62002 28 13 birmingham ebook

Greater Birmingham Home & Lifestyle Guide selling? Home selling tips inside

+

What to do before the appraiser arrives

home staging tips for any season

featured home in

mt laurel

Built with quality in mind RealEstateBook.com Request FREE MAGAZINES online, or call 800-841-3401

62002.28.13.001.Cover.indd 1

FEATURED REALTOR Della Pender, Broker Ebsco Development COMPANY 205-408-8696 office 205-540-1870 cell dpender@ebsco.com mtlaurel.com

12/8/15 4:48 PM

Francene Drexler ABR, CRS, REALTOR® 205.965.2065 frandrexler@aol.com www.frandrexler.com

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FIRST CHOICE

5BR + Bonus Rm/6th BR, 4.5BA, 2 Car Garage & Full Finished BSMT w/2nd Kitchen. $449,750

NEED AN IN-LAW SUITE?

4BR/3BA + complete Apartment finished down!

3BR/2BA on main level, Full 2nd Kitchen. $284,900

Text P685107 to 85377

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UNIQUE FLOOR PLAN

$2,000 OF YOUR CLOSING COSTS PAID!

3 BR on Main Level, 4th BR, Huge Den, 3rd Full BA Finished Down! $249,900

Picture perfect! Open plan with raised ceilings, 2” blinds, DR w/FP, spacious BRs, & scrnd-in Patio. $104,900

Text P826645 to 85377

Text P826646 to 85377

EXTRA SPECIAL!

Beautiful 3BR/2BA, 2 Car Garage! Swim Community.

Master suite, open Patio, & fenced in backyard. $139,900

UNDER CONTRACT

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INCREDIBLE MOUNTAIN TOP HOME

Located in Olde Weatherly! 1.5 Story, 5 BR, 5.5 BA, Finished BSMT, Main Level Master & 2 Car Garage. $439,900

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OVER 6500 SQ FT OF WONDERFUL!

4BR + Bonus Rm, Loft area, Keeping Rm, GR, LR & Master BR on main. Full Finished BSMT Retreat! $799,900

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INCREDIBLE EXECUTIVE STYLE HOME!

SPACE FOR EVERYTHING!

THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! Open 4BR/3BA & HUGE Den. Split BR plan. $259,500

Text P115868 to 85377

ONLY 1 LOT LEFT!

Bring your own builder or we have one for you.

Lot 410 - .75 acre (per tax record) $29,999

Text P267065 to 85377

MelissaMorse DeCarlo NMLS ID 595166 Cell 205-602-4769 mdecarlo@renasant.com

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Kathy Dailey 20 5 -33 7-7 0 3 1

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SILVER LAKES IN HELENA

CALERA - FULL BRICK BEAUTY

4 Bedrooms - 4.5 Baths Full Brick Beauty. Incredible, Incredible HOME! Offered at $269,900 Text P656444 to 85377

3 Bedrooms - 2 Baths Open floor plan & 2 car Garage.

Only $125,900 Text P245786 to 85377

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4 Bedrooms - 3 Baths LG corner lot, fenced backyard & neutral colors.

Offered at $229,900 Text P329908 to 85377

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ONE OWNER BEAUTY IN ALABASTER!

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THE CHARLIE PLAN

THE ASHLIEGH PLAN

Lot 424 on the Lake - $372,900 Lot 428 on the Lake - $389,900 1.5 Story over full unfinished BSMT w/3 Car Garage Designed by Paul Gilbert Distinctive Designs Text P822794 to 85377

Lot 426 - $294,900 Fabulous 1.5 Story Plan w/Master on main level & 2nd BR on main. THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! Designed by Frank Betz Associates, Inc. Text P656273 to 85377

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THE GARRETT PLAN ot 424 on the Lake - $372,900 Lot 428 on the Lake - $389,900 1.5 Story over full unfinished BSMT w/3 Car Garage Designed by Paul Gilbert Distinctive Designs Text P841395 to 85377

THE CATHY PLAN

PICK YOUR PLAN!

Gorgeous Open Split Foyer w/Master Spa BA, Kitchen open to GR w/raised ceilings. 4 BA finished down!

Designed by Paul Gilbert Distinctive Designs Text P799286 to 85377

For more information contact: Kathy Dailey 337-7031 • Francene Drexler 965-2065 • Ginny Willis 585-3184 RE/MAX First Choice 205-663-4402

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MONTEVALLO

MONTEVALLO/JEMISON AREA

Huge, very nice manufactured home w/ poured foundation on +/- 14 acres. 4 BR, 3 BA, you own private lake & so much more. $219,900 Text P861719 to 85377

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Everything updated! Beautiful 3BR/2BA home in Arden Park. New kitchen counter tops, freshly painted, new plumbing & more! Vaulted ceiling w/FP in the Great Room. $129,900 Text P861717 to 85377

24 GORGEOUS ACRES!

Dream home location on your own private lake!

Beautiful fenced pastures & walking/riding trails.

Horses & Cattle Welcome! 3 Out Bldgs. $229,900 Text P861718 to 85377

marlowery4@bellsouth.net 62002.28.13.004.SueLowery.indd 1

MONTEVALLO

Clean palette - design your home! Temporary housing available. Great Location! 7 AC +/- of pasture. Bring your horses & livestock! $249,000 Text P871886 to 85377

FIRST CHOICE 12/8/15 12:01 PM

Johnny Pate Life Member Club of Excellence

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HUEYTOWN

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1 level brick, corner lot, sunroom, dbl garage.

Contract Fell Through.

FHA Appraised at $115,000.

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CONCORD

3BR/2BA, 2 car carport + 2 car detached Garage. Workshop, covered screened Deck + open deck. Nice LG lot. $139,900 Text P842090 to 85377

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4BR/2BA, one level, corner lot, vinyl siding, metal roof, new deck & some wood ceilings. $110,000 Text P859420 to 85377

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McCALLA

Looking for a nice place for your horses? Want to fish & hunt? Here it is! Brick Rancher on 42+ acres. Barn w/ stalls, Lake & more. $259,900 Text P474127 to 85377

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BRADFORD PARK

One level Garden Home w/Sunroom, 3BR/2BA, formal DR, GR, Deck, fenced yard & so much more! $149,500 Text P859422 to 85377

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All Brick 4BR/3.5BA 2-story w/parking on both levels, SUPER Kitchen & hardwoods galore!

Priced to sell at $229,900.

Text P859421 to 85377

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VIRGINIA RIDGE

All brick 4BR/3BA w/Sunroom & covered scrnd deck. BSMT/Apt. Dbl Garage down. $269,900 Text P859423 to 85377

HUEYTOWN’S VIRGINIA ESTATES 5BR/3BA, in-law BSMT Apt, 2 car BSMT parking, 2 detached Garages on 3+/- acres. $239,900 Text P859424 to 85377

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

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As I write this it’s almost Thanksgiving.

You can see I have alot to be thankful for.

My Alabama & Auburn families, My Grace Life Family, and all who are in God’s Family.

MIDFIELD

Fairfield Highlands. 4 BR, 2 BA, extra lot, covered front porch, ramp on rear entrance & fenced yard. $64,900 Text P842083 to 85377

I hope your family knows the real reason for Christmas and will keep Christ the center of their lives.

My family will be seeking to know him better in 2016.

Hope you have a wonderful Christmas & Happy New Year!

The Pates & Luncefords

2015

www.ThePateTeam.com 62002.28.13.005.JohnnyPate.indd 1

12/8/15 12:42 PM

On The Cover

Greater Birmingham

Greater Birmingham PUBLISHER Ken Malone ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Anton Muhammad CEO Robert Hardy SR VP THE REAL ESTATE BOOK Adam Brown TO ADVERTISE CONTACT Anton Muhammad 770-203-7608 birmingham@realestatebook.com

Greater Birmingham home & LifestyLe guide selling? home selling tips inside

+

What to do before the appraiser arrives

home staging tips for any season

Beautiful Custom Home featuring 2 car main level garage. LG front porch, herringbone design pavers courtyard, surrounded w/Mt Laurel stone. LG custom kitchen w/sub zero refrig, custom cabinets, limestone flrs, 2 pantries, sep DR, LG family rm overlooking spacious custom designed backyard. FP in Family Rm & LG Den. Spacious master on main level w/LG walk in closet, claw foot tub, sep shower, screen porch off of kitchen area. Walk from garage thru mud rm into wonderful kitchen overlooking family rm. Upstairs features 3 LG BR, 2 full BA, LG playroom & spacious area at the top of the stairs that can be used as a study or office. Hardwoods throughout. Carpet in the playroom.

Unfinished BSMT stubbed for BA & add’l garage door for utility vehicle.

Sprinkler system installed in backyard. THIS HOME IS A MUST SEE! Stroll our tree lined streets, chat with neighbors on your front porch, and explore the trails around Spoonwood Mountain Lake, and discover why we were recently selected as Birmingham’s only Southern Living Inspired Community. $699,000

Text P592957 to 85377

Della Pender, Broker

featured home in

mt laurel

Built with quality in mind reaLestatebook.com request free magaZines online, or call 800-841-3401

featured reaLtor della pender, Broker eBsco development company 205-408-8696 office 205-540-1870 cell dpender@eBsco.com mtlaurel.com

62002.28.13.001.Cover.indd 1

12/8/15 4:48 PM

Another quality publication form:

2305 Newpoint Parkway Lawrenceville, GA 30043 855.777.7949

EBSCO Development Company

205-408-8696 office 205-540-1870 cell dpender@ebsco.com mtlaurel.com

62002.28.13.006.OnTheCover.indd 1

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

12/8/15 4:59 PM

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$549,900

CUSTOM EXECUTIVE HOME - PELHAM 5 BR - finished BSMT - MLS# 729519 Text P319367 to 85377

RARE OPPORTUNITY - BALLANTRAE! 4 BR - 3 BA - MLS# 731239 Text P482849 to 85377

$295,000

ALABASTER / PELHAM

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

$399,900

ACREAGE, LAKE & POOL - ALABASTER 3 BR - 3.5 BA - MLS# 632864 Text P700009 to 85377

ONE OWNER BEAUTY IN ALABASTER! 4 BR - 3 BA - MLS# 730701 Text P329908 to 85377

$229,900

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$112,000

PRIVATE & CONVENIENT - ALABASTER 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 729668 Text P830074 to 85377

MOUNTAIN TOP - OLDE WEATHERLY 5 BR - 5.5 BA - MLS# 729542 Text P826646 to 85377

$439,900

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GREATER BIRMINGHAM

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Penny Overstreet 205.516.8865

$124,500

APPROXIMATELY 19 ACRES - WEST BLOCTON Build Your Dream Home - MLS# 731672 Text P842135 to 85377

6 AC +/- Gentleman’s Farm - SPRINGVILLE 3 BR - 2 BA - Bonus Rm - MLS# 621076 Text P860779 to 85377

$359,900

Penny Overstreet 205.516.8865

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

$219,900

Parc Brook Garden Home - TRUSSVILLE 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 732851 Text P860778 to 85377

READY TO BUILD - 7.25 AC - WEST BLOCTON 2 Adj Lots - Pine View Estates. MLS# 726533 Text P298849 to 85377

$93,000

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

ADVANTAGE

Jeff Lindsey 205.492.7629

$236,700

Open Floor Plan - HOMEWOOD 3 BR - 3 BA - MLS# 729731 Text P825876 to 85377

REDONE & UPDATE - SYLVAN SPRINGS 3 BR - 2.5 BA - MLS# 730169 Text P870622 to 85377

$157,000

G R E AT E R BIRMINGHAM 62002.28.13.008.GrtrBirmingham2.indd 1

12/8/15 12:49 PM

BE PART OF A WINNING TRADITION Become an Independent Distributor with The Real Estate Book!

For over, 35 years, The Real Estate Book has been connecting home buyers and sellers through locally distributed magazines and online products in hundreds of markets across the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean.

Why Real Estate Book?

Be your own boss Control your future Flexible schedule Home based business opportunity

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT PATRICK MCGRODER AT 855-556-7544

Opportunities are available in select markets.

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**

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Luxury syndication with The Real Estate Book has global reach. Luxury listings are posted daily to these great luxury brands including: - International editions of The Wall Street Journal, including Asia, Europe, India, China and Latin America.

- Mansion Global English, Spanish and Chinese.

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# Listings $450,000 and above * Listings $500,000 and above ** Listings $750,000 and above *** Listings $1,000,000 and above

11/19/15 5:10 PM PM 12/8/15 3:40

AVOID HOME BUYER’S

REMORSE IN 5 STEPS

Have you ever bought something but then, later on, found yourself regretting that purchase decision? Well, it’s no big deal when you can easily return or exchange something like a pair of pants or even a designer purse. A house, on the other hand, is much more permanent. It’s not only the largest investment you’ll ever make, but it’s also the place you’ll come home to every day, and where you’ll spend years making life memories as your family grows.

There may be increasing pressure to make a quick decision in today’s fast-paced and competitive real estate market, but it’s important to stay grounded throughout the home buying process. Before you try to compete with other interested buyers and snag that “hot listing,” take a breath and follow these steps.

1. STICK TO YOUR HOME REQUIREMENTS.

Before you even start your search, make a list of your “must-haves” in your new home. If having a 2-car garage is on the list but the house you’re looking at only has a 1-car garage, move on. Don’t let yourself settle for something less and then end up making expensive renovations because it’s not exactly what you wanted.

3. STAND YOUR GROUND.

Even after you have made the decision to buy a specific home, don’t let yourself overlook major issues. For example, if the inspector finds a cracked foundation or dry rot in the floor joists, you should either back out of the deal or get the price lowered to reflect the cost of the repairs.

4. KEEP A CLEAR HEAD.

If you get stuck in a bidding war with another buyer, you need to ask yourself if you really want the house or if you just want to win the fight. The last thing you want to do is end up overpaying for a house that doesn’t completely satisfy all your needs.

5. LOVE THE HOME’S PROXIMITY.

You can change many things about a home, but you can’t change the location. Think about what you do everyday in regards to where you live. This includes where you work, where you have to take the kids to school, and where you do things for fun.

2. KNOW WHERE YOU’LL COMPROMISE.

Note any items that are on your home wish list, but you could live without. There should be at least a couple home features that you and your partner or spouse can compromise on.

These are all very important factors to consider when buying a home and most importantly, avoiding home buyer’s remorse. Find a home you’ll love living in every day.

The less you want to change, the better!

Works Cited Price, Iris. “Home inspection fail: electrical, plumbing, and roofing, oh my!” Improvement Center 18 August 2014. 9 Sep. 2015 <http://www.improvementcenter.com/ electrical/home-inspection-fail-electrical-plumbing-and-roofing-oh-my.html> Christie, Les. “How to avoid homebuyer’s remorse.” CNNMoney 23 Oct. 2014. 9 Sep. 2015 <http://money.cnn.com/2014/10/23/real_estate/homebuyer-remorse/>

HOME STAGING TIPS FOR EVERY SEASON If you’re preparing your house to sell and don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Even the experts understand that it can be overwhelming. Thankfully, there are many tips, guidelines, and resources to help you along the way. As you venture out into the housing market, you’ll find that home staging is an integral part of the selling process. Updating your home in different seasons throughout the year can improve your chances of sparking a buyer’s interest.

Some home staging techniques have the same impact no matter what time of the year, but there are also many season-specific ways you can stage your home that are more effective in buyer persuasion and attraction, without them even realizing it.

HERE ARE SOME SEASONAL HOME STAGING TIPS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF:

SUMMER: In the summer, your house may get cluttered with trees, plants, and the seasonal humidity makes your yard look out of control. To calm down the summer chaos, trim plants to reach the bottom of the window. Do not use any hanging plants on your patio because you want their eye to go to the house, not the plants. You should also stage the backyard as an outdoor living area in the warmer months. Don’t be afraid to spend the extra money on A/C – Make sure the inside of your house is cool, or else buyers won’t stick around very long, which means they won’t buy.

FALL: The season of Fall brings us many things, including lots of leaves. Make sure you keep the house exterior nice and neat by raking up all those extra leaves in the front yard and trim greenery as needed. Halloween and Thanksgiving come around during Fall, but don’t go overboard with the decorations. Remember that less is more when it comes to staging your home to sell.

WINTER: Now we come to our current season, Winter. The rule mentioned above in Summer for your house’s interior temperature also applies here, but in the opposite sense. You’ll want to spend the extra money on your heating bill if you want home shoppers to stay and look around, feel comfortable, and potentially buy. It also gets dark earlier in the Winter, so make sure you keep lighting in mind – putting timers around the inside and outside is a great solution. Keep the holiday decoration down to a minimum so it doesn’t distract buyers from the actual house.

SPRING: Spring means bright colors, and that’s what buyers will be attracted to, especially once it brightens up the rainy weather that usually comes with Spring. Place seasonal flowers in pots on your front porch and make sure all of your holiday lights and decorations are down and put away.

Also, keep up with trimming the weeds and make sure there are no cracks in your driveway so people don’t trip, especially if women are wearing heels. Lastly, keeping light coming into every room of your house is a sure way to appeal to buyers’ senses.

Apply these small alterations throughout your home to fit the seasons of Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring to make a huge difference on how you attract buyers. It’s time to cut the strings of attachment by turning your home into a house and your house into a product. Only then will you see results.

“Pet Shui” - Designing Your Space to Be Shared with Animals If you have a pet at home, you’ll agree that keeping the house clean is a daily struggle. You know you shouldn’t let Fido on the couch, but let’s get real – who can resist those adorable puppy eyes? In almost every household across the world, our pets are thought of as part of the family.

Animals also bring positive energy to a home. Of course you want your home’s style and interior décor to be magnificent (especially during a showing), but what about animal-friendly?

The movement of an animal in your home, along with their individual and unique sounds like barks, meows and chirps, helps to circulate energy to every corner of every room. Here are some great ways to add pet shui to your home for unique yet functional interior design.

First off, make sure your pet has their “special space” within your home’s environment.

Whether it’s a soft bed or rug, you’ll be giving them a comfy space they can call their own.

Often times, having multiple spaces or moving their bed around can stress an animal out, which results in negative energy that can throw things off balance.

If you have ever heard anything about feng shui, then you know that clutter is a big no-no.

Try to avoid having your pet’s toys scattered all over the house. Decrease the number of toys that are left out. Also, consider placing them in a nice covered basket at the end of the day – because let’s face it, no one wants to come into a home only to be tripped by a dog bone or squeaky toy.

When it comes to leashes, try to minimize hanging too many things by the front entrance of your home. Instead, put leashes in a cabinet, closet or basket.

To clean up your pet’s eating area, invest in matching food and water bowls that can also serve as home décor. Place an attractive mat underneath the bowls so the floor is kept clean.

Lastly, always be sure to bathe your pet regularly and take him or her to the vet for regular checkups. This will not only keep your home clean, but also give you piece of mind that they’re strong and in good health.

Whether you’re already in your lifelong home or not, the entire goal of pet shui is to lead a balanced, happy, and harmonious life with your furry companion. Let your home be a reflection of you and your family, pets and all!

Works Cited Barrett, Jayme. “Feng Shui… for Your Pet.” Mindbodygreen 13 Aug. 2010. 10 Sep. 2015 <http://www.mindbodygreen.com/01252/Feng-Shui-for-Your-Pet.html> Gallops, Ann Bingley. “Best Feng Shui Tips for Pets.”

Open Spaces Feng Shui 12 Dec. 2011. 10 Sep. 2015 <http:// openspacesfengshui.com/feng-shui-tips/2011/12/pet-fengshui/>

Your Recipe of the Month

Create a feast that all your guests will love this Holiday Season! To give you some cooking inspiration, here’s one of our favorite recipes to try:

Sweet Potato Cornbread Stuffing with Savory Butternut Squash (adapted from Southern Living®)

We were so inspired by Southern Living’s® recipe that we came up with our own adaptation.

This isn’t your traditional cornbread stuffing!

INGREDIENTS 1 large onion, diced 2 cups celery, chopped 2 small garlic cloves, pressed 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 1/2 lbs. butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch cubes 2 medium-size sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes 3 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon marjoram 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning 2 (14-oz.) cans low-sodium fat-free chicken stock 1 (8-oz.) package cornbread stuffing mix 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1/4 cup pecans

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350˚; lightly grease 13” x 9” baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine squash, sweet potatoes, apple, butter, brown sugar, marjoram, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, and ¼ cup water. Set aside.

3. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat then sauté onion, celery and garlic until transparent, about 5-10 minutes.

4. Add squash mixture to skillet. Cover, reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender; approximately 15 minutes.

5. Stir in half of chicken stock (1 can) 6. Remove from heat and set aside for 10-15 minutes 7. In a medium-sized bowl, combine stuffing mix, lightly beaten egg, remaining chicken stock (1 can), and remaining Cajun seasoning (1 tsp). Gently add to squash mixture.

8. Transfer to baking dish.

9. Cover and bake at 350˚ for 30 minutes.

10. Remove cover, add pecans on top. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until heated through. Let stand for 5-10 minutes.

11. Serve and enjoy!

I have learned from personal experience that it doesn’t take much for my allergies to go haywire from the inevitable dust that builds up in my home at supersonic speed. Admittedly, this is also thanks to a little basset hound/beagle mix by the name of Charlie Bronson getting hair everywhere (as cute as he may be!).

Whether you have a pet or not, there is dust-free light at the end of the tunnel!

You’re not alone, either – allergies affect more than 20% of Americans. In this post, we’ll go over specific ways to free your home of allergens so you and your family can finally breathe cleaner air. Here are some trusty guidelines to get you started.

8 Ways to

Allergy Proof Your Home

1. Lay down doormats.

5. Say bye-bye to drapes

In each entryway of your home, lay down two doormats – one on the inside and one on the outside. This helps prevent allergens from being tracked inside.

Another alternative is to have your family and guests remove their shoes when they enter your home. Otherwise, allergens are just spread around.

Consider switching from curtains to blinds or shades because they hold much fewer allergens. However, if you insist on having drapes, make sure they’re machine washable since those are easier to keep dust-free.

2. Upgrade your vacuum cleaner If you don’t have one already, make sure your vacuum cleaner has a HEPA filter. These are specifically made to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Basically, they’ll be able to capture the majority of allergens.

3. Replace air filters Remember to always clean or replace the air filters in your heating or cooling system as often as required. You can refer to the manufacturers’ instructions regarding when to change them and how often.

4. Beware of mold Minimizing mold, especially in your bathroom, is one of the most effective ways to lessen allergens. With more than 100,000 species of mold in the world, the last thing you want is for your bathroom to turn into a war zone. Clean regularly and remind yourself to dry off surfaces that collect standing water. Also, it’s important that your bathroom has good ventilation. Every few years, you should replace any broken tiles and re-caulk sinks and tubs. This keeps mold from growing behind the walls.

6. Get an air purifier filter From cooking fumes and cleaning vapors to dust and pet dander, there are so many different types of particles that can pollute the air inside your home. Air purifiers can be very effective in helping reduce allergens in the air, but just make sure you stay away from those producing ozone. We recommend using one with a HEPA filter.

7. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels By investing in a hygrometer, you’ll discover the exact moisture levels in your home. Take a measurement in each room and if the reading is above 60 percent, you may consider using a dehumidifier. High humidity can lead to mold growth, so this is your best tactic to prevent that.

8. Ditch the carpet Carpet does a great job of trapping in countless allergens, so it’s a good idea to replace your carpeting with hardwood or linoleum flooring. If that’s not an option, use low-pile carpeting instead of high-pile.

Be sure to vacuum at least once a week and shampoo your carpet frequently.

Works Cited Pruthi, Sandhya, M.D., Li, James T C, M.D., Ph.D. “Allergy-proof your home.” Mayo Clinic 13 Apr. 2014. 10 Sep. 2015 <http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy/art-20049365>

What to Do Before the Appraiser Arrives Are you ready to refinance or sell your home? If you answered yes, then it’s time to get your home appraised in order to define its true value in the current real estate market.

HOW DOES A HOME APPRAISAL WORK? On the day of your scheduled visit, a licensed home appraiser will evaluate your home by going from room to room, assessing its condition. He will also take upgrades into account and do a comparison of other homes in your neighborhood.

In the end, you’ll get an appraiser’s report. If you’re selling, you can use this document to decide your asking price. If you’re refinancing, you’ll now be able to determine how much equity you have.

Before the appraiser comes knocking at your door, however, you need to be prepared. The higher your appraisal value the better, so we have put together a list of tasks to complete beforehand.

Make any repairs necessary

Freshen up walls

If your home needs any small repairs at the time of the appraisal, that will have a negative impact on your outcome. Make sure all door latches and handles work properly, carpet does not look worn out (replace if necessary), plumbing is operable, and all windows work effectively. Not fixing these can make your home look older than it really is, so do everything you can to avoid that.

Depending on how long you’ve lived in your current home, there are probably some chips and holes in your walls. They may also be a little faded.

Freshen up these areas with some spackle and a new coat of paint.

Update light fixtures If the light fixtures throughout your home are worn and outdated, then it’s a good idea to update them before the appraiser arrives. Don’t spend too much in this category, though!

Enhance curb appeal The front of your house is the first thing the appraiser will see when pulling into the driveway, so it should be dressed to impress. First, look at the outside of your home as a whole – do you see any peeling paint, damaged gutters, siding, bricks, or mortar? Address all these issues. Then tackle the lawn by mowing, trimming, and cleaning up and weeds or dead plants. Make sure all tools or equipment are out of sight. The front porch and driveway should also be free of any debris like leaves and sticks.

Prepare your home for an appraiser like you would for an interested buyer. Make any updates or repairs necessary, clean everything, and keep track of all the updates that you’ve made. A licensed appraiser will take everything into consideration in determining your home’s true market value.

Works Cited: Allasio, John. “How to Prepare for a Home Appraisal.” Zing! By QuickenLoans 18 Apr. 2013. 11 Sep. 2015 <http://www.quickenloans.com/blog/ home-appraisals-prepare>

Colleen Black Associate Broker/Realtor • ABR, CRS

205-356-5412 • colleen@theblackteam.com

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CUTE & CLEAN - CALERA 3BR/2BA Craftsman style, new carpet & new bamboo flrs. Covered porch + garage. No-down-pymt financing avail to qualified Buyers. Quick to I-65. $124,900 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 314

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LOTS OF POTENTIAL - CALERA 3BR/2BA, one level, split BR plan, 2C garage, swim community. Needs TLC but price makes this a great opportunity. No-down- payment financing available to qualified Buyers. $118,000 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 313

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CUSTOM EXECUTIVE HOME - PELHAM Spectacular 5BR w/finished BSMT. Natural setting.

Decks on mult levels. Rec & Bonus Rm + wine cellar, 2 FPs, two 2C gar. Pelham Schools. $549,900 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 309

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Original owner custom built 4BR/3.5BA home on +/- 3.5 acres. Hardwoods, granite counters & tile in BA. Huge level fenced yard. Wrap-around porch & scrnd rm. Only minutes to I-65. $264,900 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 307

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LOTS OF ROOM - ALABASTER Spacious 4BR/3BA over full Bsmt on Cul-de-sac.

Neutral colors w/LG GR, deck & huge level yard.

LG lower level BR/den. Alabaster schools. $227,500 Toll-free info:1-877-694-4646, ext. 300

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PRIVATE & CONVENIENT - ALABASTER

19 ACRES - WEST BLOCTON

3BR/2BA on Cul-de-sac in popular n’hood. Vinyl siding w/dbl pane windows. 2 Bonus Rms + LR w/stone FP. LG BRs, level yard. Alabaster schools. $112,000 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 315

Build the home you’ve always wanted! Mostly level acreage w/660 ft +/- of rd frontage along Hwy 12 + creek! Horses permitted. Power & Water. $124,500 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 318

ACREAGE, LAKE & POOL - ALABASTER Awesome opportunity: 3BR 4-sides-brick over full BSMT, 35 acres, 5 acre private lake + salt water pool.

New roof & appliances. Split BRs & hdwds, $424,900 Toll-free info: 1-877-694-4646, ext. 370

Your Path To Home 62002.28.13.011.ColleenBlack.indd 1

12/8/15 3:20 PM

CALERA

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Debbie Horton 205.663.3895

$124,900

CUTE & CLEAN - CALERA 3 BR - 2BA - MLS# 725697 Text P166333 to 85377

LOCATION...LOCATION...LOCATION!4 BR - 3 BA - MLS# 635620

$279,000

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

$127,000

COZY HOME - CALERA 3 BR -2 BA - MLS# 729856 Text P118288 to 85377

NEW HARDWOODS & PAINT! 2 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 634461 Text P281869 to 85377

$101,500

Kathy Dailey 205.337.7031

Debbie Horton 205.663.3895

$109,900

BEAUTIFUL BUNGALOW - CALERA 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 733307 Text P178404 to 85377

TRUE ELEGANCE - CALERA 6 BR - 3.5 BA - MLS# 728464

$289,900

CALERA 62002.28.13.012.Calera.indd 1

12/8/15 2:02 PM

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

$264,900

ACREAGE & PRIVACY - MONTEVALLO 4 BR - 3.5 BA - +/-3.5 acres - MLS# 731385 Text P156201 to 85377

LOVELY - VANCE 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 722617 Text P825856 to 85377

$64,000

GREATER BIRMINGHAM

Colleen Black 205.356.5412

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

Penny Overstreet 205.516.8865

$284,900

NEED AN IN-LAW SUITE? 4 BR - 3 BA + complete Apt - MLS# 631293 Text P685107 to 85377

Old Mill Road Estates - SPRINGVILLE 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 726718 Text P860780 to 85377

$239,900

Jeff Lindsey 205.492.7629

ADVANTAGE

Derrick Seay 205.248.8373

$96,900

Center Point Super Cute & Unique 3 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 730567 Text P870631 to 85377

OPEN PLAN - CLANTON 4 BR - 2 BA - MLS# 733309 Text P541254 to 85377

$142,500

G R E AT E R BIRMINGHAM 62002.28.13.013.GrtrBirmingham1.indd 1

12/8/15 2:10 PM

USDA • VA • FHA and CONVENTIONAL LOANS Fast Closings & Great Service!

SHANE RAY

KELLER McKAIG

NMLS: 201416 205.821.0402 (C)

NMLS: 207478 205.369.6710 (C)

shane@southtownmtg.com

keller@southtownmtg.com

Branch Manager

Assistant Branch Manager

OFFICE NMLS: 65084 • 205.640.4148 | OFFICE 1.877.858.8989 Fax 2841 Moody Parkway • Suite 500 • Moody, Alabama 35004

HOOVER

Francene Drexler 205.965.2065

ADVANTAGE

Jeff Lindsey 205.492.7629

$449,750

INCREDIBLE EXECUTIVE STYLE HOME, HOOVER! 5 BR + Bonus/6th BR - 4.5 BA - MLS# 630142 Text P658025 to 85377

DETAILS & UPGRADES GALORE - HOOVER 4 BR - 3 BA - MLS# 731092 Text P870621 to 85377

$300,000

HOOVER

62002.28.13.014.Hoover.Southtown.indd 1

12/8/15 2:12 PM

Penny Overstreet Lucas & Associates

Office: (205) 733-4888 • Mobile: 205-516-8865 Fax: 205.733.4883 Email: PennyO126@AOL.com

Penny Overstreet – Designing Your Next Move Life is like a game of chess, changing with each move.

This quote sums up what we all experience. Working with people looking for resolutions to the changes in their life is my job. Children are born, career’s change, income changes, graduations, children move out, parents move in, marriages, divorce and unfortunately we lose loved ones. I am passionate about helping you with the changes in your life by assisting you with the purchase or sell of a home no matter what the circumstances. I have experience with traditional sales as well as short sales and foreclosures. I was licensed in 2001, obtained my broker’s license in 2007 and have obtained an associate degree in Interior Design. I have extensive experience with the process of new construction working with home builders since 1993. This experience has given me a wealth of resources as your go to Realtor for new home construction, repairs, additions, remodeling projects & landscaping needs.

I am a member of the Eastern Area Caravan as well as Leeds and Moody in St. Clair County.

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As a Realtor I contribute to community projects and fund raising events for charities through weekly Realtor Caravan groups. These meetings are also a tool to market properties that members have listed with the Multiple Listing Service.

TRUSSVILLE

TRUSSVILLE

Parc Brook Garden Home. 3 BR. 2BA, GR, DR & Updated Kitchen. $219,900 Text P860778 to 85377

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Old Mill Road Estates. Beautiful 1 Level Home.

Fishing Lake, 3 BR, 2 BA, Formal DR & LR, GR & Updated Kitchen. $239,900 Text P860780 to 85377

62002.28.13.015.PennyOverstreet.indd 1

SPRINGVILLE

6 acre +/- Gentleman’s Farm. 3 BR, 2 BA, Bonus Rm. LG rooms w/hardwood flrs. Barn. $359,900 Text P860779 to 85377

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Gem of a BSMT Lot in Pilgrim’s Rest. Best lot left! $27,900 or best acceptable offer.

Text P860777 to 85377

ODENVILLE

5 Beautiful Acres +/-. 4 BR w/2 Masters, 3 BA, formal Dining, Sunroom & Bonus Rm. $249,900 Text P860781 to 85377

12/8/15 2:25 PM

Jeff Lindsey ABR, CRS RE/MAX HALL OF FAME LIFE MEMBER CLUB OF EXCELLENCE

CELL : 205.492.7629

I’m In Your Neighborhood!

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See a Full Tour of Each of These Listings at www.BirminghamRealEstate.com

HOOVER

CENTER POINT

SYLVAN SPRINGS

Where do we begin? So many details & upgrades! Main level has family room, DR, MBR/MBA, kitchen w/beautiful granite, breakfast nook, powder & laundry rm. 2nd flr you have the rec area, bar, 2 more BR’s & 2 BA’s.

BSMT w/BR & full BA - the essential man cave! Relax in the hot tub & BBQ under the pergola area!

Gorgeous and stately family home with room to roam!

This home features 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, family room, living room, dining room and kitchen. Situated on a large lot approx 1.06 acres, there is plenty of privacy along with a pretty circular drive. Come take a look!

What an adorable home - redone and updated! 3 BR, 2.5 BA, family rm, a cozy den w/FP, DR & kitchen.

This little charmer is waiting on its new owners!

Situated on a great corner lot.

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$157,000 Text P870622 to 85377

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$300,000 Text P870621 to 85377

$179,900 Text P870623 to 85377

CALERA

CENTER POINT

WARRIOR RIVER

Great and affordably priced garden home in Camden Cove. 3 BR and 2 full BA. Many extras and priced to sell quickly. This property is subject to a short sale.

Super cute and unique home featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Clean and move in ready. Eat in kitchen with breakfast bar and also a dining room. The basement features an office and a large den/rec room. Great outdoor space as well. Priced to sell!

Want to live on the water & have plenty of room? Deeded waterfront on Warrior River situated on approx 1.4 acres. Main house has 3 BR & full BA & lots of updates.

There is a formal LR + an eat in kitchen. The cozy den leads out the fabulous covered deck, perfect for relaxing. Also on this parcel is a small building that could be a guest home w/little bit of TLC.

$99,900 Text P870624 to 85377

$96,900 Text P870631 to 85377

$100,000 Text P870625 to 85377

62002.28.13.016.JeffLindsey.indd 1

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First Choice O

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BEAUTIFUL LAKE COMMUNITY Th

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LOT 424 & LOT 428 On The Lake

LOT 436

LOT 431 & LOT 425 On The Lake

THE ASHLEIGH PLAN 4 BR - 3 BA + HUGE Bonus Rm! 2 BR on Main Level & 2 BRs Up! Only $294,900

Incredible 1.5 Story over full unfinished BSMT w/3 car garage.

LOT 424 - $372,900 LOT 428 (ON THE LAKE) - $389,900

NEW PLAN! 1.5 Story Home 4 BR - 3.5 BA - Master on Main!

LOT 431 - $354,900 LOT 425 (ON THE LAKE) - $384,900

L AK E LO TS AVA I LA B LE !

Francene Drexler ABR, CRS, REALTOR® Cell: 205-965-2065 Frandrexler@aol.com

Kathy Dailey REALTOR® Cell: 205-337-7031 www.kathydailey.com

G R A N D

V I E W

GinnyWillis ABR, GRI, CRB, REALTOR® Cell: 205-585-3184

E S T A T E S

Francene Drexler ABR, CRS, REALTOR® Cell: 205-965-2065 Frandrexler@aol.com

Tony Birk MIRM, CSP, REALTOR® Cell: 205-229-8986 tony@tonybirk.net

COMPLETE AND MOVE IN READY! MORE LOTS AVAILABLE! CHOOSE YOUR LOT AND PLAN!!

Large Open Plan, 3 BR 2 BA on Main, 4th BR 3rd BA & Huge Den Finished Down. Master Spa Bath! All the Upgrades are Here!

Granite, Hardwoods, Stainless Appliances and so much more.

Incredible Split Foyer w/4BR 3 BA + 3 Car Basement Garage! $324,900

62002.28.13.017.Silverlakes.GrandViewEstates.indd 1

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Donna Fitts Broker Associate

A D VA N TA G E S O U T H

205-527-9605

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2635 Valleydale Road Suite 200 • Birmingham, AL 35244

BROOK HIGHLANDS

One of Brook Highlands finest! 5BR, 4.5 BA, 4 Garages (2 main level & 2 BSMT level) Spacious gourmet kitchen w/custom pantry opens to keeping room w/FP. Beautiful brick wall that warms the rm as much as the FP. Text P870998 to 85377

INDIAN SPRINGS VILLAGE

GREYSTONE FOUNDERS

You must see inside this house! Space plus!

Finished 2nd Flr which adds over 2400 SF! Total SF is over 5800! 4 BR on Main & 2 BR up.

Exercise Rm w/bamboo flrs & huge playroom!

Text P870997 to 85377

1 of 2 Spectacular Executive Homes that overlooks Greystone Founders Golf Course. Fabulous view from LG back deck. 6 BR, 4 full BA & 2 half BA. Two story foyer opens to the banquet sized DR! Text P870999 to 85377

www.BhamHomesSold.com

bhamhomessold@outlook.com

Debra Comer Horton 205.281.2448

Family of Services

Dhorton@realtysouth.com

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MONTEVALLO

Beautiful, custom-built Victorian style home. 4 bedrooms, large master BR walk-in closet, oversize claw tub with separate shower. 2 large 2nd floor brdms (one with trey ceiling) walk-in closets, ceiling fans. 1 large downstairs with adjoining bath.

Offered at $299,000.

62002.28.13.018.DFitts.DHorton.indd 1

CALERA

TRUE ELEGANCE. Beautiful 6 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath home. Quality craftsmanship shows in every detail of this custom home that you won’t soon forget.

Offered at $289,900.

12/8/15 3:23 PM

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D S E AY C O M DERRICK SEAY BROKER

(205) 248-8373 2805 7TH STREET TUSCALOOSA, AL 35401

$5

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www.dseay.com

602 RUMLEY RD., YORK Great buy on lovely all brick home. Full BSMT & formal dining. Country setting.

Text P842098 to 85377

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Stagecoach Trace subdivision. 3BR, 2BA, fenced yard & 2 car Garage. Thompson High School.

Text P825855 to 85377

$1 27 ,0

237 SILVERSTONE LANE, ALABASTER

5017 MUD CREEK RD, ADGER

333 BEDFORD CIRCLE, CALERA

3BR/1BA, Carport, hardwood & tile floors.

Oak Grove High School.

Text P790284 to 85377

3BR/2BA Cul-de-sac Home w/privacy fence. Savannah Pointe.

Text P118288 to 85377

DSEA YCOM real estate FOR MOR INFO AND NEWS FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORKS:

DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY! Get Upgrated with our Current Listings On Your Mobile Phones for FREE! Available on iTunes & Google Play Search : DSEAYCOM

www.DSEAY.com www.DSCHOMETEAM.com www.FACEBOOK.com/DSEAYCOM www.TWITTER.com/DSEAYCOM YOUTUBE@DSEAYCOM PINTREST@DSEAYCOM

62002.28.13.019.DSeay.indd 1

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Pelham’s Newest Swim Community is underway!

Prices start at $294,900 • Lot Reservations Being Accepted Now! More Plans Coming Soon OR Bring Us Your favorite plan!

LOT 222 • THE STEPHANIE

LOT 216 • OUR NEWEST PLAN!

1 Level Home w/LG 4th BR/Bonus Rm w/Private BA, 3 BA Master w/Vaulted Ceiling, Sitting Area & FP! $301,900

The Season w/5 BR & 4 BA. Master & Add’l BR on Main! 3 BR & 2 BA Upstairs. Huge Island in Kitchen, Formal DR & Covered Deck. $359,900

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NEW MODEL HOME Complete & Ready for You to Visit!

Our Garrett Plan w/Full Finished Basement.

OPEN DAILY

LOT 214 • THE CHARLIE

LOT 215 • THE MICHELLE

LOT 261 • THE COREY

Large 1.5 Story Plan w/4 BR, 3.5 BA & Opens to Great Room. $356,900

4 BR & 3.5 BA. Master & Office/Nursery on main.

3 BR & 2 BA Up. Huge Foyer Opens to Formal DR, GR & Beautiful Stairs to Upstairs. $419,900

Beautiful 1.5 Story home w/Open Kitchen to GR, Master on Main w/Sitting Area, Formal DR, 3 BRs & 2 BAs up. Total of 4 BR & 3.5 BA. $326,900

LOT 201 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 204 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 234 - UNDER CONTRACT

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT GREY OAKS!!!!

LOT 252 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 253 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 254 - UNDER CONTRACT

LOT 257 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 294 - UNDER CONTRACT LOT 299 - UNDER CONTRACT

Homes Now Available in Our NEWEST Sector 2 PHASE 2!

Hurry to Choose and Decorate Your NEW Home Your Way! Basement & Non-Basement homes Available!

Prices Range from $294,900 - $394,900

Directions:

From I-65 South, Exit 242, Turn Left on HWY 52, Turn Left on HWY 11, go approx. 4 miles, New Community on the Right.

From HWY 280 East, right onto old HWY 280, Right on Hwy 11.

Go past Chelsea High School, continue to Grey Oaks, subdivision on the left.

Francene Drexler

Annette Durrett

Cell: 205-965-2065

Cell: 205-243-9970

Cell: 205-790-5113

Frandrexler@aol.com

annettedurrett@gmail.com

karenspann4023@charter.net

Each office is Independently owned and operated. Prices subject to change without notice.

All data contained within is deemed correct, however, RE/MAX First Choice and/or its Sales Associates are not responsible for errors and/or omissions.

62002.28.13.020.GreyOaks.indd 1

Karen Spann

FIRST CHOICE 12/8/15 1:37 PM