Alabama REALTORS: Real estate's role in strengthening Alabama communities

The Alabama Association of REALTORS® (AAR) is composed of real estate professionals who are committed to serving the needs of homebuyers and sellers across the state. This commitment goes beyond the transaction—REALTORS® invest in the people and communities they serve by helping clients to be confident and informed in perhaps one of life’s greatest decisions: buying a home. In an oftentimes unpredictable housing market, Alabama REALTORS® represent the heart of the profession: to strengthen our state’s communities and enrich the lives of Alabamians, regardless of market strength.

Alabama REALTOR® Karol Kirby is committed to the well-being of her community and believes her job provides her ample opportunity to empower and support it.

“We want to help neighbors find housing, and we also want to see our community thrive,” says Kirby, when asked about witnessing the firsthand impact of homeownership.

REALTOR® Rusty Glines, who has worked in real estate for over a decade in Guntersville and Marshall County, echoes this sentiment.

“Guntersville is home. I grew up here, graduated here, and now I get to give back by helping others put down roots,” Glines says. “That connection matters. You build trust when people know you’re invested in the same place they are.”

Last year, Alabama’s real estate industry saw its fair share of challenges. The total residential sales volume reached $14.5 billion, reflecting the ongoing strength of the housing market in the state. The median home sales price saw a slight increase of 0.4% from the previous year, rising to $216,744. Inventory also expanded, with an average of 16,959 active listings—the highest level seen in the past five years. However, the market faced some challenges, as foreclosure filings climbed to 5,524, marking a 6.1% increase compared to 2023.

Despite a year marked by broader market uncertainty, Alabama’s housing market showed signs of resilience and long-term health. Alabama’s overall economy grew by 4.5% in the third quarter, surpassing the national average, and added nearly 40,000 jobs, reinforcing the essential role that real estate plays in statewide prosperity.

Beyond these figures lies the deeper story: real estate fuels community development and enriches lives. Every home sold in Alabama contributes approximately $95,700 in economic impact, supporting a network of professionals—from builders and inspectors to furniture stores and small businesses. But the true power of real estate is how it connects people to place.

Karol Kirby sees this impact every day.

“Being an Auburn native, I have seen homeownership in our area creates a thriving community and school system,” Kirby shares. “Part of our property taxes go directly to our schools, and it helps us have some of the best in the state. This revolving effect has created an area so desirable that we are outgrowing our city.”

This community-first mindset defines the work of REALTORS® across Alabama. They are not only advisors in the homebuying process—they are volunteers, mentors, and advocates.

“REALTORS® are advocates and servants at heart,” Kirby says. “We connect with our communities by being present and looking for areas of need. We volunteer at our schools, our churches, and our local REALTOR® association to support community projects.”

Rusty Glines adds that it’s about more than the sale—it’s about the people.

“Helping first-time buyers is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job,” he says. “There’s nothing like seeing the joy on their faces at closing, knowing I helped them through the entire journey—from showings and offers to approval and signing that final piece of paper.”

He continues, “I’ve been incredibly blessed over the past 10 years to help so many buyers and sellers—from excited first-time homeowners to seasoned investors. It’s rewarding to walk people through one of the biggest milestones of their lives.”

Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in the experience of guiding first-time homebuyers—an oftentimes daunting process, especially in an ever-changing market.

“It is an honor and joy to help homebuyers with their first purchase,” Kirby says. “This is one of life’s big events. First-time buyers are nervous and excited. We get to help calm them and be the steady ship, and we often become an extended member of the family because we become so personally involved in their life.”

Real estate in Alabama is more than an industry: it is a force for community growth and a testament to the strength and resilience of Alabamians, especially in times of economic uncertainty. From boosting local economies to shaping educational outcomes, REALTORS® play a vital role in helping Alabama residents not only find homes but build lives.