Category: Real Estate & Home Buying

5 Reasons to Choose a Local Mortgage Lender

Posted on April 24, 2024

family meeting with local mortage lender

As you navigate the intricate process of buying your dream home, there’s one critical aspect that deserves your attention: choosing the right mortgage lender. Jimmy Parsons, Branch Manager and Mortgage Advisor at Guild Mortgage, shared invaluable insights with us into why opting for a local lender can be the game-changer you need on your home buying journey.

Let’s talk about why partnering with a local lender should be your top priority when securing a mortgage for your New Park residence– or any home in Montgomery!

1. Customization

Mortgages are far from one-size-fits-all. Working with a local lender allows for the tailoring of mortgage loan programs to perfectly align with your financial goals and budget. “A knowledgeable local lender will help you select the most advantageous loan structure, saving you a substantial amount of money, both now and in the future,” Parsons explained.

2. Enhanced Offer Acceptance

In Montgomery’s competitive real estate market, quick offer acceptance is key. Local lenders often have strong relationships with listing agents, increasing the likelihood of your offer standing out. When agents recognize and trust your lender, your offer gains a competitive edge.

3. Seamless Closings

Closing on a home can feel daunting, but it can be a smooth process with the right support. Thanks to their partnerships with local closing attorneys, local lenders ensure a streamlined closing process. Their familiarity with local procedures eliminates unnecessary delays, guaranteeing a seamless experience for you.

4. Accurate Cost Estimates and Expert Valuations

Unexpected costs during closing are every homebuyer’s nightmare. Parsons shared, “With an intimate knowledge of closing costs, local lenders provide the most precise estimates, avoiding any unpleasant surprises.” They also collaborate with local appraisers who understand the area’s nuances, ensuring accurate property valuations.

5. Personalized Service and Trusted Connections

Need to discuss your mortgage options face-to-face? No problem. Local lenders offer personalized service and the convenience of in-person consultations. They can also connect you with other essential local service providers, from home insurance to pest control and repairs.

Partnering with a local lender isn’t just about saving money- it’s about saving time, reducing stress, and making your home buying experience as rewarding as it should be. When it comes to choosing a mortgage lender for your New Park home, choose smart and choose local. Your future self will thank you for it!

Ready to explore the possibilities of homeownership in New Park? Get started on your home buying journey!

BONUS: Hear expert insights directly from Jimmy Parsons, Branch Manager and Mortgage Advisor at Guild Mortgage!

PLUS: Should You Talk to a Lender or a Real Estate Agent First?

Unlock the secrets to a smoother homebuying journey! Find out why the order of your approach matters and how making the right choice could save you time, money, and stress.

First F-35A fighter jet arrives in Montgomery

Posted on February 9, 2024

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – This morning, a special ceremony was held at Dannelly Field to welcome the arrival of the new F-35A fighter jets.

Dannelly Field is the home of the 187th Fighter Wing, which is considered one of the United States Air Force’s most reliable combat units. This is why the unit has been tasked with flying the world’s most advanced stealth fighter jet and training the next generation of fighter pilots.

“It’s a clear reminder that our state is at the forefront of defending freedom, not just for ourselves, but for future generations,” stated Alabama Governor Kay Ivey.

The F-35A replaces the F-16′s that left Dannelly Field last year. It’s said that the new F-35A costs less and will have a much longer lifespan.

“So many partners played a role in getting the F-35′s here to Dannelly field. So, this day is not just for the 187th. But it’s an entire team of teams, our state and local partners, our federal delegation, our supportive community, and many others who have been dedicated to ensuring our Alabama airmen remain at the very forefront of military capability. This is an incredible achievement,” said Alabama National Guard Adjutant General Brigadier General David Pritchett.

The new aircraft is also expected to bring more people to the Montgomery workforce. Officials say that about 2,000 jobs are directly or indirectly tied to the F-35A, with an economic impact totaling 2 billion dollars.

Over the next five years, the 187th Fighter Winger will receive a total of 20 of the new jets.

This article was written for wsfa.com by WSFA 12 News Staff. To view the original article, please visit:

https://www.wsfa.com/2024/02/09/first-f-35a-fighter-jet-arrives-montgomery/

Grey Wolf Helicopter Training Unit Now Active at Maxwell Air Force Base

Posted on February 1, 2024

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – A new Grey Wolf helicopter training unit was activated at Maxwell Air Force Base on Wednesday.

The new unit is known as the 58th Operations Group Detachment 3.

It is responsible for formally training all aviators who will fly the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter, the Air Force’s newest helicopter.

The 908th Airlift Wing used to fly cargo planes. To get ready for the helicopters, it needed a major overhaul and underwent a multi-million dollar construction project. When it’s all said and done, the facility will house six training stations, including two operational flight trainers, a weapons simulator, and an integrated aircrew systems trainer.

This has been a years-long process. It was first announced that the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter was coming in 2020.

This article was written for wsfa.com by Bethany Davis and Brady Talbert. To view the original article, please visit:

https://www.wsfa.com/2024/01/31/908th-airlift-wing-activates-dept-defenses-only-grey-wolf-helicopter-training-unit/

New Year, New Home: Embracing Homeownership Benefits at New Park

Posted on December 21, 2023

young couple holding keys after buying a new home

As we ring in the new year, the idea of new beginnings takes on a special meaning, especially when it comes to finding a new home.

If you’re ready to turn your dream of owning a home into a reality, why not explore the beautiful, thriving community of New Park in Montgomery, Alabama? Let’s dive into the benefits of homeownership and see why New Park isn’t just a neighborhood– it’s the setting for the next exciting chapter of your life story.

Building Wealth Through Homeownership

Owning a home is about much more than securing a place to live– it’s a significant step toward long-term financial security. The National Association of Realtors reports that homeowners typically have a net worth about 40 times greater than renters. With every mortgage payment, you’re building a financial safety net for the future. It’s an investment that turns your monthly payments into a growing asset!

Receiving Potential Tax Benefits

Homeowners often have the opportunity to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and certain expenses related to home buying from their taxes. This is particularly true in the early years of owning a home when most of your mortgage payment goes toward interest rather than the principal amount. While you’re paying more interest, you’re also getting to deduct more from your taxes.

Establishing Roots in the Community

Owning a home makes it easier to build connections with neighbors and the local community, which fosters your sense of belonging and engagement. Establishing relationships with long-term neighbors transforms your living experience and truly makes your house feel like home. New Park excels in facilitating a sense of belonging and engagement among residents. From picturesque walking paths and family-friendly playgrounds to a variety of hosted community events, New Park’s amenities are designed for connectivity and comfort.

Freedom of Customization

One of the joys of homeownership is the ability to customize your living environment to reflect your personal style and needs. From designing the perfect home office to creating a cozy nursery or a personal gym, your home can adapt to fit your lifestyle at every stage.

At New Park, we understand that your home is a reflection of you. Our properties range from move-in-ready homes and homes under construction to lots awaiting your custom design. With a variety of home styles and the option to work with some of Montgomery’s best homebuilders or bring in our own approved builder, you can tailor your living space to suit your needs and tastes.

Keep in mind that there may be some restrictions on major structural changes, especially in established neighborhoods with homeowner’s associations. These restrictions are often in place to maintain the overall aesthetic and property values.

Why Choose New Park?

Nestled in the heart of East Montgomery, New Park is synonymous with a lifestyle that combines convenience, comfort, and community. Settle in a thriving community that grows with you– whether you’re upscaling, downsizing, or just starting out.

Ready to explore what New Park has to offer?

Contact us now to schedule a personal tour of our community and discover your dream home!

PLUS: The Definitive Home Maintenance Checklist (+ Printables)

Stay ahead of the game with regular home maintenance! Simple upkeep can prevent major issues, keep your home comfortable, and save your wallet from costly repairs.

Check out this monthly maintenance checklist.

Montgomery, Alabama Ranks No. 1 as Most Affordable for Home Buyers

Posted on June 2, 2023

As affordability becomes an even tighter squeeze, WalletHub has compared 300 U.S. cities across 10 metrics to find the most affordable places for home buyers. The study ranked Montgomery, Alabama, as the most affordable city for buyers.

The 10 metrics used to evaluate each city were housing affordability (median house price divided by median annual household income), maintenance affordability, average cost of homeowner’s insurance, cost of living, cost per square foot, real estate tax rate, rent-to-price ratio, median home price appreciation, quarterly active listings per capita, and vacancy rate.

The top 10 for overall affordability include:

Montgomery, Alabama
Flint, Michigan
Toledo, Ohio
Detroit
Akron, Ohio
Warren, Michigan
Pittsburgh
Yuma, Arizona
Springfield, Illinois
Palm Bay, Florida

In terms of the housing affordability metric alone, Springfield, Illinois, ranked No. 1, followed by Peoria, Illinois; Montgomery; Detroit; and Flint. The least affordable cities, according to WalletHub, include California’s Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, Berkeley, Glendale, and Los Angeles.

Looking at vacancy rates, Miami Beach, Florida, has the highest rate, followed by Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Detroit; Pompano Beach, Florida; and Flint. The lowest vacancy rates are in South Gate, California; Elk Grove, California; Fontana, California; and Arvada, Colorado.

This article was written by Leah Draffen for Builder Online. To view the original article, please visit:

https://www.builderonline.com/data-analysis/montgomery-alabama-ranks-no-1-as-most-affordable-for-home-buyers_o?utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=Article&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BP_060223&

5 Trends in Home Building

Posted on March 23, 2023

builders discussing home building trends and plans

Are you in the market for a new home in Montgomery, Alabama? Get ready to discover the latest trends in home building! From smart home technology to functional interior design, let’s take a look at the top five trends that are shaping the future of home design.

1. Sustainability and energy efficiency.

The trends of sustainability and energy efficiency in home building are gaining momentum as new homeowners try to reduce their carbon footprints and live more eco-friendly lifestyles. These home building trends involve using recycled and locally-sourced building materials along with energy-efficient appliances and lighting to create homes that are both functional and environmentally responsible. Plus, sustainable and energy efficient homes are usually accompanied by lower energy bills, reduced maintenance costs, and even tax credits in some cases!

2. Dedicated home office spaces.

Zippia recently reported that 74% of U.S. companies are currently using or are planning to implement a permanent hybrid work model. Remote work in some capacity is here to stay, so home builders are focusing on incorporating dedicated home office spaces into new home layouts. You can work with a home builder to design a home workspace that boosts your productivity with features like built-in shelving, task lighting, and soundproofing.

3. Smart home technology.

More and more home builders are hopping on the smart home trend and designing new homes with features like smart thermostats, smart lighting systems, and smart security systems. These smart features allow homeowners to conveniently control their homes from their phones or tablets, no matter where they are. Smart home technology can also help reduce energy costs by automatically adjusting heating and cooling settings based on occupancy patterns and weather conditions.

4. Functional interior design.

Home builders are prioritizing new home designs that are functional and durable while still maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance. One popular home design trend this season is the use of luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP). This flooring option mimics the look of hardwood or tile and is durable, water resistant, and easy to maintain, making it great for homes with children or pets. In a similar vein, quartz countertops are trending because they come in a wide range of styles and patterns and are resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. Warm, soft color palettes are also popular in new homes because they create a cozy and inviting atmosphere while helping conceal dirt, stains, and other messes.

5. Drop zones.

Home builders are starting to incorporate designated areas that help keep your home organized and clutter-free. “Drop zones” are typically located near the entrance of the home and serve as a spot for the whole family to store shoes, backpacks, and other items you might need to grab on the way in or out. Builders can customize drop zones with features like built-in storage, benches, and coat racks that complement your home’s aesthetic while still providing a functional space.

Ready to explore these trends and more with a New Park home builder to create a new home plan that perfectly meets your needs and lifestyle? Contact us today!

Spring Treat Trend:

Easter Candy Dessert Board

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ain’t Too Proud To Meg (@ainttooproudtomeg)

Tips for Staying on Budget When Building a Home

Posted on August 26, 2022

Building a home is a great opportunity to create the perfect house for your family. You can bring the vision of your dream home to life alongside all the little design details that make a home useful, beautiful, and welcoming. Master-planned communities like New Park offer a great environment to build your new home, with beautiful lots and many valuable neighborhood features. With your chosen New Park builder, you can select one of an extensive portfolio of home plans or bring your floor plan and work with the River Region’s best home builders to bring your dream to life.

We have worked with many families building a new home in the New Park community and know some of the questions you are about to be asking. The most important is “How do you stay on budget when building a new home?” We’ve asked our builders and can give you the best insights for timely and on-budget new home construction.

Have a Detailed Plan

The quality of your home building plan determines the accuracy of your budget. A well-planned project can more easily avoid unforeseen costs, and expenses are more likely to meet estimated projections. While you cannot prevent things like bad weather and the occasional tile cracked on delivery, you can plan to ensure there are no avoidable cost-inflations during the project itself.

Working with an experienced builder can help you build the detailed plan you need to keep your home within budget.

Establish Non-Negotiables

When planning the budget, your builder will give you options on where you can save money and where you can’t. You will also tell your builder which features matter most to you and which design elements could be altered for cost. These are your negotiables and non-negotiables.

Your builder can help you save money and stay on budget if they know what your non-negotiables will be. For example, you might dream of a granite countertop (non-negotiable) but don’t care if the bathroom tile is ceramic or porcelain (negotiable) to save money.

Be Realistic About the Cost of Each Stage

Understand the cost of each stage of construction, including materials and labor. A good contractor will walk you through what will happen during your build and how much each part of it will most likely cost under current market conditions. This can help avoid unrealistically low expectations of the costs and help you build a realistic budget for the features you want to develop.

Choose Finishes Before Breaking Ground

Don’t give in to the urge to “add on” after the build has begun. Little extras here and there can quickly balloon outside your planned spending limit. Choose every finish before the first truck arrives on your lot, from the floors to the light fixtures. Choose carefully and lock in your details before construction, so you don’t lose your budget to add-ons or replace already-bought finishes.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

Listen to your builder and make yourself available for updates. This will give you greater peace of mind and keep you apprised of the progress and whether the project is moving forward on budget as predicted. If your builders let you know that a change is necessary, have them write down the change in the contract details and approve any additional or updated costs.

Track Your Spending

Finally, keep track of how much the project has cost so far at each stage to know if your stages are on budget throughout. By forming realistic expectations per construction phase, you will be better prepared to track your spending as the build goes on.

Find A Community That Has Everything You and Your Family Needs

One great way to save money is to exclude amenities that your community already offers. At New Park we have amenities essential to every master-planned community like a pool, a walking trail around the lake with fitness equipment, a playground, a toddler’s splash pad, and a clubhouse. As a result, you can save on things like a pool or playset at your own home by utilizing these amenities in your community.

Why Should You Live in a Master-Planned Community like New Park?

If you are planning to build a new home, a master-planned community is an ideal location. Not only will you enjoy beautifully manicured streets surrounding your new family home, but you will also benefit from nearby amenities, a friendly neighborhood, and all the local shopping you need just a few blocks away. Master-planned communities provide residents with everything needed close to home and a balanced, rewarding lifestyle for residents. This can make building your home more affordable and easier to stay on budget because you don’t need to build every local luxury for yourself.

Ready to plan a beautiful home in a community with everything you need? Contact us today to explore New Park lot availability and find your perfect spot in East Montgomery, AL.

Image: Pixel-Shot on Shutterstock

When Is the Best Time to Buy a New Home in a Planned Community?

Posted on June 1, 2022

A planned community is a neighborhood that was thought about carefully by the developers before the first streets and lots were designed. These are usually HOA neighborhoods where each homeowner shares ownership of neighborhood amenities and can participate in community governance. Developers often place planned communities near good schools and popular shopping districts to make the residential lifestyle more enjoyable.

The New Park community has grown since the first houses were built in 2008, quickly filling with new homes as the fastest growing neighborhood in East Montgomery. There are still new homes under construction and lots available to be built on.

The Benefits of Living in a Master-Planned Community

A master-planned community has been designed for beauty, safety, and convenience. There are usually schools, shopping, and restaurants close enough to walk or bike and always in range of a short, comfortable drive. Master-planned communities work to create an entire suburban lifestyle that everyone from within can enjoy.

Whether building a family, establishing an HQ, or settling in for comfortable years at home, a master-planned community seeks to provide everything you need nearby.

Why Buying a New Home Is Better

Being the first owner of a home is a uniquely rewarding experience. Every little decision curates the home to your style. You are the first to sleep in the bedrooms and cook in the kitchen. New homes have no lingering maintenance issues, and the appliances are always sparkling brand new.

Many home materials, appliances, and building structures are also under warranty, which is always a plus.

Planned Communities Are Often a Better Investment

A planned community is also guaranteed to age more gracefully than a more organically grown neighborhood. The HOA management holds all homeowners to the same maintenance and elegance standards for their homes. You can also rest assured that the neighborhood playground will never go untended, the pool will always be clean for summer swims, and there will always be a few events every year.

Home values tend to maintain and rise steadily with the market in a planned community, making new homes a valuable investment.

The New Park Life Is the Life You Dream

Are you looking for a beautiful new construction home in East Montgomery, AL? The New Park neighborhood has been growing since 2008, and there are still lots available for new homeowners to become a part of the New Park community . Now is the perfect time to secure a home near the beautiful Chastain Lake and ParkPath walking trail as part of an elegant community.

New Park features green space throughout the neighborhood, which smoothly arcs into a long pathway along Chastain Lake with five exercise equipment stops for daily fitness. Near the clubhouse, you will find the community pool and playground with a beautiful view of the lake and landscaped entrance to the community.

We invite you to come take a tour of our incredible amenities to get an inside look at your potential new neighborhood.

New Park is also strategically located near schools and some of East Montgomery’s best shopping and restaurants. Buying a new home will give you the prestige and luxury of being the first homeowner in the space while enjoying the beautifully manicured neighborhood and shared community spaces.

Learn More

Is now the best time for you to buy a new home in the New Park planned community of East Montgomery, AL? Contact us at New Park today for more information about our community, builders, or developers, or for assistance with any additional questions.

Image by FloridaStock/ shutterstock.com

5 Advantages of Buying a New Home

Posted on September 23, 2021

There are many benefits to buying a new home. With A New Home, You’ll Have:

ZERO repairs or renovations.
1. A new home is move-in ready. You can trust everything is built to the latest building codes and safety regulations so you do not have to worry there will be any problems that must be fixed before you can move in. With a new home, you can move in and begin making it your own as soon as you have the keys!
Energy Efficient and The NEWEST Technology
1. New Homes are more energy efficient, and they often have the newest technology and/or amenities. Having a more energy efficient home gives you the benefit of reduced monthly utility bills. As well as the updated technology that new homes have, will help with the ease of everyday life.
LESS Maintenance
1. With modern plumbing, appliances, heating and air, a new construction home can leave you worry-free for several years. With less to worry about and fewer unexpected out-of-pocket costs after you move-in, you can spend time enjoying your new home rather than making repairs and updates to an existing home.
WARRANTY
1. Your new home will come with a New Home Warranty. All home warranties vary depending on which builder you choose. Meaning you can buy with confidence knowing the builder will cover the cost of any issues during the warranty period. And to help lessen maintenance costs even more, all appliances are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty and all systems are completely covered for the first year.
UP-TO-DATE Designs
1. New homes will have modern floor plans & designs with state-of-the-art appliances and design features. They often have an open floor plan that creates the perfect space to gather with family and friends. These floor plans are thoughtfully designed for the way people need and want to live in today’s world.

Contact us today with any questions, or to learn more about New Park

Lowder New Homes FALL SALE at New Park!

Posted on September 11, 2018

Contact us at New Park today for more information about our community, builders, or developers, or for assistance with any additional questions.