If you’re putting your house on the market, you’re likely trying to find every way to increase buyer interest. There are many things you can do to boost home value and attractiveness to potential buyers. One thing that has become increasingly effective in modern home sales is smart technology. If you’re interested in adding some easy smart home upgrades to help your home stand out, here are some suggestions:
Smart thermostats are an easy value-add to your home. Not only is it a convenient feature for future homeowners to have, it comes with the added selling point of being energy-efficient. Smart thermostats can help save a sizable percentage on utilities in several ways. One key way they work is by automatically raising or lowering the temperature in the room based on the amount of activity. Smart thermostats can sense when a room is empty and automatically turn down the heat or AC to save energy.
The ability to connect to smartphones is another major advantage of smart thermostats. Once potential buyers find out they can control their thermostat with just a few buttons on their phone—from anywhere—they’ll be able to imagine themselves making it their new home.
Smart smoke and CO detectors bring this ubiquitous safety feature to a new level. Not only do they have the latest and greatest in smoke and carbon monoxide detection technologies, they connect to your smartphone. These smart detectors can send you a special emergency alert to your smartphone if they go off. This can help you keep your home and belongings safe when out of the house and also keep housemates and loved ones informed.
Another great function of these smart detectors is they can warn you when the battery is getting low. Getting a text message reminder to change the batteries is much more pleasant than piercing beeps in the middle of the night.
Video doorbells are easy to install and have become more affordable even as technology improves. With a video doorbell, you can see and record live footage of your front (or back) door to see who’s knocking. It also lets you see delivery people, so you’ll never miss a dropped off package again. You can connect your video doorbell to a security system to make it easy to alert the authorities in case of an attempted break-in or theft from your porch.
These smart home upgrades are simple to set up and well-worth the money. When potential buyers find out about these new advanced features, your home will stand out in the market.
Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!
With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley.
David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.
We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.
If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.
-TheHickoxTeam
Every Home Begins with 'H"
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Meet David
"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."
-Evelyn Forston
I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.
With experience in both residential and commercial real estate, I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your commercial portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.
As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.
Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, volunteering, spending time with family, and being part of a community I truly care about.
Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call me at 912-596-4261
Meet Evelyn
Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾
I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.
I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.
Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.
I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.
I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.
My Mission
To create a Real Estate experience that’s not just successful—but supportive, empowering, and even a little bit fun. I want every client to feel heard, cared for, and confident from day one to closing day (and beyond!). I'll be your advisor and friend!
How I Can Help
Buying or selling Residential or Commercial Real Estate. Relocating with ease. Downsizing or upsizing strategically. Leasing or listing commercial properties. Supporting first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike. Navigating transitions with compassion and clarity.
I find deep joy in helping others. Whether I’m matching clients with their dream space or sneaking a treat to a four-legged friend, I lead with heart, faith, and a whole lot of enthusiasm.
If you’re looking for a Realtor who is experienced, loves people, and leads with heart—I’m your girl. Let’s make your next move your best one yet.
Call me at 205-901-6756
I'd be honored to put my over 15 years of multiple aspects of Real Estate experience to work for you!
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