Tori Smith- Southern Elite Realty

02/12/2025

🔑 KEYS & ☕️COFFEE: THE PERFECT PAIR!
Who said house hunting can't be delicious? I am Teaming up with because let's face it - finding your dream home runs on caffeine!

DROP A ☕️ IN THE COMMENTS, TO BE ENTERED TO WIN!✨

*Anyone is allowed to participate!*
Because the only thing better than getting your keys... is celebrating with coffee!
Winner will be announced this Friday!

📞Tori Smith
REALTOR®
256-605-3998
[email protected]

02/08/2025

🏠❄️🏠 Just finished my winter home checklist and thought I'd share what I learned the hard way...
These simple checks save a lot of headaches (and money!):

☑️Clean gutters and down spouts before they freeze
☑️Check for drafty windows and doors
☑️Insulate exposed pipes (trust me on this one)
☑️Test smoke detectors
☑️Insulate Crawl Spaces
☑️Trim Overhanging Branches

Nothing fancy, just basic stuff that helps keep the house warm and bills lower. What winter prep tips would you add?

02/06/2025

✨Marshall County Market Report‼✨

Total Homes Sold: 78 (up from 73 in 2023)
Average Sale Price: $356,000 (increased from $313,000 in 2023)
Active Listings: 399 homes (up significantly from 251 in 2023)
Average Days on Market: 57 days (slightly higher than 51 days in 2023)
Pending Sales: 54 properties

Notable Trends:
13.7% year-over-year increase in average sale prices
6.8% increase in home sales volume
A substantial 59% increase in available inventory
A modest 11.7% increase in average days on market

Supply and Demand:
The significant increase in available homes (399 active listings) represents a healthy expansion of inventory, providing more options for potential buyers. This growth in inventory, combined with 54 pending sales, suggests strong market activity while maintaining competitive conditions.

Price Trends:
The average sale price of $356,000 represents a significant appreciation from 2023's average of $313,000. This 13.7% increase indicates strong market value growth while still maintaining attainable price points for many buyers.

Market Opportunities:
For Buyers: The increased inventory of 399 homes provides more options and potentially better negotiating positions
For Sellers: The significant year-over-year price appreciation suggests continued strong returns on investment
For Investors: The market shows healthy appreciation while maintaining practical entry points

Recommendations:
Buyers should take advantage of the expanded inventory while being prepared for a still-competitive market
Sellers can benefit from the increased average sale prices while setting realistic timelines based on the current days-on-market average

"It feels good to be home!"

📞 Tori Smith
REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]





*This report utilizes data from ValleyMLS.com and compares current statistics with 2023 figures to provide year-over-year analysis. All figures are current as of December 2024.

Note: This report is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Market conditions can change rapidly, and all investment decisions should be made after careful consideration and consultation with appropriate professionals.

02/05/2025

Property Spotlight🌟

Incredible potential awaits in this spacious 1,972 sqft home in prime Arab location! Nestled just inside city limits at 704 NE 5th Avenue, Move-in ready and waiting for your family!

Fully remodeled✨| 1,972 sq ft brick home featuring:

-Open concept living with fresh paint & LVP floors
-New stainless appliances & granite countertops
-Private master suite w/ separate entrance & luxury bath
-Covered porch + oversized patio
-2-car detached garage (new siding)
-Bonus outbuilding

Schedule your viewing today and start picturing yourself at home! 🔑

📞 Tori Smith
REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]
* All listings are sourced from ValleyMLS and contain listings from a variety of other companies.


Listing: Courtesy of Lachun Weaver, Al Weaver with RE/MAX Unlimited

See details for 704 NE 5TH AVENUE, Arab, AL 35016, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Bathrooms, 1972 Sq Ft., Price: $329,900, Single Family-Detached, MLS #: 21875865, Status: Active, Courtesy: RE/MAX Unlimited, Provided by: HAAR

02/04/2025

Essential Home Buying Tips from Someone Who's Been There! 🏠

Thinking of buying a home? Here's what I wish I knew before starting my journey:

-Save more than you think for a down payment - don't forget about closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses.

-Get pre-approved BEFORE house hunting. This shows sellers you're serious and helps you understand your real budget.

-Look beyond the pretty staging - check the roof age, HVAC system, electrical panel, and foundation. A good inspector is worth their weight in gold!

-Research the neighborhood at different times and days. Your dream house might feel different during rush hour or weekend nights.

-Don't skip comparing mortgage rates - even a small difference can save thousands over the years.

-Keep some savings after buying - homeownership comes with surprise expenses like repairs and maintenance.

☑️Pro tip: Take photos and detailed notes at each showing - houses start blending together after you've seen a few!

01/02/2025

‼️SHARE‼️SHARE ‼️

🏠Location: 183 Brookwood Circle Arab, AL 35016

Looking for the perfect family home in Arab? This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath house is now on the market! Located right within the city limits, this home offers both convenience and comfort. Just minutes away from local schools!

💲Asking Price:$239,900

"It's Feels Good to be Home!"
Tori Smith- Southern Elite Realty
REALTOR®
(256)605-3998
[email protected]
☑️Link below in comments.

10/09/2024

🍂 Fall Fun for Families in Our Community 🍂

Fall is here, and there’s no shortage of family fun! Check out a few things happening around town:
🎃 Arab Primary School Fall Carnival
Tuesday, October 24th- 5:30-8PM
Arab Primary School
121 Mimosa ST NE, Arab, AL 35016
Details: Join APS for carnival games, inflatables, a hayride, a photo booth, a goldfish pond, face paint, bingo, concessions, a train ride, and so much more!!!!
Most games are one ticket each.
Tickets are $1 each - wristband $30. All Games, concessions, bingo, and rides are included with a wristband.

👻 BOO! To The Flu!
Saturday, October 26th- 12-3PM
Kids R Us Pediatrics
121 Golfview Dr. NE Arab, AL 35016
Details: Kids R Us will have Flu shots available at their annual Boo! To the Flu event. Join them for fun, bounce houses, treats, and flu shots. The event will be open to the community.

🎉 Arab Downtown Fall Festival' 24
Sunday, October 27th- 3-7PM
Downtown
S Main Street Arab, AL 35016
Details: Join Arab Chamber of Commerce for their 4th Annual Downtown Fall Fest! Be sure to wear your spooky or fun costumes. Enjoy food trucks, vendors, entertainment, music, and, of course, the world famous costume contest! Follow Arab Chamber of Commerce FB page for more details!

🍁Kids Halloween Party
Thursday, October 31st- 5-7PM
Cherokee Ridge Club House
4000 Cherokee Ridge Dr. Union Grove, AL 35775
Details: Join Cherokee Ridge for a fun Kids Halloween Party with a corn maze, foam pit, obstacle course, bouncy houses, and more!!! This event is free to all and open to the public!!

Whatever you do, get out there and make some fall memories! 🍂😊

Tori Smith- REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]

10/06/2024

Here are some interesting facts about October🍂 in Guntersville, Alabama:

- Fall Foliage: October is a beautiful time to visit Guntersville as the vibrant fall colors begin to show in the surrounding Appalachian foothills. Lake Guntersville State Park offers stunning views of the changing leaves, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities.
- Cooler Weather: Average temperatures in Guntersville during October range from the mid-50s to the low 70s °F, creating a comfortable climate for hiking, boating, and enjoying outdoor events.
- Fishing Season: Guntersville Lake is famous for its bass fishing, and October is one of the best months for anglers. The cooler water temperatures bring the bass closer to the surface, making it an excellent time for both recreational and tournament fishing.
- Oktoberfest Celebrations: Like many towns, Guntersville hosts local Oktoberfest events with food, live music, and family activities, offering a taste of fall festivities.
- Wildlife Spotting: October is great for wildlife observation in Guntersville. Birdwatchers can spot migrating species like bald eagles, as Lake Guntersville is a well-known sanctuary for these majestic birds.
- Pumpkin Patches and Festivals: Local farms around Guntersville offer pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and harvest festivals, making it a family-friendly destination during the fall season.
- Annual Events: October often brings local festivals like the Harvest Festival on Main, featuring arts and crafts vendors, live music, and delicious Southern food, celebrating the season and community.

Guntersville truly shines in October, offering a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local charm!🍂

10/05/2024

📚✨ Happy World Teachers' Day! ✨📚

A huge thank you to all the incredible teachers who inspire, guide, and shape the future. Your dedication and passion make a world of difference every day. 💙

We appreciate all you do!

Tori Smith- REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]

10/04/2024

🏡 Thinking About Downsizing? Here's What You Need to Know!

As we get older, many of us start considering whether it’s time to move into a smaller, more manageable space. Downsizing can help simplify life, cut costs, and make your home safer as you age. Whether you’re thinking about moving or just decluttering your current home, it’s important to start early and have a plan.

✨ Why downsize?✨
Please read my newsletter below for some tips to Embrace the Next chapter!

If you’re unsure where to start, I can help! From tips on decluttering, to finding the perfect smaller space, let’s make this transition as smooth as possible. Message me to learn more!

Tori Smith- REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]

10/03/2024

🌟Exciting news, everyone!🌟

I'm thrilled to share that I'm transitioning to Southern Elite Realty, whose perspective truly aligns with my values and vision!🏡✨

I believe in building lasting relationships, providing exceptional service, and creating a postive impact in our community. This new chapter allows me to do just that while helping you find where home is!

Tori Smith- REALTOR®
Southern Elite Realty
256-605-3998
[email protected]