TallPaul,
well first, Welcome to Alabama...
Currently live in the North part of AL, near the TN line, with the small hills... but was born and raised in Montgomery. Was a nice town, not so sure now. My dad still lives there and gives me reports. Living outside the city is probably better. I got several friends that live north of Montgomery a short distance (15-25 milies). Still a nice part of AL. On the basement, might be good to get one installed, just in case tornados come by. Plus, it can be used for gun storage and reloading. That's what I did.
I think you'll like it here.
Deerandduck