Each year, we look forward to one special day that combines sunshine, friendly competition, and a whole lot of heart: the King Team Foundation Golf Tournament. This year’s event, held on May 2nd at the Anniston Country Club, was a shining example of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose.
Now in its 14th year, the King Team Foundation Golf Tournament has become more than just a day of golf—it’s a celebration of generosity, community, and impact. What started as a small initiative has grown into one of our favorite annual traditions, drawing in team members, clients, partners, and friends from across the region.
More importantly, it supports the ongoing mission of the King Team Foundation: to give back to our local community through initiatives that support education, housing, and family wellness.
This year’s tournament welcomed 144 golfers who enjoyed a beautiful day of friendly competition, laughter, and shared purpose. The format followed a classic four-person scramble, with contests for Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and a high-stakes Hole-in-One Challenge.
In between swings, participants enjoyed refreshments, great conversation, and a chance to learn more about how their support helps fund vital projects throughout the year. By the end of the day, we had raised over $25,000—all of which goes directly to support our foundation’s charitable work.
We’re incredibly grateful for the support of our event sponsors, whose generosity helped make the day possible. Special thanks to:
Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need. Whether it was sponsoring a hole, donating raffle prizes, or providing tournament swag, our sponsors helped elevate the experience for everyone involved.
This year’s tournament gave us plenty to celebrate—from impressive drives to unexpected putts to the sheer joy of spending time outdoors with friends and colleagues. If you haven’t seen the highlight reel yet, be sure to check out our video recap for some great moments of the day!
As we wrap up this year’s event, we’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament! Mark your calendars for the first Friday in May—we promise it’ll be another unforgettable day for a great cause.
Until then, we invite you to continue supporting the King Team Foundation and the work we’re doing year-round. Learn more about our mission, impact, and how to get involved at Kingteamfoundation.org. Thank you again to everyone who made this tournament a success. See you on the green next year!
There's something timeless about a well-kept Southern yard—the kind that turns heads with its blooming shrubs, vibrant flower beds, and a front porch framed by lush greenery. In central Alabama, our warm climate and long growing season give us the perfect canvas to create curb appeal that’s both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re sprucing up your home for the season or planning for a future sale, the right mix of plants can transform a front yard from average to eye-catching.
Here’s your local guide to the best plants for Alabama landscaping, complete with evergreen structure, seasonal color, and year-round charm.
Before planting, make sure you’re selecting flowers and shrubs that thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 7b–8a, which cover most of central Alabama. Other things to consider:
But don’t worry- we’ve created a cheat sheet for you so you don’t have to research all that! Here’s a list of the best plants to consider, from foundation plants to plants and trees.
Evergreens and structured shrubs are key to creating a tidy, professional look that draws the eye year-round.
Flowering shrubs bring bursts of seasonal color, texture, and that Southern charm.
Perennials come back every year, making them cost-effective and low-maintenance.
For instant color and flexibility, annuals are a must. Refresh them with the seasons to keep your landscape vibrant.
Step into the heart of one of our local communities with ERA King agent, Hunter Cain, as he highlights Downing & Sons, a family-owned general store and garden center offering a curated selection of seasonal plants, organic seeds, and gardening supplies. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Downing & Sons provides the tools and expertise to help your garden thrive.
Trellises and fences can become focal points with the right vines:
Native plants require less water, fewer chemicals, and attract pollinators:
Small to medium trees frame your landscape and add height and presence:
Great curb appeal isn't just about what you plant - it's also about how you plant it. Thoughtful design brings structure, balance, and flow to your landscape, helping your home look polished and welcoming from the street. By laying plants, choosing complementary colors, and paying attention to details like mulch and edging, you can create a front yard that feels intentional and inviting. These simple design strategies will help you make the most of your plants and highlight the best features of your home.
For a list of popular plant nurseries around the Birmingham area, click here. Check out this video at Cedar Creek Nursery with a few of our Shelby County agents for a quick introduction!
Whether or not you are planning to sell, landscaping for curb appeal can yield serious return on investment. According to NAR, homes with great curb appeal can sell for 7–14% more than similar homes with neglected exteriors. Buyers want homes that feel move-in ready—starting at the front yard. Creating a stunning Southern landscape doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Choose a mix of evergreens, perennials, and seasonal color that suits your light and space. Whether you’re selling your home or simply want to love your front yard again, these best plants for curb appeal in Alabama are the perfect way to start.
Buying your first home is one of life's most exciting milestones — but it can also feel overwhelming. With the housing market constantly evolving, stepping into homeownership in 2025 comes with a few new challenges and opportunities. If you’re a first-time home buyer, understanding what to expect can make all the difference. Here’s what you should know before you start your journey to buying your first house.
One of the first steps in the home buying process in 2025 is figuring out what you can truly afford. With mortgage rates still fluctuating, getting pre-approved early is more important than ever. A pre-approval not only helps define your budget but also shows sellers you’re serious — a critical advantage in a competitive market.
While it can be tempting to use online mortgage calculators to determine a price point, there are many factors that affect your affordability that are not taken into consideration when using these tools. The best way to receive a feasible, accurate budget is to meet with a mortgage professional.
Pro Tip: Speak with a local lender that is familiar with your area to understand what loan programs and rates you might qualify for in 2025.
If you're buying a house for the first time, you may qualify for special programs that can make homeownership more affordable. From down payment assistance to lower interest rates, there are several options available in Alabama and nationally designed specifically for first-time buyers.
Look into programs like:
Working with an experienced agent and lender can help you navigate which incentives you’re eligible for and how to take advantage of them.
For a list of programs available in Alabama, click here
In Birmingham, certain neighborhoods like Crestwood, Homewood, and Vestavia Hills remain highly desirable — and competitive. Even in 2025, multiple-offer situations are still common in hot areas. As a first-time homebuyer, you need to be prepared to act quickly when you find the right property.
Here’s how to stay competitive:
The process of buying a house can move fast once you find a property that you like. Having a clear plan and a proactive team behind you gives you a major edge.
Many first-time buyers focus heavily on the mortgage payment — but there’s more to owning a home than just the loan. You’ll also need to budget for:
Before you buy, it's smart to create a rough budget for these expenses. Factoring them in now can save you a lot of stress down the road — and protect your investment for years to come.
Example: If you're buying a historic home in Birmingham, like those in Avondale or Highland Park, expect to budget more for maintenance and updates.
The home buying process in 2025 is more tech-driven than ever. As a first-time home buyer, you have incredible resources at your fingertips:
While technology is a powerful tool, it's still essential to view homes in person when possible and rely on the expertise of real estate professionals to spot things that photos might not reveal.
Embrace the digital tools available, but balance them with traditional guidance for the best results when you’re ready to buy a house.
Buying your first home is a big step — but with the right preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. If you understand your budget, explore all available programs, move confidently in a competitive market, prepare for the full costs of ownership, and use technology wisely, you’ll be ready to navigate buying your first home in 2025 like a pro.
Ready to start your home buying journey? Our experienced team at ERA King Real Estate is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free first-time buyer consultation — and let's make your dream of homeownership a reality!
Summer is quickly approaching, and as we all know, no Alabama summer is complete without scorching temperatures, afternoon thunderstorms, and plenty of humidity. This is the perfect time (before it gets too hot!) to make sure your home is ready for the season. Staying on top of home maintenance not only keeps your home comfortable and efficient but it also helps preserve its long-term value.
Here is a checklist of summer maintenance tips that every Alabama homeowner should tackle to keep things running smoothly all season long:
Alabama summers can be brutal, and your air conditioner will be working overtime. Before the temps hit their peak, schedule a professional HVAC inspection. A technician can clean the coils, check for refrigerant leaks, and ensure your system is operating efficiently.
In the meantime, don’t forget to:
Spring storms can do a number on your roof. Take time to inspect for missing or curling shingles, soft spots, or water stains on your ceiling. These can be early signs of trouble.
Also, clean out your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling near your foundation—a big no-no in our wet, humid climate.
Drafts aren’t just a winter problem. In summer, they let cool air escape and make your HVAC system work harder. Check all windows and doors for cracks or gaps and reseal with caulk or weatherstripping as needed.
Pro tip: Clean your window screens and glass. Click here for Good Housekeeping's advice to get the cleanest windows inside and out! You'll enjoy the natural light—and it gives your home a fresh, well-kept look from the outside.
Summer curb appeal starts with a tidy yard. Mow the lawn regularly, edge sidewalks, and trim back overgrown bushes and trees—especially anything touching the house. This improves airflow and helps keep pests out.
If you have a sprinkler or irrigation system, now’s a good time to inspect for leaks and make sure everything’s working efficiently.
Let’s be real—bugs love Alabama summers. Ants, roaches, mosquitoes, and termites are all more active this time of year. Seal up any gaps around your foundation, windows, and vents, and keep outdoor areas free of standing water.
For peace of mind, consider scheduling a seasonal pest control treatment.
Severe weather is a fact of life here, so it pays to be prepared. Stock up on essentials like batteries, bottled water, flashlights, and a first-aid kit. Keep an eye on weather alerts, and have a plan for securing outdoor furniture or décor during storms.
It’s also smart to review your homeowner’s insurance policy and take updated photos or videos of your home and valuables—just in case.
Pressure washing is one of the quickest ways to freshen up your home's exterior. Focus on siding, decks, porches, driveways, and patios. Then, check for chipped paint or areas of wood rot, especially on fascia boards and trim. A fresh coat of paint or sealant goes a long way in protecting your home from the elements.
If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, now’s the time to clean and balance the water. Inspect safety features like gates and lighting, and make sure furniture is in good shape and free of rust or mildew.
Whether you're entertaining or relaxing solo, a little prep now means more enjoyment all summer long.
Taking the time to prep your home for summer not only helps prevent costly repairs but also ensures your space is safe, efficient, and looking its best. Whether you're planning to stay put or thinking about listing your home, seasonal upkeep is key to preserving your property’s value.
As the warmer months arrive in Alabama, there’s never been a better time to turn your backyard or patio into a stunning outdoor retreat. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want to create your own oasis, outdoor living spaces are a hot commodity in today’s real estate market. In fact, well-designed outdoor spaces can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal and value.
From cozy fire pits to low-maintenance landscaping, let’s explore the outdoor living trends of 2025, plus some easy, budget-friendly tips to help you design the perfect backyard makeover.
Open concept outdoor areas are becoming increasingly more popular. You can achieve this design though large sliding glass doors, covered patios, or even folding windows that connect your kitchen to your deck or patio. This “indoor meets outdoor” aesthetic creates a more functional space, making entertaining and relaxing a breeze.
2. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Designs
Sustainability is a must-have in today’s design world. Consider incorporating drought-tolerant native plants, recycled materials, and solar-powered lighting to create an outdoor space that is both beautiful and green.
3. Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces
A great outdoor space combines function and versatility. When designing your backyard oasis, think of combining relaxation, play and entertainment. An outdoor kitchen, modular bar, and dining areas bring the ease and comfort of indoors to your backyard. Consider installing a television so you can watch the big game outside, and a sound system to heighten the experience.
4. Smart Technology Integration
Homeowners are opting for automated lighting and sound systems that are controlled on their cellular device to make the outdoor experience seamless and easy to control. You can dictate the ambiance of your outdoor space from the comfort of your seat. For more information on adding smart technology in (and out!) of your home, check out this article.
5. Year-Round Comfort & Heating
Don’t let the off season weather keep you indoors! Consider adding a firepit, outdoor fireplace, or even space heaters so you can enjoy your outdoor space all year long. You may also want to install outdoor shades to combat glare from the sun setting.
With a little planning and creativity, your outdoor space can become a beautiful extension of your home- perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and soaking up the seasons of Alabama. Our hope is that with these trends and pro tips, you can create a welcoming backyard oasis that not only becomes your favorite space to unwind, but will add value and marketability to your home! A well-designed outdoor space is a powerful return on investment, and we are here to help you make smart, strategic choices when it comes to your largest investment- your home!
CALERA, AL – ERA King Real Estate proudly celebrated the grand opening of our newest office in Calera, Alabama, this week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This marks another exciting milestone in our journey of growth and commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients and agents.
As we open this new chapter, it is important to honor the legacy of Jack E. King, who laid the foundation of ERA King Real Estate in 1969. His vision and dedication to excellence created a path that has guided us for over five decades. We also owe immense gratitude to Anna and Everett King for their transformative leadership, which has shaped ERA King into the dynamic, thriving company it is today. Their unwavering commitment to innovation and integrity has inspired all of us to continue striving for greatness.
At ERA King Real Estate, our mission is clear: to provide an excellent experience for both our agents and our clients. We believe in doing things the right way for the right reasons, a principle that drives every decision we make. This dedication to excellence and ethics ensures that our growth is not just about expansion but about enhancing the communities we serve.
We would not be here today without the incredible support of our team and the relentless dedication of our agents. Their hard work and commitment to our shared values are the backbone of our success. Together, we will continue to grow, innovate, and set the standard for excellence in the real estate industry.
The opening of our Calera office is a testament to our belief in the potential of this community and the people we serve. We look forward to building lasting relationships and creating positive impacts here, just as we have done across Alabama for over 55 years.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Here’s to continued success and growth—always with integrity and excellence at the heart of everything we do.
About ERA King Real Estate
At ERA King Real Estate, we firmly believe that finding the perfect home is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about securing happiness and stability in life. Our mission is to accompany each of our clients on this deeply personal journey, which represents one of the most significant decisions and financial investments of their lives. We are dedicated to ensuring an exceptional experience for every client, as we understand the profound importance of this milestone.
ERA King Real Estate has over 50 years of experience, established in 1969, strategically positioned with ten offices spanning Northern and Central Alabama. Our team comprises over 200 dedicated agents and 25 essential support staff members, all driven by the same commitment: to provide exceptional real estate services tailored to the unique needs of each client. Our approach centers on local expertise, the integration of cutting-edge technology, and active engagement within our community. At ERA King, we are not just in the business of real estate; we are in the business of transforming lives through the places we call home.
Visit eraking.com or follow us at @erakingrealestateco for more information.
At ERA King Real Estate, we believe in building strong relationships with the communities we serve. After several years of working alongside the people of Calera, AL, we are excited to announce the opening of our new office! To celebrate, we’re hosting a ribbon cutting with the Shelby County Chamber on November 19th at 2:30 PM, and we’d love for you to join us. This event marks the next chapter of our commitment to the area, and it couldn’t come at a better time as Calera experiences significant growth and revitalization.
Calera, located in Shelby County, is one of Alabama’s fastest-growing cities, and its recent efforts to revitalize the downtown area are a reflection of this progress. The city has invested in infrastructure improvements, created new business incentives, and is actively working to maintain its unique, small-town charm.
One of the city’s most exciting developments is its participation in the Main Street America program, which focuses on revitalizing historic downtowns and commercial districts. Through this initiative, Calera is preserving its heritage while also attracting new businesses, residents, and visitors. City officials, alongside local businesses and community stakeholders, are committed to making Calera a thriving place to live, work, and visit.
As we prepare to open our new office in Calera, we’re thrilled to not only be part of this growth but also contribute to it. Our team has been involved in the Calera real estate market for years, helping families find their perfect homes and supporting local businesses. Now, with our new office, we’re planting deeper roots and becoming even more accessible to the community.
We’re especially excited to align with Calera’s Main Street America initiative. Our shared focus on community development and economic vitality makes this partnership a perfect fit. With the city’s downtown revitalization efforts in full swing, we look forward to supporting and actively participating in Calera’s continued growth.
We are eager to officially kick off this new chapter with a ribbon cutting event on November 19th at 2:30 PM in partnership with the Shelby County Chamber. It will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with community members, local leaders, and business partners as we celebrate the opening of our new office and our commitment to the Calera community. We invite you to join us for this exciting milestone!
Our new office in Calera isn’t just a physical location—it’s a symbol of our dedication to serving the community. With a team of local experts who understand the nuances of the Calera real estate market, we’re here to help whether you’re buying, selling, or investing. We offer personalized service and deep local knowledge to ensure you receive the best guidance every step of the way.
Calera is a city on the rise, and we’re proud to be part of its future. The city’s revitalization efforts, paired with our commitment to providing an exceptional experience to our clients, agents, and the community, make this an exciting time for us. We look forward to seeing how Calera’s ongoing growth benefits everyone and are honored to contribute to its success.
Join us on November 19th for the ribbon cutting celebration—we’d love to meet you and share more about the exciting opportunities in the Calera real estate market!
Contact ERA King Real Estate in Calera, AL
Looking for more information about buying or selling a home in Calera? Reach out to our team today to learn how we can assist with all your real estate needs.
The March of Dimes is a non-profit organization in Alabama dedicated to improving the health of all mothers and babies. Founded in 1938 as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, the organization has evolved to focus on preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.
The March of Dimes has made significant contributions to maternal and infant health, and for one of our very own agents’ and his family, this organization has made a notable impact on their lives. John David Terpo and his family have a deep-rooted connection to the March of Dimes. Their twins, Libby and Marlo, were born prematurely, a challenging experience for any parent. The March of Dimes provide invaluable support, resources, and hope during this difficult time. Thanks to the organization’s commitment to the health of moms and babies, John David Terpo’s family was able to navigate the challenges of prematurity and witness their children’s remarkable progress.
The March of Dimes has made significant contributions to maternal and infant health. Some of their notable achievements include polio eradication, advances in preterm birth research, and improved maternal health outcomes. The organization has played a crucial role in the development of the polio vaccine, leading to the eradication of the disease in the Western Hemisphere. They have funded research that has led to a better understanding of preterm birth and the development of new treatments, and their efforts have helped to reduce maternal mortality rates and improve the overall health of pregnant women. By supporting the March of Dimes, you can help to ensure that every mother and baby has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
The Signature Chefs Feeding Motherhood event is a fundraising gala hosted by the March of Dimes. This event brings together renowned chefs, culinary enthusiasts, and community members to support the March of Dimes mission. The Signature Chefs event typically features a gourmet tasting experience, live auctions, and entertainment, all aimed at raising funds for March of Dimes’ vital research, programs, and advocacy efforts. By supporting this event, attendees contribute to the organization’s mission of ensuring every mom and baby gets the best possible start.
This year, the Terpo family is honored to be the Signature Chef Feeding Motherhood ambassador family. They are eager to share their stories at the event on September 26th.
We are thrilled to support John David and the Terpo family as they share their inspiring story. It is an honor for ERA King to sponsor their participation and recognize their dedication to raising awareness about maternal and infant health. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless families.
The Terpo family’s journey began in 2021 with the unexpected arrival of their twin daughters, Libby and Marlo. Born at just 27 weeks gestation, the girls weighed a mere 1 pound 14 ounces and 1 pound 8 ounces. Their early arrival necessitated a prolonged stay in the NICU at UAB and Children’s of Alabama. For 83 days and 142 days, Libby and Marlo battled through countless medical challenges, receiving specialized care and constant monitoring.
Through weeks and months of countless appointments with specialists, therapists, and other healthcare professionals, the Terpo family remains hopeful and resilient. Today, Libby and Marlo are vibrant and thriving 3-year olds. Their remarkable progress is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Terpo family, as well as the exceptional care they received.
John David and his family are dedicated advocates for the March of Dimes. Their personal experience with the organization has fueled their passion for supporting their mission to improve the health of those in need. By sharing their story and raising awareness, John David Terpo has inspired countless others to join the fight against preterm birth and infant mortality. As a community, we can all play a role in supporting the March of Dimes and ensuring that every child has a healthy start in life.
Consider making a donation to the March of Dimes here to support their vital work in improving the health of moms and babies. Every contribution helps!
To learn more about the Signature Chefs event click here.
ERA King Real Estate is ecstatic to announce that for the 10th consecutive year, our Business Development Team and Agents have secured the prestigious title of a Double Platinum Company within the Anywhere Leads Network formally Cartus. This incredible achievement stands as a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment, exceptional dedication, and consistent excellence.
Over the past decade, our team has navigated challenges, embraced innovation, and consistently delivered outstanding results. What started as a commitment to excellence has grown into a tradition of success that defines our company. This remarkable milestone is a reflection of the collective strength, resilience, and passion that our team brings to the table every day.
Our success is not just about individual achievements; it’s about the power of teamwork and collaboration. Each member of our Business Development Team and Certified Agents Team has played an integral role in shaping our company’s success story. Together, we have overcome challenges, celebrated victories, and continuously raised the bar for excellence.
Receiving the Platinum Company status within the Anywhere Leads Network is a symbol of the high standards we uphold. It signifies not only our team’s exceptional performance but also the positive impact we’ve made within the network. We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we extend our deepest gratitude to each member of our team. Your dedication, hard work, and passion have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. We are truly grateful for the collective effort that has made us a Platinum Company for the 10th consecutive year.
This accomplishment serves as both a reflection of our past successes and a catalyst for future achievements. With the same spirit of determination, innovation, and teamwork, we are excited to embark on the next chapter of our journey. The 10th year is a milestone, but it’s also a stepping stone to even greater heights.
We are incredibly proud to celebrate a decade of excellence as a Platinum Company in the Anywhere Leads Network. Our success is a testament to the remarkable individuals who make up our team and the values that define our company. Here’s to the past, present, and future of success as we continue to shine in the world of business development.
Cheers to the next decade of achievements and beyond!
Get ready to tee off for a day of golf, philanthropy, and community impact at the 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament hosted by the King Team Foundation!
For a sneak peek into the day of fun catch our latest video!
Mark your calendars for Friday, May 3, 2024 at the Anniston Country Club. CLICK HERE to register
Immerse yourself in the excitement as players of all skill levels compete in thrilling contests, including the longest drive and closest-to-the-pin challenges. Celebrate a significant milestone in our journey to create positive change in our community as we share the passion and energy of the 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament.
Explore the power of community engagement and philanthropy beyond the fairways. Witness how your support at the tournament fuels the King Team Foundation’s ongoing projects, such as education programs and healthcare initiatives, paving the way for a brighter future for those in need.
Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a supporter of charitable causes, or someone eager to make a meaningful impact, this video captures the essence of the 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Join us on this inspiring journey as we swing for a cause, raising funds for positive change and making a lasting difference.Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring content! Let’s come together to champion the spirit of giving back.
Vist: https://www.kingteamfoundation.org/golf