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FreeApril 2010 Life and

HomesB r i n g i n g p e o p l e a n d h o m e s t o g e t h e r

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Notes from the EditorIn the wake of the past several weeks, it is difficult to know someone who’s life was not affected in some way by the devastation from the tornado outbreak on April 27, 2011. It will be a day that will live in our hearts like 9/11 has for a long time. Major events as these change us, and in some cases quite dramatically. Life is, after all, an overwhelming experience if we set out to tackle it on our own.

The amazing outpouring of prayer, help, food and shelter from Alabamians, and even those from out of state, illustrates the inner strength and compassion we have for others who we do not even know. Those of us who escaped the tornado trauma see those who did not as heroes who saw their inner faith and courage rise to the occasion to keep moving forward as they pick up the pieces of their everyday life and start putting them back together. Life as they know it will never be the same but it can actually be better over time.

As the weeks and months go by, may we always be aware of those around us every day who are putting the pieces of their lives back together and extend the same love and support to help in any way. The recent tornados may show us the physical destruction to homes and property however there is also destruction behind the scenes that is happening in the lives of others from economic and financial to divorce and illness.

Our prayers of support go out to all those who are putting the pieces of their lives back together and that when one looks back on their life they will see the inner strength, faith and courage that took them to a higher level.

All the best,

Chuck Frusterio

Starting this month, our listings have a new look!

Each listing now has a QR code on it. This unique QR code lets you instantly know more about a property listing. Here's how it works:

Make sure your phone can scan a QR code with its camera, either with an application that you download or via software that's already installed on your phone.

When you see a QR code by a property you're interested in, use your phone's application to scan it. You'll instantly be directed to a page with complete property and contact information.

Published ByLIFEANDHOMES FRANCHISE, INC.

Publication FranchisorDAVID P. LISI

Corporate EditorKIM LISI

[email protected]

Birmingham SW Franchise

LAH1, LLC.139 St Charles DriveHelena, AL 35080205-914-5299

Managing Editor CHUCK FRUSTERIO [email protected]

Marketing ConsultantLINDSEY SIMS

JAMIE GURGANUS

Contributing WritersROBERT NEEDHAM

MARK SCHRADE

Advertising Deadline July Issue

June 10, 2011

Corporate Office LifeandHomes Franchise, Inc.

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Life and Homes is published monthly by LAH1, LLC.

Every effort has been made to ensure that home listings, advertisements and

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accuracy of the submitted information to Life and Homes Magazine and assumes no liability.

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Chuck Frusterio Managing Editor205-914-5299 • [email protected]

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nd courage that took them to a higher lev

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What Are Those Brown Spots In My Yard?It’s summertime. You’ve just returned from your relaxing family vacation at the beach. You drive up to your house and then you’re shocked by what you see - brown spots in your beautiful green lawn.

You’re not losing your mind. The sprinkler system worked just fine. The kid who cuts your grass didn’t scalp it.

Your lawn has a disease. You’ve got fungus. And it can spread quickly if you don’t treat it.

“Lawn diseases are often caused by bad lawn care habits,” said Lance Walheim, co-author of “Lawn Care for Dummies” and lawn care expert for Bayer Advanced™. “Prevention is the key to save time, money and your lawn.”

Here are a few helpful tips:• Make sure your lawn has proper drainage: If part of your lawn is constantly wet, you’ve got a breeding ground for fungus. Aerating is one of the best ways to improve drainage. But you might need to add soil and grade and replant grass in areas that are consistently wet.

• Water early: Be sure to water your lawn before 10 a.m. so that it dries off in the afternoon. Deep, infrequent watering gives your grass time to dry out.

• Prevent the problem: Bayer Advanced Fungus Control for Lawns (www.BayerAdvanced. com) cures and prevents common lawn diseases such as brown patch, dollar spot, rust and others. In fact, it prevents diseases for up to 30 days. The hose-end sprayer covers a 5,000-square-foot lawn fast with one application. For best results, apply when conditions are favorable for disease development. (Contact your local cooperative extension agent for information on turf diseases in your area.) Always read and follow label directions.

• Mow at the right height for your kind of grass: Mowing too low weakens grass. Don’t cut wet grass. Wait for your lawn to dry off from the morn-ing dew or after a rainfall.

• Fertilization: You should check with your local cooperative extension service for the proper feeding schedule for your type of grass and climate.

Lawn diseases sneak up quickly, even during drought conditions. So keep an eye out for them when you’re out in your yard. (NAPSI)

Homeowners Want Federal Tax CreditLeft AloneA majority of homeowners surveyed say they want Congress to leave the federal tax credit for home-owners alone, and institute other tax advantages to re-stimulate the U.S. housing market, according to a Housing Predictor opinion poll.

Slightly more than half or 53% of respondents said they want the tax credit for homeowners on their federal taxes to stay in place. The credit has been debated in Congress as a way of increasing federal taxes to help resolve the U.S. budget crisis and has been regarded as sacrosanct until the budget deficit, driven by Wall Street and mortgage banking ex-cesses ran into trillions of dollars.

The tax credit allows homeowners to write-off mortgage interest and state taxes paid as an itemized deduction on their personal federal income taxes. A large group of real estate and lending industry organizations, including the National Association of Realtors has lobbied for its retention.

Housing Predictor is an independent real estate reach firm that forecasts more than 230 local housing markets in all 50 U.S. states, surveys visitors on im-portant real estate related issues and keeps visitors up to date on real estate news and mortgage rates. (RealEstateRama Press Release)

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Backyard Pool Drownings Happen "Quickly and Silently"According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of about 250 children under 5 years old drowned in pools nationwide annually.

"Most people assume if their young child falls into the pool, there will be lots of splashing and screaming, and plenty of time to react," said commission Chairman Hal Stratton. "In reality, a child slips into the water and often goes under the surface. These drownings can happen quickly and silently - without warning."

The key to preventing these tragedies is to have layers of protection. This includes placing barriers around your pool to prevent access, using alarms on doors that access the pool, and being prepared in case of an emergency. Close supervision of young children is vital. A common scenario is that young children leave the house without a parent or caregiver realizing it. Also, just because children know how to swim, doesn't mean they are drown-proof. All children should be supervised every second while in and around the pool.

The commission offers these additional tips to prevent drowning:Fences and walls should be at least 4 feet high and installed completely around the pool. Fence gates should be self-closing and self- latching. The latch should be out of a small child's reach. Keep furniture that could be used for climbing into the pool area away from fences. Doors leading from the house to the pool should be protected with alarms that produce a sound when a door is unexpectedly opened. A power safety cover can be used when the pool is not in use. Keep rescue equipment by the pool and be sure a phone is poolside with emergency numbers posted. Knowing CPR can be a lifesaver. Don't leave pool toys and floats in the pool or pool area that may attract young children to the water.

For above-ground pools, steps and ladders to the pool should be secured and locked, or removed when the pool is not in use. If a child is missing, always look in the pool first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability. Pool alarms can be used as an added precaution. Look for alarms that meet the requirements of the ASTM standard. The commission advises that consumers use remote alarm receivers so the alarm can be heard inside the house or in other places away from the pool area. To prevent body entrapment and hair entrapment/entanglement, have a qualified pool professional inspect the drain suction fittings and covers on your pool and spa to be sure that they are the proper size, properly attached, and meet current safety standards. If your pool or spa has a single drain outlet, consider installing a safety vacuum release system that breaks the vacuum to avoid potential entrapment conditions.The commission offers two free publications to help prevent child drowning: Safety Barrier Guidelines for Pools (PDF) and How to Plan for the Unexpected (PDF). Copies of these publications can be obtained at www.cpsc.gov, or by calling (800) 638-2772.

Don't Let The Heat Keep You InsideRelaxing on the patio, lounging by the pool, playing in the backyard with the kids – for all our anticipation of warm weather fun, summer heat can put a damper on outdoor activities. When extreme heat forces us back inside where air conditioning keeps everything cool and comfortable, it may be a challenge to remember what we love about the warmer months.

Your interior decor is designed to make the inside of your home an inviting space, with a controlled temperature and comfortable furnishings. You can create the same effect in your outdoor living space.

Replace hard plastic resin furniture or iron pieces that become griddle-like in the heat with furnishings

that echo the comfort and beauty of your indoor furniture. Elevate the luxurious feeling of your outdoor furniture by adding plush cushions, floor coverings and accent lighting. Drape your patio or deck with light, sheer fabric to evoke the feeling of curtains – and help keep insects away.

When scorching days drive you inside, you savor the cool comfort of air conditioning. You can air-condition your backyard, patio or deck, too – with a portable evaporative cooler. KuulAire offers two models, the KA77 and KA55, which are both rated for outdoor use. The units can significantly lower the temperature in 150 to 600 square feet of outdoor living space – and use less electricity than it takes to run a typical hair dryer. Wheels and casters make it easy to move the units to where you need them most. (ARA)

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This book has two major themes that intertwine throughout its pages. First, it deals with the often hidden area of sexual brokenness that men grapple with, and the redemption found through the grace of God. This captivating book also explores three portraits of identity that Christians experience including: The false masks we wear that hinder us from engaging in true fellowship with one another. Next it exposes and dismantles the work of Satan who seeks to steal our identity and birthright as children of God. Finally, it chronicles the amazing inheritance we all have as children of God, and how to live out this inheritance through a life hallmarked by grace and balanced servanthood. This book will genuinely change your life and is a must read for those who want a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ!

Lee Grady, Editor In Chief of Charisma Magazine, says, “I believe Jon Potter’s book can start a revolution—a revolution of honesty. It is time for all of us to come out of hiding. And I believe this signifi cant book will help you make the journey toward true healing.”

Jon is a sought after evangelist, conference speaker, and minister. He graduated from Lee university in 1989 where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. After Lee, Jon attended the University of Georgia where he completed a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in counseling in 1991. He spent eleven years in corporate America. This tenure ended when he accepted the call to full-time ministry in 2001. Jon and his wife, Lisa, have been married for 20 years, have three children, and reside in Birmingham, Alabama. For more information visit www.jonpotterministries.net

Spiritual Identity Fraud can be purchased on major book sellers websites including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Books-A-Million.

Jonathan Potter, Birmingham native, has just released his fi rst literary work titled, Spiritual Identity Fraud – Restoring God’s Sons and Daughters.

* For long-distance moves, a moving truck is a must. But even if you're just moving across town, renting a moving truck makes sense. Making multiple trips can be exhausting - not to mention the gas you'll use and the greenhouse gases your vehicle will emit on multiple trips. Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance of moving day - Penske guarantees a truck for every reservation. A 12- or 16-foot truck works for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment. For guidance on larger moves and which truck to choose, visit www.PenskeTruckRental.com.

* Pack in increments. Start early to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing. It's OK to leave a box open in case you need something you've

packed inside it; it's much easier to tape a box shut on moving day than it is to pack at the last moment.

* Buy sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes, along with foam and bubble wrap to protect fragile items. You'll also need a good supply of packing tape and markers for sealing boxes.

* Make sure you have moving blankets and hand trucks on moving day to make the process easier.

* Purge before packing. It's much easier to throw away, donate, sell or give away items that you don't need than it is to pack them and move them. As a rule of thumb, if you haven't used something in the past 12 months - or it's still

packed in a box from the last time you moved - you can probably get rid of it.

* Label boxes as you pack. First, list the room that the contents belong in, and, if necessary, a few details such as "glass," "fragile" or "dishes." As you load the truck, try to keep boxes from each room grouped together.

* Load the heaviest items onto the truck first to create a sturdy base, then start stacking on top.

* Moving trucks are taller, wider and heavier than the passenger vehicles you are used to driving. They require more distance to stop. Be extra careful driving your moving truck, especially after it's loaded. Be aware of low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs, and use caution when cornering. Park only in well-lit areas and keep the rear door padlocked and the passenger compartment doors locked.

Finally, create a travel bag for moving day and keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, beverages and snacks close at hand.

You can find more moving tips at www.PenskeTruckRental.com. (ARA)

Packing and Transporting Tips for Do-It-Yourself MoversThe economy is moving again - and so are Americans. About 38 million people moved to new locations, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. If you're planning a move to any state this year, Penske, who has been renting out moving trucks to do-it-yourselfers for more than 40 years, offers some advice:

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Remodeling Tips for Multigenerational Households

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A combination of hard times and an aging population increased the number of U.S. households with multiple generations living under one roof, according to AARP. In 2010, 7.1 million U.S. households - or 6.1 percent of homes - were multigenerational. Compare that to 2000, when just 5 million households were multigenerational.

"Whether you're caring for an aging parent or making room for adult children, grandchildren or other relatives, completing practical remodeling projects can add living space, help reduce home maintenance time and save energy," says Kathy Krafka Harkema, spokesperson for Pella Corporation.

Remodeling Tips Considering remodeling? Check out the hottest small-project remodeling trends for 2011, from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). As you're planning, incorporate universal design principles to help make your home safer and more functional.

Bathroom Renovations Updating bathrooms? Add slip-resistant surfaces to minimize potential falls in bathtubs and showers. Walk-in showers and safety bars are also smart choices.

Creative Colors Paint is an easy upgrade. According to Buzzle.com, one great bathroom paint idea is to use brighter colors like lime green, citrus yellow, butterscotch yellow or cream to create the illusion of space and make a small bathroom look larger.

Necessary Repairs As they update their homes, consumers are fixing problems, like replacing broken hardware and glass on windows and doors. For safety's sake, make sure your windows and doors are not jammed, painted or nailed shut. If they are, it could be time to replace them.

"Pella offers energy-efficient windows and doors with cordless blinds or shades between-the-glass that are easy to operate and safer for homes with children and pets," Krafka Harkema says. "Plus, since the optional blinds or shades are between glass, they don't need cleaning."

Patio and Outdoor Rooms Staying home more? Spending more time in the yard? Creating a new patio area off a kitchen or dining room can add space for entertaining. Install energy-efficient sliding or hinged patio doors, like the Pella 350 Series vinyl patio doors, to help save energy and create beautiful views.

Hiring a Skilled Contractor Today's consumers are more diligent about choosing the right contractor for the specific job they need done, NARI reports. Ask for referrals for a reputable licensed, bonded, insured contractor and check credentials.

Opening Up Rooms As you remodel, consider removing interior walls to create extra space in high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Add 36-inch doors to make it easier to move about your home.

Adding Bronze Choose bronze finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, when replacing missing or broken hardware on windows or doors. Bronze is also popular in bedrooms, home offices and kitchens. Replace small knobs or round pulls on doors, drawers or cabinets with levers and larger pulls that are easier for arthritic hands to operate.

Go Green and Save Now's the time to replace your home's drafty single-paned windows with more energy-efficient wood, vinyl or fiberglass windows.

"Many U.S. homes still have energy-wasting single-paned windows," Krafka Harkema says. "Replacing them with more energy-efficient ENERGY STAR-qualified windows helps save energy and add comfort to your home."

You may be able to claim a U.S. energy-efficiency tax credit from $200 to $500 on certain ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and doors installed in 2011. Check Pella.com/taxcredits for details.

Whether you're making room for your parents or welcoming home a college graduate, home remodeling is a sensible investment in today's economy. Be sure your home update features comfortable, practical, universal and energy-saving improvements. (ARA)

Make room for family: Whether finishing basements or updating bathrooms, Americans are making home improvements to accommodate more family members moving into their homes.

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German engineering.American Value.Buy three or more Bosch kitchenappliances and receive a rebate of up to

via a Bosch VISA® prepaid card.*

15%

For all the latest Bosch products visit our show room

across from The Galleria.205.402.72871773 Montgomery Hwy S.Hoover, Alabama [email protected]

The possibilities are endless. Select from the quietest line of dishwashers,**

wall ovens with a leading 4.7 cu ft of capacity, or induction cooktops with

AutoChef™, a programmable cooking system so east, it’s like putting a car

on cruise control. Get these and more—plus hundreds in rebates when you

purchase precise, efficient, high-performance Bosch appliances for your

kitchen. www.bosch-home.com/us

© 2011 Bosch Home Appliances. Promotion runs from January 1 though May 31, 2011. * Cards are issued by Citibank NA pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc., and managed by Ecount, a Citibank company. Cards can be used any-where Visa Debit Cards are accepted. ** Based on available sound information on competitors’ websites, June 2010.

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For all the latest Thermador products visit our show room

across from The Galleria.

SOMEAPPLIANCESARE JUSTFOR STATUS

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205.402.72871773 Montgomery Hwy S.Hoover, Alabama [email protected]

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metroChurch

All Dads would like to be viewed as “Super-Popular” on Father’s Day this year. Survey’s place people like Cliff Huxtable (The Cosby’s), Howard Cunningham (Happy Days), and Andy Taylor (The Andy Griffi th Show) near the top of America’s super-popular Dads list.

But just trying to be popular with our children can make us “Superfi cial Dads,” without much depth to our parenting. Researchers have concluded that Dads that actually develop their children produce higher self-esteem, greater emotional stability, higher moral maturity, reduced rates of teen pregnancy, higher career aspirations, and greater spiritual involvement in

their kids. So, how can Dads become a “Super Natural Father?”

Attention Most of our families are starving for attention. Many of our kids suffer from ADD (Attention Dad Disorder). What you give attention to will grow!

AffectionU.C.L.A. research has concluded that we all need 8-12 meaningful physical touches every day. So, bless your child with hugs, kisses, and pats on the back.

AppreciationMost cars depreciate while our families can ap-preciate, if you value those inside your home. Try affi rming your kids with your words and watch them grow!

AccountabilityKids need direction and boundaries, so begin by leading them to Christ and then helping them make wise decisions. With God’s help, you can make a “Super Natural Impact!”

Mark SchradeSenior PastorMetropolitan Church of God

2800 Metropolitan WayBirmingham, AL 35243www.metrocog.org

Super Natural Fathering

Donna GaskinsRE/MAX First Choice The Pinnacle Group

3 Agents.One Goal.

Each offi ce Independently owned and operated

Thinking of Buying or Selling?

First Choice [email protected]

Search all homes in the Birmingham area MLS on my site:

donnagaskins.com

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Tom Murphy RealtyTOM MURPHY REALTYReal Estate Professional of Birmingham, AL

205-988-5444www.TomMurphyRealty.com TMR

Birmingham $362,9004 Bedrooms/ 3.5 Bathshis lovely brick home located in Highland Lakes Subdivision has a vaulted ceiling in the greatroom with a fi replace fl anked by built-in bookcases. Hardwood fl ooring in the greatroom, kitchen, dining room and guest bath.Listing Agent: Ann Hutchison 205-365-9318 MLS # 4499442

Vestavia Hills $799,9955 Bedrooms/ 3.5 BathOwner will look at any reasonable offer!! Premier Vestavia Subdivision! Majestic Custom Built Brick with elegant iron door entry. Walk into the 20’ foyer,travertine fl oors,arched doorways, and open fl oor plan,great for entertaining! Listing Agent: Paula Sullivan 205-222-4255MLS#498760

Vance $134,9003 Bedrooms/ 2 BathsNO DOWNPAYMENT for Qualifi ed Purchasers of USDA Rural Housing Loan. Located between Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. Vinyl Exterior, Attached 2 Car Garage. Attractive Split Bedroom Plan, Oversized Master Bedroom.Listing Agent: Sandra Norris - 205-66-5515MLS#500225

Talladega $239,5002 Bedrooms/ 1 BathPrivate lake front house with cedar beams, masonry fi replace on gently sloping lot w/ big view, deep water, boat slip plus pier.

Listing Agent: Bill Waldrip 205-504-1296MLS#498862

Odenville $219,9004 Bedrooms/ 3 BathsNice brick home with open fl oor plan, high ceilings and a lot of light. LR features FP with antique mantle, MBR has attached sun room. Basement features 5 rooms and full bath, plus den area and kitchenette. Laundry Hook-up up & down. Space & privacy.Listing Agent: Sybil Owens 205-960-0871 MLS#499435

Investors WantedCorporate Owned Properties

Call 205-988-5444

Clients are Number One

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Thinking of Buying or Selling?

Contact Me Today Professional Advice, Knowledge and Service

Becky Hicks Licensed Realtor205.533.4445RealtySouth Over The Mountain – Acton [email protected]

LifeandHomes.com Open Market Listing Service™

50 Gilbert DriveAlabaster, AL 35007

[email protected]

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Alabaster $433,700

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Alabaster $415,000

127 Sterling Park Drive 4 Bedrooms / 3.5 Baths RE/MAX Advantage Deb Long • 205-447-3476




Alabaster $423,200

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Alabaster $199,900

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Alabaster $184,900

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Bessemer $259,000

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Birmingham $569,900

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Birmingham $224,900

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Calera $15,000

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LifeandHomes.com Open Market Listing Service™

5165 Selkirk Drive 4 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




Inverness $199,000

6682 Lou George Loop 3 Bedrooms / 3 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




McCalla $299,000

4186 Shinnecock Circle 3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




McCalla $219,900

1797 Glennwood Road 4 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




Morris $145,000

1480 Stoneykirk Rd 4 Bedrooms / 3.5 Baths RE/MAX Advantage Julie White • 205-979-9854




Pelham $279,900

107 Sugar Dr 2 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths RE/MAX Advantage Julie White • 205-979-9854




Pelham $99,900

2425 Dalton Drive 4 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths RealtySouth Linda J. Carroll • 205-915-3097

Associate Broker • [email protected]



Pelham $169,000

289 Middle Ridge Drive 4 Bedrooms / 3.5 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




Springville $309,900

2535 Altadena Forest Circle 3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445




Vestavia Hills $198,500

1947 Shades Crest Road 4 Bedrooms / 3.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





Linda CarrollAssociate BrokerABR, SFR, SRES, RSPS, E-PRO

Cell: 205.915.3097Email: [email protected]: LindaCarrollRealtor.comwww.RealtySouth.com

Whether you are ready to sell your home, are a fi rst-time home buyer, a senior ready to downsize, or an investor, I have the knowledge and experience to help you. Pelham has been my home for over 20 years and I look forward to working with you.

Family of Services

Please call Eileen Rattiner Carter or any of our professionals at

(205) 383-1966Apply online at www.WMmortgageLLC.com

WM Mortgage is a full service mortgage company with the

ability to serve every need. Whether you are a fi rst time

homebuyer, have credit that does not meet other lender’s

guidelines, want to buy a USDA home or are interested in

a foreclosed property, we can help.

bhamforeclosures.comYour key to foreclosed properties!

www.aldreamhouse.com

Dee Dee Harrison-Bush B.S., ABR, SFR

Realty South Inverness

205.382.0586

WHERE I TURN YOUR DREAMS INTO AN ADDRESS!

SHORT SALE

END UNIT

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3422 Stoneleigh Drive 3 Bedrooms / 2.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





1805 Glendmere Drive 3 Bedrooms / 2 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





2209 Southwood Road 4 Bedrooms / 4.0 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





1981 Rocky Brook Dr 5 Bedrooms / 4.5 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





2816 Abingdon Prky 4 Bedrooms / 3.5 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





200 Sleepy Hollow Cir 3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths RealtySouth-OTM-Acton Road Becky Hicks • 205-533-4445





Open Market Listing Service™ LifeandHomes.com

www.Bham-Homes.com

Birmingham’s Fastest Growing Real Estate Company

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Website goes wherever you go!

It Gives a Whole New Meaning to Mobile

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For all your moving needs! Free estimates:

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Ask for Larry. Everything wood and carpet.

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Since 1994, reliable, certifi ed, bonded for

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205-833-8494Member Since 04/11

Electricians

STONE & SONS ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, INC.

An exceptional neighborhood deserves

exceptional service!

Phil Sandoval - VP Home Loans Manager

205-577-6164Member Since 01/11

Mortgage Companies

BANK OF AMERICA HOME LOANS

Home Service NetworkExclusive Members That Have Shown Exceptional Customer Service

Questions? CHAT with a Local Business Expert!

Spectrum Advanced Markets, Inc.

Small to Large Business Consulting & CoachingServing Birmingham & Beyond Since 1995

FREE Quotes: Call 205.406.5910

Ask the Expert: [email protected]

• Strategic Planning & Concept Development

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• Want to Own a Business? Call Us for Coaching!

• Want to Learn How to Increase Your Income? Call Us!4509 VALLEYDALE ROAD/SUITE 10/ BIRMINGHAM, AL 35242

205.981.0607 OFFICE • 205.531-5655 CELL • [email protected]

ART FLEET • BROKER – CLUB OF EXCELLENCE

Big Enough To Make A Difference

Small Enough To Make It Count

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2530 Queenstown RoadBirmingham, AL [email protected]

205.833.8494

Our Building Blocks toExceptional Service

• Certifi ed master electricians & journeyman electricians

• Commercial & Industrial specialty

• Bonded, licensed and insured

• Residential service & repair

• Standby Generator installation for home and commercial use

• In House engineering

• Parking lot lighting

• Established in 1994

• Family owned Christian Business

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"Cars get routine maintenance from a mechanic and people get regular checkups from a doctor, but unfortunately our homes often get neglected until it's too late," says Rhonda Hills of Kudzu.com, an online resource for homeowners looking for expert home advice and local service providers. "Homes need constant attention, and in most cases regular maintenance can help save thousands of dollars by allowing owners to catch problems early or prevent them altogether."

The home experts at Kudzu.com recommend completing these home projects this summer. You and your home will be thankful you did.

* Get your air conditioner serviced - Properly maintained heating and air conditioning systems run more efficiently and have a longer life expectancy. During a maintenance visit, your HVAC technician should check your system's refrigerant levels, clean the condenser coil, replace dirty filters and calibrate your thermostat among other things. The goal is to ensure your air conditioning system is operating properly and is in tip-top-shape for the warmer weather ahead.

* Inspect the roof - Wind, rain, hail and other weather events can damage the roof and leave it susceptible to leaks. When conducting a visual inspection, try to stay off the roof. Instead, start

from the ground and look for missing or damaged shingles, discolored spots or areas of the roof that sag.

* Check toilets for leaks - The average home loses 10,000 gallons of water per year to leaks, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. That's enough water to fill a swimming pool. To ensure your home is leak free, start by checking your toilet. Just drop food coloring in the toilet's tank. If after 30 minutes the water in the bowl starts to change colors, then there is a leak. This can usually be corrected by replacing the toilet's flapper.

* Have your home pressure washed - Pressure washing your home can keep it looking brand new and can also extend the life of your siding or other building materials. Dirt, mold and mildew will gradually accumulate on your home, deck and other surfaces, and you may not even notice it. In some cases, these contaminants can deteriorate building materials and can create slick, unsafe walking surfaces.

* Get your gutters cleaned - Gutters help capture rain that hits your home and direct it as far from the structure as possible. Clogged gutters cannot properly redirect water and can lead to water pooling against your home's foundation and leaking into your crawlspace or basement.

* Rake and aerate your lawn - Raking a winter's worth of leaves will allow sunlight and nutrients to reach your sod, and aerating the lawn will prevent soil compaction, improve drainage and promote better root development.

* Have your trees trimmed - Pruning is typically done to remove dead or diseased limbs, eliminate overcrowding or to prevent potential hazards. In addition to creating a healthier tree, pruning can also allow better light penetration which can be a benefit to plants below.

* Look for termites - Termites are wood-destroying pests that can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home. The most obvious sign of a termite infestation is a termite swarm, which is when winged termites take to the skies to find a mate. These winged termites are easily confused with winged ants, so if you spot a swarm, gather some of the winged specimens and immediately contact a professional pest control company so they can inspect.

Visit Kudzu.com for more home improvement advice or to find a highly rated professional in your area that can help you get these projects done. (ARA)

If you think home maintenance means fixing something only when it's broken, then you could be in for some costly surprises. Routine

maintenance can help identify and address home-related issues early and prevent them from becoming bigger problems later.

Save Time and Money with Proactive

Home Maintenance

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