Alabama

Alabama is a state with a diverse range of real estate investment opportunities. The state has a strong economy and a growing population, which can create demand for housing. In particular, the Birmingham and Huntsville metropolitan areas have seen strong job growth and population increases in recent years, which has driven demand for housing and made them attractive markets for real estate investment. Alabama also has a relatively low cost of living, which can make real estate investments in the state more affordable compared to other parts of the country. However, it is important for investors to carefully consider the local market conditions and do their due diligence before making any real estate investments.

Sustainability Resources

The Real Estate industry is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in the world accounting for:
30%
of total carbon dioxide
40%
of all energy
40%
of all raw materials
Our goal is to give you the resources you need to take sustainable action in improving, building, retrofitting and revamping your home. The impacts are real, the benefits significant, and the need critical. Join us in bringing sustainability home and creating a brighter future for all, starting with you.

Save money and do the world a favor!
Here's a list of Sustainability Initiatives in the area:

WaterSense Webinars

WaterSense, a subset of the US EPA, puts on sustainability webinars that have different focuses.

Learn More
Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

DSIRE's incentive and policy search tool allows you to search energy incentives and policies by state.

Learn More
Solar Incentives, Rebates and Tax Breaks by State

Energy Sage's Solar Savings by State tool allows you to search your state for solar rebates, incentives, and tax breaks.

Learn More

Alabama FAQs

Is Alabama a judicial or non-judicial state?

Non-Judicial

In a non-judicial foreclosure state, the lender does not need to go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be quicker and less expensive for the lender compared to a judicial foreclosure.
In a non-judicial foreclosure state, the lender does not need to go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be quicker and less expensive for the lender compared to a judicial foreclosure.

What is the process of closing on a property in Alabama?

Attorneys and title companies handle closings. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures are non-judicial. Foreclosure notices are published once a week for three weeks on a county-by-county basis. The foreclosure process takes a minimum of 21 days from the date of first publication. After the sale, there is a one-year redemption period. Alabamans use ALTA policies to insure titles. Buyers and sellers negotiate who is going to pay the closing costs and usually split them equally. Property taxes are due and payable annually on October 1st.

Property Taxes in Alabama?

Due annually on October 1st

In Alabama, does a property management company require a real estate broker's license?

YES. Key components of property management are considered a real estate activity under existing Alabama real estate licensing laws. A real estate broker's license is required for any person or company that, for compensation, engages in the lease or rental of real estate in Alabama, who offers real estate for rent or lease, who negotiates the rental or leasing of Alabama real estate or who lists, offers, attempts or agrees to list real estate for rental or lease. A salesperson working under a broker may engage in such activities.

Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a property manager have a broker's license in Alabama?

Yes. For example, a real estate license is not required of persons acting as the manager for an apartment building or complex. However, on-site managers of condominium buildings or complexes must be licensed. In addition, if a licensed real estate company takes on the management of an apartment building or complex, the Alabama Real Estate Commission expects compliance with real estate law and rules, including running security deposits, rent and payments for repairs through a trust account. For more information about these and other Alabama property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Alabama Real Estate Commission. Before hiring a property manager to manage your Alabama rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Alabama property managers at The Association of Real Estate License Law Officials website.

Do you need a broker's license to manage community associations in Alabama?

There is no requirement that a community association manager in Alabama hold a real estate broker's license. In 2010 the Alabama Real Estate Commission made some efforts to consider licensing for community association managers, but according to the Commission's legal department, those efforts didn't get anywhere.

Alabama Real Estate Broker Requirements

Attorneys and title companies handle closings. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Foreclosures are non-judicial. Foreclosure notices are published once a week for three weeks on a county-by-county basis. The foreclosure process takes a minimum of 21 days from the date of first publication. After the sale, there is a one-year redemption period. Alabamans use ALTA policies to insure titles. Buyers and sellers negotiate who is going to pay the closing costs and usually split them equally. Property taxes are due and payable annually on October 1st.

Alabama Real Estate Salesperson Requirements

Due annually on October 1st

How do property ownership transfers work in Alabama?

Warranty deed.

Cities