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All About Alabama Real Estate

By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The “Just for the Photos” Open House Visitor (Yes, They’re Real)Ever hosted an open house and thought, “These people aren’t here to buy—they’re here for the backsplash”? You’re not wrong.There’s a special breed of open house visitor who isn’t comparing interest rates—they’re comparing paint swatches. Welcome to the world of the “Just for the Photos” guest. Here’s how to spot them:• Inspiration Seekers – They’ll ooh and ahh over your wallpaper while never even glancing at the price sheet.• Instagram Addicts – They’re staging selfies in your breakfast nook. If the lighting is good, expect a full-on mini photo shoot.• Design Spies – Armed with their Notes app and Pinterest board, they’re collecting ideas for their own remodel… not planning to write an offer.Open houses attract all kinds—an...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 “Buy the house or keep the dog?”It sounds like a dramatic ultimatum—but you’d be shocked how often pets completely steer the ship in real estate deals here in Auburn and Opelika, AL.I’ve seen it. I’ve lived it. I’ve even negotiated it.Here are some real-world ways buyers put their pets first:  What Buyers Actually Do:• Fenced yard > granite countertops when you’re house-hunting with a dog in mind.• Stairs? Not great for older pets with mobility issues.• HOA breed restrictions? Total dealbreaker. Some buyers walk away—even from their dream home.• Barking neighbor dogs? Yep, that can ruin a showing fast.• And yes—some buyers keep renting instead of buying just to avoid giving up their dog.Whether you’re a seller wanting to attract pet-loving buyers, or a buyer trying to balance lifestyle...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Alright, Auburn and Opelika friends—let’s settle this once and for all: Are you Modern Farmhouse or Maximalist Chaos?Do you dream in shiplap and sage green, with cozy neutrals and Joanna Gaines-approved light fixtures?Or are you more like: “Give me bold color, leopard print, and a gallery wall in every room—or I’m not home”?I’ll be honest—I’m somewhere in between. Modern-ish… with a side of mood swings. But here’s the thing: when it comes to buying or selling a home in Auburn or Opelika, your style matters more than you think. Buyers: Knowing what you gravitate toward helps you focus in fast when house hunting. Sellers: Understanding the vibe your home gives off can help you stage better, photograph better, and sell faster. So I’ve got to ask:  What’s your home style?Are you team modern...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Dream Backyard Setup in Auburn or Opelika? What Would You Build?If you could snap your fingers and design your dream backyard…Would it have a pool? A garden? A fire pit? Chickens roaming around?Mine? Definitely something with zero mosquitoes, a shaded cabana, and maybe even a custom lounging area for Hans. (He’s basically royalty around here.)Living in Auburn or Opelika, outdoor space matters — whether it’s weekend barbecues, morning coffee on the patio, or just enjoying some peace and quiet without hearing your neighbor’s Bluetooth speaker.So tell me… What’s your dream outdoor setup? I’m talking wild ideas, practical must-haves, or even that Pinterest-perfect project you’ve been saving for “one day.”Drop your answers below — I need ideas (and Hans has requests)!#AuburnAL #bhhs #Opelika...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
When a Zillow Search Turns Into a Full-On Obsession (We’ve All Been There)Ever told yourself you were just browsing Zillow… and suddenly it’s 1 a.m., and you’re mentally tearing out walls in a house you’re never going to buy? Yeah, same.If your Zillow “casual scroll” has turned into a full-on obsession, you’re not alone — especially if you’re eyeing homes in Auburn, AL or Opelika, AL. Endless Scrolling: You check listings before bed, at lunch, and while waiting in line at Target. Fantasy Renovations: You’ve mentally remodeled 14 kitchens and 3 sunrooms… all from your phone. Overthinking Every Detail: You’re deep-diving property tax records instead of asking how the home feels. Auburn and Opelika are full of hidden gems and dream-home potential — but if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Flipping a home in Auburn or Opelika, AL? Watch out.Flipping a house looks easy on TV—until it’s not. If you’ve ever walked into a “just renovated” home and thought, who approved this?!… you’re not alone. Let’s talk about the house flipping fails that make buyers run and agents cringe.• Water Damage Disasters: That “simple” bathroom update turned into a black mold saga. Goodbye profit.• Structural Surprises: That open concept floor plan? Turns out that wall was holding up the roof. Oops.• Bad Design Choices: Shiplap on every wall? Neon green tile? Not every trend translates into resale value. Whether you’re buying a home, selling one, or investing in a flip here in Auburn or Opelika—get a REALTOR® who knows the difference between “cute update” and “code violation.”What’s the worst flipp...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Ever work with a buyer who thinks they’re starring in their own episode of House Hunters? You know the type: they show up with a dream list, a champagne taste, and a “we’ll only look at three homes” mindset. Let’s talk about what happens when HGTV meets reality.• Narrow Focus: Some buyers think they’ll pick between exactly three homes. Anything more? Too overwhelming.• Unrealistic Expectations: “We want granite countertops, hardwood floors, a fenced yard, and a pool… on a $250K budget.” Bless it.• Reality Check: In real life, you don’t get a dramatic reveal—you get inspections, negotiations, and trade-offs. House hunting in Auburn and Opelika doesn’t come with a camera crew—but it does come with one heck of a REALTOR® who’ll keep you grounded and get you into the right home.What’s the m...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
When the Open House is Really Just a Neighborhood Gossip SessionNot every open house is packed with eager buyers. Sometimes, it turns into something else entirely—a low-key episode of Real Housewives: Auburn Edition.Here’s who actually shows up when the door opens:• Nosy Neighbors – They’re not moving. They just want to see if your countertops are nicer than theirs.• Future Sellers – Scouting your price, your layout, and silently judging your throw pillows.• Weekend Window Shoppers – Zero intention to buy. 100% intention to take your cookie and Pinterest your living room.Open houses can be useful, but they’re not always what they seem. That’s why smart sellers use more than cookies to get results. What’s the funniest or weirdest thing you’ve overheard at an open house? Share it—I bet we...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Warning: These 3 Common Smells Could Tank Your Home SaleWhen you’re selling a home in Auburn or Opelika, buyers aren’t just looking with their eyes—they’re sniffing out the details. And nothing kills a showing faster than a home that stinks.Here are three sneaky smells that can quietly sabotage your home sale:• Pet Odors – You may be nose-blind to it, but buyers aren’t. Litter boxes, wet dog, or “mystery carpet” smells = instant turnoff.• Old Cooking Smells – Last night’s curry or fried bacon might’ve been delicious… but lingering food odors can seriously stick around (and not in a good way).• Overpowering Air Fresheners – If your house smells like a scented candle factory, buyers assume you’re hiding something—and that kills trust fast. Instead: aim for clean, light, and inviting scent...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The Secret to Selling a Home in a Tough MarketWhen the market slows down, homes don’t just sell themselves—you need strategy, style, and smart decisions. If you’re planning to sell in Auburn or Opelika, Alabama, here’s how to stand out when buyers are fewer and pickier than ever:• Smart Pricing – Overpricing is the kiss of death. Start with a price that reflects current conditions—not wishful thinking.• Staging – A clean, welcoming, and well-staged home helps buyers picture themselves living there. And yes, it really does work.• Killer Photos – Bad photos = no showings. Hire a professional, use natural light, and make sure the pictures actually sell the lifestyle. What’s your best tip for selling a home when buyers are scarce? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear your take.Thinking ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 How to Choose a Neighborhood That’s Right for You (Especially in Auburn, AL!)Finding the right home is only half the equation—choosing the right neighborhood is what truly makes it feel like home. Whether you’re relocating to Auburn, AL or just moving across town, here’s your guide to picking a place that fits your lifestyle and goals. What to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood• Proximity to Work & Amenities – Short commute? Near shops, parks, or schools? Pick what fits your routine.• Community Vibes – Some areas are lively and family-focused; others are quiet and relaxed. Visit at various times.• Safety & Schools – Look into crime stats and school rankings to ensure peace of mind.• Future Growth – Some neighborhoods are up-and-coming, others are long-established. Both can be smart ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 Does Your House Have Curb Appeal… or Curb REPEL?Let’s get real—first impressions absolutely matter. If your home gives off “haunted fixer-upper” vibes from the street, most buyers won’t even bother stepping inside.• Peeling paint, dead plants, or outdated fixtures = instant turnoff.• Mailbox leaning like the Tower of Pisa? Yep, that needs fixing.• Pressure wash the driveway, siding, and walkway—it’s the quickest glow-up.• Flowers, fresh mulch, and a clean doormat work wonders.• If it looks like it belongs in a ghost tour, don’t expect multiple offers. Buyers start forming opinions before they even park the car. So… is your house saying “Welcome home” or “Run for your life”? What’s the first thing you notice when you pull up to a house? Be honest—curb appeal makes or breaks it. Thinking...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Auburn vs Opelika – What’s the Better Move in 2025?So you’re deciding between Auburn and Opelika? It’s a common debate—and honestly, it depends on your vibe.• Auburn: Bustling, university-town energy, higher prices. If you want to be near Auburn University, tailgating, and trendy coffee shops—this is your scene.• Opelika: Quieter, more spread out, often more affordable. Think historic homes, slower pace, and local charm.• Schools, taxes, traffic—yep, they’re different in each city. What matters most to you?• Downtown Opelika has a storybook charm and hidden gems. Downtown Auburn is a hub of energy and style.• Ask yourself: Want game-day hype or small-town chill?The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. As a local Auburn and Opelika realtor, I know the ins and outs of both. L...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Celebrating 33 Years of Excellence at Glenn Smith Chevrolet GMC in Opelika, AL! If you’re in the Opelika area, Glenn Smith Chevrolet GMC just gave us all a reason to smile! I had the pleasure of attending their 33rd anniversary celebration today, and let me tell you—it was a blast!  From the lively atmosphere and friendly faces to the incredible team that makes Glenn Smith such a trusted name in the community, this event reminded me why they’ve been going strong for over three decades. Whether you’re there for the celebration or seriously looking for your next vehicle, this dealership knows how to make you feel right at home.  They’ve got a wide selection of vehicles, knowledgeable staff, and a commitment to service that truly mirrors what I aim to bring to my own clients in real estate...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
These 3 Phrases in a Home Listing? RUN.Let’s be honest—some real estate listing descriptions are basically a cry for help in disguise. Whether you’re browsing homes in Auburn or Opelika, there are a few terms that should make you stop and think… hard.Here are three little words that pack a punch—and not in a good way:• “Investor Special” – Translation: Bring a bulldozer, a hazmat suit, and a very forgiving budget.• “Cozy” – Tiny. Cramped. Might not even fit your dog’s bed. Definitely has one closet, if you’re lucky.• “Sold As-Is” – It might just need cosmetic updates. Or it could have foundation cracks, mold, and a haunted attic. Buyer beware.• Bonus phrase: “Unique Layout” – The living room might double as a laundry room. And the kitchen could be in the garage. You’ve been warned.There...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How Long It Really Takes to Sell a House in Auburn AL in 2025Everyone wants to know: “How long will it take to sell my house?” The answer? It depends… but let’s get real.• If it’s priced right, staged, and marketed well? Could be fast.• If it’s overpriced with 90s carpet? Prepare to wait.• Average days on market in 2025: not what they were in 2021.• Rural properties and high-end homes take longer.• The biggest delay? Seller stubbornness (sorry, not sorry).Thinking of selling in Auburn or Opelika? Let’s talk timeline—and strategy.Contact me today to sell smarter, faster, and with way less stress. www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com#AuburnAL #OpelikaAL #AuburnRealtor #bhhs #HomeSellingTips #OpelikaHomes
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
When Buyers Take Home Staging a Little Too LiterallyHome staging is supposed to help buyers picture themselves living there—but some take that idea a bit too far…• Testing the Furniture – Sitting on the couch, lounging on the bed… it’s staged, not a showroom.• “Borrowing” Decor Ideas – Snapping pictures like it’s a Pinterest board tour.• Overstaying Their Welcome – Talking about “where the Christmas tree will go” and treating the place like it’s already theirs.It’s always fun—until it’s not.What’s the most over-the-top thing you’ve seen a buyer do at a showing? Share it!Buying or selling a home in the Auburn or Opelika area? Contact Laura Sellers today!#AuburnAL #bhhs #OpelikaAL #AuburnRealtor #HomeShowingStories #RealEstateHumor #AuburnHomes #OpelikaHomes #StagedHomes #BuyerBehavior #H...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What is the Worst “Unique” Home Feature You’ve Seen?Some “unique” home features are memorable… but not in a good way.• Indoor Hot Tubs – Cool in theory, but let’s be honest: they usually come with musty smells, warped wood, and moldy regret.• Spiral Staircases – Artsy? Yes. Practical for moving furniture or walking your dog down? Not so much.• Over-the-Top Themes – Pirate basements, medieval dungeons, or jungle bathrooms—sometimes “fun” turns into full cringe.Buyers remember these features—but often as a reason to walk away.What’s the strangest or worst “unique” home feature you’ve ever seen? I’d love to hear it.Buying or selling a home in the Auburn or Opelika area? Contact Laura Sellers today!#AuburnAL #bhhs #OpelikaAL #AuburnRealtor #HomeBuyingTips #WeirdHomes #AuburnHomes #OpelikaHo...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The Most Surprising Things That Can Tank a Home’s ValueYou might think it takes a massive repair or a bad neighborhood to tank a home’s value—but sometimes it’s the small stuff that quietly drives buyers away or drops offers fast. Here are three of the most surprising (and fixable!) things that can hurt what your home is worth:• Funky Smells – Pet odors, cigarette smoke, or musty basement smells can be dealbreakers. Buyers start wondering what else has been neglected… and how much it’ll cost to fix.• Poor Curb Appeal – It doesn’t take much: an overgrown yard, peeling paint, or a busted mailbox can leave a bad first impression before they even step inside.• Personalization Overload – Your hobby room dedicated to taxidermy? That custom mural of your dog? Buyers want to picture themselves ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Is Your House Ready for Its Close-Up? (Photography Tips for Sellers)Trying to sell your home? Then your listing photos better slay. Because let’s face it—most buyers make their first decision based on a few photos they see online. And if your house looks like a dark cave or a cluttered storage unit, they’re swiping left faster than a bad dating profile.Here’s how to make your home camera-ready:• Let there be light – Open the blinds, pull back the curtains, and let natural light work its magic. Photos taken in dark, moody lighting just don’t sell.• Declutter like a minimalist on a mission – Those knickknacks may be sentimental, but they distract buyers. Clear surfaces = clean photos = more showings.• Boost that curb appeal – The outside is the first photo buyers see. Mow the lawn, hide t...
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