Defense Secretary Leon Panetta’s news that President Obama and the department will ask for another round of Base Realignment and Closures, or maybe two more rounds, sparked fierce opposition in Congress and alarm in many military-heavy communities.
But not here. The possibility of a BRAC as early as 2013 with another in 2015 is seen by area leaders as more of an opportunity than a cause for concern.
“We’re ready to go,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, sounding a theme. “I think we’ve all known that with shrinking budgets and everything else that there was a very real chance of another one. … We fully expected something to come out, whether it was a BRAC or a consolidation.”
The 2005 BRAC moved about 4,650 Army, Missile Defense Agency and other federal positions to Redstone Arsenal along with the new headquarters for the Army Materiel Command, the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command and much more. Battle said it is expected to create as many as 10,000 additional jobs in the region over the coming years.
Repeating that success would be good for the region and a hedge against possible program cuts, said Joe Ritch, longtime chairman of the Tennessee Valley BRAC Commission. The official deadline to complete the 2005 BRAC moves was only last September, and he said they’ve never really stopped planning for future rounds.
“I think we were a little surprised at 2013; I think that’s going to be the more difficult one to get through Congress,” Ritch said. “But if it’s 2013, we’re ready to go. If it’s 2015, we’re ready to go. And if it’s 2013 and ’15, we’re ready to go.”
The new BRACs would help cut the federal budget, costing some communities valued programs or even bases. But optimism runs high in Hunstville.
The 1995 BRAC, which brought Army aviation to the arsenal, and the 2005 moves have positioned the area well to prosper from another BRAC, said Madison Mayor Paul Finley. The region works together as an experienced team that can point to a successful track record, he said, and show defense officials how the Tennessee Valley can help them again.
“I am amazed at the amount of homework that this community does when it comes to understanding where our assets can make the biggest difference in helping the Army and the military accomplish their goals,” Finley said. “We’ve put ourselves in their shoes.” (more…)
Huntsville Real Estate For Sale: 135 Southview Drive Huntsville, AL 35806
MLS#582410
A perfect opportunity to own a stunning custom built home nestled on 2 acres of tranquility. As you enter the spectacular foyer with soaring ceilings, tiled flooring and a sweeping staircase with custom fluted moldings, you are sure to fall in love. An inviting formal living room is an entertainer’s delight featuring built-in shelves, wood floors, and French doors. The sociable formal dining room with an arched opening, wood floors, wainscoting and crown molding is sure to charm your guests! A lovely study on the main level is a quite place to work. A cooks dream come true kitchen is boasting gorgeous granite counters, solid cherry cabinets, gas cook-top, work island, stainless steel appliances and double ovens. The sunny breakfast room with relaxing views and outdoor access is a pleasant place to start your day. Fantastic family living awaits you in the grand family room with a warm gas fireplace, wood floors and custom moldings. A knock your socks off main level master suite with wood flooring, recessed lighting, and crown molding makes a great retreat for mom and dad. The luxurious master bath features tile, his and hers vanities, 2 walk-in closets, separate shower and an inviting whirlpool tub. The additional four bedrooms offer a peaceful place to rest at days end. Gather the family and popcorn for movie time in the awesome theater room. The super recreation room is ideal for the kids and kids at heart. Grab your sweetie and step out on the screened porch. A soothing ceiling fan, brick paver flooring and panoramic views are just waiting to please you. An incredible 50 x 40 detached workshop with a rotary automobile lift plus a 60 gal air compressor is sure to impress dad. There is also an additional 40 x 15 RV garage. Bring the whole family to see this home. We are sure they will want to stay. Call us today for a private showing.
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.
By: Huntsville Real Estate Expert Mike Manosky On February 1, 2012
Environmentally friendly features have become more important to home buyers according to the 2012 Home Buyer and Seller Profile published by the National Association of Realtors. The importance of various features such as heating and cooling, energy efficient appliances and lighting, landscaping, and an environmentally friendly community differ by region.
Commuting costs and environmental efficiency have increasingly factored into home buying decisions due to higher energy costs, but also due to overall concern for the environment.
Factors that are most important to buyers are those directly related to the buyers’ pocketbook.
Heating and cooling costs were at least “somewhat” important to 87 percent of home buyers.
Commuting costs were at least “somewhat” important to 73 percent of home buyers.
Now take a look at the Huntsville AL real estate sales for December.
Madison County/Huntsville AL Real Estate Sales Statistics
Huntsville AL and Madison County saw an increase of 7% in sold listings in December 2011 when compared to November 2011. The average list price decreased 1% to $194,072 and the average sales price decreased by 1% to $188,077. The average price per square foot was up by $11 per square foot, while market times increased by 10 days.
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.
Statistics are based on information for the North Alabama Association of Realtors and are deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
By: Huntsville Real Estate Expert Mike Manosky On January 27, 2012
There were 502 Huntsville AL foreclosure homes for sale in December 2011 and one in every 2,209 housing units received a foreclosure filing. The average sales price of a Huntsville home was $170,213 and the average foreclosure sales price was $106,083, a $64,130 savings, according to RealtyTrac.com.
Huntsville AL Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate
Huntsville interest rates averaged 3.96% in December while the number of foreclosed homes decreased from 51 to 43.
Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.
Huntsville AL Foreclosure Geographical Comparison
Huntsville AL foreclosure activity in December was 0.12% below national statistics, 0.01% below state figures and 0.02% below Madison County statistics.
Sprawling full brick home on a majestic mountain view lot! Just a short drive from Huntsville and you are in paradise! Featuring 4 bedrooms and a 24 x 21 recreation room there is something for the whole family in this home. The hardwood flooring throughout the main living areas is ideal for family and furry friends. An exciting great room with a gas fireplace offers super entertaining space. This designer kitchen is sure to please the cook in your family. Boasting gorgeous cabinets and counter space galore, stainless steel appliances plus a kitchen island, cooking is sure to be a pleasure. Relax mom and dad, this master suite is guaranteed to offer all the special conveniences you deserve at days end. A teens dream come true bonus room with vaulted ceilings, two closets and sunny views is perfect for stashing the party goers. Rain or shine outdoor entertaining will be comforted under the covered patio. Everyone will have room to spread out in this amazing home. Call 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.
Nestled on a private cul-de-sac lot this gem is sure to please. A lovely formal dining room combined with an elegant formal living room is ideal for entertaining. Imagine all the delicious meals you can create in this gourmet kitchen. Flourishing with an abundance cabinet and counter space, a smooth-top range, a center island plus a huge pantry, cooking is sure to be a pleasure. An impressive family room with soaring ceilings, skylights and patio access is just waiting for family fun. A luxurious master retreat provides a soothing oasis of special conveniences and comforts at day’s end with a trey ceiling, two walk-in closets and sunny views. The pampering master bathroom features a garden tub, separate shower and dual raised vanities. The additional three bedrooms are generously sized and there are two additional full bathrooms. Bring all your toys as the two car garage plus a detached storage building is ready for stocking. Mosey out on the patio or relax in the screened porch. The private backyard is ideal for grilling and chilling. This the perfect place to call home. Call today for your personal 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.
The Alabama real estate community is more optimistic as the industry transitions into the 1st quarter of 2012 according to the Alabama Center for Real Estate’s Alabama Real Estate Confidence Index (ARECI).
The survey projects expectations for the 1st quarter of 2012. The scale ranges from 0-100 with 0 being much worse, 100 being much better, and 50 indicating no change expected.
The outlook for sales (yellow) for the 1st quarter is back up into the expected expansion area at 56, a full ten point improvement from last quarter. This is approximately even with the score for the last two years at this time, it appears that there is some seasonality built into the expectations.
The national score at 48, up from 38 last quarter, indicates that respondents are fairly neutral on the overall economic picture. The participants moved to positive sentiment on the statewide conditions at 54 up 9 points from last quarter. The statewide overall score declined (see green line above). Sales expectations are more positive at 56 again up 10 points from last quarter. Inventory, price and credit indications are all below the 50 mark, indicating continued pressure on these metrics, but markedly improved from last quarter. Sellers are likely to be frustrated by competition and pricing, and buyers will continue to have challenges getting financing.
By: Huntsville Real Estate Expert Mike Manosky On January 13, 2012
With years of experience in art and art marketing, three Alabama artists, Charles Smith, David Simmons and Kurtis Thomas observed a need for a new approach to reaching art patrons and encouraging new art patrons. In this fast-paced world they realize the difficulty of scheduling an evening to attend a gallery opening, so they are going to bring the art directly to you, right in your home or office, in real-time, with real interaction with each artist through e-mail, live-chat, or by phone during the live web-cast; a fully integrated live experience including a printed prospectus of the show. Please join them in this ground-breaking event at ArtStreamLive.com. They also welcome your praises, suggestions, and criticisms, to help make your experience more enjoyable.
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.
By: Huntsville Real Estate Expert Mike Manosky On January 6, 2012
There were 539 Huntsville AL foreclosure homes for sale in November 2011 and one in every 1,862 housing units received a foreclosure filing. The average sales price of a Huntsville home was $141,261 and the average foreclosure sales price was $101,102, a $40,159 savings, according to RealtyTrac.com.
Huntsville AL Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate
Huntsville interest rates averaged 3.99% in November while the number of foreclosed homes decreased from 87 to 51.
Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.
Huntsville AL Foreclosure Geographical Comparison
Huntsville AL foreclosure activity in November was 0.12% below national statistics, 0.02% below state figures and 0.02% below Madison County statistics.
Huntsville AL Foreclosure Activity by Month (more…)
By: Huntsville Real Estate Expert Mike Manosky On December 22, 2011
December is indeed a busy month for most folks as they shop, plan, party, and attend religious, social, and cultural events. It begins too soon after Thanksgiving and ends with a bang as it ushers in a new year. It is a season unto itself, one filled with excitement, symbols, customs, reflection, and a general sense of good will. Four major celebrations occur during December, both secular and religious (or a combination of the two) and include the following:
December 20 -28. Hanukkah (or any one of a dozen spellings).
This Festival of Lightsis an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean revolt of the second century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by the ;lighting of the candles on a nine-branched menorah,one candle on each night of the holiday, progressing to eight on the final night, and it is customary to give children one gift (gelt) each night. Although it is based on a military victory, it is actually considered a time to celebrate Jewish independence and religious freedom in general. Hanukkah is a relatively minor holiday in the Jewish year; in the United States, however, its closeness to Christmas has brought greater attention to Hanukkah and its gift-giving, special foods, and games.
December 25. Christmas
The religious basis: Christmas is a Christian holy day which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is typically celebrated on December 25th, and the word Christmas comes from “Christ’s mass.” The story of the birth of Christ is told in the opening chapters of the gospels of Luke and John. Each contains different elements of the Christmas story. The visit of the Archangel to the shepherds and the birth of Jesus in a manger are from Luke. The story the visit from the Wise Men bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh are from Matthew.
Over the years Christmas has also become a very popular social holiday with an emphasis on lighted and decorated trees and wreaths, exchange of presents, caroling, special foods, and the colors red and green. Christmas traditions abound throughout the Western world, many of which have secular origins, some with their roots in ancient folklore and pagan beliefs. Click here to learn about a wide range of Christmas customs.
December 26-January 1.
Kwanzaa. Neither political nor religious, Kwanzaa is a reflective holiday which was created in the 1960’s to foster pride and unity among African-Americans. Kwanzaa is a week -long celebration honoring universal African-American heritage, family life, and culture. It features activities such as lighting a candle holder with seven candles—each representing an important principle of life–and culminates in a feast and gift giving. Visit Wikipediafor much more information about this holiday.
December 31. New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve is a social holiday observed annually on December 31, the final day of any given year in the Gregorian calendar. In modern societies New Year’s Eve is often celebrated at festive gatherings, during which participants dance, eat, consume alcoholic beverages, and watch or light fireworks to say goodbye to the current year and celebrate the incoming one. The observance of New Year’s Eve generally extends through midnight of January 1. It is a holiday celebrated throughout the world and has many different names. The dropping of the ball in Times Square and the singing of Auld Lang Syne are symbolic of this holiday in the U.S.
Here are outstanding power point presentations dealing with each of these holidays. Although the site is designed primarily for children, the extensive array of topics and interesting information provides excellent reading for adults, too.
