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        <title>Huntsville, Al Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/2025-01/</link>
        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/pros-and-cons-of-moving-to-huntsville-al-what-you-need-to-know-2025-update.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/pros-and-cons-of-moving-to-huntsville-al-what-you-need-to-know-2025-update.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Pros and Cons of Moving to Huntsville, AL: What You Need to Know (2025 Update)</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Pros and Cons of Moving to Huntsville, AL: What You Need to Know


 


Huntsville has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, attracting professionals, families, and retirees with its job market, affordability, and quality of life. With major industries like aerospace, defense, and tech fueling economic growth, the city offers career opportunities without the high costs of larger metro areas. At the same time, Huntsville’s expansion comes with challenges, from traffic congestion to limited public transit. Whether you're considering a move for work, education, or lifestyle, weighing the city’s strengths and drawbacks will help you decide if it’s the right fit.


Pros of Moving to Huntsville


1. Rapid Growth and Job Opportunities


First up, let's talk about the rapid growth. Huntsville has been booming over the last few years. Major industries like aerospace, tech, and defense have brought a wave of new opportunities to the area. Companies like NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Blue Origin, and local startups are attracting talent from all over. So, if you’re in tech or engineering, this is definitely the place to be.


Whether you’re looking for a career in aerospace, software development, or cybersecurity, Huntsville has jobs waiting for you, and with its lower cost of living compared to places like Silicon Valley or Austin, you can enjoy a great work-life balance.


2. Low Cost of Living


Speaking of cost of living, Huntsville is incredibly affordable. The median home price is way lower than the national average. You can find a spacious home in a great neighborhood for much less than in larger cities, and utilities, groceries, and transportation are affordable too.&quot;


If you’re looking to buy or rent, you’ll get more for your money here. That’s a big deal, especially if you’re used to high rent or mortgage payments in other big cities. By the way, homeowners have 40X the net worth of renters, so I encourage you to buy


3. Outdoor Recreation


Another major pro of living in Huntsville is the incredible outdoor recreation options. Not only do we have beautiful parks like Monte Sano State Park and Green Mountain, but we’re also surrounded by some of the best lakes in Alabama—like Smith Lake and Lake Guntersville.


If you love being outside, you’ll love Huntsville. Whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, or just taking in a sunset, the natural beauty of this area is hard to beat.


4. Strong Education System and Universities


One of the big pros of living in Huntsville is its strong education system. Whether you have young kids or are considering higher education, this city offers great schools, both public and private, as well as top-tier universities like the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Oakwood University.


With a focus on STEM education and great resources for students, Huntsville and the surrounding areas of Madison &amp; Athen’s education system are some of the best in the state. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities for continuing education, whether you’re looking to advance your career or take on new challenges at the university level.


5. Family-Friendly


Huntsville is also incredibly family-friendly. The city has excellent public schools, a variety of parks and recreational activities, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re raising young kids or planning for the future, Huntsville is a great place for families to put down roots.


And don’t forget about the community events and festivals that cater to families—there’s something for all ages


 


Cons of Moving to Huntsville


1. Traffic and Growing Pains


Now, let’s dive into some of the cons. First, like many growing cities, Huntsville’s infrastructure is playing catch-up with the population boom. Traffic, especially during rush hour, can be a hassle. New construction is everywhere, and it feels like roads are constantly under construction.


While it’s great to see the city expanding, it can make getting around a bit slower. So, if you’re used to fast-paced cities with perfect traffic flow, that might take some getting used to here.


2. Limited Public Transit


Public transportation in Huntsville is still pretty limited. The bus system isn’t as extensive as you might find in larger cities, so if you don’t drive, it can be a bit challenging to get around.


While most people here rely on their cars, if you’re looking for an easy-to-navigate public transit system, this might be something to consider.


3. Hot and Humid Summers


Let’s talk about the weather. Huntsville can get pretty hot and humid in the summer. Temperatures frequently reach the 90s, and the humidity makes it feel even hotter. If you’re not used to southern heat, it can be a tough adjustment.


Be prepared for those hot summer days. If you love the sun, that’s a plus, but for some, it can be a dealbreaker.


4. Lack of Access to Healthcare


While Huntsville has some great hospitals and medical centers, its healthcare options may not be as extensive as those found in larger cities. For specialized care or certain medical treatments, you might have to travel to nearby cities like Birmingham or Nashville.


So, if you’re used to having access to a wide range of healthcare services and specialists close by, it could be a bit of a challenge in Huntsville. While the quality of care is good, the variety and availability of certain treatments might not always be right at your doorstep.


5. Lack of Major Shopping Options


If you’re someone who loves big shopping malls or high-end fashion, Huntsville might disappoint you. While there are great local shops and a few shopping centers, you won’t find the big-name department stores or massive malls you’d get in larger cities.


While Huntsville has everything you need for day-to-day shopping, it doesn’t quite measure up to cities that have a major shopping district or designer stores.





So, there you have it—the pros and cons of living in Huntsville, Alabama. It’s a city on the rise with tons of opportunity, but it also comes with some growing pains and adjustments. Ultimately, it’s a great place for those looking for a balanced lifestyle, career opportunities, and a little bit of southern charm.


If you found this video helpful, make sure to hit that like button, subscribe, and drop a comment below if you have any questions or thoughts about living in Huntsville. Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one


 



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:36:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/huntsville-al-housing-market-report--december-2024.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/huntsville-al-housing-market-report--december-2024.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Huntsville, AL Housing Market Report | December 2024</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Huntsville, AL Housing Market Report | December 2024











The North Alabama housing market is showing notable shifts as 2024 ends, with Athens emerging as a standout for its rising average home prices, surpassing Huntsville. Increasing days on market and inventory levels indicate a gradual move toward a more balanced market, offering both challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers. Key trends like post-election sales surges and variations in submarkets, including Huntsville, Athens, and Morgan County, highlight the importance of understanding localized dynamics when navigating this evolving market landscape.


Athens’ Surge in Average Price


One of the most significant highlights is Athens' increase in average home price. In 2024, the average home price in Athens is $16,000 higher than in Huntsville. The two areas had been relatively close, alternating the lead, but Huntsville has now ceded the top spot to Athens in terms of the highest average sales price. This shift emphasizes Athens' growing appeal, with its excellent school districts, vibrant growth, and a strong alternative to city life in Huntsville.


Days on Market &amp; Supply Trends


Days on market have continued to rise, correlating with a 9.2 year-over-year increase in inventory. This brings the supply level back to what was last seen in 2018, a few years before the pandemic. While inventory levels remain below historical averages, this represents a healthier supply compared to the low inventory during the pandemic.


Post-Election Sales Bump


Another key highlight was the post-election sales surge. Many buyers appeared to wait for the election results before making their moves, leading to a spike in sales during November. This uptick signals a positive outlook for the local market as we transition into 2025.


Huntsville, AL Housing Market Overview


Now, let’s break down the individual submarkets. In Huntsville, the average sales price decreased slightly year-over-year, dropping $4,000 from $382,000 to $378,000. The most notable trend across all submarkets, however, is the increase in homes sold.


December saw 622 closings in Huntsville, reflecting the heightened demand following November's post-election activity. This compares to 524 closings during the same period last year. Inventory also saw a significant year-over-year increase, with 2,347 homes on the market compared to 1,811 the previous year. This rise in supply has helped stabilize days on market, returning Huntsville to a more typical, pre-pandemic market pace.


Athens, AL Housing Market Overview


Turning to Athens, which stands out as a key performer, the average sales price jumped $47,000 from $347,000 to $394,000. This increase does not imply that individual home values rose that dramatically. Instead, it reflects a shift in the types of homes sold, with higher-priced homes making up a larger portion of sales in December.


In contrast, November saw more starter homes sold, with an average price of $333,000. December’s closings included more high-end properties, boosting the overall average price. Athens also experienced a healthy increase in the number of homes sold, rising from 166 to 194.


Inventory in Athens saw a 52 year-over-year increase, with 960 homes on the market compared to 697 the previous year. This growth is heavily influenced by new construction, as builders continue to purchase large tracts of land in Limestone County for new developments. Despite the influx of starter homes, Athens' average sales price has managed to outpace Huntsville, highlighting its growing appeal.


Morgan County Housing Market Overview


In Morgan County, the average sales price remained relatively flat, with a slight drop from $269,000 to $266,000 year-over-year. While price changes were minimal, the number of homes sold increased from 102 to 116.


Inventory also rose significantly, with 478 homes on the market compared to 361 the previous year, marking a 46 increase. New construction has contributed to the growing inventory, with more options available to buyers in Morgan County.


New Listings, Pending Sales, &amp; Closed Sales


New listings remained flat year-over-year, with 914 in both periods. Year-to-date, though, new listings increased by 9.2, which has contributed to a significant rise in days on market. Pending sales rose 2.8 year-over-year, reaching 733 compared to 713, and were up 3.3 year-to-date.


The market has stayed relatively steady from 2023 to 2024 regarding the number of sales. Closed sales increased 4.3 year-to-date, driven by a notable jump in November contracts, which were up 14.5. This increase resulted in December closings rising to 1,026 compared to 896 the previous year. November's activity and the subsequent December closings stood out in 2024. Moving into 2025, there’s optimism about building on this momentum. Nationwide, 4 million resale homes annually is considered the floor, which has been consistent in 2023 and 2024. This contrasts with the over 6 million sales seen during the pandemic. A shift toward a more balanced market of about 5 million homes sold annually is anticipated in 2025.


Days on Market, Average Sales Price, &amp; Percent of List Price Received


Days on market increased from 41 last year to 59, signaling a shift toward a buyer’s market. Excluding new construction, the data suggests a more pronounced trend for resale homes, as new builds tend to skew the overall numbers.


The average sales price rose 3.1 year-over-year and increased 2.4 year-to-date, bringing the average home price in North Alabama to $356,164.


The percent of list price received is an important metric for sellers to understand potential negotiation room. A balanced market is typically around 97, while figures below that indicate a buyer’s market. Numbers closer to 98 or higher lean toward favoring sellers. Currently, the percent of list price received dropped slightly from 97.9 last year to 97.6. This figure does not account for the incentives builders are offering, such as rate buy-downs, fences, or design credits. Factoring out new construction would likely place this number below 97, reinforcing the trend toward a buyer’s market.


Housing Affordability


Housing affordability is critical to the overall economy and directly impacts first-time homebuyers, nurses, police officers, and other essential workers. These groups need access to affordable housing near their workplaces to serve their communities effectively.


An affordability index score of 100 means the median household income can afford the median-priced home. A score below 100 indicates less affordability, while a score above 100 suggests greater affordability. Last year, the score was 98, but it has since dropped to 95 due to rising interest rates, which have reduced affordability slightly.


Housing Supply &amp; Inventory


Housing supply increased from 3.4 months last year to 4 months this year, which is approaching a balanced market. A balanced market is typically considered 4 to 6 months of supply, while anything below 4 months is a seller’s market. Removing new construction from the data shows an even higher supply for resale homes, further emphasizing a buyer’s market heading into 2025.


Inventory has also risen, which is good news for buyers. While the market isn’t oversaturated, there’s room for more inventory. Listings increased by 20.9 year-over-year, climbing from 3,363 to 4,065. This level of inventory is comparable to 2018, which was a more stable period for the market. While it’s not at ideal levels yet, it’s a significant improvement from the pandemic years, indicating progress in the right direction.





Every buyer and seller’s situation is unique, with various submarkets, price points, and school districts to consider. As experts in the local market, we can help guide you through buying or selling, ensuring you make informed decisions.


We offer free buyer and seller consultations to help you navigate the process. Contact us at 256-333-MOVE, or visit us online at MattCurtisRealEstate.com.


 



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:48:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/sneak-peek-listings-for-january-10th--home-for-sale-in-huntsville-al-area.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/sneak-peek-listings-for-january-10th--home-for-sale-in-huntsville-al-area.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Sneak Peek Listings for January 10th | Home For Sale in Huntsville, AL Area</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Sneak Peek Listings for January 10th





658 Carter Grove - $239,900


658 Carter Grove, Toney, Alabama 35773


Talk to an MC Agent today for more info or call 256-270-9393


 



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 11:34:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/ask-a-real-estate-agent--kathy-passon.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/ask-a-real-estate-agent--kathy-passon.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Ask a Real Estate Agent | Kathy Passon</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Ask a Real Estate Agent | Kathy Passon











Kathy Passon’s experience and dedication have made her one of the top agents at Matt Curtis Real Estate, consistently providing exceptional service to a wide range of clients. This conversation highlights her approach to five-star service, the importance of communication, and how she helps clients feel prepared and confident throughout the buying or selling process. Kathy shares insights on working with first-time buyers, out-of-state relocations, and high-profile clients, along with advice for buyers navigating the current market.


Getting to Know Kathy Passon


Matt: We're excited to have Kathy Passon with us today. Kathy is one of our top agents at Matt Curtis Real Estate and has been part of the team for years. We're going to learn more about her experience and get a behind-the-scenes look at the real estate market. I can't wait to share her knowledge with our audience. Let's start with an introduction to you and your experience. How long have you been with the team, and how many homes have you sold during your career?


Kathy: I've been with Matt Curtis Real Estate for seven and a half years, and I’ve sold approximately 250 homes.


Matt: That's incredible. To give our audience some perspective, half of the agents in our area sell between zero and two homes a year. The average agent sells about four to six homes annually. Kathy has essentially done 40 to 50 years' worth of work in seven and a half years, selling 50 homes a year. That puts her among the top agents in our market. Congratulations


Kathy: Thank you very much.





Life Outside of Real Estate


Matt: What do you like to do outside of real estate?


Kathy: I love spending time with my family. My husband and I have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and three grandkids. They keep us busy. I enjoy the flexibility real estate provides, allowing me to make time for them. We love going to the beach, and we’re big Disney fans. We often go to Disney World with the kids or sometimes just the two of us.


Matt: I always joke with Kathy that she should have a Disney season pass.


Kathy: I know, it would probably save us a lot of money.


Matt: One of my favorite stories about Kathy is from a team trip to the mountains. We played a game where you take a tortilla, and the goal is to get someone to spit out their water by making them laugh. Kathy's husband and I went head-to-head, and I think he left a bruise. He was really competitive


Kathy: Yes, he took that game seriously.


Matt: The funny part was when Kathy was paired with my wife, Courtney. Kathy couldn’t bring herself to hit Courtney with the tortilla because she thought she was too sweet. It was a great time.





Working with Clients


Matt: Let's talk about clients. What are some of your favorite things about working with them?


Kathy: I love working with all types of clients. First-time home buyers are especially fun. I like being prepared to answer their questions, give them things to think about, and make sure they’ve talked to their lender. It’s important they know what they can afford.


I enjoy sharing insights while we look at homes, pointing out things they might not have noticed. I make sure we get their questions answered and that they’re ready before we even visit a property. It's rewarding to see them move into their first home, sometimes planning for a family down the road. Their excitement makes it worth it.


I also enjoy working with out-of-state clients moving to Huntsville. We've lived here for 34 years, so I know the area well. I can answer questions about the best locations, commute times, and other local details. I really enjoy that part of the job.


Matt: One of the things I appreciate about you is the five-star service you provide. You're one of our top-reviewed agents. You've worked with some of my personal friends and past clients, including high-profile clients like politicians and former NFL players. But no matter who it is—a first-time buyer or an NFL player—you give everyone the same level of care.


Kathy: I like to approach each situation assuming we’ll become friends. That makes it easy to have natural conversations. I’ve become friends with many clients, and we stay in touch, grab lunch, and catch up over the years. That means a lot to me.





Advice for Buyers


Matt: What advice would you give to buyers right now?


Kathy: I’m telling everyone to be ready. Talk to your lender now. If you don’t have one, I can connect you. It's important to know what you can afford. Just because you're approved for $500,000 doesn’t mean you want to spend that much.


Ask your lender what the mortgage payment looks like on a $500,000 home, what the closing costs are, and what the minimum down payment will be. Know what your homeowner’s insurance and taxes will cost in places like Madison or Huntsville. Some buyers are pre-approved for $400,000 but don’t realize the full costs involved. When it’s time to buy, they might not have the cash they need. Calling the lender first is crucial.


I think 2025 will pick up after a slower fall. Buyers should be ready with their finances and have a good idea of what they’re looking for. Get an agent early to help with a personalized search. Online searches are helpful, but you’ll need guidance too.


Matt: Absolutely. November showed us that 2025 could be busy. November was likely the best we’ve had, with 80 growth over November 2023. Next year could be more competitive for buyers, but there are more homes on the market now. I’m excited for buyers to get out there.


Kathy: Right now, buyers have more time to think. They can look for a few weeks or even months before making decisions. Things might pick up, so buyers should know what they want ahead of time.


I don’t think it will be as hectic as 2021 during Covid. That was a crazy year—I didn’t get much sleep. I expect 2025 to be more normal, but buyers should still be prepared.





Funny Stories from Real Estate


Matt: What's funny about real estate is that we always joke about writing a book one day with all the crazy stories. What are some of the craziest things you've seen?


Kathy: It's funny, after seven and a half years, you'd think I would've seen all kinds of crazy things, but I really haven't experienced anything too out of the ordinary. There have been two times, though, when I went to show a house to a client. We had an appointment, it was confirmed, and when we walked in the front door, someone was sleeping on the sofa.


They woke up and said, &quot;Oh, come on in.&quot; I just said, &quot;No, that's okay. We'll come back another time.&quot; Another time, I was with a different client, and we walked through most of the house. When we got to the master bedroom, someone was sleeping in the bed. I quietly closed the door, and they never woke up. We had been walking around their home the entire time. We left immediately.


I called the agent, and she apologized. I guess they forgot. It's one of the strangest feelings to be in someone's home without them knowing you're there, but so far, I've been pretty lucky and haven't had anything too crazy happen.





What Five-Star Service Means


Matt: You're one of the top agents on our team in terms of reviews and sales, and one of the top agents in town. What does five-star service look like to you for your clients?


Kathy: It can mean a lot of different things. I think it starts with being prepared for them from start to finish, always being available to answer questions, and making them feel comfortable. Some clients feel like they're bothering me or that their questions are silly, especially if they've never bought a home before. There aren't any stupid questions.


I always try to sit down with clients at the beginning and go over the entire process so there aren't any surprises. I introduce them to our team and explain how great it is to work with a real estate team, not just one person. I want to make sure they feel comfortable and know they can ask me anything.


I try to answer the phone when they call, and if I can't, I send a quick text to let them know when I'll call back. Being there for them when they need you is important. Many clients appreciate that and thank me for responding quickly. I think that's one of the most important things I try to do for everyone.





Working with Kathy


Matt: Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a former NFL player, or somewhere in between, Kathy provides that same five-star service. If you feel like you've connected with Kathy and want her to help you buy or sell a home, it's easy. Call our office at (256) 270-9393 and ask for Kathy. She'll take great care of you. And if you need more proof, check out our reviews on Google. Look for the ones with Kathy's name.


Kathy: Thank you.


Whether buying or selling a home, you can contact Kathy Passon directly at (256) 801-1618 or email her at kathy@mattcurtisrealestate.com .
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:32:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/sneak-peek-listings-for-january-3rd--homes-for-sale-in-huntsville-al-area.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/sneak-peek-listings-for-january-3rd--homes-for-sale-in-huntsville-al-area.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Sneak Peek Listings for January 3rd | Homes For Sale in Huntsville, AL Area</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Sneak Peek Listings for January 3rd





20 Silky Oak - $454,600


20 Silky Oak Circle SW, Huntsville, Alabama 35824


4 Bed | 4 Bath | 2,848 sqft


Talk to an MC Agent today for more info or call 256-270-9393














10410 Monks Drive - $289,000


10410 Monks Drive, Athens, Alabama


3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,733 sqft


Talk to an MC Agent today for more info or call 256-270-9393








208 Hope Ridge - $369,000


208 Hope Ridge Drive, New Hope, Alabama 35760


4 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,708 sqft


Talk to an MC Agent today for more info or call 256-270-9393


 



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    <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jan 2025 07:04:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/huntsville-alabama-housing-market-report.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.mattcurtisrealestate.com/HuntsvilleAlRealEstateBlog/huntsville-alabama-housing-market-report.html</link>
        <author>leadrouter@mattcurtisrealestate.com (Matt Curtis)</author>
        <title>Huntsville, Alabama Housing Market Report</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
January 2026 Huntsville Housing Market Report











If you’ve been waiting for a sign that the housing market is gaining traction again, January delivered it. Demand is moving, pending sales are strong, and affordability has improved, which is changing the feel of the market heading into 2026.


Let’s start with what actually happened in January (combined market)




Homes sold: 859 (vs 814 last January)


Median sale price: $300,000 (vs $297,000 last January)


Homes on market: 4,932 (vs 4,999 last January)


Average days on market: 74 (vs 65 last January)


Pending sales this month: 1,704




Now let’s break down what matters most.


Pending Sales and Homebuyer Demand


Pending sales are one of the best “right now” indicators we have. We had 1,704 pending sales this month, which tells us buyers are actively making decisions and getting under contract.


We are also seeing a big year over year demand jump in parts of our market. Sold homes are up as buyers respond to better payment conditions, and we are tracking about a 33 increase in sold homes year over year as rates ease and buying power improves.


Home Prices: Stable, Upward Setup


The combined market median sale price is $300,000, up from $297,000 last year.


That is a stable pricing story. Sellers have not been giving away value, and buyers have still been willing to pay for the right home.


With rates trending down, I expect values to begin rising again in 2026 as demand strengthens.


Housing Inventory and Days on Market


Inventory is nearly flat year over year, with 4,932 homes on market compared to 4,999 last year. At the same time, days on market rose to 74, up from 65.


That means buyers have a little more time to decide, and sellers have to earn the sale with pricing, condition, and marketing.


Huntsville Housing Affordability Index: 105


Here’s the stat most people miss. Huntsville’s Housing Affordability Index is 105, and it was 100 just a few months ago. That means the median household income can afford more than the median priced home in our area, which is a major shift in buying power. Buyers are not just barely qualifying, they have a little breathing room again.


That matters for three reasons:




It pulls buyers off the sidelines.


More people can make the payment work, so demand comes back faster than most expect.


It keeps a floor under the market.




Markets with stronger affordability tend to hold up better because there is a deeper pool of qualified buyers. It makes Huntsville stand out nationally. Affordability plus job growth is exactly what keeps relocation demand flowing into North Alabama. This is one of the biggest reasons I believe 2026 can turn into an upward year for values if supply does not keep up.


New Construction Hot Spots in North Alabama


The strongest new construction activity is in the $325,000 to $425,000 range, especially in:




East Limestone


Meridianville


North Huntsville




That price band is where a lot of buyers are finding the best balance between payment, condition, and long term value.


Huntsville Lot Shortage


According to the latest February 2026 MarketGraphics report, the Huntsville region currently has about 12,400 developed lots. Between now and 2031, we are projected to need nearly 36,000 lots. Madison County alone will need over 20,000. Limestone County will need over 9,000.


So what does that mean? If development does not accelerate, we are going to feel pressure. Pressure on pricing. Pressure on availability. Pressure on builders competing for land. This is not a crash story. This is a supply story. And supply stories create opportunity.


Interest Rates vs Supply Pressure


When rates drop, demand rebounds fast. That part is normal. The risk is demand improving faster than our lot pipeline can support. If affordability stays strong and buyers surge back in, the shortage shows up quickly. If you’re a buyer, builder, or investor, land pipeline is everything right now.


2026 Outlook: What’s Next


January shows a market that’s stable on price, steady on inventory, slower on pace, and improving on demand. The big question for the next few years is simple. Can supply keep up with growth? If you want help building a plan around your timeline, your price range, and the areas you are watching, schedule a buyer consultation or seller consultation with our team at Matt Curtis Real Estate. Who you hire MATTers.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0600</pubDate>
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