Interview with Sandy Reeves and Matthew Lepore, Tower Homes Agents in Montevallo Park – New Home Community in Irondale:
I’m in my early 30s and as far as my career goes, I fit perfectly into the “box” of being a young professional. I live in Birmingham, AL, and am currently renting a place to live. I hear left and right, how renting is like throwing money out the window, (where the window isn’t even mine), and about how now is the time to buy a new home in Birmingham to start investing in my future! There is certainly a good amount of pride in ownership, especially when it comes to something as exciting as owning my first home!
How easy and affordable is it to buy a new home in Birmingham, AL? I decided to ask Sandy Reeves and Matthew Lepore from Tower Homes.
Me: Sandy and Matthew, which community would you recommend someone like me, who needs an easy commute to Birmingham’s downtown, who doesn’t want the hustle and bustle of 280 traffic and is not quite ready to live in the distant suburbs?
Sandy and Matthew: Tower Homes just built a brand new community called Montevallo Park in Irondale. These Craftsman style homes offer open floor plans, hardwood floors, designer kitchens and characteristics of 1920’s Craftsman bungalows! There are 9 floor plans available—no two homes are the same. You will love the unique look of the architectural design throughout the community, which includes an assortment of porches, gables, siding materials, and unique rooflines.
Me:
I’m not familiar with all of Birmingham’s neighborhoods yet. Where exactly is Montevallo Park located and what are some of the nearby amenities and attractions?
Sandy and Matthew:
Montevallo Park has a great location! Just follow the well-known Montevallo Road through Mountain Brook to find us nestled on the edge of Irondale. The community is tucked in a quiet neighborhood, just minutes from all the things you love.
Sandy: There is a nearby shopping center with Starbucks, Chick-Fil-A, banks etc. Montevallo Park is located only 3 miles away from Crestline Village with lots of trendy restaurants and stores. You are only 12 minutes from Birmingham’s Downtown District and 5 minutes from Birmingham’s airport. You are also only 15 minutes away from the Summit.
Me: Wow, the location really is great and so convenient. I do like to work out and I enjoy the outdoors. What would you recommend?
Matthew: There is Anytime Fitness just minutes away, if you are into Cross-fit, you can run into Cross-fit Irondale just around the corner from Montevallo Park. Another great place to work out and swim is at the JCC on Montclair Road. For outdoor activities, I would recommend Ruffner Park, which is located right behind Montevallo Park or Jamison Park located in Mountain Brook.
Me: How affordable is to buy a new home in Montevallo Park and how easy is it for the First time home buyer?
Matthew: Home buyers in the Birmingham area would love to live in Homewood or the bungalow-style homes located between Homewood and Mountain Brook’s English Village that is often referred to as “Diaper Row,” but just don’t have the means to live there. Montevallo Park provides first time and experienced home buyers that new Craftsman style home, centrally located to many areas of desire with a price point that is very affordable. Our homes start in the $170s. We have many lenders available that have programs for most needs. The monthly payments could be as low as $974.50!
Me: Wow, that’s cheaper than what I’m paying for my monthly rent! Are there any HOA Fees?
Matthew: HOA fees are very affordable. Only $220 per year. The great news is that they don’t start until 2017.
Me: Who do you see as your typical client for Montevallo Park Community?
Sandy and Matthew: We have a close proximity to UAB, which is ideal for medical professionals and students, as well for anyone working in Birmingham’s downtown. This community has been planned with the vision that people in the neighborhood will get to know each other, stroll down the sidewalks, kids playing in the neighborhood with other kids on the green spaces and dogs getting to know other dogs. A true community!
Sandy:This community is ideal for UAB Medical Residents as it’s right on target for their price-range. This community has an easy commute to the UAB Campus and Birmingham’s Downtown District. Some floor plans offer 2 master bedrooms, which would be ideal for someone who is considering a roommate. I see these homes as a great investment!
Me: Can I customize my home? How long does it take to build me a home or how long does it take to buy already built home? What is the process of buying a home like?
Sandy and Matthew: That’s one of the other fun parts of having your home built, you get to customize it. We will set you an appointment with Erin or Molly in our design studio. There you will get to customize your home and make upgrades as you desire.
It normally takes between 90 and 120 days to complete your home once the design appointment is complete.
If you decide to buy a home that is already built, it could take as little as a few weeks to complete the purchase.
The home buying process is an exciting time. This is one of the largest purchases you’ll make. It’s an achievement that you can call yours. Embrace the experience.
Me: Do you have a Model Home I can visit?
Sandy and Matthew:Yes, our beautifully furnished model home is open Monday – Friday 11:00 – 5:00, Saturday 10:00 to 5:00 and Sunday 1:00 – 5:00.
-Thank you for your time!