Lifestyle — Page 12

First-time homebuyer savings account renewal bill passes

HB 171, the bill renewing the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Program, received final passage from the legislature earlier this month. With a vote of 25-0, senators moved the bill forward, sending it to the governor for her signature. Alabama Realtors thanks the bill sponsors Representative Kyle South (R-Fayette) and Senator Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville) for carrying […]

First-time homebuyer savings account renewal bill passes

HB 171, the bill renewing the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Program, received final passage from the legislature earlier this month. With a vote of 25-0, senators moved the bill forward, sending it to the governor for her signature. Alabama Realtors thanks the bill sponsors Representative Kyle South (R-Fayette) and Senator Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville) for carrying […]

First-time homebuyer savings account renewal bill passes

HB 171, the bill renewing the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Program, received final passage from the legislature earlier this month. With a vote of 25-0, senators moved the bill forward, sending it to the governor for her signature. Alabama Realtors thanks the bill sponsors Representative Kyle South (R-Fayette) and Senator Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville) for carrying […]

What can an electric vehicle do for you? Let’s get rid of these myths

Automobile manufacturers are investing billions in electric vehicles, with pick-up trucks from Ford and Chevy soon becoming available and luxury SUVs expected to roll off the assembly line at the Mercedes plant in Tuscaloosa later this year. A recent study by J.D. Power found 27% of likely shoppers say they would consider an EV in […]

What can an electric vehicle do for you? Let’s get rid of these myths

Automobile manufacturers are investing billions in electric vehicles, with pick-up trucks from Ford and Chevy soon becoming available and luxury SUVs expected to roll off the assembly line at the Mercedes plant in Tuscaloosa later this year. A recent study by J.D. Power found 27% of likely shoppers say they would consider an EV in […]

Top 4 places to buy an investment property in Alabama

Alabama’s vast terrain ranks above average according to AirDNA’s market research among short-term rentals in the U.S. The national average occupancy rate is just 60.2%, but investors and second-home buyers will find higher rates throughout rentals in Alabama’s beach, mountain, lake and urban locations. Below is a breakdown of the four places you might want […]

4 locations where a vacation home could be making you money

Alabama’s vast terrain ranks above average according to AirDNA’s market research among short-term rentals in the U.S. The national average occupancy rate is just 60.2%, but investors and second-home buyers will find higher rates throughout rentals in Alabama’s beach, mountain, lake and urban locations. Below is a breakdown of the four places you might want […]

4 locations where a vacation home could be making you money

Alabama’s vast terrain ranks above average according to AirDNA’s market research among short-term rentals in the U.S. The national average occupancy rate is just 60.2%, but investors and second-home buyers will find higher rates throughout rentals in Alabama’s beach, mountain, lake and urban locations. Below is a breakdown of the four places you might want […]

AARP is making it clear they are in support of the passage of the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship and Other Protective Arrangements Act (UGCOPAA) in Alabama. Candi Williams, AARP Alabama state director states, “Unfortunately, Alabama’s current guardianship laws are outdated, relying on a one size fits all, cookie-cutter approach that often robs seniors and people with disabilities […]

AARP is making it clear they are in support of the passage of the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship and Other Protective Arrangements Act (UGCOPAA) in Alabama. Candi Williams, AARP Alabama state director states, “Unfortunately, Alabama’s current guardianship laws are outdated, relying on a one size fits all, cookie-cutter approach that often robs seniors and people with disabilities […]

Alabama homeowners gained an average of $33,000 in equity last year

Whether a repeat or first-time homebuyer, there are many benefits to owning a home, especially financial. In 2021, the national average of equity gained was $56,700 and Alabama’s average was $33,000. Building long-term wealth over time is why equity matters and due to the past year’s low inventory and high demand, home value increased more […]

Alabamians became all too familiar with the aggressive housing market in 2021. From rejected offers and competition with cash buyers, to historically low interest rates and accepted offers above asking, there were benefits to some and losses to many. That being said, housing affordability remains a concern. Although inventory shortages may persist, a group of […]

Alabamians became all too familiar with the aggressive housing market in 2021. From rejected offers and competition with cash buyers, to historically low interest rates and accepted offers above asking, there were benefits to some and losses to many. That being said, housing affordability remains a concern. Although inventory shortages may persist, a group of […]

North Alabama boasts stunning wedding destinations

With its extraordinary natural beauty, the North Alabama region is the perfect setting for a dreamy wedding. Imagine saying “I do” against the most picturesque of views; sparkling lakes, lush vegetation, soaring mountains. The internationally acclaimed music and food facilities, along with a broad selection of beautiful and historical sites will make the most magical […]

Paul Attaway retired from a 30-year career as a small business entrepreneur to pursue his calling as a writer. In his debut novel, “Blood in the Low Country,” Paul tells the story of Monty Atkins who attended college at the University of Alabama, and yes, thinks Bear Bryant walks on water. He’s a good man […]

Unforgettable Alabama experiences to gift this Christmas

This holiday season we’ve decided to highlight the incredible places, spaces, events and happenings that Alabama offers. This gift guide is uniquely curated to provide thoughtful experiences rather than physical presents! Make those around you feel extra special with a memory they’ll never forget. World Games Package You’ve already heard, The World Games is coming […]

Magical waterfalls of North Alabama

Fall has arrived in Alabama, and while the weather is still enjoyable, there’s nothing better to do than get outside and experience the beautiful, magical waterfalls of North Alabama. With the changing leaves and crisp air, there’s never been a better backdrop for your Instagram-worthy photo-ops. The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourism Association has lined up […]

Where to order Thanksgiving takeout in Central and South Alabama

To cook or not to cook? That is the Thanksgiving question. Some of us are gluttons for the opportunity to prepare a glorious meal. Some families or friend groups have this pot-luck thing down. But for those who can’t or won’t—for whatever reason—here are some restaurants and caterers in the southern half of Alabama that […]

Where to order Thanksgiving takeout in Birmingham

Cooking a bountiful Thanksgiving spread is a multi-day effort. My detailed battle plan for this year’s holiday meal starts with grocery shopping on Saturday and builds to a full Thursday at the stove and oven. That’s my briar patch. I love to cook, especially big meals. But some folks—whether they’re just busy or uncomfortable in […]

Where to order Thanksgiving takeout in North Alabama

Why spend days cooking Thanksgiving dinner when you can order up a full feast for your family or friends? If you need or want a break this year, here are some places across the northern half of Alabama with holiday takeout that will satisfy any taste. (We also share takeout ideas for the Birmingham area […]

Magical waterfalls of North Alabama

Fall has arrived in Alabama, and while the weather is still enjoyable, there’s nothing better to do than get outside and experience the beautiful, magical waterfalls of North Alabama. With the changing leaves and crisp air, there’s never been a better backdrop for your Instagram-worthy photo-ops. The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourism Association has lined up […]

Magical waterfalls of North Alabama

Fall has arrived in Alabama, and while the weather is still enjoyable, there’s nothing better to do than get outside and experience the beautiful, magical waterfalls of North Alabama. With the changing leaves and crisp air, there’s never been a better backdrop for your Instagram-worthy photo-ops. The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourism Association has lined up […]

How to spend a day in the mountain town of Mentone, Alabama

If you thought you’d have to leave Alabama to get a cozy mountain town experience, think again. Nestled in the woodlands of Lookout Mountain, Mentone is our state’s highest city—and also one of the most fun to visit. Its location in the northeast corner of the state, teetering near the Georgia state line, renders it […]

When you think of a weekend getaway in Alabama, what’s the first destination that comes to mind? Maybe Gulf Shores for a weekend soaking up the sand and sea? Or some time relaxing on one of our state’s many beautiful lakes? You may even think of a bustling city like Birmingham, Huntsville, or Mobile for a staycation of sorts. But […]