Alabama Realtors Focus on Community Support
The Alabama Association of Real Estate (AAR) comprises dedicated real estate professionals focused on the needs of home buyers and sellers throughout the state. Their dedication goes beyond mere transactions, as Realtors® aim to invest in the communities they serve, guiding clients through one of the most significant decisions in their lives—buying a home. In an often unpredictable housing market, Alabama Realtors stand at the forefront, working to strengthen local communities and enhance the lives of Alabamians, irrespective of market fluctuations.
Karol Kirby, a Realtor® in Alabama, highlights her commitment to community well-being, expressing that her role is about empowering and supporting those around her.
“We want to help our neighbors find housing and ensure our community thrives,” Kirby notes.
Rusty Glines, another Realtor® who has spent over a decade in Guntersville and Marshall counties, shares a similar outlook.
“Guntersville is home for me. I grew up and graduated here. That connection matters. When people realize you’re as invested in the community as they are, it builds trust,” he reflects.
Last year posed significant challenges for Alabama’s real estate sector. Despite this, the industry reported a total of $14.5 billion in home sales, showcasing the housing market’s resilience. The median home sale price increased slightly to $216,744, a 0.4% rise from the previous year. Inventory also saw growth, reaching an average of 16,959 active listings, the highest in five years. Yet, the market was not without its troubles, as foreclosure applications rose by 6.1% compared to 2023, totaling 5,524.
Even amidst uncertainties, the Alabama housing market demonstrated resilience and signs of long-term health. In the third quarter, Alabama’s economy grew by 4.5%, surpassing the national average, and adding nearly 40,000 jobs. This emphasizes the noticeable role real estate plays in driving prosperity across the state.
Beyond statistics, real estate weaves a vital narrative of community development and enhanced quality of life. Each home up for sale in Alabama brings about an economic impact of approximately $95,700, affecting a wide range of professionals, from builders to local businesses. However, the real significance lies in how real estate connects people with places.
Karol Kirby witnesses this impact firsthand.
“Being from Auburn, I’ve seen how homeownership fuels a vital community and a strong school system,” she explains. “A portion of our property tax supports our schools, contributing to some of the best in the state. This has created a desirable region that continues to expand.”
The focus on community reflects the mission of Realtors® across Alabama. They serve not just as guides in the home-buying process but also as volunteers, mentors, and advocates for their communities.
“Realtors® are supporters at heart,” Kirby says. “We engage with our communities, volunteering in schools, churches, and local real estate associations, seeking to support community projects.”
Rusty Glines emphasizes that real estate is about relationships, not just transactions.
“Helping first-time buyers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job,” he shares. “Seeing their joy at closing is incredibly fulfilling, especially after the journey involves so many steps.”
He continues, “I’ve been fortunate to assist numerous buyers and sellers over the last decade, from first-time homeowners to seasoned investors.”
The commitment to guiding first-time homebuyers can often be overlooked, yet it can be a challenging journey in a constantly shifting market.
“It’s truly an honor to help someone make their first purchase,” Kirby remarks. “For first-time buyers, it’s a big life event, filled with nerves and excitement. We aim to provide stability throughout the process.”
Real estate in Alabama transcends industry metrics—it’s a reflection of community growth and the resilience of Alabamians, especially in economically uncertain times. From bolstering the local economy to influencing educational successes, Realtors® play an integral role in helping residents not only find homes but also build fulfilling lives.
