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Galentine’s Day Spotlight: The Rise of Single Women Homebuyers
Single Women Are Winning in the Alabama Housing Market
As an Alabama Realtor, I love seeing strong, independent women building wealth through homeownership. And this Galentine’s Day feels like the perfect time to celebrate something powerful happening in real estate right now.
Single women are leading the way in today’s housing market.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and recent insights shared through List It Reports, single women now make up 21% of all homebuyers nationwide — more than double the share of single men at 9%, and second only to married couples at 61%.
That’s not just a national statistic. We’re seeing this right here in Alabama real estate.
A Look Back at How Far Women Have Come
It’s easy to forget that before 1974, women couldn’t even obtain a mortgage without a co-signer. The Fair Housing Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act changed that, giving women legal protection in lending and housing transactions.
Fast forward to 1981, when NAR first began tracking buyer demographics:
73% of homebuyers were married couples
11% were single women
10% were single men
Today, the numbers tell a completely different story:
61% married couples
21% single women
9% single men
Single women have consistently outpaced single men in home purchases for decades — even in an increasingly competitive and sometimes unaffordable housing market.
First-Time Homebuyers in Alabama
The shift is even more noticeable among first-time homebuyers.
In 1985, 75% of first-time buyers were married couples. Today that number has dropped to 50%.
Meanwhile:
Single women now represent 25% of first-time homebuyers
Single men account for about 10%
As someone who works with first-time homebuyers in Alabama every day, I can tell you this trend is very real. Women are buying their first home earlier, investing on their own, and making smart long-term financial decisions.
What This Means for the Alabama Real Estate Market
Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Alabama, relocating to Birmingham or Huntsville, or buying your first home in a smaller community, the opportunity is there.
Single women are proving that you don’t need to wait on marriage to build equity. You don’t need two incomes to start investing in real estate. You need a plan, the right guidance, and a strategy that fits your financial goals.
And for single men buyers — there is absolutely opportunity there too. With the right loan programs, down payment assistance options, and local market knowledge, buying solo is achievable.
Celebrating Independence and Smart Investment
This Galentine’s Day, I’m celebrating the women who are securing keys to their own homes and building generational wealth in Alabama.
And if you’re thinking about buying a home in Alabama — whether you’re single, married, divorced, widowed, or just ready for the next chapter — I’d love to help you navigate the process.
Real estate isn’t just about buying property. It’s about building stability, wealth, and confidence.
Let’s make it happen.
Sources: National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 2026 report; List It Reports housing market insights, 2026.
Where the Rails Meet the Station – My Hometown
🎶 I hear that train a-comin’… 🎶 …and yep — it stops right here in Anniston, Alabama. #SOLD
Anniston’s Amtrak Crescent: Your Gateway to New Orleans This Spring Break
By Ashley Mitchell, REALTOR®, ERA King Real Estate, Anniston, Alabama
Anniston, Alabama isn’t just a place we call home — it’s a place that connects. Right here at the historic Anniston Amtrak Station, the Amtrak Crescent continues a tradition of rail travel that stretches all the way from New York City to New Orleans.
Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic getaway during Spring Break 2026 or hosting friends and family in Calhoun County, the Crescent offers a classic and comfortable travel experience starting right here in our hometown.
Why Take the Train from Anniston to New Orleans?
Instead of crowded airports or long hours on the road, the Amtrak Crescent allows you to relax and enjoy the journey. There is one daily departure from Anniston to New Orleans, and it is a direct route with no transfers required.
For Spring Break 2026, travelers can expect estimated one-way coach fares from Anniston to New Orleans to fall in the range of $50 to $60 per person when booked in advance. Prices vary depending on demand and how early tickets are purchased, but this remains one of the most affordable and stress-free ways to travel south.
The total travel time is approximately ten and a half hours — perfect for reading, visiting with fellow travelers, enjoying the scenery, or simply unwinding as the train moves through Alabama, Mississippi, and into Louisiana.
What Awaits You in New Orleans
The Crescent arrives at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, located just minutes from the heart of the city. From there, you’re close to:
• The music, food, and culture of the French Quarter
• Cajun and Creole dining experiences
• Historic neighborhoods and riverfront views
• Festivals and Spring Break events unique to New Orleans
It’s a destination that offers something for every traveler, whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay.
Travel Tips from a Local Realtor
Plan ahead. Spring Break is a popular travel period, and with only one train per day, booking early helps secure better fares and preferred seating.
Pack comfortably. Train temperatures can vary, so layers are always a good idea.
Enjoy the journey itself. The Crescent route showcases parts of the South you simply don’t see from the interstate or an airplane window.
Living and Traveling Local
At ERA King Real Estate, I love helping people appreciate all the things that make life in Calhoun County special. Access to rail travel is one of those hidden gems — offering small-town living with big-city access.
Whether you’re thinking about relocating, investing, or simply enjoying the lifestyle Anniston offers, I’m always happy to be a resource.
Warmly,
Ashley Mitchell
REALTOR®, ERA King Real Estate
Anniston, Alabama – Born and Raised
Scenic Destinations of Oxford, AL: 30-mile radius
🌳 Hidden Outdoor Gems Near Oxford, AL — In Your Backyard!
As a native here, I find it fascinating how many people don’t know what’s around us right here in our backyard — beautiful parks, trails, and outdoor spaces waiting to be explored. Within about a 30-mile radius of Oxford, Alabama, there’s an incredible mix of big scenic destinations and quiet local favorites perfect for weekend adventures or weekday escapes.
🏞️ Major Parks & Trails
• Cheaha State Park — https://www.alapark.com/parks/cheaha-state-park
Alabama’s oldest state park and home to the highest point in the state, with sweeping mountain views, hiking trails of all levels, overlooks, camping, cabins, and seasonal waterfalls. This is one of the most popular spots for outdoor activities near Oxford Alabama — and for good reason!
• Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail — https://alabama.travel/places-to-go/coldwater-mountain-bike-trail
A world-class trail system near Anniston for mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Locals love the lesser-known connector paths that feel peaceful and private early in the morning.
• Choccolocco Park — https://choccoloccopark.com/
A huge multi-use park right in Oxford with walking trails, a lake, disc golf, playgrounds, and sports fields. It’s both a community hub and a great outdoor activity space that many overlook for simple nature walks.
• Oxford Lake & Freedom Park — info via Parks & Rec: https://www.oxfordal.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation
Easy walking paths around the lake, fishing piers, picnic spots, playgrounds, and green space make this a perfect everyday outdoor destination.
• Pinhoti National Recreation Trail — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinhoti_National_Recreation_Trail
This long-distance trail winds through Talladega National Forest and connects to parts of Cheaha State Park. Short, scenic sections within 30 miles offer hiking, ridge views, and quiet forest paths.
🌲 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
• Germania Springs Park (Anniston) — Local nature spot with shaded trails and a natural spring.
A peaceful and lesser-known nature setting perfect for relaxing walks or picnics.
• Fort McClellan Outdoor Trails & Mountain Longleaf Refuge — Nature trails with woods, views, and wildlife areas.
These former military lands now host outdoor recreation that many locals don’t realize exist. (Related info on public access areas near Anniston and wildlife refuge connections.)
• Shoal Creek & Creekside Access Points (near Jacksonville) — Low-traffic green spaces along the water.
Great for fishing, quiet hiking, or a picnic beside the creek — an under-the-radar favorite for local nature lovers.
Living in Oxford means having access to a wide variety of outdoor activities in Oxford Alabama — from scenic hiking near Oxford AL to lakeside strolls, mountain views, and forest trails. These parks showcase the natural beauty right outside our doors.
Whether you’re exploring with family, training for a trail run, or just getting fresh air after work, our region offers outdoor experiences most people only discover when they visit from out of town — yet we’ve had them here all along.
Winter Olympics 2026: d’Ampezzo, Italy
The Winter Olympics 2026 are coming to Milan–Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, and this edition of the Games is shaping up to be one of the most scenic, culture‑rich Olympics ever. With events spread across Northern Italy, the 2026 Winter Olympic Games will combine alpine charm, historic cities, and world‑class competition.
As a realtor, I naturally pay attention to places that bring people together, build community pride, and stand the test of time. As a fan? My favorite event—without question—will be the Olympic ice skating competition. Watching it through both a professional and family‑focused lens makes it even more special. ❄️⛸️
What Makes Milan–Cortina So Special
The Winter Olympics 2026 Milan Cortina are unique because they’re not centered in just one city. Instead, they highlight a region—something I love talking about with buyers and sellers. You’re not just investing in a home; you’re investing in a lifestyle.
What sets this host region apart:
Milan: A global city known for fashion, design, history, and vibrant neighborhoods
Cortina d’Ampezzo: A storybook alpine town surrounded by the Dolomites
Northern Italy: Incredible food, walkable towns, and year‑round tourism
Strong sense of community: Generations of families rooted in place, tradition, and pride
These are the same qualities that tend to make locations desirable long after the Olympic flame is gone.
What Visitors Can Do While Attending the Winter Olympics 2026
If you’re traveling to Italy for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the experience goes far beyond the venues.
In and around Milan:
Visit the Duomo di Milano and historic city center
Explore world‑renowned shopping and cafés
Enjoy museums, opera, and Italian nightlife
Take day trips to Lake Como and nearby villages
In Cortina and the Alpine regions:
Ski and snowboard in the Dolomites
Snowshoe, hike, or enjoy scenic gondola rides
Cozy up in mountain lodges with local cuisine
Experience charming, family‑friendly alpine towns
For visitors, it’s a rare chance to mix global sporting events with authentic Italian living—something that makes this Olympic host region truly unforgettable.
A Quick Highlight of Winter Olympic Sports 2026
The Winter Olympic sports lineup is packed with action. Here’s a quick snapshot:
Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding – Speed, skill, and mountain drama
Figure Skating – Grace, precision, and emotion
Ice Hockey – High‑energy, fast‑paced competition
Speed Skating & Short Track – Pure power and strategy
Bobsleigh, Luge & Skeleton – Adrenaline at full throttle
Nordic Skiing & Biathlon – Endurance meets focus
Curling – Strategy, teamwork, and surprising intensity
Each sport brings its own fan base, atmosphere, and story to the Winter Olympics 2026.
Best Pets for First-Time Homeowners in Alabama
Best Pets for First-Time Homeowners in Alabama
Buying your first home in Alabama is an exciting milestone. Whether you’re purchasing a house in Calhoun County and surrounding areas, or even anywhere along the Alabama Gulf Coast, many first-time homebuyers start thinking about one important question: what’s the best pet for my new home?
Choosing the right pet as a first-time homeowner is just as important as choosing the right property. Your lifestyle, home size, yard space, and neighborhood all play a role. This guide explores the best pets for first-time homeowners in Alabama real estate markets.
Dogs: A Great Fit for Alabama Homes With Yards
Dogs are a popular choice for homeowners across Alabama, especially those buying single-family homes with fenced yards. Many Alabama homes offer outdoor space that’s ideal for dogs to run, play, and stay active year-round.
Why dogs work well for Alabama homeowners:
Perfect for homes with yards in suburban and rural Alabama
Great companions for active lifestyles
Excellent for families buying their first home
Things to consider:
Dogs require time, training, exercise, and routine veterinary care. If you’re buying your first home in Alabama, choosing a beginner-friendly breed can make the transition easier.
Beginner-friendly dog breeds include Labrador Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, and Shih Tzus.
Cats: Ideal for Alabama Condos, Townhomes, and Busy Schedules
Cats are an excellent option for first-time homebuyers in Alabama who prefer a lower-maintenance pet. They adapt well to condos, townhomes, and single-family homes, making them popular with buyers across Alabama real estate markets.
Why cats are a great choice:
Independent and easy to care for
No need for outdoor walks
Ideal for homeowners with busy work schedules
Things to consider:
Cats still need enrichment, scratching areas, and routine vet care. Indoor cats are especially popular for homeowners in Alabama neighborhoods close to downtown areas or coastal communities.
Fish: Low-Maintenance Pets for Any Alabama Home
Fish are a smart choice for first-time homeowners looking for a peaceful, low-maintenance pet. They work well in apartments, condos, and houses throughout Alabama.
Why fish are popular with first-time homeowners:
Minimal daily care
Great for small spaces
Add visual appeal to your home
Things to consider:
Aquariums require proper setup, water quality maintenance, and regular cleaning to keep fish healthy.
Rabbits: Quiet Pets for Indoor Alabama Living
Rabbits are becoming increasingly popular among Alabama homeowners who want a quiet, indoor-friendly pet.
Why rabbits are a good fit:
Quiet and gentle
Can be litter-trained
Great for homes without large yards
Things to consider:
Rabbits need room to hop and chew-safe areas inside the home. They thrive in calm environments and require regular interaction.
Small Pets and Birds: Affordable Options for First-Time Buyers
Small pets like hamsters and gerbils, as well as birds such as parakeets, are great starter pets for first-time homeowners in Alabama.
Why small pets work well:
Budget-friendly
Minimal space requirements
Easy to care for
Things to consider:
Some small pets are nocturnal, and birds need social interaction and routine cage maintenance.
Choosing the Right Pet for Your Alabama Home
Before bringing a pet home, first-time homebuyers in Alabama should consider:
Home size and layout
Yard space and fencing
Local pet ordinances and HOA rules
Time availability and travel
Budget for food, veterinary care, and supplies
Matching your pet to your lifestyle and home type is key to long-term happiness.
Final Thoughts for First-Time Homebuyers in Alabama
Your first home is a major investment, and choosing the right pet can make it feel even more special. Whether you’re buying a home in Baldwin County, Mobile County, or anywhere in coastal Alabama, there’s a pet that fits your lifestyle and living space.
If you’re searching for pet-friendly homes in Alabama or planning to buy your first home, I’m happy to help you find a property that works for you and your future furry (or finned) family.
Home Inspections in Alabama: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Home Inspections in Alabama: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
After a buyer goes under contract—but before closing—they usually have the option to schedule a home inspection. This important step helps buyers understand the true condition of a home before finalizing the purchase and can also help sellers avoid surprises during negotiations.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s overall condition. A licensed home inspector examines major systems and components, including:
Foundation and structure
Roof and exterior
Plumbing and electrical systems
Heating and air conditioning (HVAC)
Insulation and ventilation
Fireplaces and interior features
Some inspections may also include testing for mold, radon gas, lead paint, or asbestos, which can impact a home’s safety and a buyer’s health.
Are Home Inspections Required in Alabama?
No. Home inspections are not required, but they are strongly recommended—especially in Alabama.
Alabama is a “buyer beware” (caveat emptor) state, meaning sellers are generally not required to disclose all defects in a property. Because of this, buyers are responsible for performing their own due diligence before closing.
That’s why Ashley always recommends a home inspection—so buyers know exactly what they’re purchasing and can move forward with confidence.
Buyers can include a home inspection contingency in their purchase agreement. This allows them to renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away if major issues are discovered. In competitive real estate markets, some buyers choose to waive inspections to strengthen their offer, while others limit repair requests to major safety or structural concerns.
Who Performs a Home Inspection?
Home inspections are conducted by licensed and certified home inspectors, often members of professional organizations such as ASHI or InterNACHI. Inspection costs vary based on the size of the home and any additional testing required.
A REALTOR® can help buyers find a reputable home inspector and determine which inspections make the most sense for a specific property.
Who Pays for the Home Inspection?
In most cases, the buyer pays for the home inspection.
Some sellers choose to complete a pre-listing inspection before putting their home on the market. This can help sellers understand the home’s condition, address issues upfront, and make the listing more attractive to buyers. Inspection costs or repairs may also be negotiated as part of the purchase agreement.
Can a Buyer Attend the Home Inspection?
Yes—and it’s highly recommended. Attending the inspection allows buyers to:
Ask questions in real time
Learn where key systems and shutoffs are located
Better understand the severity of any issues found
This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
A typical home inspection takes two to three hours, depending on the home’s size, age, and overall condition.
Common Issues Found During Home Inspections
Inspection reports help buyers understand both current conditions and future maintenance needs. Common issues include:
Foundation or structural concerns
Poor drainage that could cause long-term damage
Faulty wiring that may affect home insurance eligibility
HVAC system problems
Safety concerns like missing smoke detectors or carbon monoxide alarms
Not every issue is a deal-breaker, but inspections help buyers avoid costly surprises after move-in.
What Does “As-Is” Mean in Real Estate?
When a home is listed “as-is,” the seller is stating they will not make repairs—even if issues are found during an inspection. Buyers can still get an inspection, but they should be prepared to handle repairs themselves.
Because Alabama is a buyer beware state, purchasing an as-is home carries additional risk. Working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can help buyers understand their options and protect their investment.
Bottom Line
In Alabama, a home inspection is one of the best ways to protect yourself as a buyer. While inspections aren’t required, Ashley strongly recommends them so you can make informed decisions and feel confident about what you’re buying.
Source: Realtor.org
What You Need to Know About Seller Concessions
Seller Concessions Are Back: What Today’s Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
One of the biggest real estate trends in today’s housing market is the return of seller concessions. After years of strong seller demand, shifting market conditions have made concessions a powerful negotiation tool once again — especially in competitive but price-sensitive markets.
If you’re buying or selling a home, understanding how seller concessions work can give you a serious advantage.
What Are Seller Concessions in Real Estate?
Seller concessions are costs the seller agrees to pay on behalf of the buyer to help close the deal. These typically include:
• Closing costs
• Prepaid expenses
• Rate buy-downs
• Repairs or credits after inspection
Instead of lowering the sales price, sellers use concessions to make the home more affordable upfront for buyers.
Why Seller Concessions Are Trending Right Now
The return of seller concessions is closely tied to mortgage rates and buyer affordability.
As interest rates remain higher than historic lows, many buyers are focused on reducing their cash-to-close. Offering concessions can help:
• Attract more qualified buyers
• Keep deals together after inspections
• Reduce days on market
• Avoid unnecessary price reductions
In many cases, homes with concessions are selling faster than homes without them, even at similar price points.
Are Seller Concessions a Bad Thing for Sellers?
Not at all — when used strategically.
A well-planned seller concession can actually net the seller the same or more money than a price reduction. The key is knowing:
• How much to offer
• When concessions make sense
• How to structure them based on loan type
• How to market the concession effectively
This is where working with an experienced local real estate agent matters most.
How Buyers Benefit from Seller Concessions
For buyers, seller concessions can be a game changer. They can:
• Lower upfront closing costs
• Help buy down the interest rate
• Make homeownership more affordable
• Improve loan approval chances
In today’s market, many buyers are less concerned about the purchase price and more focused on monthly payment and cash needed at closing.
The Bottom Line on Seller Concessions
Seller concessions are no longer a sign of a weak market — they are a smart negotiation strategy in a balanced real estate environment. When used correctly, they benefit both buyers and sellers and help transactions move forward smoothly.
Whether you’re considering buying a home or selling your property, understanding current market strategies like seller concessions can make all the difference.
Thinking About Selling or Buying?
If you’re wondering whether seller concessions make sense for your home or your purchase, I can help you evaluate the best strategy based on today’s market conditions and your specific goals.
👉 Contact me today for a personalized real estate strategy.
Why Basement Upgrades Matter (Alabama Real Estate Insight)
🏠 1. Kitchenette: Practical & Market-Appealing Value
📈 Why It Adds Value
A kitchenette turns finished basement space into functional living space, not just “bonus room.”
A kitchenette makes a basement feel like a self-contained living area — appealing for:
multi-generation families
guests
rental potential or ADU use
extended stay convenience
This versatility boosts the basement’s usability and broadens your buyer pool.
🧠 Real Estate/ROI Perspective
Appraisers and buyers may count that space as more valuable since it serves a core living function.
Finished basements with kitchens or kitchenettes are often appraised higher than basic entertainment spaces, especially when code-compliant.
👉 In markets like Alabama where finished basements aren’t unusual, this extra function can help differentiate your home and attract buyers who want flexible space.
🧺 2. Laundry Space: Small Upgrade, Big Buyer Appeal
📈 Why It Adds Value
A dedicated laundry room — even in a basement — is seriously desirable to most buyers:
Buyers overwhelmingly prefer a laundry room over closets or makeshift laundry areas.
It improves everyday convenience and avoids hauling baskets around the house.
🧠 Real Estate Impact
It’s not typically a huge dollar value addition by itself, but it raises appeal and reduces friction at resale because buyers don’t have to fix or remodel it later.
When combined with a kitchenette and other finished basement features, it contributes to an overall cohesive livable suite — a big selling point.
🐾 3. Pet Spa / Recreational Features: Buyer Appeal vs. Value Impact
📉 Pets & Recreation: Limited Traditional Value
While cute and fun, novelty features like a pet spa are usually not directly tied to resale value the way kitchens or extra bedrooms are. That’s because:
Appraisers rely on comps (comparable sales) — and there are rare comps for pet spas.
Unique features must match local buyer demand to add measurable value.
🧠 When They Work (and When They Don’t)
✔ Good for niche markets or staging photos: They can boost buyer interest or help a listing stand out on social media — which can indirectly help you sell faster.
✘ Not guaranteed to increase appraised value: If a feature isn’t broadly recognized as increasing living functionality or square footage, it usually won’t raise the official value.
Example: A dog washing station might be cool, but it rarely adds direct appraised value unless buyers in your specific market (like upscale buyers in a dog-centric community) are explicitly seeking that.
🧠 So What Actually Adds Value for Alabama Buyers?
✔ Finished Basement Space
A finished basement itself does add value — though usually appraised at 50–70% of above-ground space per square foot. This is typical nationwide (and relevant in Alabama too).
AC Remodeling
✔ Functional Features
These increase marketability and appraised value when the basement becomes a useful living area:
Bedroom(s)
Full or kitchenette kitchen
Full bathroom
Laundry area
Together, these create a space buyers perceive as living space, not just storage or rec room.
Need Alabama Real Estate help? Call Ashley Stedham Mitchell of ERA King Real Estate
Alabama Real Estate Forecast 2026
Alabama Real Estate Forecast for 2026: What Buyers and Sellers Can Expect in Calhoun County, Cleburne County, and Mentone
As we move into 2026, the Alabama real estate market is expected to continue shifting toward a more balanced and strategic environment. For communities like Calhoun County, Cleburne County, and Mentone, this forecast brings encouraging opportunities for both home buyers and home sellers who understand local trends and plan ahead.
After years of fast-moving markets and limited inventory, 2026 is shaping up to reward smart pricing, preparation, and strong local representation.
Alabama Housing Market Outlook for 2026
The Alabama housing market forecast for 2026 points to stability with modest home price growth across much of the state. While price appreciation is expected to be slower than in recent years, home values in areas like Calhoun County and Cleburne County are projected to remain strong due to affordability and steady demand.
Inventory levels are expected to increase slightly, giving buyers more choices while still supporting sellers who position their homes correctly. Alabama’s lower cost of living, quality of life, and continued in-migration from higher-cost states will help sustain demand statewide.
What 2026 Means for Home Buyers in Calhoun County, Cleburne County, and Mentone
For buyers looking to purchase a home in Calhoun County, Cleburne County, or Mentone, 2026 may offer some of the most favorable conditions seen in years.
Buyers may experience:
More homes for sale across multiple price ranges
Reduced competition compared to prior years
Increased negotiating power
More time to make confident, informed decisions
Calhoun County real estate continues to attract buyers due to its central location, employment access, and value-driven pricing. Cleburne County appeals to buyers seeking rural living, land, and quieter communities, while Mentone real estate remains highly desirable for mountain homes, second residences, and vacation properties.
With interest rates expected to fluctuate, working with a knowledgeable Alabama real estate professional will be essential to navigating financing options and local market nuances.
What 2026 Means for Home Sellers in Calhoun County, Cleburne County, and Mentone
For Alabama home sellers, 2026 will still present strong opportunities—but success will depend more on strategy than urgency.
Sellers should plan for:
Stable home values rather than rapid price spikes
Buyers who are more selective and informed
Greater importance of pricing, staging, and professional marketing
Homes in Calhoun County and Cleburne County that are priced competitively and well maintained should continue to sell steadily. In Mentone, where inventory is often limited, sellers may still benefit from strong demand—especially for unique mountain properties and cabins.
Partnering with a local real estate expert who understands each of these micro-markets can help sellers maximize value and minimize time on the market.
Real Estate Investment Opportunities in North Alabama
For real estate investors, 2026 may offer renewed opportunity in Calhoun County and Cleburne County real estate, particularly as the market normalizes. A more balanced environment allows investors to focus on long-term value instead of competing in overheated conditions.
Mentone and surrounding DeKalb County areas may continue to attract interest for short-term rentals and second homes, while Calhoun and Cleburne counties remain appealing for long-term residential investment.
Final Thoughts: Planning Ahead for Alabama Real Estate in 2026
The Alabama real estate forecast for 2026 points to a year of smart, strategic decision-making. Buyers gain flexibility, sellers benefit from stable pricing, and markets like Calhoun County, Cleburne County, and Mentone continue to offer strong appeal.
Whether you’re planning to buy a home, sell your property, or invest in real estate in Alabama, having a clear plan and local expertise will make all the difference.
📞 Thinking about buying or selling real estate in Calhoun County, Cleburne County, or Mentone in 2026? Call or text me today to create a strategy tailored to your goals and your local market.
Local Roots Run Deep at Pickette’s Feed & Pet Supply
One of the things I love most about being a REALTOR® with ERA King is getting to work alongside businesses that truly make our community feel like home. Pickette’s Feed & Pet Supply is one of those special places — and I’m proud to call them not only a client, but folks I genuinely admire.
Pickette’s has been family-owned and operated since 2003, right here in Oxford, Alabama, and over the years they’ve grown to serve our area with more than one location — all while holding tight to the values that matter most: hard work, honesty, and treating folks right.
More Than a Feed Store
If you’ve ever walked into Pickette’s, you know it’s not just a place to grab feed or pet supplies. It’s a place where you’re greeted with a smile, where someone is always willing to lend a hand, and where you can tell the people behind the counter truly care.
From pet food and livestock feed to western wear, boots, and everyday essentials, Pickette’s offers a little bit of everything — and they do it with the kind of service you don’t find just anywhere anymore.
Built on Family, Faith, and Community
What makes Pickette’s stand out is the same thing that makes Oxford such a great place to live — strong family roots and a deep sense of community. They’ve built their business the right way, one relationship at a time, and that’s something I truly respect both personally and professionally.
As a local REALTOR®, I see every day how important businesses like Pickette’s are to the heartbeat of our town. They’re the kind of folks who support their neighbors, know their customers by name, and treat everyone who walks through the door like family.
Proud to Work With Local Businesses Like Pickette’s
At ERA King, we believe in supporting local — and working with Pickette’s is a perfect example of why. Their commitment to serving this community aligns beautifully with what I strive to do for my clients: build trust, provide genuine service, and help people feel right at home.
If you haven’t stopped by Pickette’s Feed & Pet Supply lately, I encourage you to do so. You’ll find more than great products — you’ll find good people, strong values, and a business that’s been taking care of Oxford and the surrounding areas for over 20 years.
That’s the kind of place — and the kind of people — that make this community so special.
