Getting a HOME INSPECTION is a very important step in the purchase of a home.  Whether new construction or a resale property, hiring a state licensed inspector is always recommended. A list of local inspectors is available from your Realtor, and you can check the state website for a complete list  of licensed Home Inspectors.  

 

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

This year was the 4th Annual Howl'oween Dog Parade and costume contest in downtown Opelika. Besides all the fun and entertainment, the event benefitted Rescue K9-1-1, an orgaization that is dedicated to the rescue of lost and homeless animals in the community.

I am not an advocate of putting clothes on dogs, but have to admit that these dogs were adorable!

 

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

 

 

Auburn AL Real Estate - This is a great opportunity for first-time homebuyers, at a bank-owned, foreclosure price. Newer home in very good condition, with a lovely, partially fenced backyard that has a patio, a firepit and some woods. Appliances include refrigerator. Ceiling fans and crown molding;This house is wired for security and audio systems, too!

 Contact me to view this or similar properties at WIMBERLY STATION!

 

 

ACT SOON to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit, offered to qualifying buyers that close on a home by November 30th.

BENEFIT FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS - The Tax Credit Advantage

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

The following report is calculated by the Alabama Center of Real Estate. This report, along with more detailed information, can be found on their website: http://arerec.cba.ua.edu/  Are you considering a move into or out of Lee County Alabama? If you would like to receive these monthly reports, emailed directly to you, along with other local area information, feel free to contact me with a request.   

   

NOTES from HOME: Nationwide appraisals need a gauge adjustment, to determine the difference between a well cared for home and one that is completely run down. The current system is delivering disproportionate comps and severely complicating and slowing down home sales. 

The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) called on Congress this month (October) to take a leading role in the housing market and help get America back on its feet, by addressing the appraisal issue, and also to extend---and even improve--- the $8000 first-time homebuyer tax credit, suggesting it be offered to anyone who is purchasing a principal residence.

"Not only are we continuing to feel the impact of foreclosures and short sales in the market, but we're facing a severe credit crunch for acquisition, development and construction (AD&C) lending," said Robson. "Meanwhile, the use of foreclosed and short-sale properties as comps is resulting in inappropriately low appraisals that are effectively sinking one quarter of all new-home sales right now. Add to this the fact that demand and home sales are already showing signs of slowing with the pending Nov. 30 expiration of the first-time home buyer tax credit." (NAHB) 

ACT SOON to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit, offered to qualifying buyers that close on a home by November 30th.

BENEFIT FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS - The Tax Credit Advantage

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

Auburn AL Townhomes ~ Just SOLD 1110 Chinook St Auburn AL. Sold at $109, 500 by Mara Hawks, FIRST Realty.

 ACT NOW to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit, offered to qualifying buyers that close on a home by November 30th.

BENEFIT FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS - The Tax Credit Advantage

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

 

The following report is calculated by the Alabama Center of Real Estate. This report, along with more detailed information, can be found on their website: http://arerec.cba.ua.edu/  Are you considering a move into or out of Lee County Alabama? If you would like to receive these monthly reports, emailed directly to you, along with other local area information, feel free to contact me with a request.   

   

The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) reports that the news surrounding the housing market of late has been undeniably encouraging. Both new and existing single-family home sales saw their fourth consecutive monthly increases in July, rising 9.6% and 7.2%, respectively.   

On the rise for six straight months and foreshadowing the improvement in existing home sales, the Pending Home Sales Index of the National Association of Realtors® rose 3.2% in July from its June reading.

In an even more upbeat sign of a budding recovery, the inventory of new single-family homes for sale has fallen to 271,000, its lowest level since March 1993. Inventories have been falling for 27 months from a peak of 572,000 homes for sale in July 2006.

A higher sales rate and lower inventory reduced July's supply of housing to 7.5 months, down from 8.5 months in June. The months' supply measures how long it would take to sell the current inventory of homes based on the month's sales rate. As recently as January, this measure stood at an all-time high of 12.4 months.

ACT SOON to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit, offered to qualifying buyers that close on a home by November 30th.

BENEFIT FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS - The Tax Credit Advantage

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

Planning for a wedding in Auburn, Alabama? After checking out destination venues as well as locations in Atlanta, we decided to use the best of bridal resources right here in Auburn for my daughter's wedding on August 29th. We discovered some wonderful vendors when we attended Auburn's BRIDAL EXPO last January, which included where to host the event, where to buy a dress, a harpist and a caterer, plus tons of inspiration for details. 

We couldn't have been more pleased with the event, which was elegant with personally tailored undertones. It took place just before sunset, with a light, brief, misty rain, a cooling breeze, and two rainbows behind the gathered guests.

Here is an illustrated list of highly recommended resources for a beautiful AUBURN WEDDING or any other special event that might have you celebrating in Auburn, AL! 

Venue by FOUNTAINVIEW MANSION, a luxurious and elegant location on 18 acres in Auburn.  The mansion itself is situated on the summit of one of the highest vantage points in the area, providing stunning, panoramic views of the countryside, in addition to the beautiful gardens, fountains, and old-world interior. There are wonderful rooms to use for dining, a great kitchen staff, serving from the caterer of your choice. They also offer beautiful guest accommodations. 

 

Dress by AUBURN BRIDAL & TUX which opened this past year. Owner, Sara Buck has been in the bridal business for 15+ years and was the previous owner of a bridal shop in Montgomery. We loved her special care of the bride, and her expert eye for matching the perfect style with the particular imaginings of the bride. Lois Taylor, a part-time assistant at the bridal shop and also a fellow REALTOR colleague, provided us with wonderful assistance, right up to the last minute!   

  

 

Catering by CHRISTINE'S GOURMET. Everyone raved about the delicious & artistically presented buffet by Christine Healey, one of Auburn's top caterers. The setup was well-designed and didn't keep anyone waiting, although you wouldn't mind at all in the elegant dining room, which also had plush seating arrangements. There were plenty of set tables, both indoors & out on the balcony & patios, and it was easy to mingle. 

Cake by SONSHINE CAKES. Local resident & owner, Robin Fowler did a superb job. We initially met her at her home, where she had a customized "cake kitchen" added on. After sampling different cakes, we (the bride & groom & myself), looked through pages of gorgeous cakes she'd made, gathering inspiration & customizing the selection, then were given a tour of the wonderful kitchen. The cake was truly amazing!

 

Flowers by BOUQUETS, owned & operated by local resident, Cathy Wayman. Our initial meeting was at her breakfast room table, where you immediately felt like you were in the page of a magazine. Her artistry & inspirational designs are evident throughout her home and gardens. We were very impressed with the organization & crew in her shop/studio, which was a makeover of a garage.  Having her on board was a huge blessing, as she continued to adjust to our budget and needs with the best of care, calm manner & confidence.  Contact Cathy at 334.887.5145.

 

Ring Bearer Pillow, handcrafted by Rebecca Kenney (sister of the bride & mother of ring-bearer). A native & resident of California, her artistic vision, felted & graphic art designs are sewfull and sweet. For personalized gifts that turn thoughtfullness into the sweetest treasures, you can contact by email.

 [Above photo by father-of-the-bride, JIM HAWKS ]

Photography by Josh Moates of Kim Box Photography, Josh and his partner, Kim, serve primarily central Alabama, including Prattville, Montgomery,Troy,and Birmingham. They are widely sought after for their photojournalistic wedding photography and are available for travel and commercial work. The phenomenal job he did on the wedding day, completely non-intrusive & keeping his subjects relaxed & bathed in natural lighting, will give the newlyweds a stunning story to remember, when his photos arrive later this month. Contact Josh at 334.491.0409.

Hair by DIMENSIONS STUDIO did a fantastic job of hairstyling for the bride & bridesmaids. The girls had a table of mimosas, chocolate-dipped strawberries & mini quiches to sustain them for the 2 hours that they spent there. I loved how Lyndsey & Joy listened to the vision of the bride & did a superb job. Everyone was thrilled with their work, and it was also a lot of fun (and the price was nice, too!) Contact Lyndsey or Joy at 334.821.6798. 

  

Music for ceremony by harpist, MELANEY JONES. A comprehensive list of her repetoires, along with samples of her beautiful music, can be found on her website. Or contact Melaney at 334.502.7224.

DeeJay was HEATH TRUITT, friend of the bride & groom, and co-owner of local restaurant, The Independent.

Nails by NAIL LOVE at 300 N Dean Road in Auburn. The mother of the groom hosted a pedicure party here for the bride & bridesmaids on Thursday evening, complete with wine & a buffet table of goodies. It was a lot of fun! For your own private party, contact Kim at 334-826-3511.

 

 

Doves by JIM ARMSTRONG. The white doves, 'representing promise to those whose hearts are open to the miracle of love,' were trained, white homing pigeons. When released, they circled around several times before returning to their home in Auburn. Contact Jim at 334.821.5894

 [Above photo by father-of-the-bride, JIM HAWKS ]

Bridal Party gifts by THE VILLAGER art and gifts in Auburn. See related post: Auburn Alabama Area Real Estate Living: Auburn Alabama Shopping - THE VILLAGER, art & gifts

Related post on BRIDAL EXPO:2009 BRIDAL EXPO in Auburn, AL

© Copyright 2009 - Except where noted, this posting is the property of Mara Hawks, All Rights Reserved.

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

I discovered THE VILLAGER a few years ago, shortly after relocating to Auburn, Alabama from Colorado.  If you've ever moved to a new area, you might understand the feeling that can seem like little pieces of you are missing in the new landscape. For me it was the height of mountains and crystal clear streams, colors captured in waterfalls & rocks, animated forests & forms and the seeming magic of changing seasons and skies... Pablo Picasso once said that Painting is just another way of keeping a diary. One day (and many thereafter) I walked through the door of THE VILLAGER and found breathing room, or, as some might call it, 'a breath of fresh air'... I slowly turn the pages of surroundings and impressions that tend to trigger a soulful resonance, listening to everyday words in forms of paint & glass, wood & fired clay, color, light, textures, paper, metals, inspired designs that have been drawn from inner stillness, offerings of gratitude and grace. From the classical and fantastic to the whimsical and heavenly... displayed are studies in simplicity, recycled rhythms, pieces of prose and pewter, lyrical ladles and other poetic utensils, gardens of grace, gorgeous gems and jewels that each seem to be an ode to joy... there is even a wall of cats...you just have to be curious!

THE VILLAGER had its beginnings as a do-it-yourself frame shop in 1971, growing into a custom frame shop and distinguished art gallery, today featuring artists from across the States and Canada.

Purchased in January of 2001 by Frank and Ingrid Brown from Frank's mom, The Villager continues the family tradition of fine craftsmanship and exquisite custom framing design on which the business was founded.* 

Frank and Ingrid, both Auburn University (AL) graduates, were marketing majors and attended Auburn at the same time, but they did not meet each other until 12 years later while both were working in Atlanta. After a chance meeting [was this Art imitating Life?] in a frame shop in Roswell, GA, Frank and Ingrid brought their personal and professional lives together in Auburn.*

The Villager began its 36^th year in 2007. Frank and Ingrid claim that "the Villager is 36 years young," describing the challenges and knowledge gained each day the gallery is open.  Together Frank and Ingrid have transformed The Villager into a gallery and custom frame shop that is a destination for shoppers who enjoy art and the talent of artisans.*

 

 

On Glenn Avenue, You'll notice the unique sign for THE VILLAGER, which was a custom creation by Massachusettes artist, Dale Rogers. This same artist created the dog of sculptured metal, who stands guard over the front entrance gardens, garnished with ceramic mushrooms by an artist from Utah.

 

Please...Step Inside...   

     

                                

     

 *excerpts from press releases and other published information, reprinted with kind permission from Jessie King, Marketing Manager for THE VILLAGER. She can be reached by email or phone (334.821.8174)

THE VILLAGER's new website is about to launch. You can visit their website HERE.

© Copyright 2009 - Except where noted, this posting is the property of Mara Hawks, All Rights Reserved.

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive. 

 

The following report is calculated by the Alabama Center of Real Estate. This report, along with more detailed information, can be found on their website: http://arerec.cba.ua.edu/  Are you considering a move into or out of Lee County Alabama? If you would like to receive these monthly reports, emailed directly to you, along with other local area information, feel free to contact me with a request.   

      

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports  a continuing upward trend in pending home sales, for the fifth, consecutive month.  This is the first time since July 2003 that there have been 5 consecutive monthly gains. The top contributing factors in the trend are attributed to comparably low interest rates, affordable home prices and a overstock selection of homes for sale.

ACT SOON to take advantage of the $8000 tax credit, offered to qualifying buyers that close on a home by November 30th.

BENEFIT FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS - The Tax Credit Advantage

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

  

This well-constructed, contemporary-styled home at 2105 Austell Street, is a wonderful addition to the list of reasons why people love living in this area. The established neighborhood is conveniently located off of Rockybrook Drive. With no through traffic on Austell, the cul-de-sac street is a pleasant pocket of a place for enjoying the outdoors in every season. Four Bedrooms and 2 Baths + large yards in both the fornt and back, make this a perfect and affordable family home!

 

 

 © Copyright 2009 - This posting is the property of Mara Hawks, All Rights Reserved.

Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

CLICK ON CART TO SHOP FOR HOMES IN AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA   

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.