for a home! It is an adventure—lets start the quest today….</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-09-16:274852011-09-16T16:35:05Z2011-09-16T21:35:12ZThe City Has Been Busy
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Archives.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5931" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The city has been busy. There are now many new developments going on in many different directions.</p>There is new reconstruction/redevelopment trend that is going along the western side of the city. Businesses and schools are putting on new faces and there are new subdivisions gracing the area.The city is refurbishing and changing the entire corridor to one of the gems of the city, Maxwell Air Force Base. Maxwell Boulevard is looking great. The submission for residential areas around the base is underway.The Shoppes at EastChase expands in East Montgomery along with numerous new subdivisions and construction of the new high school.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/MontgomeryALFountain.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5932" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The lower Dexter Avenue redevelopment with new inroads to loft living plus restaurants. Lower Dexter is going to be an amazing pivotal area. This city project has taken on so much momentum that it is hard to keep up with. The City of Montgomery bought and sold several buildings in the last block of Dexter and along Perry Street.The new children’s museum, Questplex, is in development (previous blog post) at 1 Dexter right beside the beautiful and historic Court Square Fountain.The City of Montgomery has finished most of the enhancements to Cramton Bowl stadium and the Sportsplex is coming along nicely and is quite impressive. It should be completed 2012.<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cramton%20Bowl%20Multiplex2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5930" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There are many subdivisions with houses for sale in the areas surrounding all these developments. We would love to sell you a home close to any of these new and exciting endeavors! Just let us know!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-08-26:254062011-08-26T15:58:27Z2011-08-26T20:58:34ZSchool Days begin
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Scared%20of%20buying%20a%20home.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5787" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />With school starting this month, it brought to mind an old nightmare that I (and several others) have had about being in class and not having homework done for that day. It is a scary panicky feeling (in the dream—not that I would personally ever have this problem in the “real” world). Sometimes buyers AND sellers get this feeling…feeling that they should be doing something, not feeling like their ducks are in the proper row, etc. This feeling comes from doing something that you are not sure how to do or are not in control of…Sellers have the house but do not know how to best connect it to buyers. Buyers have the desire to purchase a home but do not know exactly how to go securely through the process of finding and buying one.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Ducks%20in%20a%20Row-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5788" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />We are here to help you with the details of the home buying/selling process. Let us take you out of the nightmare and smooth it into a dream.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-08-19:250232011-08-19T00:00:00Z2011-08-17T23:25:33ZWhatever the market will bear
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Seller%20vs%20Buyers.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5742" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you have ever bought and/or sold property, you would be quick to acknowledge that finding the middle ground is key. Owners selling their home want top dollar (of course) and buyers want to pay bottom dollar (of course). The agent for either side should pull a Comparative Market Analysis on the property. This “CMA” tells what houses of approximately the same location, size, age and features, currently are on the market for and what price the same style houses are selling for. A common statement in real estate is, “The eventual selling price of a house is whatever the market will bear.” Meaning… the market (current collection of potential buyers) produces the opportunity for the selling price. The seller can only look back so far into selling history to decide what price he will accept for his house. Sellers need to think “I am putting my HOUSE on the market but I will be looking to buy a HOME.” It is two totally different mindsets that are just a point of view, right?</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let us help you sell a HOUSE…and buy a HOME.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-08-18:250212011-08-18T00:00:00Z2011-11-01T13:29:50ZCurb Appeal... First Impressions...It Makes a Difference!
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/beautiful%20lawn-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5738" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />I have been selling real estate for twenty-five years now and have…believe it or not…..discovered a few things about people and what they want in a home. Someone looking for a house, in this day and age of instant information on the internet, will thumb through many pictures of homes. What makes them stop to look at additional pictures and information? It's the front elevation(side that you enter) of the house itself. Is it attractive? Is it well kept? That tells a lot about a home.<br /><br />A home owner that manicures the lawn and bushes probably takes care to make sure the interior of the home is well maintained. On many occasions, when showing homes to a prospective buyer, I have seen the excitement in them as we pull up in front of a home to view. They see it has a freshly cut lawn with no weeds, trimmed and shaped bushes and trees, flowers growing and fresh pine straw in the flower bed. They are excited at the prospect of what they will see on the interior of the home.<img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Unkept%20Lawn.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5737" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /> I have also had prospective buyers in the past tell me to keep moving on to the next home when we come to a home that has grass growing over the curb into the street, bushes taller than the house, weeds growing everywhere, fallen tree limbs and flower beds full of debris and weeds.<br /><br />The curb appeal of a home is very important--without it you may not ever get a prospective buyer into your house!<br /><br />If you need some help or suggestions on how to maximize your curb appeal to sell your home call your favorite Alfa Realty Agent…..you will be glad you did!!!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/don-brewer"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DonBrewer.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Don Brewer</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-08-16:249882011-08-16T16:10:21Z2011-08-16T21:13:37ZThe Perfect House
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20on%20Fawnview%20for%20Sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5722" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Over the years I have found that buying a home is like going through the grocery store with one of those little hand held baskets—it is a matter of balance. Sometimes you give up one thing to get something else. You want to buy a new construction home with 4 bedrooms but you may not be able to afford that --so you buy a newer <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/1054_FAWNVIEW_RD/186280873/index.html" target="_blank"> home built in 2002</a> which has an established yard, gutter, more square footage and an in-ground pool. There are some awesome deals out there right now that fit a lot of budgets. Our job is just finding the right one. Make your list of things you have to have in your next home with a second column of what you would like to have. Some things are MUST HAVE’s like- must have 3 bedrooms(but would like 4), must have covered parking (but would take a carport instead of garage if need be).</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/checklist.gif" id="imgSupplemental5724" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></p><p>The more times you check off on the first column with a few check marks in the second column the easier it will be to wade through the decisions. Remember, we are here to help!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-08-08:245942011-08-08T00:00:00Z2011-08-07T21:50:48ZTrue to original design
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pet%20door%20for%20home.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5647" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Those of you who know the charm of an <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/WETUMPKA/36092/307_N_BRIDGE_ST/186284135/index.html" target="_blank"> older home</a> have the challenge of staying true to the period elegance. When trying to repair or replace architectural details like gingerbread accents, doors or moldings it can be a little frustrating. It is even worse if you want a new functionality for this detail. I was perusing an issue of “This Old House” today and found a really great screen door that has a pet door incorporated in the bottom panel. Click <a href="http://www.VintageDoors.com" target="_blank">here</a> to see wonderful arched front doors, screened doors, etc. that would allow you to <img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20in%20Wetumpka.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5646" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />keep the design of door in line with the style of the house. </p><p>Anne Robinson, in the Alfa Realty office in Wetumpka, has this beautiful home on North Bridge street priced at just $125,000.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-22:240302011-07-22T17:11:10Z2011-07-22T22:15:39ZShow Me (how you got)The Money
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dollar%20House%20and.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5531" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Over the years in the real estate business, I have heard several horror stories about people who unknowingly created a situation where they could not buy the home of their dreams.</p><p class="MsoNormal">So let's set the stage – you meet with the lender, signoff on your loan application and find out what you can afford in a home. Based on the information from the lender (who based his information from what you told him) you go out and find a home to buy with an Alfa Realty Realtor --negotiate the contract details and start the process to close on the home (the closing is when you get the keys).</p><p class="MsoNormal">Below are a few things to remember when it comes to maintaining the financing end of your home purchase:</p>Your agent or the closing attorney should be in touch with you prior to the day of closing. They should have a rough idea of how much money you will need to bring to the closing table for your closing costs. Be sure to have that money in a cashier’s check that is made payable to the closing entity.It is very important to be aware of your personal funds and “spend-ability.” If your compensation changes, you make a large purchase, put furniture on credit, co-signing for someone else to purchase something, etc. – – all affects your ability to purchase your home. Contact your lender if any of the things happen or you are considering doing any of these things.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Think%20Money.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5532" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you receive any money that is large or significant and is deposited into your checking account be sure to keep documentation on these deposits. Copies of the checks, deposit slips any loan paperwork, paperwork to liquidate assets are all things that may need to be presented to your loan officer for verification. "Big brother" wants to be sure that all the money is legit.Don't open any additional lines of credit. The best examples of these would be: you have always wanted a gas stove, and decided to purchase one and have it installed on the day of closing. Or, you can't just park that clunker that you own now in the driveway of your new beautiful new home you purchased, so let's just purchase that spiffy new sports model – NOT!Changes in your ability to pay back the mortgage would also cover changing jobs. If you are considering changing jobs check with your lender about how that would affect your loan application.<p class="MsoNormal">When you are considering anything that affects your money before you close on the loan for your new home always always always talk to your loan officer.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-18:238462011-07-18T17:13:28Z2011-07-18T22:14:58ZFive Tips to Care for Your Home Heating and Air
<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Home%20Repairman.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5472" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Tip 1- Check filters in your home every month! Filters are like your lungs…if they get clogged then the system cannot breathe. It creates wear and tear on your system unit and can shorten its life.Tip 2- It gets hot in the South, so an annual check up before the hotter months can save you $$$. A good suggestion is to have your annual check up one month before the hot months begin.Tip 3- Be sure that the outside unit has plenty of room and air circulation. If vines and shrubs around your home are blocking the condensing unit it can create problems.Tip 4- If you have a gas heater, smell around the appliance for gas odors. If you smell anything call a qualified professional.Tip 5- Visually inspect exhaust for the appearance of rust, damage or deterioration.<p class="MsoNormal">These are just a few tips to help you keep one of your home systems in shape. Always call a qualified professional to inspect and repair should something seem wrong.</p><p class="MsoNormal">When it becomes time to move into another home please consider Alfa Realty to help your marketing efforts. We would be glad to get your home (now that it is cool and comfortable) on the market AND help you find <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36111/2825_CRAWFORD_ST/186276294/index.html" target="_blank">the next home to call your own</a>.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-16:237192011-07-16T00:00:00Z2011-07-15T23:03:20ZGas savings
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Roads.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5445" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Quite often, I wish I were a better planner. There are many times when I think, “Okay now, I have to go to the grocery store, the doctor’s office, and then my brother’s house, and oh yeah, don’t forget going to the ….blah, blah, blah.” When I catch myself backtracking and wasting gas-- it drives me crazy. WELL, here I go again-- shouting to the desktops (instead of rooftops), about the cool features of the Alfa Realty <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/" target="_blank">website</a>.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Gas%20tank.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5446" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Let’s just say you are looking to buy a home. You have figured out (hopefully via a conversation with a <a href="http://www.superiorbank.com/mortgages/montgomery.html" target="_blank">lender</a>) what your price range is and you have a general idea of where you want to live. You go to the Alfa Realty site, enter where, how much and click “Go.” Well… 28 houses pull up in your search and you begin the weeding process.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/SturbridgePic1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5447" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Each listing that you like you add as a favorite. Click “Get Directions”—it will ask for a starting point—then it will map your route to your favorites. Super feature, super site—super company! Let us help….</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-15:237102011-07-15T16:01:56Z2011-07-15T21:02:00ZSide by Side
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/TheCove%20New%20Home.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5434" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There have been many times in my life when I have been indecisive about choosing between purchasing two items that were closely the same. Let's just take for instance (I am buying one for my mother) a cordless home phone. Each manufacturer has different features for each phone. If the cost is roughly the same you start comparing the features. There are even websites out there that help you do just that. Have you ever been to websites like Nextag or NewEgg where you can comparison shop in the comfort of your own home? Well our <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/" target="_blank">website</a> has that exact same feature – you can search for homes and then do a <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/brokerAdmin/comparables.php?ps=" target="_blank">side-by-side comparison</a> on the general features of the home. For instance, if you are looking for houses from $130,000 to $150,000 in Wetumpka, you could wind up with a wide variety of ages, square footage, and location. Save your favorites (shows up at the bottom of the screen) then click compare! Why not let the Alfa Realty website do the work for you? When you are looking to buy a home this feature could help in the decision-making process. We are here to help! We will be by your side through the homebuying experience.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-02:231312011-07-02T00:00:00Z2011-07-01T17:51:02ZIts Hot
<p>Post 7/2/11</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dog%20Pepper%20Swimming.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5264" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Lets just face it—ITS HOT! Remember a dog can easily become dehydrated in just a few hours if fresh water is not plentifully available. Water is absolutely vital to keep your dog’s body functioning properly and help avoid heat stroke. If you dog is outside all day be sure to have more than one water bowl filled.</p><p>The pool at my house was just the thing for one of my dogs when the days got really hot. Introducing your dog to the pool to cool off involves being sure that they know where to get in and out safely. Put on your bathing suit, grab that favorite dog toy that floats and <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MILLBROOK/36054/29_FITZPATRICK_PT/186278706/index.html" target="_blank"> get in the pool</a> in front of the steps. Coax your dog in with play and reward.</p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Fancy1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5265" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />My dog is always really excited to see me when I get home so “walkies” are requested via barks, whines,leaping, pandemonium, etc. Waiting to go for that walk later when it starts to cool down a bit is the best thing for doggie/ human exercise. Be sure to take water along in addition to waiting for cooler evening hours for walks.</p><p>There are <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/961_AUTUMN_RIDGE_RD/186280550/index.html" target="_blank">many homes for sale</a> with shady lots, sidewalks, and pools in the backyard. Check out the homes in the post—a cool house with a cool pool is waiting. Let us help find one for you and your exercise partner…woof!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-07-01:231272011-07-01T17:07:00Z2011-07-01T17:07:08ZPool Your Resources To Buy a Vacation Home !!!
<p>"Now Don have you gone crazy….again!!!! Don’t you know only rich people can by fancy vacation homes?” Now settle down “oh voice of doom and disbelief” and listen to Don. Let me show you the way. Let’s do some math (I know the thought of using math may scare some of you but trust me….I’ll do it for you) this is based on how much time you would like to spent at a vacation home. You can apply this to pretty much anywhere, a beach home or condo, the mountains, a lake home……the sky is the limit. Here is where the math comes in……today a $500,000 mortgage on a property will run at 4.5% interest $2,500 plus tax and insurance….for the sake of simplicity let’s say the total payment is $3,000. ……more math here…..let’s say your family loves the beach…..you like to spend about a week twice a season at the beach in a two bed room condo that runs you $300 per day. Two weeks per season runs you $4,200.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you pool your resources and partner with some friends you can get a very nice place, much nicer than a smaller two bedroom condo and share the vacation home. I have known people to partner to buy a home and each family gets one week out of each month. The payment is cut to $750 per month or a total of $9000 per year to purchase a vacation home with friends. Let me impress you even more with my math skills……you get the home 12 weeks per year….that is 84 days…..if you were renting at $300 per day instead of owning it would cost your $25,200…..but if you break it down in terms of owning the property those 84 days only cost you $107 per day for a much nicer home and situation…….a big savings!!! If your group works in a rental program arrangement when no one is using the home it would be even less.</p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=lt&at=un&id=1801439850976408596&map=1" target="_blank"> </a><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=lt&at=un&id=1801439850976408596&map=1" target="_blank"> </a><br /><p class="MsoNormal">If you think pooling your resources and buying a vacation home might be of interest Alfa Realty can help you. Even though we are located in Central Alabama we can help you anywhere through network. Please contact your favorite Alfa Realty Real Estate Professional and let them show you how it’s done……you will be glad you did!!! <br /><br />Dining With Don</p><p class="MsoNormal">Home Made Chicken Noodle Soup!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Please Stop going to the grocery store and picking up that can of chicken noodle soup and feeding it to your loved ones!!! I can show you how to make a huge pot of hardy homemade chicken soup that is delicious, easy to make and guaranteed to cure all ailments.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/4e009c3f.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5259" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ingredients</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">1 1 rotisserie whole chicken</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">2 3 stalks of celery</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">3 4 carrots</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">4 1 large onion</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">5 Salt</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">6 Pepper</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">7 Celery salt</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="">8 1 bag of curly egg noodles</p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: .75in;"></p><p class="MsoNormal">Buy a plain rotisserie chicken from your grocery store deli and debone the chicken meat and place it a side. Place the bones and skin in a large cooking pot with 3 quarter of water and bring to a boil and add, pepper and a tea spoon of celery salt. Cover and cook on medium heat for an hour to make a chicken broth. Pour the contents through a colander and discard the bones Skin. Break your chicken meat in to bite size pieces and add to the pot. Dice your onion and celery and add that to the pot…..cover and cook on low for an hour. Dice the carrots and add to the pot and cook until tender and add your bag of noodles…….this is so hardy and good! The cooking time can be cut down to next to nothing if you are in a hurry but I have found that taking the time to cook longer really brings out the flavor……try this recipe…..you will be glad you did!!!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/don-brewer"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DonBrewer.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Don Brewer</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-21:226972011-06-21T15:21:09Z2011-06-21T20:21:19ZEveryone goes there
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Wetumpka%20Kitchen.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5140" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Have you ever noticed how everyone usually winds up in the kitchen? My old house had a tiny kitchen, and I promised myself in my next house it would be different. Well, in the new house at Christmas I noticed that there were eight people in my kitchen --some standing when they could have sat comfortably in the great room. When I have gone to friends’ houses we always sit at the counter in the kitchen or the breakfast nook, or <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/8125_NUNN_TRACE/186277536/index.html" target="_blank"> gathering room off the kitchen</a>. I am sure someone has done a study on why that is a common action of all guests. Some people have the luxury of outdoor kitchens that are as well-equipped as most indoor kitchens. Here in the South, we have so many more mild days than we do really hot or cold ones. Well that leads to a lot of houses that have covered patios, porches, screened porches, etc. which usually center around the barbeque grill. Maybe it goes back to the caveman days where everyone sat around the fire and cooked the common meal? Who knows?</p><p class="MsoNormal">Have a smokey, rib-tickling 4th of July</p><p class="MsoNormal">My family loves for me to cook pork spare ribs on summer holidays like the Fourth of July. I guess you would say it’s my signature meal- so I would like to share it with you.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I start my process a few days before I want serve the meat. This is why we are getting this out early to you.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Outdoor%20Kitchen.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5141" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />First, and very important, is the pork ribs you select. My favorite is the baby back ribs from Costco (which is in the East Chase area) processed by Swift Meats. I have never been disappointed with their product. There usually are three slabs to a package, and already have the membrane removed from the back of the slab (which can be a tedious process) for a more tender rib. I cut the ribs sections in half for easier handling. Rinse and apply a rub on both sides. I use Bay rub, which I also found at Costco, which gives the ribs a little heat but does not overpower them. Cover and let them sit overnight (if you have the time) in the refrigerator.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Next, get hickory chips and let them soak in water overnight.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/BarbQ%20Ribs.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5142" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />At least a day before you want to serve the ribs, fire up your smoker till the heat is around 300 degrees. If your smoker has a place for water you need to fill it with water and one can of beer. Put your hickory chips and ribs on the smoker and let them cook for about four to five hours. Make sure they do not flame up and burn. After about four to five hours of smoking, remove the ribs from the smoker. Take each half slab and double wrap in aluminum foil, but, before closing, pour a little of your favorite B-B-Q sauce on the top of them before sealing. These can be held in the fridge until the day that you want to serve them. At least three to four hours before serving time place them in the oven at the lowest oven setting. Where they should cook three to four more hours. They will be fall apart good when you are ready to serve.</p><p class="MsoNormal">WARNING- once you cook ribs this way you will be expected to do it every time.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Enjoy!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/bill-ashley"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/BillAshley.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;"> Bill Ashley</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-18:224402011-06-18T00:00:00Z2011-06-16T20:56:45ZFather's Day
<p>How did Father’s Day begin? <a href="http://www.timeanddate.com/" target="_blank"> Timeanddate.com</a> says,</p><table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/fday.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5079" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Dad%20and%20Don.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5078" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />So here is my perspective on Father's Day: I really miss my Dad… He was quiet hard-working with a wry sense of humor. After my Dad retired, he could not just relax. Gardening, cleaning, and cooking (best chicken and dumplings ever) are just a part of his daily duties. He would always meet me halfway when I walked home from school. We would walk together, talk about homework and discuss the day's events. He would always have a snack waiting for me on the table. As I said, I miss him.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/MattAndGirls-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5077" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />I asked around for input of characteristics of people’s dads, and here is a collection of the responses: Strong, independent, patriotic, gentle, sense of humor, quiet, intelligent, spoiled me, made great barbeque, quirky, fun, loved to wrestle, made me laugh, my rock...</p><p class="MsoNormal">Again, wondering what this has to do with real estate, right? Let your Alfa Realty agent find a <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/8724_LANTERN_WAY/186276010/index.html" target="_blank"> home</a> for you to cook in, snooze in, laugh in, wrestle in, grow a garden on and in general --create your own memories in.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Happy Father’s Day!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-17:224742011-06-17T08:26:30Z2011-06-17T13:26:34ZSports in the Area
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Baseball-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5085" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />It is SUMMER TIME in the South! When you walk outside it smells like summer—fresh cut grass. There is a lot to do for everyone…</p><p class="MsoNormal">Sports leagues are scattered over the entire area but here is a link to the <a href="http://www.montgomeryal.gov/index.aspx?page=188" target="_blank">Montgomery Parks and Recreation </a> managed facilities. The Lagoon Park complex is within a mile of <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/1245_PONDCYPRESS_DR/186275738/index.html" target="_blank"> Dexter Ridge</a> with houses for sale from $89,900 up to $187,000</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Home%20Place.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5084" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If <a href="http://www.montgomeryal.gov/index.aspx?page=189" target="_blank"> golf or tennis</a> is more to your liking then you are definitely in luck. You can just about play either one of these 12 months out of the year. With world class facilities like the Robert Trent Jones course at <a href="http://www.rtjgolf.com/capitolhill/" target="_blank">Capitol Hill</a> in Prattville you can certainly work on that golf game. There are some beautiful <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/PRATTVILLE/36066/1925_CONSTITUTION_AVE/186275645/index.html" target="_blank"> homes for sale</a> at The HomePlace just across from the course that you should check out also!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Pondcypress%20house%20for%20sale-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5086" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />And just to beat the heat, there is year round ice skating at <a href="http://www.shopmalls.com/mall.cfm?mall=1" target="_blank">Eastdale Mall</a>. Landmark Estates is approximately four blocks to the chilly escape from the heat. <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36117/231_S_BURBANK_DR/186269431/index.html" target="_blank"> Houses in Landmark</a> range from $ 125,000 to $285,000.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20on%20the%20River%20for%20Sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5087" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Instead of ice, are you are more interested in the liquid kind of H2O? Then take it to the river. Check out all the swimming, skiing, and fishing on the Alabama River. This house on the Alabama River in <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MILLBROOK/36054/149_RIVER_FOREST_CT/186284530/index.html" target="_blank"> River Forest</a> is waiting for you at $295,000. By the way, don’t forget the Dragon Boats are coming in August!</p><p class="MsoNormal">These are just a few of the opportunities that await you for things to do and places to live in the River Region of Alabama. Let Alfa Realty show you the way home!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-17:224222011-06-17T00:00:00Z2011-06-16T13:44:07ZMortgage items
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20Sale%20Buyer.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5062" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Many people are usually a little worried about that first visit to the mortgage company (or bank) when they start arranging financing in order to purchase a home. We all fear things we do not understand. In order to alleviate a small amount of the stress below is a list of items you may be requested to produce at some point in the process:</p>A valid driver's license or other ID that is government issued with a photograph (first visit).Bank statements on all checking accounts, savings accounts statements, owned stock information, mutual funds, or any asset accounts.If you are currently salaried, you need to provide your most recent pay stub and W-2 forms from the past two years.If you happen to be self-employed or if you earn more than 25% of your income from sales commissions or you get 1099s, then bring the last two years federal tax returns including all schedules.If this applies to you, bring a copy of your final divorce decree with any information from the decree concerning financial settlements like alimony, child support, etc.Be sure to bring any loan information on other real estate that you may own.If in the past you have had a credit dispute and you have or have not resolved the issue, you may consider bringing your documentation surrounding that issue.If you have previously had a bankruptcy, the lender will need a copy of all the bankruptcy papers and a copy of the discharge.You will need funds for the credit report and an appraisal (if you are paying for that).If you think you are eligible for VA loans be sure to have a certificate of eligibility, DD 214 or statement service.When you are applying jointly for this loan and only one person can be there be sure to have the date of birth, Social Security number, and the same documentation as above the person who is not attending this meeting.<p class="MsoListParagraph"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Mortgage%20Meeting.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5063" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />It is hard to cover every situation and step in the process but these are common.</p><p class="MsoListParagraph">Knowing that these things may be asked of you at some point will help also. “Forewarned is forearmed!” If you have any questions about buying a home in Montgomery or the surrounding area please call us!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-16:223752011-06-16T00:00:00Z2011-06-15T12:04:52ZGet Rid of Your "Junk"
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20cluttered.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5037" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ohhh! Did that sound rude? It was not meant to be an insult...maybe I should have said “it is time to clean out the clutter”…. but sometimes it just needs to be told like it is…YOU HAVE TOO MUCH STUFF!!! If you are selling your home, it is very hard to make a good impression on a prospective purchaser if the house is filled to the top with personal items. A buyer needs to have the feeling of roominess in a home, no matter the actual size………so how do I get rid of my “stuff?”<br /><br /><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Clutter.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5036" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />First, the seller must mentally get comfortable with the reality of “most of these things have to go.” Putting yourself as a seller in the position of getting away from emotional attachment to house whole items will make this happen for you. Decide when your house sells what things that you have now that you will need in your next home. Make a list of those things and get rid of the rest…..a good rule of thumb is that if you have not used something in the past year (this also goes for clothes) then get rid of it…..it is taking up space. Get organized and have a big yard sale. Price it well and get rid of everything or give the rest to charity. Some charities will even come pick up your items you do not sell. Your house will be easier to sell because people can see the space. Also, less to move when moving day arrives AND some money in the bank from your yard sale.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">For help and suggestions on getting your house ready to sell call your favorite Alfa Realty real estate professional……you will be glad you did.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Dining with Don</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Sheppards%20Pie.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5038" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Shepherd’s Pie</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Here is another easy-to-do recipe that is so good my wife calls it “comfort food.”</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ingredients</p>2 pounds of ground beef 6 potatoes1 large sweet onion 1 stick of butter1 can diced tomatoes 1 eggFlour Worchester sauceOlive oil Salt & pepper1 cup parmesan cheese 1 cup beef bouillon<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Peel and cut the potatoes and boil to make mashed potatoes. In a large frying pan, brown your ground beef. Add salt and pepper to taste. Chop a large sweet onion and add to the beef, cover and cook until tender. Stir in one can of diced tomatoes. Drain liquid and pour back into pan. By this time your potatoes should be ready to prepare. Mash your potatoes and add in butter as you go until the potatoes are creamy. Add in one egg yolk so the potatoes will brown in the oven. Mix in one cup parmesan cheese. Add Salt to taste. Now to make the gravy. In a sauce pan heat olive oil then stir in flour and brown. Add salt and pepper. Slowly pour in the beef bouillon and continue to stir and add flour as needed to make a smooth brown gravy. Add 5 tablespoons of Worchester sauce. Pour the gravy over your ground beef and mix. Pour the beef and gravy into a baking dish. Take your mashed potatoes and spread them out over the top of the beef. Next place in the oven on broil and brown the mashed potatoes. Remove, serve and enjoy! Your favorite spices and extras can be added to make this recipe just the way you want it.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/don-brewer"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DonBrewer.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Don Brewer</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-14:223362011-06-14T14:02:33Z2011-06-14T19:02:36ZSet it and forget it
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/home%20search.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5023" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There are a lot of people out there who get on the internet and bang their head against the worldwide web trying to gather information about a home to buy. Those people should consider the easy way-- check out our <a href="http://www.AlfaRealty.com" target="_blank">website</a>. There are many great features one of which is the email alert feature. It will definitely make your home search easy.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/sleeper.jpg" id="imgSupplemental5025" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you think about all the advertisements (mostly late night) that boast “you just set it and forget it.” With that email alert feature set with the parameters of the house you desire, as new listings come in to the Multiple Listing Service, the system will automatically send you a listing with your features for your consideration. Your search for a home to purchase will consist of filling out the email alert form and you are done. As houses come in that you would like to see just let us know and we will set your appointment, help you negotiate your sale, and be there to work with you through the process.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let Alfa Realty make your dream of buying a home a realty.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-06:219702011-06-06T08:40:32Z2011-06-06T13:40:37ZHappy Place
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/trail%20riding%20Hampstead.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4941" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />When I was growing up, I always wanted to learn how to ride horses. Eventually, after six years of ballet lessons (scary) and gymnastics (picture a spider tumbling down a hill –all skinny legs and bad angles), my mom got the message. I finally got to take English riding lessons after years of pleading.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The first time I advanced enough to go on a trail ride, I was so excited that I am surprised I did not just bounce straight out of the saddle. We rode through beautiful shady trees for about (seems like) a mile and broke out onto acres and acres of pasture land. In the middle of the pasture land was a small hill with two large oak trees at the top. My instructor told us, “Last rider to the oak trees buys cokes for the class!” Well, it was on…full out gallop, laughing, and the thrill of the competition. I did not get there first, but I didn’t buy cokes either! When everyone finally arrived under the shady oaks and calmed down, the feeling was we were all just in a simple happy place. One of those memories that fills you with laughter and peace all at the same time.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/SophiePony.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4942" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Now you are probably wondering, what does this have to do with buying or selling a home in Montgomery, Alabama? The process of real estate sometimes feels like a mad gallop with a minimum of control but when you get to the new home and close the door behind you and IT IS YOURS—Wow… Now that’s a happy place.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Let Alfa Realty find you <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/SHORTER/36075/9433_CO_RD_9/186276059/index.html" target="_blank">a home to be happy in</a>!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-06-01:217622011-06-01T07:34:30Z2011-06-01T12:34:34ZFirst-time Seller Tips
<p>I love working with first-time home buyers….but eventually first-time home buyers will become first-time home sellers. Here are a few things to remember when you switch from being the buyer to being the seller of a home:</p>Clear your clutter—Sometimes people wander around in their home with good intentions about placing those boxes up in the attic. Do it now or sift through the contents and see what you can dispose of, donate or use. Whatever happens to the boxes be sure that you get them out of the room so it visually increases the size of the room. Be sure to remove magnets from the refrigerator and tuck away any large kitchen blenders, mixers and or toaster ovens.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/house%20with%20nice%20closet%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4906" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Closets—pack up the winter clothes or have a yard sale. Straighten closets so that they look bigger even if they are just more organized.Depersonalize – having tons of pictures about you and your family is nice but there are a couple of reasons why you should not have these sitting around. First is the safety aspect – it never hurts to be protective of the identity of the occupants of the home. Remove any information that could be beneficial to someone with ulterior motives. The other reason is sometimes when a buyer comes in to look at a home they can get caught up in the pictures or personal aspects of the occupant and not pay enough attention to the house they came to look at.Use a buyer's eyes-- what does the buyer see when he walks up to your front door? Does he see the leaves that are still there from winter? Does she see the little bits of <a href="https://email.leadingre.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=0488ffd6182841cabf631e600af942e7&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.thisoldhouse.com%2ftoh%2fhow-to%2fstep%2f0%2c%2c20183702_20076509%2c00.html" target="_blank">rotted wood</a> around the doorframe? Is the brass on the door and kick plate shiny and clean? That first impression sets the stage for the buyer when he walks through your house. If it is ratty at the front door then he expects it to be in less than good repair in the interior. Place blooming plants in pots at or near the front door—easy inexpensive way to add color around the entry.<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20repair.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4907" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Every day is a show day – you never know when someone will want to come and look at your house. Dishes need to be out of the sink and at least in the dishwasher. Beds made up and fresh. Plug ins make the house smell nice all the time and they aren’t too expensive for the impact.Some moving companies will store your unused items and pre-packed boxes for a small fee. This is another way to open up the house so that people can see the best way use the space. What we're looking for!<p>Remember what it was that attracted you to this home when you bought it. Enhance your space by clearing the clutter. Repair the obvious things that may make a buyer look elsewhere.</p><p>Let an Alfa Realty agent preview your home and discuss the items that you need to work on before getting it on the market to sell.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-31:217182011-05-31T08:17:17Z2011-05-31T13:17:17ZSTURBRIDGE PLANTATION
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Sturbridge.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4891" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Over 750 families call <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/Search/AL/Montgomery/nhood_Sturbridge" target="_blank">Sturbridge Plantation</a> home. An upscale community with homes ranging in size from 1,600 sq ft to over 5,000 sq ft, it is located at the epicenter of the growth pattern for Montgomery, at the intersection of Vaughn and Taylor Roads. It has its own shopping center, apartment complex, and two office parks on land owned by the developer ALFA PROPERTIES. Convenient to East Chase Shopping Mall, Baptist East Hospital, (3-5 Min) Publix and Winn Dixie Shopping centers (adjacent), Maxwell AFB, Gunter AFB, and downtown Montgomery are all within 15 min of this area. The Atlanta airport is two hours away, the destinations on the Gulf Coast, Destin, Panama City, Pensacola about three hours, Biloxi about three-and-a-half hours, and New Orleans about five hours.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The land that the present development sits on were cotton fields until 1919 when it was bought as a dairy farm. It was sold in 1921 to the Wible family who continued the dairy farm and named it Sturbridge after a 1799 family ancestors land and farm in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Alfa bought the land in 1985, continued to use the name and the rest is history.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/new-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4893" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The multi-builder development has at its center an eight acre park that includes the clubhouse, fitness center, HOA office, Olympic-size pool, children's pool with raintree, tennis courts, two covered picnic pavilions, gas grills, playgrounds, walking trails, eight lakes to fish in and beautiful landscaping through the community. It has wide streets, underground utilities , decorator street lights, and a wonderful neighborhood charm and character.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Its future is very bright with the acquisition of an additional 300 acres, a site for the new East Montgomery High School and the Taylor/Ray Thorington connector road adjacent to the subdivision property. Come see the hundreds of new unique home plans and the many lots to pick from. Call two Alfa Realty veteran Sturbridge listing and selling agents Ron Hudak and Terri Allison 334-279-8012 for more information about homes in this beautiful subdivision and others.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-29:215762011-05-29T00:00:00Z2011-05-26T21:44:00ZReal Estate Practice
<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/city.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4874" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /><p>I recently attended a relocation conference. I attend these yearly, sometimes twice yearly. I am always amazed by the variety of ways that real estate is done across this nation. Do you know that with certain state and federal law exceptions, common real estate practices can vary from city to city? Quite often, in moving through our own real estate sales in Prattville or Wetumpka or Montgomery, Alabama, typical procedures like closing real estate transactions differ from, say, California? Real estate closings are typically handled through closing attorneys here as opposed to title companies (title search is still done of course). In our area, real estate agents typically assist you through to the day of closing not just the “day of contract.” Agents here are with you through shopping for the best mortgage, mortgage approval, finding a home, negotiation, home inspection, termite inspections, etc. Let us help you through all the processes of purchasing real estate or marketing and selling your home.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-28:215752011-05-28T00:00:00Z2011-05-26T20:58:35ZMemorial Day
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Memorial%20Pic.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4861" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />When I was growing up, my next door neighbors were always military or retired military. I often thought it was tough for anyone to have to start a different school every couple years. I could not understand, in my naiveté, why someone would want to do that. I now know that they sacrifice to protect us in the event if there is a need. Memorial Day is a day designated to honor those that have given the ultimate sacrifice- their lives.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal">On the website <a href="http://www.usmemorialday.org/backgrnd.html" target="_blank">Memorial Day</a> it explains:</p><table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/new%20text.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4867" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20Thunderbd.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4862" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />People in the River Region are honored and blessed to have a military presence with Maxwell-Gunter AFB and the Air National Guard base. There is not a better group to have in our midst! Part of the lyrics of The Air Force Song, “…We drink to those who gave their all of old…”---let’s celebrate Memorial Day and remember those sacrifices.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/5/26/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-26:215562011-05-26T07:43:14Z2011-05-26T12:43:19ZSweet Tea
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Tea%20House%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4845" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Several years ago my brother invited us to have Christmas with him in the lovely city of Buffalo, New York. Now, you need to understand that many times within the last 20 years, you could go swimming on Christmas day in our area. I envisioned finally being able to wear that fox coat my ex-husband had gotten me. When we hit the airport in New York I came out of the plane donning the fur. Well, Buffalo was having a heat wave.</p><p class="MsoNormal">There I was, all furred up and sweating. Well, my brother felt sorry for me so he took me to Niagara Falls (cool) and then to Niagara on the Lake in Canada to have lunch. When the waitress came to take our order she asked what we wanted to drink –my first response was sweet (with a southern accent sweet rhymes with date) tea. Sweet tea, as most southerners know, is the nectar of the gods. The nice folks over the Mason Dixon line apparently go sweet tea-less as she did not know what I was asking for and looked at me like I had grown a third eye.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.sweettearecipes.com/" target="_blank"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20with%20swing.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4846" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Sweet tea</a> is just one of the many perks to living in our area. Our pace is slower, very few horns are blown in traffic, and we live a much more relaxed lifestyle. Let us sell you a house with a front porch to sit back and enjoy this delicious elixir.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-25:215262011-05-25T13:38:56Z2011-05-25T18:39:02ZGarages
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Boxes%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4835" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Garages. Years ago, when I first got into this business (contracts were written on papyrus), I was talking to someone new to the Montgomery, Alabama real estate market. In that conversation, we discussed available houses for sale in their price range and their request for a garage. My mind translated gargage to just covered parking so my search included some with carports and some with garages. I was quickly informed by the buyer that I was operating under false information. I was s-o-o-o-o naïve. I did not, at the time, REALLY understand garages…I was told that they did not use their garage for their car (silly me) but for their “stuff.” Covered parking this time meant covered secure parking for their personal belongings. A car is a personal belonging, right? Oh, contraire! I found it meant boxes of “stuff” from the college days, or old pots and pans, or the seldom used bench weights, or the black velvet painting of Elvis, or boxed up bell bottoms and tie-dye T-shirts from the 60’s(wait, those are back in and out AGAIN)—well, you get my drift right?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Memphis.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4836" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />This same conversation goes for when you sell your home. If you are one of the lucky ones to own a house with a garage you might was to consider “de-stuffing” your garage. If you have not been in that box in 3+ years, hmmm--chances are someone else could use the contents. Maybe you could make some money on Ebay? There a moving companies out there that will, for a fee, help you clear the clutter. Whether it is stuff that is in the house that should be in the “garage” or just Aunt Sophie’s next door neighbor’s third cousin’s box of maternity clothes when Barry Manilow first sang Mandy (before your time?) It might be time to free up that box’s future.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you are considering selling a, now nicely decluttered, garage with a house attached—call us! We are number one in homes sales with or without garages!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-24:214392011-05-24T13:59:02Z2011-05-24T20:33:38ZApril Sales
<p><br /></p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Prattville.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4815" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The River Region of Alabama is showing good numbers for the month of April. Compared to last month sales are up by 15%. The number of houses for sale in Montgomery, Alabama and the surrounding area totals at about 3,256 in April. Currently those numbers are down to 3,234 as of this writing. Our “hottest” market is usually the hottest months—so from May through September you should see a jump in the number sold and days on market.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Foreclosed home sales total about 30 in the month of April, with more than half of those at 99,000 or less.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you are considering buying or selling a home, the changes in these figures would certainly prove that now is the time to put your home on the market to sell or to purchase a home in the River Region.</p><table border="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">APRIL TOTALS <br /> <tr><td> </td><td># Sold This<br />Month</td><td>Average Selling<br />Price</td><td>Median<br />Selling Price</td><td>Average Days<br />on Market</td><td># of Units<br />on the Market</td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center;">Total</td><td style="text-align: center;">253</td><td style="text-align: center;">$143,410</td><td style="text-align: center;">$124,700</td><td style="text-align: center;">115</td><td style="text-align: center;">3256</td></tr></table><p> </p><p style="text-align: center;">BY PROPERTY TYPE</p><table border="1" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px;"><tr><td> </td><td># Sold This Month</td><td>Average Selling Price</td><td>Median Selling Price</td><td>Average Days on Market</td><td># of Units on the Market</td></tr><tr><td>Existing SF (Single Family, Garden & Townhomes):</td><td>220</td><td>$126,451</td><td>$115,750</td><td>118</td><td>3,011</td></tr><tr><td>Condo (New & Existing):</td><td>1<br /> </td><td>$69,225</td><td><p>$69,225</p></td><td>224</td><td>32</td></tr><tr><td><p>New Construction:<br />(Single Family,<br />Garden & Townhomes)</p></td><td>33</td><td> $256,470</td><td> $233,000</td><td> 91</td><td>213 </td></tr></table><p style="text-align: center;">PRICE DISTRIBUTION</p><table border="1"><tr><td>Sale Price Range:</td><td># of Total Sales:</td></tr><tr><td><p>$99,999 or<br />Less</p></td><td>89</td></tr><tr><td><p>$100,000 to<br />$150,000</p></td><td>73</td></tr><tr><td><p>$150,001 to<br />$200,000</p></td><td>33</td></tr><tr><td><p>$200,000 or<br />Greater</p></td><td>58</td></tr></table><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-23:214352011-05-23T14:30:30Z2011-05-23T19:30:30ZCentral Alabama's Treasure
<table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pic2-4.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4804" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pic3-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4805" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pic1-8.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4803" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Have you ever had the privilege of flying over central Alabama at just the right time of day to see the abundance of rivers, lakes and ponds that we are so fortunate to have in our area? The glimmer of light off the water looks like a giant display of shining silver dollars and silver ribbons. Breathtaking to say the least. The many public waterways and lakes make water sports, boating, fishing and just plain good old relaxation available to all….not just for a few private land owners. There are many beautiful homes built in and around the rivers and lakes of central Alabama to use as weekend getaways or to call home. We are so fortunate and it is truly a treasure to have this resource in such abundance…..it’s no wonder we call it “The River Region.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">To obtain information or a viewing of one of these great waterfront properties or communities please contact your favorite Alfa Realty real estate agent…..you will be glad you did!!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><table border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pic4-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4806" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/pic5-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4807" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Dining with Don</p><p class="MsoNormal">Salmon with Cucumber Salsa</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/recipe-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4808" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ingredients</p>4 four ounce salmon filets1 table spoon dill weed1 medium cucumber1 medium tomato1 small scallion1 quarter cup Dijon mustardOlive oilSalt & PepperLemon<p class="MsoNormal">This is a fast and easy to do recipe. First make your dill sauce ahead of time to allow to refrigerate. Take a cucumber and remove the seeds. Finely dice the cumber, one tomato and one scallion (I use a gadget called a “nicer dicer” for all my dicing…..it works really well and has easy clean up). Chop a table spoon of dill and add the dill, cucumber, tomato and scallions in a bowl and mix in a quarter cup Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper and refrigerate.</p><p>Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon in an oiled shallow baking dish. Brush with oil, sprinkle with lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for 8–10 minutes, until the salmon is opaque when pierced with the tip of a knife.</p><p>Plate your piece of salmon and add a liberal portion of cucumber salsa and enjoy!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/don-brewer"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DonBrewer.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Don Brewer</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-13:211652011-05-13T15:21:02Z2011-05-13T20:21:13ZThe Power of #1
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Number1small-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4728" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />ONE is NOT the loneliest number...I beg to differ. Well...actually...being NUMBER ONE is great!</p><p class="MsoNormal">Alfa Realty ranks number one in the market for the following reasons…We currently have 315 listings with an average list price $219,376. We carry almost 10% of the total market with our nearest competitor being 5.8%. Last month we again ranked number one in sales beating our nearest competition by 36%!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Turning%20Leaf-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4729" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />What does this mean to you? You want to deal with a company that has a consistently strong track record and WE ARE IT! Our agent team is proven in their ability sell homes or helps you buy a home.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Lake%20Jordan%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4731" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you are interested in purchasing a new home, we cover 11 different subdivisions across the River Region with 16 of our 25 new construction homes being in Montgomery. Our new homes range from $134,900 up to $490,766 with communities varying in amenities from clubhouses, adjacent to golf courses, lake houses to grounds maintenance on your personal home.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Breckenridge%20logo.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4730" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Existing or resale homes range in price from $11,900 up to $1,975,000. We are able through the Multiple Listing Service to sell homes listed by other agencies also. So if we do not currently have something listed then we can sell houses listed by other real estate companies.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Remember, we are here to sell homes and we can help you sell yours and/or help you find your next home to purchase. Just call! Call NUMBER ONE!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-13:211642011-05-13T15:06:42Z2011-05-13T20:07:21ZBefore and After
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Bridle%20Brook%20In%20Bloom-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4723" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If you are like me, you love before and after photos of just about anything. I like to see someone else's house or property “before” and then (after a little ingenuity, paint, and sweat equity) the finished product.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Outdoor%20House%20for%20Sale-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4724" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />HGTV is a great source for visual candy. I find that I look and look and look and a nugget appears that I can tackle. I have always wanted to have an outdoor retreat. In Alabama, with the exception of about three really hot months, the rest of our weather is usually really comfortable. Outdoor entertaining is very common. Check <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/landscaping/big-backyard-makeovers/pictures/index.html" target="_blank">HGTV makeovers</a> and see what you think.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Water%20house%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4725" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />When I look through magazines, I tear out the vignettes that I like and put them in a folder. Eventually, a pattern will emerge and with that: a plan.</p><p class="MsoNormal">If you've been considering putting your home on the market consider your new outdoor makeover as something that can trigger a contract from a prospective buyer. Let us help you find that buyer!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-12:211452011-05-12T06:39:49Z2011-05-12T11:39:54ZCicada music
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Ruth%20Prendergast.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4710" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />“All last weekend, my family and I listened to what we assumed was an annoying runaway house alarm,” said Alfa Realtor Ruth Prendergast.<br /><br /><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20with%20trees.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4709" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Ruth continued, “By Monday when the noise didn’t subside, I called the Sheriff’s office because by now the noise was a cause for concern; someone might be hurt or worse. The Sheriff’s office informed me that they had received many phone calls and that they had been searching everywhere for the alarm. Instead, they had found cicadas. I hung up thinking that the woman was crazy; I know the difference between a house alarm and the call of a cicada. These, however, are not your ordinary, everyday <a href="http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/bugs/cicada/" target="_blank"> cicadas</a>. These cicadas have been in the ground for thirteen years and have recently emerged into a glorious spring. They are celebrating and rejoicing in a new beginning. Their noise has not abated but instead of being irritating and worrisome, it is actually refreshing and uplifting."</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Cicada%20House.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4708" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Spring is the time for shedding old skin and embracing the new. Are you ready for a change? If you want to sell a house or buy a new one, call an Alfa Realtor. We specialize in new beginnings.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-06:210342011-05-06T00:00:00Z2011-05-07T13:24:41ZEventful Weekend
<p>There are so many events going on this weekend that you might just block out the whole Saturday (and or tonight) and attend them all!</p><p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Flimp.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4674" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />One of my favorites, The Flimp Festival, is being held at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art (MMFA) grounds in the Blount Cultural Park. The weather should be fabulous for this annual event. Just one of the great features of the Festival is the chalk art in the parking lot. The MMFA says, “Although there will be new activities, many of the old favorites will still be present: artists, art making, chalk art, entertainment, food,. The fun starts at 10am; admission is $5 for adults, for children under 12 it is $3, and FREE to Active Duty Military and Museum members with valid ID. For more information, call the Museum at 334.240.4333 or visit <a href="http://www.mmfa.org" target="_blank">www.mmfa.org</a>.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Prattville%20House-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4675" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Prattville Cityfest starts tonight at 6:30 p.m. with opening ceremonies. <a href="http://www.prattvillecityfest.com/directions.html" target="_blank">Click here for directions</a> to the event and a list of all the food, fun, music and entertainment that is in store for you.</p><p style="margin: 0in;">Pirates of the Alabama River Cruise </p><p style="margin: 0in;">4:30 p.m.to 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Get your pirate hat and swing aboard for a river cruise to shiver your timbers! Themed décor, hors d'oeuvres, ent ertainment and cash bar. $32 per adult and $17 per child. 334.625.2100.</p><p style="margin: 0in;"></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/311%20house.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4676" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />There are many other events so…Don’t forget to check out the 311 service that the city has for information about events and attractions in our city. Check this first for a city department phone number? The blue pages make it too hard, just dial 311. Are you concerned about a city situation? They’ll take your request and call you back with a progress report. You can also send an email request to <a id="a-311562"></a>. You will get a reply with an update. Montgomery gives you access to your city with this unique service. If you need to ACCESS MONTGOMERY, then dial 311 or 240-INFO and consider it done!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-05:209842011-05-05T07:32:04Z2011-05-05T12:32:09ZOwner Financing! What is it and how do I do it?
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/WETUMPKA%20HOUSE%20FOR%20SALE%20MORTGAGE.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4651" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In a challenging real estate market sometimes it becomes necessary to pull out all the stops and become creative in selling your home. One way to accomplish selling your house is to offer owner financing; sometimes called a “bond for title.” Simply put, the owner becomes a mortgage company to the buyer for a specified period of time. Title does not pass to the buyer until he refinances and pays off your existing loan. You ask why I need to do this in the first place. Answer is that a purchaser may not qualify with a mortgage company at that moment but are able to qualify a later time down the road. Things such as length of employment in a new job, minor credit issues or lack of required down payment can prevent a buyer that can afford to make the required payment from purchasing the home they want now. If provisions in your present mortgage allow owner financing, a buyer can make a mortgage payment to the owner and and the owner in turn make their payment on the mortgage they have on the property until the new buyer gets permanent financing. Owner financing is another way that could be the answer to getting your home sold...If you have question consult your favorite Alfa Real Estate Professional!!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">“Dining with Don”: Green Beans A-La-Don</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/image003-14.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4650" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Did you know you can prepare canned vegetables such as green beans and have them taste like you just picked them out of your garden…here are a few musts…most foods-- if you cook it in a hurry are going to taste like you cooked it in a hurry. Take your time! When preparing food cooking it slow releases flavors within the food and give it the wonderful taste you are looking for when you cook. Next-- never use the water that comes in the can with the vegetable…pour it out and use fresh water…and last if you are worried about calories….eat a salad….to make a dish really taste good you are going to have to throw some calories in there!!! So here we go…take a non-stick cooking pot and cook down three thick slices of diced bacon….do not drain drippings. Add a whole diced sweet onion and clarify. Add four cans of your favorite cut green beans….cover in water then add salt to taste….four chicken bouillon cubes and a tea spoon of all season salt……bring to a rolling boil and then cook on low for two hours or longer……..mmmmmmmmmmm…..enjoy!!!</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-05-02:209192011-05-02T14:32:58Z2011-05-02T19:33:02ZI can sell my house for.....?
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20sale%20Barrachias.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4619" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Have you ever wondered about some of the offers you hear or see in real estate advertising? Like the references to a “Market Analysis.” You will hear, “FREE MARKET ANALYSIS” or “NO OBLIGATION HOME VALUATION” or “FREE MARKET REPORT.” This simply means that the agent for the real estate company will come to your home, take some notes on physical details of the house and information on improvements you may have made. The agent can then produce a general idea of what your home should list and sell for in today’s market based on current houses on the market for sale and houses that have sold like yours. The agent who does the analysis would certainly appreciate you using his services to put the house on the market when the time comes. The report takes a bit of time and research but it is one of the first steps to getting your home on the market to sell.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The market analysis takes a lot of things into account:</p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Montgomery%20House%20for%20sale%20Watson-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4621" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Age of your homeSquare footage of the home (we try to gather this from tax data)Comparable houses that have sold in the neighborhood (if possible within the previous six months)Comparable houses that are currently on the marketImprovements that you have made to the house since you bought itComparable houses like yours that did not sell (may have been overpriced or in bad repair)Average sales price per square footPossible repairs and improvements to shorten market time or help the house appeal to buyers<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Free-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4620" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />All of these things (and more) should be taken into consideration when putting the home on the market. An Alfa Realty agent can compile the information for you and <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/pages/alfarealty-about/Services/" target="_blank">make suggestions</a> on pricing, marketing, etc. Alfa Realty has a <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/" target="_blank">website</a> that can help you with market reports on your neighborhood and it can give you updates on houses you may be interested in to buy or houses in your neighborhood as they come on the market.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-04-28:208312011-04-28T16:27:36Z2011-04-28T21:33:20ZLightening Route
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Trolley%20House%20for%20Sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4586" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Did you know…In 1886 the Capital City Railway Company started the “Lightening Route,” in downtown Montgomery. This was America’s first city wide Electric Trolley system.</p><p> </p><p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/CapitalHeights.gif" id="imgSupplemental4583" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The trolley route started in downtown Montgomery, went up Madison Avenue and ended at Capitol Heights which was then the “edge” of town. If you look at the park at Capitol Heights, the double lions mark the turnaround point of the trolley.</p><table class="floatright" border="0"><tr><td><img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/House%20for%20Sale%20Capitol%20Heights.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4585" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr><tr><td> <img src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/Capitol%20Heights%20house%20for%20sale.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4584" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" /></td></tr></table><p>The graceful lines of the houses that border this area remind you of times where people strolled down the avenue—ladies with parasols, broad brimmed hats and high button shoes. The website for the area, <a href="http://www.CapitolHeightsMontgomery.org" target="_blank">CapitolHeightsMontgomery.org</a>, states, “The architecture styles and dates of the houses in Capitol Heights range from pre-neighborhood structures circa 1890-1900s in the look of classic farmhouses, to Craftsman, Bungalows, Colonial Revivals, and other style combinations built from 1908 to the 1920s.”</p><p>This area is close to downtown, state office buildings, Crampton Bowl and the future Multiplex sports facility, Maxwell and Gunter AFB. Remember, <a href="http://www.alfarealty.com/homes/AL/MONTGOMERY/36107/301_N_PANAMA_ST/186282572/index.html" target="_blank">houses are for sale</a> in Capitol Heights from $22,000 up to $172,000 in varying ages and square footages.</p><p>There is a porch with a swing and your own glass of “sweet tea” just waiting for you to come home…</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-04-28:208252011-04-28T07:01:47Z2011-04-28T12:01:52ZFrom Monster Trucks to Dancing the Night Away
<p><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/building-3.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4569" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />One of the neat entertainment venues in Montgomery, Alabama is the Garrett Coliseum. It's also an agricultural center but we like to think of it is just a great place to have fun!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/bull%20ride-1.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4570" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />The Coliseum seats approximately 13,500 people. It can be changed out from a dirt floor to a wood floor. You could watch monster trucks one night and attend a beautiful ball the next. In the surrounding grounds of the Coliseum facility, you have multiple barns totaling roughly 50,000 square feet of space plus a multipurpose indoor arena of approximately 7800 square feet and an outdoor covered arena that's about 26,000 square feet.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatleft" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/band-2.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4568" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Having grown up in the Montgomery area, I have special memories of attending the state fair, riding ALL the rides and making a virtual pig of myself on all the various and sundry sweets and eats offered there. I also remember, watching "the King," Three Dog Night, and the Beach Boys (among others) in concert there. It is a gathering place for huge flea markets, concerts, graduations, circuses, horse shows and rodeos. Check the events schedule <a href="http://www.garrett.alabama.gov/schedule2.htm" target="_blank">here</a> for a list of upcoming opportunities.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/truck.jpg" id="imgSupplemental4572" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />Garrett Coliseum sits on the Northwest side of the city. Whether you have a home in Wetumpka or Prattville or Montgomery, it is not far.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/denise-t-haviland"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/DeniseHaviland.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;"> Denise Haviland</a></p>
admintag:guidemehome2montgomery.com,2011-04-21:206352011-04-21T07:24:47Z2011-04-21T12:24:51ZTips for Selling Your House in the summer
<p><img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/MC900440405[1].jpg" id="imgSupplemental4489" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />In summertime there are a number of things to keep in mind for the best presentation if your home is on the market.</p>Keep it cool… Especially if you live in the South. If you normally turn your thermostat up during the day remember leave it down to at least 72 degrees. If your home is cool then the prospective buyer will stay longer. Nothing is worse than being out in the heat and looking at hot houses-- it is very distracting. Make your house an oasis for prospective buyers.Make sure it smells inviting. The easiest way to do this is to boil some sweet smelling spices.Keep it clean. Think about when you shop for a car. If you had two cars just alike and one was all shiny and clean and the other one a mess-- Which one will sell first?If you normally close the curtains or shutters during the day--don’t. Let the sun shine into your clean home!<img class="floatright" src="http://images.propopoly.com/image/MP900448370[1].jpg" id="imgSupplemental4490" style="cursor: pointer; cursor: hand;" />If there is someone at home during the day, have them go out for a walk when the house is being shown. No one wants to look at a property where the owner or other people are in the home. This way, a prospective buyer will more freely bring up an objection that the agent can handle, otherwise it may go unsaid and affect their interest in your property.Keep the lawn cut and maintained. Nothing looks worst than unkempt lawn. Plant some seasonal flowers to add color.<p class="MsoNormal">Follow these tips and they should help you turn your house to SOLD.</p><p>Posted by: <a href="http://www.guidemehome2montgomery.com/bill-ashley"><img src="http://guidemehome2montgomery.com/assets/2011/1/21/BillAshley.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;"> Bill Ashley</a></p>