It's easy to make landscaping mistakes; just ask professional gardeners who have learned the hard way and, over time, have profited from the knowledge their mistakes have provided them. Similarly, as you have begun a big landscaping redo in that home you bought from Tuscaloosa homes for sale, we can point out a few of the major mistakes to avoid.
Our real estate agents get a lot of feedback from homeowners on mistakes made indoors and outdoors, so read on and learn what not to do.
Landscaping Snafus: Avoid These at All Costs
We're always happy to advise you on how renovating your home, inside or outside, will add value to your property. Contact us today.
Are you thinking about getting your home appraised? Maybe you're thinking of listing it and want to know how much your home is worth. Or, maybe someone is interested in buying your home and wants an appraisal to take to a lender — in which case, you want your home shipshape, so the lender will know your home is worth what you're asking for it.
While you don't necessarily need to get an appraisal before you list your home among Tuscaloosa homes for sale, you might want to learn a bit about how to prepare for an appraisal before you go for the real deal.
Here are some of the things our real estate agents recommend you do when prepping for an appraisal.
A word of caution here: most appraisals are for a buyer's lender. The lender will want to know if the home is worth the asking price. Chances are, that lender will not be interested in an appraisal done by the seller, who of course has every reason to get the highest appraisal possible. So don't dash out and get an appraisal with the notion that a potential buyer will heed the results. In fact, it's usually the buyer who orders the appraisal, and it is likely to come farther along in the negotiations.
Want to know more about appraisals? Contact us today.
If you've been shopping for Tuscaloosa homes for sale, you probably want to know what your prospective neighborhood has to offer in the way of schools, houses of worship, medical facilities, restaurants, and recreation. But our real estate agents also recommend that you broaden your horizons by checking out the local arts scene.
Maybe you're already in a home, and it just never occurred to you to get to know what artistic and cultural amenities are nearby. Whether it's going to a gallery show, taking art lessons, listening to live music, or hearing a lecture in an independent bookstore, you'll find fun, interesting and edifying things to do for the whole family.
Here are some of our recommendations for the Tuscaloosa area.
Here's hoping you'll find your way to one of the fabulous arts and cultural venues around our area. Questions? Contact us today.
Everyone wants to sell their home for a great price, so what steps can you take to make your property stand out from the competition? Fortunately, there's plenty that you can do to make sure that your home catches the eye of buyers for all of the right reasons and ultimately maximize the offers that you receive for your listing. Our real estate agents are experts on selling homes, and we've got some proven strategies to help you sell your home at a great price.
Searching for the right real estate agent to help you sell your home? Our experienced, local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Tuscaloosa, AL area.
Many homeowners have acquired dogs and cats during the time of the pandemic — both to keep the kids occupied and also, for adults, as companions to combat enforced loneliness and isolation. As first-time pet owners may be learning, these animals are not inanimate stuffed toys, but living creatures that have needs. Dogs often need vigorous walks to keep them mentally and physically fit.
It just so happens that April is Active Dog Month. If you're not doing it already, what better time to begin a regular regimen of exercising and playing with your dog outdoors? The weather's grand and your canine will love it, no matter when or where. But to get you started, here are some venues near Tuscaloosa homes for sale where you can concentrate on your dog's — and your — fitness and fun.
Tuscaloosa Canine Fun Spots
Freeman Park. 3001 Dragons Lane, Tuscaloosa
Freeman Park has a lot of amenities, including a swimming pool and shelter, but also a nice trail where you can walk your dog.
Sokol Park, 5901 Watermelon Road, Northport
Sokol Park is a multi-purpose park, which includes Will May Dog Park. But for dogs that don't enjoy dog parks, there are trails, which are usually not crowded. Trails are of varying lengths and are not difficult.
Hurricane Creek Park. 7005 Old Birmingham Hwy., Tuscaloosa
The setting for Hurricane Creek Park is geologically special (it's where the Gulf coastal plain meets the Appalachian Paleozoic rock area ecosystem). Once a site where extensive mining occurred, it is now known for rare plants, scenic beauty, and some local history. You can hike on the Eagle Scout Trail but be aware there are some stream crossings, and your dog should be big enough to manage these.
The Riverwalk. 2710 Jack Warner Pkwy., Tuscaloosa
The Riverwalk is a 4.5-mile walk that starts at Capitol Park and ends at the gazebo east of Manderson Landing. The paved two-way trail offers places to rest and rehydrate. There are even a few off-leash places on the trail.
University of Alabama Arboretum. 4801 Arboretum Way, Tuscaloosa
The 60-acre University of Alabama Arboretum is pet friendly. Devoted to Alabama's native flora and fauna, the arboretum is open daily during business hours, so bring your dog and take a walk in a beautiful setting. It's crucial to pay attention to the arboretum's pet policies so that it can stay pet friendly: keep dogs on leash; pick up after your dog; and don't allow your pet to dig in beds, disturb plants, or urinate on plants.
You'll enjoy living in a Tuscaloosa neighborhood near a park where you can exercise yourself and Fido. Ask our real estate agents about buying or selling a home in Tuscaloosa. Contact us today.
Bet you didn't know that Friday, March 25, was International Waffle Day. Yeah, yeah, we know — as if we needed a designated day to enjoy waffles. These days, waffles have been front and center on the menu, not only at breakfast but for every meal, with everything from chocolate chips and peanut butter to crushed pineapple and bacon (!) being added to the mix. Not to mention, we're now topping them with not only whipped cream and syrup, blueberries and strawberries, but also chicken. Where will it end?
Whether you're whipping up your own favorite waffle recipe for the family in your new home from Tuscaloosa homes for sale, or dining out on the town, adding delicious waffles to the menu will be a hit with everyone. Who can blame the Swedes, Norwegians, and Danes for starting up International Waffle Day and also opting for the delicious waffle as a way to also celebrate the advent of spring?
If you're wondering how to celebrate International Waffle Day, our real estate agents have some suggestions:
Otherwise, try out some of these notable eateries and ask for the waffles.
At home or dining out, there are plenty of options for celebrating International Waffle Day. Have questions about buying your home in Tuscaloosa? Contact us today.
When you found your dream home among Tuscaloosa homes for sale, you may have bought it with a plan to launch some major home improvements. Maybe you're an old hand at home improvements, but if you're just starting out, you could probably use some advice from our real estate agents. Follow these suggestions, and we guarantee you will have fewer home improvement snafus, and what's more, you'll love how close your results are to the improvements of your imagination.
Project Manager — or Not?
Now, before you launch into your role as a project manager for your home, it might be wise to take a breath and do a fearless self-assessment. You may want to save money by doing it yourself, and you're excited about undertaking this thrilling project, but are you the type of person who can bring it off successfully? Are you calm under pressure? Do you think and act strategically and confidently? Do you have time to plan, coordinate, and oversee the work? If these questions make you a bit uneasy, you might consider hiring a project manager. There will be a fee, but a bungled (by you) project will cost time and money and you could be looking at major disappointment. A pro can bring off the results you want.
Apps and Plans
Still ready to tackle orchestrating your home improvements? Then let's get you started with apps and software programs. If you've got money to pay an architect, never mind. Otherwise, here goes. An app such as Fiverr can provide you with 3D renderings but they don't come cheap, and they only give 1-2 revisions before they start charging. Try Arcsite or Planner 5d to save money and make your own renderings, with an unlimited number of designs for free.
A Trick for Visualizing Space
Most of us are lacking in the ability to visualize how things will look. Painter's tape and flooring paper can help you figure out the scope of space. For instance, you may want to know how well your projected dimensions for cabinet width will look. Tape it out, and you'll have a good idea.
Buy Samples — Lots of Them! — and Try Them Out
It can be tough to know if you're going to love that tile or flooring once it's in place. It might cost a bit, but it's better to buy a significant sampling of those materials and actually put them in place before you buy a whole shipment of stuff and commission an entire floor or wall. Ditto with paint. Those measly two samples they give you at the store just don't cut it.
Buy Dupes
Sometimes you can find a dupe for a pricey item. Shop around at big box stores and see if there's something that approximates that expensive thing you just have to have. For instance, installing aluminum-clad windows with thicker grids instead of installing steel windows is one clever dupe. They look similar to steel. There are lots of dupes out there if you spend time looking.
Go Over Where You Want Electrical Outlets
Most contractors will install electrical outlets any old where. If you're particular (and you should be), then you'll be thinking this through thoroughly. You might want some outlets concealed under an overhang or under cabinets. Be sure your contractor knows what you want.
Factor in Contingency Dollars in Your Budget
Things will go wrong. It's wise to factor in at least 10 percent contingency in your budget for unexpected issues, especially if you're in an older home.
Our real estate staff has lots more advice about managing home improvements. Contact us today.
Nothing perks up a home like great flooring. Whether it's in the bathroom, kitchen, living room, or bedroom, the right flooring pulls the rest of your decorating or renovation efforts together and makes your home into a showpiece.
If you're ready for new flooring in the home you chose among Tuscaloosa homes for sale, you may find all the many choices to be bewildering. Let's take a look at some types of flooring you might be considering.
Hardwood remains the most popular choice among most homeowners, with nearly half of those surveyed in a recent poll by the flooring company 50Floor choosing hardwood as the top material for their floors. It's not hard to guess why. Hardwood, which encompasses such species as oak, map, hickory, and walnut, is beautiful, durable, and warm. It holds up to heavy use and can be maintained by removing and replacing damaged boards. It's also easy to coordinate with various color schemes and themes. It fits well with a wide range of accessories and decor. Hardwood's versatility is easily demonstrated by the various colors, textures, and designs available.
There are a few drawbacks. Being a natural material, hardwood can be subject to staining, warping, and scuffing. Hardwood also requires maintenance for a long life.
Hardwood is recommended for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Engineered wood flooring is an alternative way to get the look of hardwood but with more versatility and less maintenance. Engineered wood consists of two layers, one a thin veneer of wood, and underneath, a thicker layer of high-density fiberboard or plywood.
Coming in way behind hardwood as a second popular choice is laminate (at about 17 percent in the 50Floor survey).
Laminate, which is more durable than engineered wood, has a photo layer that looks like wood (or possibly stone or tile). Beneath the veneer there is a layer of rigid fiberboard. On top is a transparent plasticate layer that defends against wear and fading. Laminates are known for their durability and ability to take some punishment. It's a great choice for those with kids and dogs. It's also much less expensive than hardwood.
The disadvantage is that, although resistant to humidity and moisture, it is not waterproof. Further, you might not like the slippery, plastic-y feel of it. It also can't be repaired when chipped.
Made of PVC, vinyl plank has several layers, with the design layer mimicking wood, metal, or stone. It's easily installed: you can glue it down, click-lock it as "floating flooring" or loose lay it, relying on friction and weight. Some types can be applied as peel-and-stick. Vinyl plant is inexpensive, comfortable to the feet, and can look like whatever material you like, plus it's waterproof. You can use it anywhere in the house.
The downside is it gives off VOCs (volatile organic compounds). The less expensive products also may look suspiciously not like wood, stone, or whatever.
There's also vinyl sheet flooring, inexpensive and highly recommended for bathrooms and laundry rooms because it's waterproof. It's made from PVC, so mind the VOCs.
Types of tile flooring include stone, ceramic, porcelain, and cement. Porcelain and ceramic can be glazed or unglazed. One great new option in the tile world is wood-look tile, which mimics wood grain. Use it in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms with no fears. Tile is easy to clean, lasts forever, and looks beautiful. But tile can also crack or chip and may stain.
Our real estate agents have great tips for your Tuscaloosa home renovation. Contact us today.
Valentine's Day, the day for celebrating love, has long been associated with sweet things — chocolate, in particular. Heart-shaped bonbons and heart-shaped boxes full of sweet treats all bespeak the association of love with sweets. But how did we get from celebrating Valentine's Day to sweet treats?
Valentine's Day began when a Roman bishop by that name defied a ban and secretly granted marriages to soldiers and their sweethearts. Valentine was imprisoned and was said to have sent a letter to the daughter of his jailer, signing it "Your Valentine."
A few centuries later, the tradition of sending love letters called valentines emerged, followed a few hundred years later with the beginning of sending sweets to one's beloved. Chocolate, which was a gift from the Aztecs to the rest of the world, was originally consumed as a drink. Europeans turned it into candy, and then the English turned these into a Valentine's Day tradition.
History aside, there are lots of ways to celebrate the sweetest Valentine's Day ever here in Tuscaloosa, and most of these venues are close to Tuscaloosa homes for sale. Shop for the perfect Valentine's Day gift, or celebrate your love by trying out something new and offbeat in the world of sweets.
Sweet Treat Venues in Tuscaloosa
Our real estate agents know the Tuscaloosa neighborhood. Ask for recommendations, or let us help you sell your home, or find a new one. Contact us today.
Every year, color experts as well as the top paint companies name which shades and hues will inspire your home decor in the new year. 2022's Colors of the Year range from a vibrant purple to a minty blue-green, and they'll each create a new feel and vibrancy to your home. Our real estate agents share their favorite of the top colors this year, including tips on how to best incorporate them into your home to achieve the look you want.
To see Tuscaloosa homes for sale, contact us today! Our highly trained real estate professionals can help you every step of the way when buying or selling a home.
Looking for budget-friendly holiday crafts to boost your decorating efforts? Where do we start? There are so many easy-to-make, attractive projects to choose from, you may have trouble narrowing your focus. You might get some ideas from driving around Tuscaloosa homes for sale, studying holiday wreaths, for starters, but you can also go online and find images that inspire you as well as instructions for holiday ornaments, candles, garlands, and much more.
Let's start by taking a look at some of the projects our real estate agents have rounded up for your consideration.
Holiday DIY Projects
Our real estate staff can also answer your questions about buying a home or selling your current property. Contact us today.
December is such a busy month. Most of us are zipping around, shopping for gifts and wrapping them up, decorating, baking, and making sure everything related to the holiday madness gets done. And this year, the pressure is on. We're planning holiday get-togethers again, including Yuletide dinners, parties, and the exchange of gifts. But in the days leading up to the holidays, it's worthwhile to take some time out, get out of the house and visit local holiday attractions. Happily, many are not far from Tuscaloosa homes for sale.
Our real estate agents have some suggestions for attractions near you. Check them out, and enjoy.
Need more suggestions for brilliant holiday attractions you can visit? Contact us today.
Alabama is known for many iconic foods: boiled peanuts, fried okra, pecan pie, banana pudding, grits, and fried green tomatoes. But there's also fabulous barbecue. Fueled by hickory wood, and sometimes oak and pecan, Alabama is most famous for its distinctive pork, including ribs, shoulder, butt, and ham. However, the chicken and brisket are great, too. All in all, Alabama barbecue holds its own among the other Southern states that form the barbecue belt: Georgia, the Carolinas, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Ready to try it out? Fortunately, there are several great BBQ joints near Tuscaloosa homes for sale. Our real estate agents are happy to make some recommendations.
Have questions about Tuscaloosa? Contact us today.
It's already November, and that means the holidays are approaching fast. Catching up with family and friends in a Tuscaloosa home for sale over home-cooked meals can be one of the most rewarding things you'll do this year, but it also means you may not have as much free time as usual. Before you host guests this holiday season, our real estate agents recommend finishing up the following projects.
Make Sure Appliances Are In Working Order
Your oven becomes quite the workhorse during the holidays. Before roasting turkeys and hams, make sure your oven is in proper working order and is also clean. Food debris can become charred and smokey if left unattended, so it's best to do a deep clean before putting your oven to work. Your dishwasher will also be working overtime, so if you know of any issues, even small ones like a faulty or broken tray, it's a good idea to fix it now. If your dishes aren't hot after a cycle, there could be something wrong. Don't forget your washer and dryer either — these can upend your plans if they act up.
Do A Deep Clean
Some people think you should reserve the deep cleaning for spring, but that's not true! Now's a great time to start cleaning your home for two reasons: you'll be hosting guests, and it will mean less work later. If you deep clean now, you'll only need to do some surface passes during the holidays. A deep clean involves dusting above cabinets, sweeping under the fridge, washing all sheets in the house, and shampooing the carpet if you have access to a carpet cleaner. This can add up to a lot of work, so try involving the entire family.
Complete A Safety Check
This one is simple, but it's perhaps the most important project. Check all smoke detectors to make sure they're working — or change out their batteries now, so you don't have to worry about them for the rest of the year. Also, take a peek at your dryer vent and remove any lingering lint balls. These can become a fire hazard if accumulated or not venting outside properly. Lastly, make sure your fire extinguisher still has pressure. If it doesn't, you can have it recharged, or you can buy a new one. If you don't own a fire extinguisher, now's the time to get one!
Finish Up Any Put Off Projects
Were you planning to put in new drawer pulls but never got around to it? Or how about how you wanted to change out the light fixtures in your kitchen and dining room? If you have projects you meant to get around to but just couldn't find the time, try allocating a weekend day to finish these up. Little things like these are usually cheaper compared to other major projects and can transform a room, especially if you've had the same drawer pulls for years, for example. That way, you can really wow your guests when they arrive.
Decorate!
Decorating is what you wanted to do all along, but you should save this for last. Once your home is clean, and all appliances are in working order, then you can shift your focus to turning your home into a seasonal getaway. Wreaths are fashionable in fall and winter, and string lights can help set the mood. Double-check that you don't have any burnt-out bulbs, and consider switching to LEDs that will last longer and don't get hot.
Need more tips on how you can keep your home in top shape this holiday season? Contact us today.
You want your living room to make a statement as the showpiece of the home. As the name suggests, a living room is also where you invite company, and maybe even where you and the family spend time, so while eye appeal is important, so is comfort.
As you plan the living room of your dreams in the house you discovered from Tuscaloosa homes for sale, bone up on avoiding some of the most common decorating blunders. Our real estate agents have sourced the wisdom of top design experts to help you avoid mistakes and create the perfect living room for your home.
You can make all the right decorating moves by consulting the experts. Need some advice on whom to call? Contact us today.
Storage space is always one of the most important features of any home and usually one of the first things buyers look for when touring a listing. If your home has limited storage space, all hope is not lost. There are many easy things you can do to increase storage, even if your home is short on closets and functional areas. Our real estate agents have seen some very creative storage designs that inspired them to compile this list of clever storage ideas that can truly help you maximize your space.
Most buyers don't want to invest in a home that they may outgrow, which is why ample storage space is often at the top of the wishlist. For more tips on how to make the most of your storage areas, contact us today.
Our real estate agents know buyers always look at what fun things they can do around the neighborhood. And right around the corner from Tuscaloosa homes for sale are some wonderful international restaurants for when you're in the mood for something a little different. Indulge in some amazing food and drink at one of these restaurants for your next date night or night out with friends and family.
Located just a short distance from campus, nothing beats Taco Mama for a game day feast. Select one of their fresh, made-to-order specialty tacos or burritos for a delicious meal. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, customize a Quesadilla, salad, or nachos with your favorite toppings for a truly unique creation every single time you go. With almost endless options, everyone in your group is sure to find something they enjoy. There's also an extensive list of tasty margaritas you can add to complete your meal.
Classic gyros and hummus appetizers are always a great choice, but Glory Bound Gyro Co. puts a few unique and tasty twists on these classics that you're sure to appreciate. There are flavors like BBQ ranch, buffalo chicken, and their award-winning pepper jack gyro. Or stop in to try one of their daily fresh-made craft hummus flavors. You'll want to come back for seconds!
If you're in the mood for some classic Italian fare, you'll be glad you stopped at DePalma's Italian Café. Your favorite Italian appetizers like antipasti, baked feta, and caprese. Salads with homemade dressings. Classic dishes like Shrimp scampi, veal scaloppini, and lasagna, Spaghetti with sausage and roasted red peppers, shells Florentine. Unique options like Portobello mushroom ravioli, hand-tossed NY style pizza, calzone. Classic decadent desserts like cannoli and tiramisu. An impressive wine menu to accompany your meal.
Central Mesa is located in beautiful historic downtown Tuscaloosa and offers traditional Latin American dishes with a little southern flair. They specialize in tacos, tequila, and whiskey, but the rest of the menu will impress you too. Everything is made from scratch with fresh ingredients so you're always getting the tastiest entrees and tacos. And because the focus is on fresh ingredients, there are several vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. For something a little different, try a pork belly taco or go more traditional with a Cuban sandwich. Interesting vegetarian options include a Spinach Quesadilla. You'll leave truly satisfied.
Healthy fresh veggies and lean grilled meats are the shining stars of Mediterranean cuisine at Taziki's Mediterranean Café. Soups and salads, grilled entrees, sandwiches, and gyros make up a delicious and healthy menu that will have you coming back again and again. And with convenient online ordering, you can save time too.
A meal at a great international restaurant can bring back memories of a favorite vacation abroad, make new memories enjoying everyone's company, or just satisfy your game-day cravings.
Hamner Real Estate can help you find your next new home in a Tuscaloosa neighborhood you'll love. Contact us today to get started.
If you're looking at Tuscaloosa homes for sale, you probably can't wait to move in and get settled. While you pack up all your electronics, you might wonder whether you should take steps to protect them. After all, it only takes one lightning strike or downed power line to cause a power surge and damage your devices. This may all seem scary, but the good news is that you can protect all your devices, and it's pretty simple. Our real estate agents recommend the following.
Whole-House Surge Protector
A whole-house surge protector works like a filter, allowing "safe" electrical currents in while blocking irregular voltage. This device is installed at your home's circuit breaker panel, and it protects against internal surges. Major appliances cycling on and off account for 60% to 80% of home power surges. These low-level surges often go unnoticed. However, they can degrade the circuitry of your expensive electrical devices, eventually causing them to burn out.
A professionally installed whole-house surge protector is a bit of an investment. Still, it's well worth the cost if you consider how much you've already invested in your television, kitchen appliances, computers, and anything else that's plugged in 24/7.
External Surge Protector
An external surge protector blocks approximately 80% of external surges. It serves as the first line of defense against huge power spikes that travel through the power grid. This will protect your home from lightning strikes and power station and power line issues. External surge protectors are installed where the utility company's supply meets the main breaker. These require professional installation.
Power Strip Surge Protectors
Most homeowners are already familiar with strip surge protectors. These outlet strips are plugged into your home's outlets and add a layer of separation between the electrical outlet and your expensive electrical devices.
Strip surge protectors are relatively inexpensive, making them a very smart purchase for your home. However, it's important to note that without the first two types of surge protectors in place, strip protectors only offer minimal protection. This is why it's best to protect your home with more robust safety nets.
Additional Ways to Protect Your Home
Installing a surge protection system is an excellent way to protect your home and expensive appliances and electronics. However, for full protection, follow these tips as well:
If you've been thinking of buying or selling a home in Tuscaloosa, we have years of experience and can help you meet your real estate goals. Contact us today to get started.
Our real estate agents often hear that one of the best parts of becoming a homeowner is being able to decorate and display personal items any way you like. Adding all those personal touches to Tuscaloosa homes for sale will make you feel right at home in no time. So you probably can't wait to display those favorite family photos. But where should you even start? Here are a few creative options to inspire you.
Decorating your new home with all your own personal touches can be a lot of fun. We've helped so many families find the right home, and we can help you too. Contact us today to get started.
Looking for some fun activities to do this summer? Our real estate agents have you covered. Whether you want something for a quiet afternoon or something a bit more exciting, we put together a list that should have something for everyone. After viewing Tuscaloosa homes for sale, enjoy a day in the area with these activities.
Looking for other fun things to do in Tuscaloosa? Contact us today and we can help you find fun things to do as well as your dream home!
Need a break from searching for your next home? Spend the day in downtown Tuscaloosa! Our real estate agents know that downtown Tuscaloosa is full of unique shops and delicious restaurants. Here are some places to add to your itinerary.
Cravings Artisan Pizza Company serves mouth-water Detroit and Sicilian-style pizzas. Their menu also includes breakfast offerings and sandwiches. Order a refreshing glass of ice-cold beer or wine to complement your selection.
In the mood for a burger after checking out Tuscaloosa homes for sale? Stop by Mugshots Grill & Bar for a grilled Angus burger, complete with your choice of toppings. Mugshots has been voted the Best Burger in Tuscaloosa numerous times.
Try a traditional favorite, like the Middleberger (served with mayo, mustard, pickles, onion, and tomatoes), or order one of the specialty entrees, such as the Southern Burger (served with housemade pimento cheese, bacon, fried pickles, lettuce, and tomato).
Mugshots also offers salads, sandwiches, hot dogs, and a variety of deep-friend sides and appetizers, include beer-battered fries, onion rings, nachos, and wings. They also have milkshakes and a variety of brews on tap.
The Makers Market is a specialty gift shop and grocery store that has something for everyone. Pick up a jar of jalapeno, blueberry lavender, or fig balsamic jam. Or, try the delicious apple butter or one of the pepper jellies.
Many of the flavors also come in sugar-free varieties. Salsa, banana bread, and specialty vinegar combos are also available. This fun gift shop also offers seasonal wares and home decor perfect for your next holiday celebration.
Founded by Alabama native Sydney Powers, Lou and Co. were established to satisfy the unmet need for elegant home decor, gifts, and clothing in Tuscaloosa. This creative shop is an excellent stop to find a gift for any occasion, including baby showers, sorority bid days, and birthdays. Lou and Co. also offers monogramming for many of their offerings, including packing cubes, totes, towels, ad blankets.
Need to overhaul your gameday apparel? Stop by The Shirt Shop! The Shirt Shop offers an extensive collection of shirts, vests, builds, and hats that make it easy for a Bama fan to spruce up their wardrobe.
Or, if you prefer a more customized look, take advantage of The Shirt Shop's option to build your own game day apparel. You can choose practically every aspect of your Bama shirt, including the style, color, logo, and logo location.
Want to start your home search? Contact us to get started!
Does your outdoor space need a little refresh? Once the weather is warmer, everyone wants to spend more time outside, and Tuscaloosa homes for sale have all kinds of outdoor spaces available to help you do exactly that. Whether you're planning on selling soon or just want to add a personal touch to your new home, these projects will get your outdoor space ready to wow visitors.
A few outdoor projects that add personalization and functionality to your outdoor space will impress your guests and provide hours of enjoyment for your family and friends. Our real estate agents can help you find a home with that outdoor space you've been looking for. Contact us today to get started.
May 1st marks the beginning of Hamburger Month, so celebrate by exploring some of the best pubs and restaurants in Tuscaloosa. Our real estate agents know that there are some fantastic options suited for every palate. Check out these eateries that are known for offering a delicious burger.
Ready to start looking for a home with your dream kitchen to try out new burger recipes? Contact us today to start your search!
It's spring again, and you know what that means — spring cleaning! Time to break out those cleaning supplies and get your home as clean and bright as possible. Whether you're selling soon or just moving into one of the beautiful Tuscaloosa homes for sale, spring is the time to get that deep clean your home deserves. Here's your guide to getting it done.
Wipe off of cabinets and appliances. Seal the countertops. Clean the fridge by taking out shelves and drawers and washing them with dish soap and water. Wipe down the inside and the door seals too. Run a cleaning cycle on the dishwasher. Clean the microwave by boiling some water (you can add a little lemon juice or vinegar if you want), the steam makes the cooked on food slide right off.
Dust ceiling fans, shelves, picture frames and light fixtures. Wipe down walls. Use canned air or the dusting attachment on the vacuum to get dust out of the air vents on electronics. Wash or dry clean curtains and drapes. Clean the carpet or area rugs and floor.
Dust ceiling fans, tops of windows, wall-mounted pictures and light fixtures. Wipe down walls. Wash the pillows and comforters. Vacuum the mattress, then remove spots if necessary and spray with disinfectant to freshen. Clean the carpet or rugs and floor.
Since the bathroom needs to be kept pretty clean anyway, deep cleaning here may be minimal. It's a good time to seal any grout or tile. Tackle any mold or mildew and clean the exhaust fan. Clean shelves, windows, baseboards and floors, making sure to get behind the toilet too.
Spring cleaning can be a big job, but also a satisfying one. And once you're done ,you can show your home off to your friends and family or potential buyers and be proud of a job well done.
Whether you're looking to sell your home or purchase your next one in the Tuscaloosa area, our real estate agents can help. Contact us today to get started!
After an exciting day of exploring Tuscaloosa homes for sale, stop and relax with an ice-cold brew at one of the city's local breweries. Or, celebrate National Beer Day on April 7 with a glass of your favorite brew or try a refreshing glass of something new. Our real estate agents recommend the following spots for a frosty glass of beer.
Black Warrior Brewing Company
Located at 2216 University Blvd. in Tuscaloosa, Black Warrior Brewing Company is situated across from City Hall in the city's downtown region. Black Warrior Brewing Company regularly holds discount nights for their wine and beer, as well as team trivia and bingo nights.
Choose from a variety of beverages to find one that suits your palate. The Apricot Wheat and Bama Blonde Ale are popular with patrons new to the world of craft beer, while the Lock 17 IPA and Blood Orange Double IPA appeal to beer drinkers well-acquainted with various types of beer.
Druid City Brewing Company
Druid City Brewing Company rests at 607 14th Street in the Parkview Center area. It's been in business since 2012 and prides itself as "Tuscaloosa's original craft brewery."
Try the Lamplighter IPA for the perfect mix of hops and floral notes. Or, check out the Downtown North Porter for an after-dinner treat; this malt-based beer includes delicious hints of chocolate and vanilla.
The Druid City Brewing Company is also a great spot for an evening of live music or a couple of hours of brain-teasing trivia.
Loosa Brews Craft Emporium
After a day of touring Northport homes for sale, Loosa Brews Craft Emporium is a lighthearted, refreshing way to end your day. Loosa Brews Craft Emporium is located at 412 20th Avenue in Tuscaloosa.
This brewery includes more than 30 draft beers on tap, including traditional favorites and rare offerings. Spend a couple of hours enjoying the onsight arcade and pinball parlor.
Feeling tired, or just want to enjoy your beer at home? Loosa Brews Craft Emporium offers many of their wine and beer varieties to go.
The World of Beer Bar and Kitchen
The World of Beer Bar and Kitchen Strives to help its customers make memories. Situated at 2107 University Boulevard in Tuscaloosa, this local gem is pet-friendly and offers an extensive menu of pub fare and lunch and dinner entrees.
Pair a German pretzel with your favorite draft, or take in the Truffle burger with your beverage of choice. You can expect periodic new offerings, as The World of Beer Bar and Kitchen rotates its beer offerings. The beer menu includes local favorites and varieties from across the globe.
Looking for a home with more space for entertaining? Contact us today to check out your options!
Once upon a time, when food was referred to as "healthy," it was considered code for "tasteless." Fast-forward to the 21st century, when "healthy" and "flavorful" are no longer mutually exclusive. Our real estate agents enjoy delicious, guilt-free meals at these wonderful restaurants in Tuscaloosa and think you should explore them too.
Want more reasons why Tuscaloosa is a great place to call home? Contact us at Hamner Real Estate for the inside scoop.
It may be chilly outside, but don't let that scare you from staying active. Our real estate agents are excited about the opportunity to get outside and do some exploring in the Tuscaloosa area. We hope to see you out there at one of these great local parks or trails.
Contact us today to learn more about life in the Tuscaloosa area, and talk to our team about finding your dream home in Alabama. We're here to help every step of the way!
One of the first things you notice when you enter a room is the flooring. If your floors look old and worn out, it's probably time to replace them. Our real estate agents know that new flooring is also very appealing to potential homebuyers. Two of the most popular alternatives are carpet and hardwood. Here's what you need to know about these top options to decide if they're right for your home.
Hardwood Floor Basics
Hardwood floor consists of boards that are produced from wood. The boards can be crafted entirely from solid wood, or they may consist of a thin hardwood layer that adheres to a layer of plywood (also known as engineered wood flooring).
Advantages of Hardwood Flooring
Aesthetics are one reason that hardwood floors are popular with homeowners. Hardwood floors create a bold look that suits a variety of home styles. With a lifespan of 50 to 100 years or more, hardwood floors are a long-lasting option for your home's flooring needs.
They're also easy to clean, making them a top choice for individuals with allergies. You can quickly sweep or vacuum dirt and dust, and for deeper cleanings, a damp mop with some wood cleaner works wonders.
When it's time to add your home to the list of Tuscaloosa homes for sale, hardwood floors will help you maximize your home's selling price. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with hardwood floors.
Disadvantages of Hardwood Flooring
One potential drawback of hardwood floors is that they're cold to the touch. While you might appreciate their cooler temperature during the muggy summer months, you may find them less appealing on chilly mornings.
Hardwood floors also have a higher initial cost than carpet. On average, hardwood floors cost an average of $8 per square foot installed. For a home with 2,000 square feet, hardwood floors will cost an average of $16,000.
Carpet Basics
Carpet consists of a backing material containing loops of fibers (generally produced from synthetic materials). It comes in a number of colors, styles, and thicknesses.
Advantages of Carpet
If you're on a budget, carpet is an affordable way to improve your home. Carpet costs an average of $3 per square foot, including installation. Assuming a home is 2,000 square feet, it will cost approximately $6,000 to install carpet.
Some people also prefer the look and feel of carpet. It lends a cozy appearance to any space, and it's warm when you walk on it. If you're living in a home where noise is an issue, carpet can also help dampen some of the sounds that travel through your home.
Disadvantages of Carpet
A drawback of carpet is that it has a relatively short lifespan; on average, carpet requires replacement every 10 years. If your household has a lot of spills, the carpet may need to be replaced even sooner due to stains.
Many find that it's not as easy to clean carpet. While vacuuming is relatively simple, more intense messes call for the use of a carpet cleaning machine or prompt attention with a scrub brush and cleaning agent. Carpet also provides a lot of hiding spaces for pollen and dust, making it a poor choice for homeowners with allergies.
Ready to upgrade your home? Contact us to get started!
There are so many benefits to training for a 5K, whether you're an experienced runner or you're aiming to cross the finish line for the first time. Training for a run is a great way to burn calories, stay in shape, and set a goal you will be proud to achieve. As our real estate agents know, many 5K runs also benefit local charities, so your participation can positively impact the community. Get ready for your big run with our guide to 6 great trails to train for your next 5K around Tuscaloosa.
With warm weather and ample outdoor spaces to explore, there's never a bad time to train for your next 5K around Tuscaloosa. Contact us to buy and sell real estate in the Tuscaloosa, AL area.
As we finally turn the page on a tough year, it's time to set our sights on the future. If 2021's color of the year choices are any indication, the future is certainly looking bright.
One of our favorite parts about this time of year is reading all of the interior design predictions for the New Year, and our real estate agents have been busy doing just that. In fact, we were so inspired by new colors in these Tuscaloosa homes for sale, we pulled together a list of the most popular 2021 colors of the year to help guide your home decor choices.
If you're planning to revamp your interior design, we always recommend checking out the colors of the year trends for inspiration. We can't wait to see what design trends emerge next year. For more interior design tips, contact us today!
Tuscaloosa is a fast-growing city that's been drawing new residents from all over the United States. The vibrant real estate market means there are plenty of Tuscaloosa homes for sale for anyone who wants bright opportunities and a change of pace in "The City of Champions."
Our real estate agents are eager to tell you all about it.
Founded back in 1819, Tuscaloosa now has more than 90,000 residents. It serves as the hub of industry, commerce, and healthcare for West Alabama. Through the University of Alabama, it is also considered one of the region's higher education leaders and holds some of the state's top-ranked public schools.
Let's take a closer look at some of the features that make Tuscaloosa so attractive:
Tuscaloosa combines all the amenities of a world city with the warmth and charm you expect from "Sweet Home Alabama." It truly has something for everyone, and an energetic community always prepared to welcome new neighbors. To find out more or get started, contact us at Hamner Real Estate.
If it feels like your holiday decorations never match the images you envision, it's time to try a few new tricks this holiday season. A few simple adjustments will help you maximize your decor's aesthetics so that your home looks its best. Our real estate agents know a well-decorated home will appeal to prospective buyers. Here are some decorating tips to try this season.
Looking for a home with more space to decorate during the holidays? Our team can help. Contact us today!
If you're looking to upgrade your home, you'll want to look into projects that can be done on a budget. That way, for a minimal investment, you'll make a big impact that will improve the look or function of your home. Especially, if you are getting ready to list!
Our real estate agents suggest the following 5 upgrades you can make even on a budget:
Contact us at Hamner Real Estate to learn more about Tuscaloosa homes for sale and the upgrades that you can make for a minimal investment. Our experienced real estate agents would love to help!
There are many reasons to love Tuscaloosa homes for sale, but this year, one stands out in particular: The county is dotted with beautiful parks and natural wonders you simply have to see to believe.
National Take a Hike Day is coming up on Tuesday, November 17th, and there are plenty of places in Tuscaloosa where you can do just that. Tuscaloosa boasts many large, well-kept parks in wooded and lakeside environments, many of them pet-friendly. Let's take a closer look at some of the area's most eye-catching hiking spots:
Contact us at Hammer Real Estate to learn more about Tuscaloosa.
Many refer to the kitchen as the heart and hub of the home. It's the place where meals are created and the primary gathering place for many families. Having a great kitchen can truly make all the difference in a home, which is why kitchen renovations are expensive yet worth the investment.
The quality of your kitchen also significantly impacts your home's value. It can also make your home much more appealing to potential buyers, as future owners won't need to worry about redecorating any time soon. If you're planning an upcoming kitchen renovation, our REALTORS® put together a list of 6 classic trends that will create a timeless look.
A timeless kitchen can save you from future renovations and make your home more appealing to potential buyers when listing your home among other Tuscaloosa homes for sale. For more tips on how to create a timeless look for your kitchen, contact us today.