Sean Magers, Author at Huntsville Area Association of Realtors

Special Called HAAR Member Meeting

05/19/2026

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF MEMBERS
HUNTSVILLE AREA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, INC.

Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the Members of the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors, Inc. (“HAAR”) will be held on May 27, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at the offices of HAAR, for the following purpose:

To consider and act upon whether HAAR (all reference herein to HAAR shall include Valley MLS.com, Inc.) should engage outside legal counsel to pursue, on behalf of HAAR, potential claims arising from legal advice previously provided to HAAR concerning an executive employment arrangement and related matters, including:

(a) authorizing such counsel to communicate with the involved parties and their insurers and to make every reasonable effort to resolve those claims through negotiation and settlement without litigation; and

(b) authorizing such counsel to file and prosecute a lawsuit on behalf of HAAR if, in counsel’s judgment and in consultation with HAAR’s leadership, litigation is necessary to protect HAAR’s interests; and

To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

A qualified attorney who has reviewed these potential claims will attend the meeting, make a presentation regarding the nature of the potential representation, and be available to answer questions from the Members.

Only business within the scope of the foregoing purposes may be conducted at this special meeting.

Dated: May 15, 2026

April 2026 Fast Stats

05/15/2026

ValleyMLS has released the April 2026 Fast Stats, providing a comprehensive look at the residential real estate trends across North Alabama. The regional market continues to show resilience, with a notable increase in median sale prices across almost every county compared to the same time last year.

Whether you are looking to buy in the bustling Huntsville metro or seeking a quiet retreat in DeKalb, these latest figures help you stay ahead of the curve.

Regional Highlights at a Glance:

The combined stats report highlights a steady regional performance. Across the entire service area, we saw 1,300 homes sold this month, slightly outpacing the 1,294 sales from April 2025. The regional median sale price has risen to $309k, up from $295k last year.

COUNTY BY COUNTY BREAKDOWN

Huntsville & Madison County: The area remains active with 712 homes sold and a median sale price of $337k. With 1,350 pending sales currently in the pipeline, the momentum is set to continue.
Athens & Limestone County: This area is seeing a healthy median price growth, now sitting at $320k compared to $309k in 2025. Average days on market have dropped to 63 days.
Morgan & Lawrence Counties: Sales are up with 132 homes sold. The median price has climbed to $258k, a steady increase from the previous year’s $251k.
Marshall County: While the number of homes sold dipped slightly to 91, the median sale price saw a significant jump to $284k, up from $250k in April 2025.
Jackson County: Homes are moving fast here, with an average of just 48 days on market. The median sale price has reached $250k.
DeKalb County: This county saw a strong increase in volume with 56 homes sold (up from 40 in 2025), and a median price increase to $250k.
Etowah & Cherokee Counties: The median sale price has risen to $249k, while the inventory remains stable with 417 homes currently on the market.

ValleyMLS.com Market Stats include statistics from the following cities/counties: Athens, Limestone County, Dekalb County, Etowah County, Cherokee County, Huntsville, Madison County, Jackson County, Marshall County, Morgan County, Lawrence County

REALTORS in Action Service Week: June 1 – 7

05/01/2026

It’s that time of year again! REALTORS® in Action (RIA) is hosting its annual Service Days program from June 1st – June 7th to connect REALTOR® and Affiliate members with public service opportunities at community organizations most in need.

There are hundreds of opportunities to serve, but volunteer spots fill up FAST, so sign up today!

If you would like to sign up for a second shift, please fill out the form below a second time. If you have any questions, please email alan@valleymls.com.

INFORMATION ON DUTIES EXPECTED OF VOLUNTEERS AT EACH SHIFT BE POSTED SOON.

FMLS, Chattanooga REALTORS, ValleyMLS Expand Regional MLS Network w/ New 3-Way Data Share

04/29/2026

Reciprocal access now spans most of Alabama, Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee - creating new opportunities for brokers, agents, buyers, and sellers.

ATLANTA, GA, UNITED STATES, April 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), Greater Chattanooga REALTORS^®, and ValleyMLS today announced a new three-way MLS data share that connects their markets through an expanded regional partnership, giving brokers and agents broader access to listings and market data across key areas of Alabama, Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee.

This collaborative agreement strengthens ties among three forward-thinking MLS organizations committed to helping members better serve clients in an increasingly active regional marketplace. By combining reciprocal access across their systems, the partnership creates more efficient tools for real estate professionals while increasing exposure and opportunity for buyers and sellers.

Through this enhanced partnership, brokers and agents gain seamless access to a broader inventory of listings and market data directly within their native MLS platforms – eliminating the need for multiple logins while improving efficiency and client service. Sellers benefit from expanded exposure to a larger network of real estate professionals, while buyers gain greater visibility into available inventory across a wider regional footprint.

“This is exactly how MLS organizations should work together, by removing barriers and helping real estate professionals serve consumers wherever opportunity exists,” said Jeremy Crawford, FMLS President & CEO. “We have already seen the value these partnerships create, and expanding that success across parts of Tennessee and northern Alabama is a smart, strategic move for our members and their clients.”

“This expanded partnership gives our members more opportunities to serve clients, market listings, and access critical data across a broader regional footprint,” said Carol Seal, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS’ CEO. “Real estate does not stop at state lines, and neither should the tools our professionals rely on.”

“ValleyMLS is proud to be part of a collaboration that delivers practical value to our members every day,” said Cindi Peters-Tanner, ValleyMLS’ Chair. “This expanded regional network strengthens cooperation and gives brokers and agents the tools they need to better serve buyers and sellers throughout North Alabama and beyond.”

“FMLS is committed to expanding these types of partnerships with other like-minded MLS organizations throughout the Southeast and anywhere in the United States, Canada, and around the world,” added Jeremy Crawford. “When MLSs work together, we create more transparent, efficient marketplaces that ultimately benefit consumers, brokers, and agents alike.”

The enhanced agreement reflects a growing industry movement toward MLS cooperation, regional efficiency, and better consumer outcomes through broader access to accurate, timely listing data.

BE AWARE: Local Scam Compromises REALTOR Safety

04/28/2026

MEMBER ALERT: Safety and Security Warning

We have received a report from a local member regarding an encounter with an individual displaying highly suspicious behavior and using fraudulent financial documentation. We are sharing the details of this incident to help you remain vigilant and prioritize your personal safety during showings.

Incident Details

The individual, identifying himself as John, contacted an agent regarding a listing. While he provided a local phone number and had a social media profile that matched his appearance, several red flags emerged during and after the showing:

Behavioral Red Flags: The individual expressed surprise that the home was occupied rather than staged. During the tour, he insisted the agent lead him through the entire house while he remained positioned behind her at all times.
Inconsistent Narrative: He claimed his fiancée was currently in Ukraine due to a family emergency and would be part of the purchase process.
Vague Threats/Personal References: Following the tour, he sent text messages referencing the agent’s specific social media content, creating an unprofessional and uncomfortable dynamic.
Fraudulent Documentation: The individual provided highly irregular and “bizarre” documentation as proof of funds that did not meet any standard banking or financial criteria.
Criminal History: A subsequent background check via Forewarn revealed multiple convictions for Theft by Deception (over $2,500).

Safety Reminders for All Members

This incident serves as a critical reminder that while we strive to provide excellent service to potential clients, your safety is the top priority.

1) USE YOUR TOOLS: Utilize services like Forewarn to vet prospects before meeting them in person. If a name or number returns a history of financial crimes or violence, reconsider the meeting or ensure you are not alone.

2) STANDARDIZE YOUR SAFETY PROTOCOLS:

The “Buddy System”: Whenever possible, bring a colleague to a showing, especially if you have a “gut feeling” that something is off.
Lead from Behind: Never lead a prospect into a room (especially basements or small spaces). Gesture into the room and let the client enter first.
Park for an Exit: Always park on the street or in a position where your vehicle cannot be blocked in the driveway.

3) TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS: If a prospect’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, you have the right to terminate the tour or leave the premises. Discernment is one of your most valuable professional tools.

4) REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY: If you encounter this individual or experience a similar situation, please notify the local authorities and report the incident to the Association. Keeping our community informed is the best way to keep our members safe.

Q1 Econ Report: Spring Market Shows Growing Inventory Amid Stable Prices

04/28/2026

The first quarter of 2026 for the Madison County residential real estate market was characterized by modest growth in sales and pricing, suggesting a continued normalization and a move toward more balanced market conditions.

Market Performance Highlights

Home Sales: A total of 1,584 homes were sold in Q1 2026, a 1.8% increase compared to Q1 2025.
Pricing Trends: The median sales price reached $332,884, a 2.5% year-over-year increase and the highest first-quarter level on record for the region.
Inventory & Supply: While the 2,394 homes available for sale in March 2026 marked a high for the year, overall inventory was down 5.5% compared to March 2025. The market currently holds a 4.4-month supply, moving closer to a balanced state.
Days on Market (DOM): Homes averaged 64 days on the market, which is unchanged from Q1 2025 but represents a 21% increase from the previous quarter (Q4 2025).

Segment-Specific Insights

New Construction vs. Existing Homes: New construction continues to be a major market driver, accounting for 36% (569 units) of all Q1 sales.
Price Range Shifts: The most significant growth occurred in the $500K–$650K price range, where sales rose by approximately 26%. Conversely, the largest decline was seen in the $200K–$250K range, with sales falling by roughly 21%.
Sales vs. List Price: Only 13% of homes sold above their list price, while 48% closed below the initial asking price.

Broader Economic Context

Mortgage Rates & Inflation: The national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage was approximately 6.2% in March 2026. Regional price growth (2.5%) remained largely in line with the quarterly inflation rate of 2.7%.
Outlook: Based on current trends, sales are projected to potentially rise to around 2,000 units in Q2 2026, with ending inventory expected to reach approximately 2,500 listed homes.

Scam Alert: Agents Targeted with Zoom Links containing Malware

03/20/2026

Scammers have found a new way to target real estate professionals, according to recent reports.

So-called potential buyers are targeting agents with listings on ValleyMLS, Realtor.com and Zillow, showing an interest in a listed property. Before submitting an offer, the potential client insists on having a Zoom meeting to discuss the property with the agent.

The scammer sends a Zoom link, but when an agent clicks on it, malware is installed on their computer or phone.

HAAR has also heard reports another agent questioned the so-called potential client and asked to do a phone call and the scammer refused to speak on the phone.

HAAR & ValleyMLS are reminding Realtors® to be vigilant when working with clients whom they do not know.

Do not click on links sent by individuals you do not know or cannot verify.
Always create the Zoom link yourself and share it with your client.

This scam comes on the heels of previously reported several vacant land scams in the region, and the association has worked to raise awareness among its members about the issue.

However, scammers now appear to be reaching out to agents in surrounding counties, trying to get other agents outside the area to sell vacant land.

Scammers have been sending fake proofs of identity, so an identification isn’t enough anymore. It’s important to try to meet in person or to try to verify that they are the rightful owner of the property before agreeing to sell the property.

February 2026 Fast Stats

03/15/2026

ValleyMLS.com Market Stats include statistics from the following cities/counties: Athens, Limestone County, Dekalb County, Etowah County, Cherokee County, Huntsville, Madison County, Jackson County, Marshall County, Morgan County, Lawrence County

NAR Candidate Training Academy in Huntsville

03/10/2026

From the Closing Table to City Council: Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® to Host Candidate Training Academy on April 29

The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) announced today that it will host the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Candidate Training Academy on Wednesday, April 29th. This intensive, one-day workshop is designed to prepare community members to run for local office and is open to the public.

As local government decisions increasingly impact property rights, housing affordability, and community development, HAAR is opening its doors to ensure that any resident considering public service has access to professional-grade campaign strategies. Presenters from the National Association of REALTORS® will travel to Huntsville to lead the session, which runs from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

"Strong communities are built on effective local leadership. While we’re currently blessed with ambitious and responsible local leaders – we want to look ahead and build a deep bench of future community champions."

HAAR & ValleyMLS President Regina Mitchell

The comprehensive curriculum is designed as an actionable roadmap rather than a standard lecture. Highlights of the training include:

Campaign Planning: Deciding to run and building a foundational strategy.
Messaging: Developing a winning message that resonates with voters.
Voter Targeting: Learning how to reach the right voters efficiently.
Fundraising: Best practices for effective and ethical campaign fundraising.
Communication: Mastering political communication in the modern era.

Event Details:

What: NAR Candidate Training Academy
When: April 29th | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Lunch provided)
Where: 535 Monroe St NW, Huntsville, AL 35801
Cost: FREE and open to the public.

"By hosting this training, we are providing the tools necessary for motivated citizens to move from the sidelines into public service. Whether it is a seat on the City Council, the School Board, or a County Commission, this academy demystifies the process of running a modern campaign."

HAAR & ValleyMLS President Regina Mitchell

The training will be held at HAAR & ValleyMLS offices at 535 Monroe St. in downtown Huntsville. While the event is open to the public, space is limited and pre-registration is required. Interested attendees can find more information and register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nar-candidate-training-academy-huntsville-al-tickets-1984579726385.

About the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) is the leading advocate for homeownership and private property rights in North Alabama. Serving the Greater Huntsville, Madison County, and Jackson County area, HAAR provides professional development, market data, and legislative advocacy for its members and the community at large.

FinCEN Residential Real Estate Rule—FAQs for Real Estate Professionals

03/10/2026

The following questions will help real estate professionals better understand and navigate the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Residential Real Estate Rule (Rule). The Rule requires designated professionals involved in real estate closings and settlements to report information about certain non-financed transactions to FinCEN.

The Rule’s purpose is to increase transparency and prevent money laundering and other criminal activity in the residential real estate sector by capturing information regarding the true owners behind legal entities that are engaged in transacting in real estate where there is no financing involved.

Click below to access FAQs.

Website Search:

News

Special Called HAAR Member Meeting

**NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF MEMBERSHUNTSVILLE AREA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, INC.**

Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the Members of the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors, Inc. (“HAAR”) will be held on May 27, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at the offices of HAAR, for the following purpose:

(a) authorizing such counsel to communicate with the involved parties and their insurers and to make every reasonable effort to resolve those claims through negotiation and settlement without litigation; and

(b) authorizing such counsel to file and prosecute a lawsuit on behalf of HAAR if, in counsel’s judgment and in consultation with HAAR’s leadership, litigation is necessary to protect HAAR’s interests; and

To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

A qualified attorney who has reviewed these potential claims will attend the meeting, make a presentation regarding the nature of the potential representation, and be available to answer questions from the Members.

Only business within the scope of the foregoing purposes may be conducted at this special meeting.

Dated: May 15, 2026

April 2026 Fast Stats

Whether you are looking to buy in the bustling Huntsville metro or seeking a quiet retreat in DeKalb, these latest figures help you stay ahead of the curve.

Regional Highlights at a Glance:

COUNTY BY COUNTY BREAKDOWN

Huntsville & Madison County: The area remains active with 712 homes sold and a median sale price of $337k. With 1,350 pending sales currently in the pipeline, the momentum is set to continue.

Athens & Limestone County: This area is seeing a healthy median price growth, now sitting at $320k compared to $309k in 2025. Average days on market have dropped to 63 days.

Morgan & Lawrence Counties: Sales are up with 132 homes sold. The median price has climbed to $258k, a steady increase from the previous year’s $251k.

Marshall County: While the number of homes sold dipped slightly to 91, the median sale price saw a significant jump to $284k, up from $250k in April 2025.

Jackson County: Homes are moving fast here, with an average of just 48 days on market. The median sale price has reached $250k.

DeKalb County: This county saw a strong increase in volume with 56 homes sold (up from 40 in 2025), and a median price increase to $250k.

Etowah & Cherokee Counties: The median sale price has risen to $249k, while the inventory remains stable with 417 homes currently on the market.

REALTORS in Action Service Week: June 1 – 7

It’s that time of year again! REALTORS® in Action (RIA) is hosting its annual Service Days program from June 1st – June 7th to connect REALTOR® and Affiliate members with public service opportunities at community organizations most in need.

There are hundreds of opportunities to serve, but volunteer spots fill up FAST, so sign up today!

If you would like to sign up for a second shift, please fill out the form below a second time. If you have any questions, please email alan@valleymls.com.

INFORMATION ON DUTIES EXPECTED OF VOLUNTEERS AT EACH SHIFT BE POSTED SOON.

FMLS, Chattanooga REALTORS, ValleyMLS Expand Regional MLS Network w/ New 3-Way Data Share

Reciprocal access now spans most of Alabama, Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee - creating new opportunities for brokers, agents, buyers, and sellers.

The enhanced agreement reflects a growing industry movement toward MLS cooperation, regional efficiency, and better consumer outcomes through broader access to accurate, timely listing data.

BE AWARE: Local Scam Compromises REALTOR Safety

MEMBER ALERT: Safety and Security Warning

We have received a report from a local member regarding an encounter with an individual displaying highly suspicious behavior and using fraudulent financial documentation. We are sharing the details of this incident to help you remain vigilant and prioritize your personal safety during showings.

Incident Details

The individual, identifying himself as John, contacted an agent regarding a listing. While he provided a local phone number and had a social media profile that matched his appearance, several red flags emerged during and after the showing:

Behavioral Red Flags: The individual expressed surprise that the home was occupied rather than staged. During the tour, he insisted the agent lead him through the entire house while he remained positioned behind her at all times.

Inconsistent Narrative: He claimed his fiancée was currently in Ukraine due to a family emergency and would be part of the purchase process.

Vague Threats/Personal References: Following the tour, he sent text messages referencing the agent’s specific social media content, creating an unprofessional and uncomfortable dynamic.

Fraudulent Documentation: The individual provided highly irregular and “bizarre” documentation as proof of funds that did not meet any standard banking or financial criteria.

Criminal History: A subsequent background check via Forewarn revealed multiple convictions for Theft by Deception (over $2,500).

Safety Reminders for All Members

The “Buddy System”: Whenever possible, bring a colleague to a showing, especially if you have a “gut feeling” that something is off.

Lead from Behind: Never lead a prospect into a room (especially basements or small spaces). Gesture into the room and let the client enter first.

Park for an Exit: Always park on the street or in a position where your vehicle cannot be blocked in the driveway.

Q1 Econ Report: Spring Market Shows Growing Inventory Amid Stable Prices

The first quarter of 2026 for the Madison County residential real estate market was characterized by modest growth in sales and pricing, suggesting a continued normalization and a move toward more balanced market conditions.

Market Performance Highlights

Home Sales: A total of 1,584 homes were sold in Q1 2026, a 1.8% increase compared to Q1 2025.

Pricing Trends: The median sales price reached $332,884, a 2.5% year-over-year increase and the highest first-quarter level on record for the region.

Inventory & Supply: While the 2,394 homes available for sale in March 2026 marked a high for the year, overall inventory was down 5.5% compared to March 2025. The market currently holds a 4.4-month supply, moving closer to a balanced state.

Days on Market (DOM): Homes averaged 64 days on the market, which is unchanged from Q1 2025 but represents a 21% increase from the previous quarter (Q4 2025).

Segment-Specific Insights

New Construction vs. Existing Homes: New construction continues to be a major market driver, accounting for 36% (569 units) of all Q1 sales.

Price Range Shifts: The most significant growth occurred in the $500K–$650K price range, where sales rose by approximately 26%. Conversely, the largest decline was seen in the $200K–$250K range, with sales falling by roughly 21%.

Sales vs. List Price: Only 13% of homes sold above their list price, while 48% closed below the initial asking price.

Broader Economic Context

Mortgage Rates & Inflation: The national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage was approximately 6.2% in March 2026. Regional price growth (2.5%) remained largely in line with the quarterly inflation rate of 2.7%.

Outlook: Based on current trends, sales are projected to potentially rise to around 2,000 units in Q2 2026, with ending inventory expected to reach approximately 2,500 listed homes.

Scam Alert: Agents Targeted with Zoom Links containing Malware

Scammers have found a new way to target real estate professionals, according to recent reports.

So-called potential buyers are targeting agents with listings on ValleyMLS, Realtor.com and Zillow, showing an interest in a listed property. Before submitting an offer, the potential client insists on having a Zoom meeting to discuss the property with the agent.

The scammer sends a Zoom link, but when an agent clicks on it, malware is installed on their computer or phone.

HAAR has also heard reports another agent questioned the so-called potential client and asked to do a phone call and the scammer refused to speak on the phone.

HAAR & ValleyMLS are reminding Realtors® to be vigilant when working with clients whom they do not know.

Do not click on links sent by individuals you do not know or cannot verify.

Always create the Zoom link yourself and share it with your client.

This scam comes on the heels of previously reported several vacant land scams in the region, and the association has worked to raise awareness among its members about the issue.

However, scammers now appear to be reaching out to agents in surrounding counties, trying to get other agents outside the area to sell vacant land.

Scammers have been sending fake proofs of identity, so an identification isn’t enough anymore. It’s important to try to meet in person or to try to verify that they are the rightful owner of the property before agreeing to sell the property.

February 2026 Fast Stats

NAR Candidate Training Academy in Huntsville

From the Closing Table to City Council: Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® to Host Candidate Training Academy on April 29

The comprehensive curriculum is designed as an actionable roadmap rather than a standard lecture. Highlights of the training include:

Campaign Planning: Deciding to run and building a foundational strategy.

Messaging: Developing a winning message that resonates with voters.

Voter Targeting: Learning how to reach the right voters efficiently.

Fundraising: Best practices for effective and ethical campaign fundraising.

Communication: Mastering political communication in the modern era.

Event Details:

What: NAR Candidate Training Academy

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF MEMBERS
HUNTSVILLE AREA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, INC.