“America is best described in one word–freedom” Dwight D. Eisenhower

As Americans, we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th to honor our nation’s birthday and the Declaration of Independence. It is day replete with parades, cookouts, picnics, waving flags, and fireworks–and a heavy dose of patriotism.

DISTINCTIVE DATES:

• JULY 4, 1776: The Second Continental Congress completed its work on the Declaration of Independence.
• JULY 8, 1776: Independence Day was first Celebrated in Philadelphia on, and the Liberty Bell was sounded on that day.
• JULY 4, 1804: The first public celebration was held at the White House
• JULY 4, 1826: Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on this day.
• JULY 4, 1941: Independence Day was first celebrated as a federal legal holiday

“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right with America.” Bill Clinton

PATRIOTIC PLACES:

Ever been to Liberty, MO? How about Libertyville, New Liberty, North Liberty, or East Liberty–all in Iowa? And then there are the eleven places with Independence in their names and five which feature Freedom; Freedom, CA, is the largest of these. Five more towns sport the word America, but only one can lay claim to Patriot, and that is a spot in Indiana with a population of 202.

Did you know that there is a one-gun salute fired at noon on July 4th on every capable military base? It is called the Salute to the Union.

IT’S A GRAND OLD FLAG…and there are specific rules about displaying it proudly and properly.  Here you can brush up on the do’s and don’t’s for honoring Old Glory.

Be sure to take time to honor our military and their families for the sacrifices they make each and every day so we can be free! Something as simple as saying ‘Thank you’ can make a Vets day!

FABULOUS FOOD:

Having a cookout or picnic with friends and family? Think about foods that come in patriotic colors–white snow cone cups filled with red and blue berries, or use the three colors to make napkins which you tie with red, white, and blue patterned shoelaces instead of napkin rings. Be sure to offer hot dogs, hamburgers, cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans, and watermelon for an all-American meal. Maybe even Mom’s apple pie to top it off! Get many delicious recipes and grilling ideas and safety tips.

FIREWORKS FINALE:

Nearly every U.S. city or town offers an exciting fireworks display to end the day’s festivities, and we’re never too old or too young to ‘ooh and ah’ at the spectacle. Some notable shows are held at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Charles River in Boston, Mt. Rushmore, the Rose Bowl, and the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Perhaps the longest celebration is fittingly held in Philadelphia–a 9 day festival culminating in back-to-back fireworks!

George Washington once said, “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” Do remember, however, that such a plant needs to cherished, taken care of, nourished, and protected by each and every American.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY FOURTH!!!

Bookmark It

FHA loans are mortgages issued by qualified lenders, including traditional lenders like Citigroup and Wells Fargo, and insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).  The popularity of these loans are skyrocketing and for good reasons.  They feature low down payments, low closing costs and are easier to qualify for.

Despite this popularity, there are many misconceptions surrounding FHA loans.  Here are just a few myths and the facts behind them.

Myth #1: FHA only loans small amounts to buyers of Huntsville AL homes. 

Fact:  To help stabilize the real estate market, the government recently raised the maximum loan amount from its original cap of $362,790 to $793,750. The FHA loan amount a buyer can borrow varies by state and county.

Myth #2:  FHA loans are exclusively for lower-income borrowers. 

Fact:  FHA loans are available to everyone. There are no maximum income restrictions.  Potential borrowers must verify income and assets to ensure they can afford the loan.

Myth #3:  FHA loans are exclusively for first-time buyers of Huntsville AL homes.

Fact:  Whether Huntsville AL home buyers are making their first home purchase or their twentieth, they can potentially qualify for an FHA loan.

Myth #4: FHA loans are affiliated with the low-income housing program.

Fact:  FHA loans have nothing to do with the Section 8 Housing Program or any other low-income or subsidized housing programs. FHA loans are simply mortgages insured by FHA.

(more…)

Bookmark It

Huntsville Home For Rent:

2624 Bransford Trail Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763
MLS#666771

Boasting all the comforts of home this gorgeous rental home is available now.  Come on in and take a look, but please slip your shoes off as the carpet was recently replaced. Stunning formal rooms with gleaming hardwood floors, wainscoting, vaulted ceilings and tons of natural light are sure to impress your guests. Relish in the fantastic family room with a toasty fireplace, crown molding and built-in niches to display your art.  The gourmet kitchen features tiled floors, a smooth-top range, cabinet and counter space galore plus a pantry. The breakfast bar is ideal for serving your sweeties quick meals. Mom and dad will certainly be impressed with the pampering master suite. The additional three bedrooms are generously sized and share a hall bathroom.  Grab a good book and step out on the screened porch with a soothing ceiling fan and peaceful views. One could happily linger here all day. Bring all your toys as the two car garage offers lots of storage. Let the sprinkler system nourish your gardens.  Community tennis courts, golf course, playground and swimming pool means there is always something to do in Hampton Cove. Washer, dryer and refrigerator are available. Call us today for your private tour.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville.

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Bookmark It

Huntsville Real Estate For Sale: 2709 Hampton Cove Way Hampton Cove, Al 35763 MLS#387066

Nestled in an upscale suburban enclave this desirable residence with an unmatched sense of style and elegance is just waiting for you to arrive. Leisurely stroll towards the inviting entry while relishing in the attention to detail. The formal living areas are illuminated with natural light and gorgeous moldings offering an inviting casual ambiance to make you feel at home. You’ll marvel at the hues of earthly colors and carved wood details that make up a distinct part of this home. Style and utility are masterfully fused together in the gourmet kitchen. Including lustrous granite counters, tiled backsplash, double ovens, a smooth cook-top and a planning desk.  A sun-drenched breakfast room features floor to ceiling views plus a serving bar, making this the ultimate place to start your day.  Characterized by a keen sense of style the family room with gas fireplace, built-in bookcases, and lots of windows to enjoy the views plus patio access is a desirable tribute to casual living. The luxurious master retreat provides a soothing oasis of special conveniences and comforts at day’s end with a magnificent double trey ceiling and a balcony boasting unsurpassed golf course views. Indulge in the lavish master bathroom with his and hers granite vanities, walk-in closet, whirlpool tub, make-up desk and a roomy tiled shower.  The additional bedrooms are generously sized and feature distinctive moldings with panoramic views. All the bathrooms have granite vanities and tiled floors. The recreation room is a thriving place to entertain with all the amenities to accommodate guests of any age.  Kick back and relax on any of the multiple decks and covered porches and you will find yourself drawn to the stunning golf course, lake, and mountain views in all directions. There is something for everyone in Hampton Cove. Tennis, golf, swimming, fitness facilities and a club house are just a stroll away. An unmistakable sense of elegance combined with distinctive design is matched by a wealth of comfort and pleasant living. The current owner thought of everything now this home just needs you to be complete. Call us today for your private tour.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Bookmark It

The right lighting can make your home appear bigger and fresher. It makes a small room look bigger and a large room seem more intimate.  It can also add value to your Huntsville AL home for sale.  

Just like furniture, lighting can be used as home décor to make your home more beautiful and functional.  Done correctly, lighting can positively impact the way buyers view your Huntsville AL home for sale – and for far less money than other decoration options.

For maximum impact, every room in your home should have three layers of light:

1. Ambient Lighting:   Ambient lighting provides overall illumination for the whole room.  Typical lighting fixtures for this layer include ceiling fixtures such as recessed lights, chandeliers and surface-mounted lights.
2. Task Lighting:  Task lighting focuses on a specific area of the room where activities like playing cards, reading or sewing require additional light.  It can be as simple as under-cabinet lighting in a kitchen or a reading lamp by a chair.
3. Accent Lighting:  Accent lighting creates drama in a room by highlighting architectural features, paintings, statues and other decorative items.  Accent lights should be small and specifically directed toward the decorative piece you want to accentuate.  One of the most popular forms of accent lighting is track lighting.

Thinking of putting your Huntsville AL home up for sale?  Let me give you a free in-home consultation to determine if subtle changes in lighting, or other home improvements, can improve your sales price or time on market.  Call me today at 800-803-0053, 256-508-0211 or email me at mike@movetohuntsville.com to schedule your free consultation.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Bookmark It

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center and Bridge Street Town Centre will host a day of events culminating in a dramatic duel fireworks show. The celebration at Bridge Street will include a full day of exciting, family friendly activities including live musical entertainment, the annual SmokeHouse wing eating contest, face painters, balloon artists and much, much more.

Take a look at last year’s finale:

Bookmark It

Huntsville Homes For Sale: 209 New Bristol Lane Madison, AL 35756

MLS#804252

Gorgeous brick ranch nestled on a beautiful privacy fenced lot. A welcoming foyer leads into a southern style great room featuring volume ceilings and an abundance of windows for natural light. Your family will enjoy gathering here. The charming kitchen is sure to please the chef in your family. Featuring stainless appliances, smooth-top range, ample cabinet and counter space plus a pantry, cooking is going to be fun. Family and friends can gather in the sun-drenched breakfast room with easy access to the covered patio. A luxurious master retreat boasts a striking trey ceiling, garden tub, separate shower, dual raised vanities and a walk-in closet. The additional secondary bedrooms are ample in size and share a lovely hall bathroom. A large laundry room is perfect for keeping things organized. Relax under the covered patio and submerge yourself in private backyard view. The oversized two car garage offers tons of storage. Pack your bags and come on over! We are sure you will want to stay. Call us today for a private tour. 

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Bookmark It

Times change but not always for the best.  Consider the change we’ve seen in attitudes toward Huntsville AL real estate over the last few decades. 

Owners used to love their homes because they were their safe havens.  Many now only worry about whether or not their houses will appreciate enough in value to allow them to refinance to buy luxury vacations in Hawaii or a new car.

What’s your stance on the Huntsville AL real estate you own or wish to own some day?   Is it a house or a home to you?  There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, simply a varying point of view.

It’s a house if you:

• Bought it because you want to build equity
• Value it most because of its monetary value
• Worry primarily about it because it might lose some of its value in today’s market
• Appreciate it if it gives you short term profit
• Like the neighborhood because it increases the market value of your property
• Plan to sell when you can make the biggest profit

It’s a home if you:

(more…)

Bookmark It

Treehouses are back in 2011 at the Huntsville Botanical Garden . . .  with an extra splash of fun!

New treehouses have been designed by local architects and the 2010 treehouses have been updated to add even more opportunities for kids’ imaginations to run free. In addition, new permanent water features have been added to the Garden to create 2011’s Treehouses with a Splash!

Treehouses debut on Saturday, April 2nd with splash features opening on Saturday, April 30th. 

New for 2011:

• Timber Tent: An organic lean-to of cedar trees built on a child’s scale. Includes a tire swing, regular swing, rope swing and slide!
• Bird’s Eye View: Catch a whole new view of the Garden from this clubhouse on stilts!
• The Gnome Dome: Discover a hidden world of gnomes in this magical hideaway. But be careful, those mischievous little gnomes like to play tricks!
• Fairy Forest: Enjoy the sparkly, mystical land of fairy rings, fairy wings and giant fairy wands!

New permanent Garden feature:

• Pollywog Bog: a brand new wading pool located in the Children’s Garden!

Treehouses with a Splash runs through the end of September. This summer, you can climb, swing, splash and play your way through the Garden. And remember to bring your towel!

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Bookmark It