Are you considering purchasing your first home in Huntsville, Alabama? And do not know where to start? As a first-time buyer, navigating the real estate market can be overwhelming, but Huntsville offers several programs to assist you in achieving your dream of homeownership. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various first-time home buyer programs available in Huntsville, providing you with valuable information to make an informed decision.\n\nDoes Alabama have a first-time homebuyer program or first-time homebuyer program?\n Lets talk about the \n funding options.\n1.\nThe Step Up Mortgage Program, administered by the Alabama Housing Finance Authority, aims to help first-time home buyers by offering low-interest loans and down payment assistance. This program is ideal for individuals who meet certain income and credit requirements. Through Step Up, eligible buyers can secure a low fixed-rate mortgage with a down payment requirement as low as 3%. The down payment assistance can be used towards the down payment, closing costs, or prepaid items associated with the mortgage. To learn more about this program and its eligibility criteria, visit \nAHFA's Step Up Program\n.\n2. Homeownership Assistance Program\nHuntsville's Community Development Department offers a Homeownership Assistance Program designed to provide financial assistance to income-qualified individuals. This program includes grants and loans to help first-time buyers with down payment and closing costs. The grants do not require repayment, while the loans are offered at favorable interest rates. To qualify for this program, you must meet specific income limits and complete a homebuyer education course. To explore the Homeownership Assistance Program and determine your eligibility, visit \nHuntsville Community Development Department\n.\n3. FHA Loans\nThe Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides government-backed loans that are popular among first-time home buyers due to their flexible credit requirements and low down payment options. FHA loans are insured by the federal government, enabling lenders to offer more favorable terms to borrowers. With an FHA loan, you may be eligible for a down payment as low as 3.5%, making homeownership more accessible. To find FHA-approved lenders in Huntsville and learn more about FHA loan requirements, visit the \nFHA website\n.\n4. USDA Loans\nThe United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers loans specifically designed to assist home buyers in rural and suburban areas. If you're considering purchasing a home outside the urban areas of Huntsville, a USDA loan could be a great option. These loans often require no down payment and offer competitive interest rates. The USDA loan program also provides financing for necessary home repairs and improvements. To determine if the property you're interested in is eligible for a USDA loan and to explore the requirements, visit the \nUSDA Rural Development website\n.\nHow much is the down payment for a house for a first-time home buyer in Huntsville, Madiosn, or North Alabama? \nYou need to be prepared for your down payment if applicable, and closing costs. Typically the closing cost will be anywhere from 2-5% of the home purchase price. In a buyers market it is possible to ask the seller to make a closing cost contribution. \nProgram\nAmount of Assistance\nType of Assistance\nAvailability \nStep Up\n4% down payment assistance up to $10,000\n30-year, fixed-rate mortgage combined with a 10-year second mortgage\nAll of Alabama\nAffordable Income Subsidy Grant\nClosing cost assistance of 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price, depending on income\nGrant\nAll of Alabama\nMortgage Credit Certificate \nDepending on loan amount, 20%. 30% or 50% mortgage interest tax credit \nTax credit\nAll of Alabama\nFTHB Down Payment Assistance \nUp to $7,500 down payment assistance\nSecond mortgage\nCity of Huntsville\nSources: \nHuntsville Homeownership Programs\n\nWhat are you paying for as a first time home buyer in North Alabama?\n
Closing costs can vary significantly based on the property's location and your specific purchase. The following items are commonly included in closing costs:\nUnderwriting fee: Covers the evaluation of a mortgage loan application.\nRecording fee: Paid to a county or city for recording new land records.\nPest inspection fee: Covers the cost of a professional pest inspection.\nEscrow deposit: Covers private mortgage insurance and property taxes.\nTitle search fees: Verify any tax liens or unpaid mortgages on the property.\nTitle insurance: Protects the lender if there are title issues.\nSurvey fee: Verifies the property's boundaries.\nAppraisal fee: Assesses the property's value.\nDiscount points: Fees for a lower interest rate.\nInspection fees: Covers requested or lender-required inspections.\nAttorney's fees: Legal assistance in reviewing contracts.\nLoan origination fee: Covers loan paperwork processing.\nCredit report fee: Cost of obtaining and reviewing your credit report.\nRemember, whether you choose the Step Up Mortgage Program, the Homeownership Assistance Program, an FHA loan, or a USDA loan it's essential to thoroughly research and compare these programs to find the one \nDon't miss out on the opportunity to make your homeownership dreams a reality with the help of down payment assistance programs. Seek guidance from experienced family and friends. Establish a trusted relationship with a Mortgage Professional and Real Estate Agent for a successful home buying journey.\nContact us \n here\n  to start exploring your options and take the first step towards owning your own home.


First-time home buyer programs including the Alabamas Step Up Mortgage Program, Homeownership Assistance Program, FHA loans, and USDA loans, providing opportunities and support for individuals and families looking to purchase their first home.

North Alabama First-Time Home Buyer- A Comprehensive Guide

 In this post, we'll provide clear answers and insights to help you understand the real estate process when selling your home in Huntsville, Madison, or North Alabama.Below, you will find more information about home inspections, repair negotiations, appraisals, and the closing process. Navigating these aspects of real estate transactions can often be overwhelming. \nFrom Contract to Closing\nOnce you have accepted the offer on your home in Huntsville, Madison, or North Alabama,  The Buyers agent will schedule a private home inspection Typically within 10 working days of the offer being accepted and signed by all parties (check you insoection addendum).\nOnce the home inspection is complete and repairs are made, the buyer's lender will arrange for a home appraiser to visit your home . The appraiser's role is to determine the value of the property, ensuring that it aligns with the loan amount. You will be notified when the appraisal is scheduled, and the appraiser will spend around 45 minutes to 2 hour at your home, taking pictures, and gathering information for their appraisal report.\n\nThe buyer will receive the results of the appraisal typically 3 to 10 days after the appraiser has visited your home. While the buyer is not obligated to share the appraisal value with you, you can find out if the home appraised successfully.\nIf the home appraises at the agreed value, there is no need to worry. However, if the appraisal comes in lower, there are several options to consider. If the buyer did not include an \nappraisal gap\n in the contract, as the seller, you can choose to reduce the price to match the appraised value, ask the buyer to bring additional funds to the closing table, or sign a mutual release and return the earnest money, effectively releasing the buyer from the sales contract. In some cases, the appraiser may note certain repairs as a condition to close. It is important to address these repairs promptly to avoid any closing delays.\nWhen packing, it is important to leave behind fixtures and items mentioned in the sales contract. \nParagraph 9\n of our sales contract covers the systems, equipment, and appurtenances that should remain in the home. Typically, items such as TV mounts, window treatments, drapes, blinds, light fixtures, attached mirrors, drapery rods, attached shelving, fireplace doors, screens, storm windows, and attached speakers will stay in the home unless otherwise stated in the contract. For example, if you have a family heirloom chandelier that you want to take with you, ensure that it is specifically excluded in the sales contract.\nContact all of your home's service providers and utility companies to cancel all services. Keep in mind that financed sales contracts usually require the seller to keep utilities on through the date of closing, and if they have been turned off, they may need to be turned back on. Failure to comply with this requirement can be considered a breach of contract, unless all parties have agreed otherwise in writing.\nOne of the final steps in selling your home is ensuring that your buyers are "Clear To Close." This usually happens one or two days before the closing date. Being "Clear To Close" means that the buyers have received approval from the lender's underwriter to proceed with purchasing your home.\nA final walk-through will be scheduled typically a day or even few hours before the closing. During this walk-through, the buyers will ensure that the home is in the same condition as when they made the offer. It is your responsibility as the seller to leave the home clean and free of debris. While it is common courtesy to hire a cleaning company for a move-out cleaning, it is not a requirement according to paragraph 4 of the HAAR financed Sales contract. Don't forget to keep all utilities on through the closing for this final walk-through.\nPrior to a real estate closing, the following documents and items should be completed:\nSigned contract, including addendums\nContact information for Buyers, Sellers, and Realtors\nBuyer's Mortgage Lender/Broker/Banker information\nHomeowners Association contact information (if applicable)\nCopy of Termite Letter (if needed)\nLoan payoff information for the Seller, including contact information for each loan and relevant account numbers\nDetermine if a survey is needed\nHome Warranty Information (if applicable)\nCopies of Deeds, Mortgages, Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, or Corporate Documents related to the parties\nBuyer's hazard insurance agent information\nList of repairs and associated invoices (if any)\nApproval of Power of Attorney by closing attorney and Borrower's lender (if applicable)\nFinally, it's closing day! All individuals who will be signing documents need to bring the following to the closing table: \nTwo forms of identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, social security card, passport, insurance card. Social Security numbers/tax identification numbers, Wire instruction for disbursement, and on rare occasion the Notarized Power of Attorney (original).\n\nFrequently asked questions\n1. Can I be at home during the home inspection?\nYes and no. The polite thing would be to leave the premises to allow the home inspector and buyer privacy to look around without feeling awkward if the seller is present. If you have a valid reason for staying home, no worries, just let us know so we can communicate that to the buyer upfront.\n2. Am I able to counter a request for repairs?\nAbsolutely! You can also offer a dollar amount as a credit to the buyer in lieu of repairs and/or offer a home warranty.\n3. Can I remove the lockbox/Supra from the door once I am under contract?\nIt is best to leave the Supra outside for authorized personnel to gain entry during the entirety of the transaction. It is possible we may need access to the home when you are not home, and the key is one of the only ways in. Rest assured that we are monitoring everyone who opens up the lockbox. Only a member of the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors can open up the Supra.\n4. Should I start packing immediately?\nIf you have a verified cash offer, absolutely yes! If not, it is best to wait until after the appraisal results are in.\n5. Is the closing date set in stone?\nThe closing date is treated more like a guideline. It is possible to have closing delays caused by mother nature, the lender, appraiser, etc. For the most part, 95% of transactions close on time, but there can be exceptions.\n6. When is the closing date finalized?\nTypically, once the buyer meets all the requirements, the bank will issue a clear to close, allowing the funding of the transaction to proceed.\n7. How can I get in touch with Becca's Client Care Coordinator?\nYou can get in touch with our Client Care Coordinator via email at \nHello@BeccaTravis.com\n\n\n\n

Explore common questions related to Sellers home inspections, repair negotiations, and the closing process in Alabama. .

Common Seller Questions About Home Inspections, Repairs, and Closing Process

Public School Info\n\nHuntsville City Schools\n\n\nMadison City Schools\n\n\nLimestone Co. Schools Viewer (App)\n\n\nSchool Digger\n\n\nGreat Schools.org\n\n\nNiche- Reviews\n\nLocal Utilities\n\nHuntsville Utilities\n (256) 535-1200\n\nAthens Utilites\n 256-233-8720\n\nLimestone Water And Sewer\n (256) 233-6444\n\nLimestone County Water & Sewer Viewer\n\n\nDecatur Utilities \n256-552-1400 Opt. 4\n\nJoe Wheeler EMC\n256-552-2300\nWater/Gas/Sewer\n\nMadison County Water Department\n (\n256)  746-2888\n\nMadison City Water & Wastewater Board\n (\n 256) 772-0253\n\nHarvest Monrovia Water & Sewer Authority\n (\n256) 837-1132\n\nArdmore Water and Sewer\n 256-423-6161\n\nCity of New Hope\n (256) 723-2616\n\nHuntsville Water Department\n (256) 772-0253\n\nNorth Alabama Gas District\n (256) 772-0227\n\nLimestone County Water/Sewer \n(256) 233-6444\n\nDecatur water/sewer\n (256) 778-8915\n\nAlabama Rural Water Association\n\n**The City of Madison, Harvest-Monrovia, Owens Crossroads, Town of Triana, and Gurley bill separately for their water.**\n\nMadison County Tax Estimator\n\nMadison County Tax Estimator\n
\nProperty tax Search\n\nMadison County Property Tax Search\n\n\nLimestone County Property Tax Search\n\n\nMorgan County Property Tax Search\n\nHomestead Exemption Resources\n\nMadison County Homestead \n\n\nLimestone County Homestead \n(Do not go to to court house, file online or at the Clinton Street Courthouse Annex)\n\nMorgan County Homestead \n\nGovernment Inspection and Planning Departments\nInspection Department\n\nHuntsville\n - (256) 427-5336\n\nMadison\n - (256) 772-5644\n\nMadison County\n - (256) 746-2950\n\nAthens \n- (256) 233-8715\n\nDecatur \n(256) 341-4570\nPlanning Department\n\nHuntsville\n - (256) 427-5100\n\nMadison\n - (256) 772-5630\n\nMadison County\n -(256) 746-2900\n\nAthens\n - (256) 233-8723\n\nDecatur\n (256) 341-4570\n\nLine locator\n\nAlabama Line Locater Center\n Dial 811\n

Useful Links and resources for North Alabama and the surrounding Areas



After you Move Resources

\nLiving in Huntsville, Alabama: An In-Depth Look\nChoosing a new place to call home is an important decision. The city you choose to live in can shape your career, lifestyle, and the experiences you have. If Huntsville, Alabama is on your radar, this comprehensive guide will help you understand why it might just be the perfect fit for you.\nWhy Choose Huntsville, Alabama?\nHuntsville, affectionately known as the Rocket City, is a unique blend of old southern charm and high-tech innovation. This city is home to NASA's \nMarshall Space Flight Center\n and the US Army's \nRedstone Arsenal\n. The presence of these institutions has made Huntsville a hub of technological advancement and scientific discovery.\nPros and Cons of Living in Huntsville\nLike any city, Huntsville has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's explore these in detail:\nPros\nAffordable Cost of Living:\n Compared to many other cities in the United States, Huntsville offers an affordable standard of living. This is true for housing, groceries, transportation, and other essential costs.\nJob Opportunities:\n Huntsville is known for its vibrant job market. Many people move here for opportunities in sectors like aerospace, defense, healthcare, and education.\nRich Cultural Scene:\n Huntsville boasts a thriving arts scene and hosts numerous cultural and recreational activities. From exploring the exhibits at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center to enjoying the tranquility of the Huntsville Botanical Garden, there's always something to do here.\nExcellent Education:\n Huntsville City Schools system is highly regarded, serving over 23,000 students across 37 schools. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, providing a variety of options for higher education. The surrounding county school systems like \nMadison City Schools\n, \nMadison County Schools\n, and \nLimestone County Schools\n are also known for their commitment to quality education.\nHuntsville, Alabama, also offers a range of universities and colleges to further one's education. Institutions such as \nThe University of Alabama in Huntsville\n, \nAlabama A&M University\n, and \nOakwood University\n are some of the esteemed educational establishments in the city.\nCons\nLimited Public Transportation:\n Huntsville's public transportation system is somewhat limited, so having your own vehicle can be a significant advantage.\nNeighborhoods and Districts in Huntsville\nHuntsville offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and districts, each with their own charm:\nDowntown Huntsville\nKnown as the city's business district, downtown Huntsville is filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Von Braun Center, which hosts concerts, conventions, and other events, is also located here.\nVillage of Providence\nThis mixed-use development in West Huntsville is known for its walkability and community events. It offers various housing options, as well as shopping, dining, and entertainment.\nStovehouse and Campus 805\nThese are two lively, unique destinations just minutes from downtown Huntsville. Stovehouse, a former stove factory, and Campus 805, built around an old-school campus, are now bustling with local breweries, restaurants, and outdoor spaces.\nMidCity\nThis rapidly growing district offers attractions like Top Golf, rock climbing, arcades, bowling alleys, and the Orion Amphitheatre. Its 100-acre expanse is a hub of entertainment and fun.\n\n\nTown Madison\nBesides being home to Toyota Field and the minor league baseball team, Rocket City Trash Pandas, Town Madison offers ample housing, restaurants, and shopping. Its proximity to I-565 and Redstone Arsenal adds to its convenience.\nHampton Cove\nA suburban neighborhood, Hampton Cove, is popular for its grand estates and amenities. The neighborhood combines serenity with city-life conveniences, making it an appealing choice for residents.\n\nEmbrace the Outdoors in Huntsville, Alabama\nHuntsville offers abundant options for outdoor enthusiasts, regardless of the season. With warm, humid summers perfect for water activities, and mild winters lending themselves to scenic strolls, there's always something to do.\nPoint Mallard Park\n in nearby Decatur features Alabama's first wave pool, ideal for family summer fun. Learn more about it \nhere\n.\nDitto Landing\n on the Tennessee River, close to Huntsville, offers boating, fishing, and trails. Details can be found on their \nwebsite\n.\n\nIn the heart of Huntsville, explore the \nMonte Sano State Park\n or the vast lands managed by \nThe Land Trust of North Alabama\n. Water enthusiasts can also find renowned bass fishing at \nLake Guntersville\n nearby.\n Huntsville's surrounding area, including the city of Madison, offers a wealth of outdoor opportunities. Madison's city parks, mapped in this comprehensive \nGIS link\n, offer a multitude of recreation options for residents.\nAs you contemplate this exciting new chapter, The greater Huntsville area stands ready to welcome you home.Ready to start your new life in Huntsville, AL? Contact Becca Travis Real Estate Group for a complimentary relocation package and assistance with scheduling your buyer's trip. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. Email \nBecca@beccaTravis.com\n\n or call 256-318-9066 to begin your Huntsville adventure!\n\n\n\n

Living in Huntsville, Alabama: An In-Depth Look

THE COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY® DIFFERENCE\nThe Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program redefines the world of luxury property marketing. The prestige of the Coldwell Banker® brand, combined with advanced technology, bespoke marketing strategies and one of real estate’s most robust global networks culminates in extraordinary representation that crosses oceans, continents and language barriers.\nWORLD-CLASS PROPERTIES. WORLD-RENOWNED SERVICE.\nWidely recognized as a consummate luxury real estate leader, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury provides extensive local, national and international exposure through our exceptional marketing program to ensure your property is seen by the widest possible audience of affluent buyers.\n$267 MILLION IN SALES EACH DAY\n50,353 TRANSACTION SIDES\nAVERAGE SALES PRICE OF $1.9 MILLION\n*Data based on closed and recorded buyer and/or seller transaction sides of homes sold for $1 million or more as reported by affiliates of the U.S. Coldwell Banker franchise system for the calendar year of 2021. USD$.\nCOLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY | \nCraftsmanship\n\n\n\n\n

Redefining world of luxury property marketing in the Greater Huntsville/ Madison Area.

COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY® DIFFERENCE

Buying Tips\nHow I Can Help You Buy a Home\nFrom first-time buyers to experienced ones, purchasing a home is complex. With us, discover a home in your desired neighborhood that aligns with your budget and goals. We'll guide you through making an offer, negotiating terms, inspections, repairs, appraisals, and closing the sale.\nExperience stress-free home buying in Huntsville, Madison, and North Alabama:\nFind your ideal home in these thriving areas\nStreamlined search process to save time\nExpert guidance on local terms, processes, and documents\nStay informed with up-to-date market information\nSkilled negotiators dedicated to your best interests\nTrust us to handle the details for a smooth move.\n\nSelling Tips\nHow We Can Help You Sell a Home\nHelping find a buyer for your home is only one facet of a real estate professional’s job. Our services include comprehensive support beyond finding a buyer in Huntsville, Madison, and North Alabama. We provide expert guidance on real estate practices and paperwork, accurate home value assessment through Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), assistance in preparing and listing your home for maximum appeal, effective marketing strategies to attract potential buyers, timely updates and communication throughout the process, and skilled negotiation, meeting deadlines, and working with escrow for a smooth transaction.\n\nBy partnering with us, you'll:\nMaximize your home's sale value for the highest return\nMinimize time on the market, ensuring a swift sale\nGain familiarity with selling terms, processes, and paperwork\nIncrease exposure to qualified buyers and agents\nStay informed with up-to-date market information\nBenefit from skilled negotiation on your behalf\nExperience peace of mind with licensed and trained professionals handling all sale details meticulously.\nRelocation Tips\nMoving  to Huntsville, Madison, or north Alabama thesurrounding area?\nRelocating to Huntsville? \nRelocating to vibrant Huntsville, Alabama? Our expert tips ensure a seamless move:\nPartner with a knowledgeable agent for local guidance and finding the perfect home.\nResearch the area, explore amenities, and schedule a visit to experience Huntsville firsthand.\nPlan ahead with a timeline, considering selling, moving, and settling.\nUtilize our relocation services for assistance with resources, moving coordination, and temporary housing.\nConnect with the community through events and groups for a welcoming social network.\nEmbrace Huntsville's charm, outdoor activities, cultural scene, and culinary delights.\nSeek our local expertise for tailored guidance in finding neighborhoods and service providers.\nRelocate to Huntsville with confidence. Contact us for a successful transition.\n\n\nServing the Huntsville metro area, including Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Athens, Meridianville, Hazel Green, New Market, Harvest, Toney, Owens Cross Roads, Priceville, Triana, and Gurley, we provide comprehensive real estate services to clients in these vibrant North Alabama communities.

Buying: Find your dream home. Selling: Maximize your home's value. Relocating: ensure a seamless move. Expect skilled guidance throughout the process.

Becca Travis Blog

North Alabama First-Time Home Buyer- A Comprehensive Guide

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North Alabama First-Time Home Buyer- A Comprehensive Guide

Common Seller Questions About Home Inspections, Repairs, and Closing Process

After you Move Resources

Living in Huntsville, Alabama: An In-Depth Look

COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY® DIFFERENCE

Buying, Selling, and Relocation Tips