http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/bridge-street-of-huntsville-a-new-lifestyle-experience.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/bridge-street-of-huntsville-a-new-lifestyle-experience.html Sat, 24 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Tis the season… to shop! According to Advertising.com, nearly one third of those questioned said they started their holiday shopping before Thanksgiving. While many people purchase some of their gifts online, there are still quite a few folks that want to see the item before buying it. Shopping in a mall, however, can quickly turn to drudgery. So, how do you change that shopping experience into something exciting and enjoyable? If you live in Huntsville, Alabama, the answer is Bridge Street.

The Bridge Street Town Centre, located in Cummings Research Park and less than two miles from the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, is a 550,000 square foot “lifestyle center” that will ultimately have over 70 retail stores and restaurants. While some of the newly opened stores - Victoria’s Secret and Bath and Body Works to name two - are already familiar to the Huntsville area, there are others, such as Swarovski and Kate Spade that this area hasn’t seen before. Bridge Street is an open-air environment, giving it a European flair that will make shopping here a unique experience.

But shopping isn’t all there is to do. Monaco Pictures is a movie theater offering 14 screens and over 2,000 reclining seats. Ticket purchases are available at the box office, at one of six automated kiosks and online. Moviegoers will also be able to reserve seats.

If buttered popcorn and sugary sweets aren’t what your taste buds crave, don’t worry. Check out the Scene Lounge, an upscale restaurant near the entrance to the theater. This eatery is launching under the direction of a former chef from Wolfgang Puck’s Los Angeles restaurant. Whether you choose lunch and dinner, be careful you don’t forget about your movie while you’re relishing the excellent cuisine.

Taking advantage of the beautiful lake, Bridge Street also offers romantic gondola cruises. Open seven days a week (weather permitting) you can take your special someone for cruises that range from 30 to 45 minutes. Could anything be more romantic than listening to Italian music as you ride in the gondola with the person of your dreams? What a perfect way to propose, celebrate an anniversary or just say, “I love you!”

Bridge Street offers a unique family experience including paddleboats. Available with bimini tops for shade, and with one, three or four seats, you can arrange for one to two paddlers, or switch to an electric motor and just cruise while enjoying the scenery. Rather stay on land? Remote control sailboats - just like the ones in Central Park - are a fun idea!

Children of all ages will love the carousel overlooking the lake. Riding a fairytale horse is a great way to keep the little ones entertained while giving you a break as well. And don’t forget to try the pop jet fountain - an interactive water feature.

Another spectacular part of Bridge Street is the four-star Westin Hotel, projected to open April 1, 2008. With 210 luxurious rooms, guests can take advantage of the indoor/outdoor pool, workout room and spa, or order an in-room massage. There will also be 74 one-, two- and three-bedroom condos available for purchase.

Whether you have a lunch hour or a whole day, make plans to visit Bridge Street in Huntsville soon and experience the difference.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/timing-and-location-vital-elements-in-the-home-buying-process.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/timing-and-location-vital-elements-in-the-home-buying-process.html Fri, 21 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Getting a good deal on a home is often more about timing than purchase price. Because most homes are financed through at least a 15-year mortgage (usually 20- or 30-year), the amount paid in interest has an enormous impact on what the home will ultimately cost. The contract price may be $150,000. By the time interest is calculated over 30 years, however, you could easily pay twice or even three times that amount, depending on what the interest rate is on the day you lock into a mortgage rate.

Lower interest rates make it possible to finance the same amount of money for a lower payment, or finance more money without increasing the payment. How so? Let’s look at financing $150,000 for 30 years at 6.50%.

Your approximate principal and interest payment would be about $948 monthly. Another option would be to finance $158,000 with a monthly payment of roughly $947. This option would allow you to borrow an additional $8,000 without hardly changing the payment. If the interest rate dropped to 6.00%, however, the payment would decrease to approximately $899 per month. Whether you're looking to buy your first home, or thinking about upgrading to a bigger one, lower rates open the opportunity to find a great buy. The other vital element is location. The award-winning city of Huntsville, Alabama has much to offer.

The Value of Huntsville

No one wants to buy a home that won't resell well. So, where do you look to ensure you get value? In a June 30, 2007 survey, the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (OFHEO) reports, “Of 287 metro areas, 131 recorded decreases in house prices during the quarter.” The Huntsville real estate market, however, was ranked 36 out of 287 in price appreciation, and came in above average with a second quarter increase of 1.76%. Plainly stated, while houses in many areas are losing value, Huntsville, Alabama is still an affordable and wise housing choice.

What Does Huntsville Have To Offer?

Huntsville is widely recognized as being one of the country’s best places to work, live and go to school. The September 2007 issue of U.S. News & World Report says, “The University of Alabama in Huntsville ranks among the top ten percent of business schools in the county.” Check with MSN/Sperling’s Best Places and you will find that Huntsville is named one of the country’s top ten cities for job growth and affordability. So, what makes this southern town such a remarkable place to live? Huntsville offers a thriving job market, lower than average cost of living, plenty of options for entertainment and a climate that enjoys the best of all four seasons.

If you're considering buying a home, now may be a good time to do so if you're looking in the Huntsville real estate market. And with all it has to offer, Huntsville could easily be just what you’ve been waiting for.



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Mike Manosky has over 16-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/%3Ci%3Emoney%3C-i%3E-magazine-favors-alabama-with-another-top-100-listing.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/%3Ci%3Emoney%3C-i%3E-magazine-favors-alabama-with-another-top-100-listing.html Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0500
Recently, Money magazine released its annual Top 100 list of Best Places To Live in the U.S. This much anticipated list underscores cities across America that portray exceptional qualities in the areas of income, auto insurance premiums, education, quality of life, leisure and culture, weather, health and real estate. Alabama, not surprisingly, made the list again.

Helena, Alabama ranked 91st on the 2007 Top 100 being cited for low insurance rates and low state income taxes among other favorable traits. In 2006, Hoover, Alabama was ranked 75th on the Money list and was hailed for higher than average annual median family income as well as greater than average family purchasing power.

Living in Huntsville, I thought it would be interesting to compare my hometown to the top winners in order to see how it fared.

State Income Tax Rate

Huntsville has a lower than average state income tax range falling between 2% and 5% compared to the Top 100 average of 2.74% and 6.46%.

Auto Insurance Premiums

Huntsville beat the Top 100 average by over $200 per year with the Best Places average being $2,121 and Huntsville's average hovering at $1,897.

Huntsville Real Estate

Huntsville had impressive standings with its real estate assessment. Basing its information on 2004-2005 figures, Money reported the average price of Huntsville real estate at $193,669. The Best Places average (for a comparable sized home) was almost double at $359,352. The average property tax bill was a meager $491 while the Top 100 average was over $3,500.

Crime

Boasting almost half the number of personal crime incidences per year than the Best Places average, Huntsville follows suit with a property crime rate that is nearly one-third less than the average.

Significantly shorter commute times, a diverse population, exceptional employment opportunities and other favorable traits also align Huntsville with many cities currently or previously on the Top 100.

If you're considering a place to relocate to, Huntsville certainly deserves a closer look. With a hometown feel, beautiful seasonal changes and prominent military installations, you'll find this city may rank better for your needs than any others on any list.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/undervalued-property-prices-make-huntsville-real-estate-a-bargain.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/undervalued-property-prices-make-huntsville-real-estate-a-bargain.html Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0500
A recent study by Housing Market Analysis conducted by National City Corp reveals there are many real estate markets nationwide with drastically inflated housing prices. One of the worst cases is Naples, Florida, which boasts prices that are 84% higher than they should be, according to CNNMoney.com. "National City arrives at its estimates of what the typical house in these markets should cost by examining the town's population densities, local interest rates, and income levels. It also factors in historical premiums and discounts for each area," states the CNNMoney.com site.

However, not all markets fall into this same category. In fact, numerous others are right in line or even undervalued. It's those undervalued cities that offer some of the best bargains in real estate. One such area is Huntsville. Real estate in this Alabama town is reportedly 11% below average market rates. To put that in real dollars, a home that might cost $100,000 in Albuquerque, New Mexico could only cost $89,000 in Huntsville.

Real estate, however, is not the only advantage to buying in Huntsville. Employment is a big advantage. With an unemployment rate of nearly half the national average, Huntsville has plenty of opportunities for those in real estate, construction, professional & technical services, and government. Adding to the mix is the Base Realignments and Closures (BRAC), which is opening civilian and government jobs as those from closed or restructured bases move into the Huntsville area.

In addition, employment needs will increase from the residual affects of thousands of added citizens. Childcare and real estate are two areas that will find particular needs. As more people flood into Huntsville, the need for childcare will grow tremendously. This will make those with professional childcare experience extremely valuable. Likewise, the new infusion of people will also create a housing boom spinning off jobs due to rising demand. New positions including construction worker, architect, real estate agent, rental agent and more are expected to become available.

Lastly, a lower cost of living makes Huntsville appealing. With the cost of living and salary adjustments, someone moving from Stamford, Connecticut to Huntsville, Alabama making $35,000 per year would typically see an increase in disposable income of $7,988 per year, according to Salary.com. Considering the 11% lower property valuation mentioned earlier, this means housing dollars can be stretched to buy homes significantly larger and nicer than in other areas of the country.

Before considering a move to other cities, be sure to assess every aspect to determine the town's true value. Jobs, cost of living and real estate prices all come together to develop a true picture of a city and what type of lifestyle you can expect to achieve. Don't settle when you have an opportunity to have it all!



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dont-just-buy-a-house-make-a-home-in-huntsville-alabama.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/dont-just-buy-a-house-make-a-home-in-huntsville-alabama.html Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0500
“He makes his home where the living is best,” Latin Proverb.

Owning a house has many advantages. Deductions for mortgage and property taxes; fixed housing costs with fixed-interest mortgages; financial security; and an asset to pass down to your children. Making a home is having all of those advantages in a place where you’re safe and comfortable - in a community you enjoy being a part of. In Huntsville, this connection is not only with friend and neighbors, but is also developed with the museums, educational facilities, cultural and outdoor activities. Couple these features with affordable housing and a low cost of living, and you’ll have a unique environment that allows families to prosper: Huntsville, Alabama. Real estate here has experienced an amazing expansion with some of the most desirable home listings in America.

The Huntsville real estate market offers the opportunity to own a home in a community that’s consistently named as one of the best places to live and work. Called “The Jewel of the Sunbelt” by BizJournals, Huntsville is named in Sperling’s Best Places as one of the 10 best with low cost of living and good job prospects. Huntsville is also called “the South’s newest economic development rock star” in an article in Southern Business and Development.

Economic stability is a necessary part of any good community. Huntsville’s unemployment rate is 2.5%, far below the national average of 4.5% (as of November 2006). In fact, 44.3% of the employment is in management, professional and related occupations. Known as the “Space Capital of America,” Huntsville’s business development is made up of companies like NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Direct TV, the Army’s Redstone Arsenal, and Cummings Research Park. These companies and others anticipate 4,000 new jobs thanks to the Department of Defense’s implementation of BRAC. In addition, the Hudson-Alpha Institute of Biotechnology has a projected 1,000 new jobs expected in Huntsville. Real estate agents will tell you that, along with promising job prospects, good schools are a priority in the home-buying decision.

Alabama has not only increased the number of school days per year from 175 to 180, but has also dedicated an additional $80 million to increase teachers' and other school employees' salaries. This devotion to education is why 31% of Huntsville’s adults hold bachelor’s degrees, making it one of the top six areas in higher education. Not only are there employment options and educational advancement available in Huntsville, the city is beautiful, in the midst of a lush, green, mountainous region.

Huntsville’s temperate climate, in a gorgeous setting, allows year-round golfing, water sports, and activities for every enthusiast. The city’s commitment to environmental excellence is why Huntsville was ranked by The Green Guides as one of the top 10 “Green Cities” in the U.S. Huntsville contains more than 36,000 acres of natural space available for recreation, giving residents even more pleasure with their beautiful homes in Huntsville. Real estate agents in this town are quick to point out that available homes are suited to all lifestyles, from acres of wooded areas to condominiums in downtown Huntsville.

In a community close enough for neighborhood barbecues; yet diverse enough to contain business and cultural opportunities, true quality of life is possible when buying a home in Huntsville, Alabama. Real estate here offers exceptional value, combined with some of the lowest property taxes in the country, giving you the most for your money, when you’re ready to buy. This year consider Huntsville where you can have a home, not just a house.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville, Alabama real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. (c) 2007, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/staging-your-home-can-quicken-sales-time.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/staging-your-home-can-quicken-sales-time.html Mon, 22 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0600
When it comes to real estate, which is more appealing to you? A house with a worn-out sofa, stark white walls, no decorations and clutter all around, or a home that looks as though it stepped out of Southern Living magazine? Of course, the latter. But why? A sofa and decorations are not normally included in the real estate transaction. Chances are they’ll be taken when the current owners move. The reason it’s more appealing is because we are attracted to things that are beautiful.

This is the entire premise of home staging. You, or a professional you hire, take certain strategic steps to make your home look more like the “after” photos on home makeover shows. It doesn’t involve any renovations. Staging is based on superficial and temporary changes mostly dealing with aesthetics. It’s normally cost effective and can bring about some pretty dramatic results.

On the west coast, the practice of staging real estate has been around for years. However, in my area (Huntsville, Alabama) and other eastern states, staging is just beginning to make an impact. Covered on MSNBC and in major newspapers, including USA Today and the New York Post, staging has proven itself to be a useful tool to home sellers.

Does It Work?

Home sellers have reported reduced sales times, shorter negotiation times, higher selling prices and other wonderful benefits after using staging techniques. While there is no way to track or gauge the direct effect of staging on price, sales cycle or negotiations, most sellers would testify that - in their opinions - staging made a positive difference.

The Process of Staging Real Estate

The process of staging a home can be as simple or complex as you like, depending on how much time and money you choose to put into it. In most cases, a professional would come to your home, conduct an evaluation and offer a proposal that details what they want to do, their fees and the estimated costs of any materials needed for the staging. To my knowledge, there are no real estate staging companies in Huntsville, Alabama. However, if you live in this area or other states that are currently without access to professional home stagers, here are a few tips you can use to stage your own home.

1. De-clutter! Those stacks of paper on your kitchen counter have to go. And the collection of muddy shoes by the back door? Clean them and put them away. The dish drainer by your kitchen sink? Use it and then store it in a cabinet or closet. Anything that contributes to clutter should be stored, including overflowing magazine racks, piles of weights and exercise videos on the floor, stacks of bills on your desk and so forth.

2. Leave More Open Space - Houses that look cramped and crowded seem much smaller than they really are. You want your buyer to feel as though s/he is getting a lot for her/his money. So thin out bookshelves that are cram-packed with books, make clear paths throughout the flow of the house removing obstacles, including ottomans, coffee tables, rarely used furniture, etc., if necessary.

3. Add Warmth - Even though the buyers will bring their own furniture, they still depend on your home setting to give them a “feel” for the house. Make your home more welcoming by setting out a small plant on the kitchen counter, baking cookies and leaving them for the prospects to enjoy (or buying them and warming them slightly in the microwave until the smell floats through your house) or placing a serving tray with a magazine and a bud vase at the foot of your bed. If you have matching linens and comforter, give yourself turndown service and add a few throw pillows, just the way five-star hotels do.

4. Adjust Lighting - While ambiance is nice, prospective buyers need to see your house. Open curtains and blinds and then remove obstacles from windows that would otherwise block natural light. Turn on all the lights in your house. If light bulbs are burned out, replace them.

By taking a few easy steps, you can turn your home into a showplace that buyers will flock to!



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2007, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/huntsville-alabama-real-estate-remains-on-target-despite-nationwide-decline.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/huntsville-alabama-real-estate-remains-on-target-despite-nationwide-decline.html Mon, 18 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0600
Recent announcements from the Fed regarding a stall on short-term interest rates came as no surprise to most. Five and one quarter percent is where the interest rate has remained since last June. With an eye toward inflation, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke recites a familiar statement blaming slowed growth partially on the “substantial cooling of the housing market.”

While housing may be cool in other areas, nothing could be farther from the truth in the Huntsville, Alabama real estate market. In fact, as the rest of the country has suffered a decline of 19% in housing starts, Huntsville’s real estate sales have remained stable.

The number of properties sold in November 2006 was down by only 54 homes compared to November 2005. The market remains strong and year-end figures should be excellent according to industry experts.

Growth In Many Areas

One reason for the growth in Huntsville’s real estate market is the tremendous growth this city has experienced in other areas over the last 10-years. BizJournals.com recently echoed what had been stated repeatedly by others when it named Huntsville, Alabama as Number One on its Top 10 Hotspots list. The award was based on Huntsville’s blend of comfortable lifestyle, warm weather, population and other factors.

Expansion in the area’s high-tech business base continues, which contributes to stronger economic growth in both the business and private sectors. This accounts, in part, for stability and increased development in the Huntsville real estate market as well. Other factors that drive growth include:

· A wide array of professional and management positions available

· Favorable decisions with regard to base realignment and closings (BRAC)

· Expectancy of large population growth over the next three- to four-years due to BRAC

· High concentration of college-educated adults

· A rise in per capita income levels above 20% in the past six-years

No Bursting of Bubbles

While housing bubbles in other cities such as Phoenix, Arizona have burst, investors in Huntsville currently stand little chance of facing diverse conditions. With a steady stream of homes moving in and out of the real estate listings, there is a better chance to sell more quickly in this area than in some others that have stalled.

Huntsville, Alabama is a thriving city with projected land development of 38% by 2010. Considering that the population of this area has doubled over the past 20-years, this is obviously not a fluke. Whether you are an investor or homeowner, Huntsville can deliver promising job opportunities, first-rate education, affordable costs of living and a stable real estate marketplace.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience in Huntsville, Alabama real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com.
© 2006, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-a-home-in-the-south-a-home-inspection-is-a-must.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-a-home-in-the-south-a-home-inspection-is-a-must.html Tue, 19 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
All homes in the southeast region of the United States have likely lived through weather conditions similar to those in Huntsville. Real estate listings here are subjected to higher levels of humidity than other areas of the country. We can also be affected by heat-induced thunderstorms during summer months that may produce high winds and hail. A qualified home inspector will be able to walk you through what this might mean with regard to a house you're purchasing. In addition to the usual points of inspection, be sure to ask about the following.

Humidity and Wood

Constant humidity may cause wood windows and doorframes to swell or warp. This may mean that gaps or checks in the wood could develop, causing the windows and doors to be less energy efficient. Likewise, from the contraction and expansion of the wood over time, doors and windows may also become difficult to open.

Your home inspector will also want to investigate the attic of the home you're buying to ensure the wooden structure is in good condition. Extreme heat and humidity in the summer months of the year can possibly create cause for concern in this area of the house as well.

Wind and Roofs

Summer in the south often brings wind in a variety of ways. Heat-induced thunderstorms is one source, and hurricanes and tornados are others. While not near the coast, Huntsville real estate could still suffer the effects of high winds, even though we don’t typically get hurricanes this far inland.

When wind becomes a factor, roofs can sometimes be damaged. Your home inspector will want to pay close attention to the roof of the home you are considering. Is it in good condition? Do any shingles need to be replaced? Are there any signs of water damage or leakage?

Heating and Air

The heat also plays a factor with heating and air-conditioning units in the south. With highs that can exceed 100 degrees in summer months, air-conditioning units get a real workout. Maintenance of these units is a must to ensure they work properly. Ask to see the history of the unit and also secure a letter from a qualified heating and air conditioning company that states the unit is in good working order.

No one wants to move into a new home only to be faced with a list of unexpected repairs. Taking the time to hire the proper inspection professionals can save you a lot of money and stress in the future. A small investment up front can help ensure you'll be able to enjoy your new home for years to come.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2006, All Rights Reserved







Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/exciting-sites-to-see-in-huntsville-alabama.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/exciting-sites-to-see-in-huntsville-alabama.html Sat, 05 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Helen Keller's Childhood Home - Ivy Green

Most people are familiar with the story of Helen Keller. They may not know, however, that she lived in a small town called Tuscumbia near Huntsville. Real estate belonging to her family included 640 acres, the main house or estate, the guesthouse (the cottage) where the famous battles between teacher Anne Sullivan and Helen Keller took place, the annex and - of course - the water pump where Helen learned her first word in sign language… water.

Space Camp

Every year kids and adults alike thrill at the thought of going to Space Camp. The museum offers the original Mercury and Gemini capsule trainers, the actual Apollo 16 capsule as well as a life-size replica of the Apollo 11 Saturn V and more. See how astronauts lived in space aboard the MIR, and tour many other space-related ships, capsules and rockets.

For kids, however, Space Camp is the main attraction. With age-appropriate child programs, child/parent programs, adult programs and corporate programs, attendees can look forward to exploring space, aviation and robotics. From flight simulation to zero gravity exercises, Space Camp is just cool!

Antique Shopping In and Around Huntsville, Alabama

If searching for treasures from the past is your idea of fun, you'll be thrilled to know that over two-dozen antique shops and malls are located in Huntsville. Real estate including old houses, barns and more have been converted into quaint shops and malls, some with delightful cafes serving lunch and dinner. From furniture to accessories to jewelry and more, you can literally shop 'til you drop!

Old MacDonald's Petting Zoo

Just a few minutes from Huntsville, Old MacDonald's Petting Zoo offers a pond, a playground with plenty of equipment for swinging and climbing, a shaded picnic area, a gift shop, a snack bar, changing tables for babies and - of course - animals!

On six acres of partially wooded real estate, Old MacDonald's is home to child-friendly critters including miniature donkeys, raccoons, squirrels, cows, emu, goats, sheep, deer and more. Adults and children are encouraged to pet and feed the animals - some of which are in large cages and others that roam free. It's a great experience for the whole family.

If you're new to the Huntsville area or just looking for something new and exciting to do this weekend, consider these family-friendly sites and activities. You'll make some great memories with your children and thoroughly enjoy yourself in the process.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville, Alabama real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2006, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/need-a-job-move-to-huntsville-alabama.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/need-a-job-move-to-huntsville-alabama.html Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Downsizing, layoffs and attrition are scary words that many Americans are hearing all too often these days. Because auto manufacturers, the airlines and other major industries are trying to drastically cut costs, cutting employees seems like a logical step. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 2/3 of states suffer from unemployment rates at or higher than the national average. Historically, however, one city has proven itself to be almost unemployment resistant: Huntsville, Alabama.

Real estate, construction, professional & technical services, and government are just a few of the industries that continue to grow and shield Huntsville from rising unemployment figures. According to the Alabama Department of Industrial Relations, as of May 2006, Madison County, Alabama was at a steady unemployment rate of almost half the national average.

What does this mean for you? Jobs! Employment opportunities can be found in and around Huntsville. Real estate careers are flourishing; aerospace jobs are now open; computer and defense positions are constantly available, and so are many others, including retail, restaurant & tourism, and education. An easy way to see what's available is to search the job openings database for Huntsville, Alabama. You can find it at: http://www.huntsvillealabamausa.com/huntsvillejobs/searchjobs.cgi.

Lower Cost of Living, Higher Quality of Life in Huntsville

Real estate costs are much lower in Huntsville than in many other states. The same is true of other cost-of-living expenses. However, because of the central location of Huntsville and the benefits equal to many larger metropolises, a higher quality of life is experienced by those who call Huntsville home. With the cost of living and salary adjustments, someone moving from Stamford, Connecticut to Huntsville, Alabama making $35,000 per year would typically see an increase in disposable income of $7,988 per year, according to Salary.com.

Just as you would find in larger cities, Huntsville is home to many museums, a symphony orchestra, botanical gardens and several colleges and universities. In addition, outdoor activities abound. All of these make Huntsville a great place to live and work.

Isn't Relocation Expensive? How Would I Get To Huntsville?

Real estate closing fees, moving costs and other relocation expenses could possibly be paid for - in part or in full - by the company you will be employed with once you arrive. With many larger businesses, a list of company-paid moving expenses can be negotiated when you apply for your job. Every organization has a different policy, so be sure to get all the details before making any decisions about relocating.

If unemployment is an issue in your area, consider moving to Huntsville. Jobs in every industry are plentiful; the cost of living is low, and the lifestyle is easy.



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Mike Manosky has over 15-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville, Alabama real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com.



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>