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Auburn, AL Real Estate News

By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How Long Should You Live in a Home Before Selling?It’s a question that comes up often—especially in dynamic markets like Auburn and Opelika, Alabama. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some helpful guidelines to consider.  The Financial Sweet Spot: 2-5 YearsMost real estate experts suggest staying in a home for at least 2 to 5 years to build enough equity and avoid losing money on the sale. This gives your home time to appreciate and helps offset costs like closing fees, agent commissions, and moving expenses.In Auburn and Opelika, where housing markets tend to be stable but competitive, hitting that 2-5 year mark can position you to sell at a profit, especially if you’ve made smart updates or bought in a growing area.  When Life Has Other PlansOf course, l...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Inside Auburn: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Courts and Water SystemsWhat Does It Take to Keep Auburn Running Smoothly? I Found Out Firsthand!When people think of Auburn, Alabama, they often picture the beautiful campus, SEC game days, and a tight-knit community—but there’s so much more going on behind the scenes that keeps this city running efficiently. As a local realtor, I believe staying informed about every aspect of our city helps me better serve my clients—and Session 2 of the City of Auburn Citizens Academy proved just how much goes into making Auburn such a great place to live.During this session, we got a unique look into Auburn’s judicial system and water resource management—two critical systems that impact our daily lives more than most people realize. Our day began in Mun...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How to Sell a Home Near a Busy Road in Auburn and OpelikaSelling a home near a busy road might sound like a challenge, but with the right strategies, you can turn this potential drawback into an opportunity! As a local realtor in Auburn and Opelika, I’ve helped countless homeowners market and sell properties in unique locations. Let me share my tips to make your home stand out and attract the right buyers.Selling a home near a busy road requires some extra planning, but it’s entirely doable. Here’s how:Highlight the Benefits of the LocationWhile traffic may be a concern for some, focus on the positives. Is the home close to popular restaurants, shops, schools, or entertainment? Convenience is a huge selling point for buyers!Create a Peaceful Atmosphere Inside the HomeAdd features to min...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How to Budget for Home Repairs: A Smart Guide for HomeownersOwning a home is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining it. One of the most important aspects of homeownership is budgeting for home repairs. Whether you’re planning to buy a home in the Auburn-Opelika area or already own one, knowing how to set aside money for unexpected repairs is essential. Here’s how you can budget for home repairs and avoid financial stress.Why You Need to Budget for Home RepairsNo matter how well you maintain your home, repairs are inevitable. From plumbing issues to roof repairs, there are always unexpected expenses. Having a dedicated repair budget ensures you’re financially prepared for any surprises, and it can help prevent minor issues from turning into costl...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How to Make Your Home Energy Efficient: Save Money and Boost ValueIn today’s world, energy efficiency is more than just a trend—it’s a smart investment that saves you money and attracts eco-conscious buyers. If you’re preparing to sell your home in the Auburn-Opelika area or simply want to enhance its value, making your home energy efficient is a win-win. Here’s how you can make your home more sustainable and why it matters.Why Energy Efficiency MattersEnergy-efficient homes reduce utility bills, lower carbon footprints, and increase comfort. For sellers, these upgrades can make your property stand out in the competitive Auburn-Opelika market, as buyers are willing to pay more for homes with lower energy costs.Top Tips to Make Your Home Energy Efficient Seal Air Leaks: Gaps around doors...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
5 Expert Tips to Ventilate Your Home This Winter Without Raising Energy BillsWondering how to keep your home’s air fresh without skyrocketing your utility bills this winter? These pro tips will show you how to ventilate smartly and cost-effectively!Use Short Bursts of VentilationOpen windows briefly – just five minutes – for a quick exchange of stale air with fresh air. According to HVAC expert Lucy Arnold, this method refreshes your space without cooling down walls and floors, which helps keep the room warmer overall.Switch Ceiling Fans to ClockwiseSet your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise in the winter to push warm air down without creating a chill. This keeps the air fresh without sacrificing warmth, making it perfect for stuffy bedrooms and living areas.Service Your HVAC SystemGet y...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Understanding Home Equity and How to Use It: Your Guide to Unlocking Value in Your HomeHomeownership is one of the most significant investments you can make, and one of the key benefits of owning a home is building equity. But what exactly is home equity, and how can you use it to your advantage? If you’re buying a home in Auburn or Opelika, AL, or if you’re already a homeowner, understanding home equity can open up financial opportunities. Let’s dive into how home equity works and the smart ways to use it.What Is Home Equity?Home equity is the portion of your home’s value that you truly own. It’s the difference between your home’s market value and the outstanding balance on your mortgage. As you make mortgage payments, your equity increases, and if your property value rises, your equit...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
🏡 “Not In My Scope” – Real Estate Adventures with Laura and HansIn real estate, no question is too weird—but some are definitely out of my scope.In our latest comic strip episode of Real Estate Adventures with Laura and Hans, we tackle one of the most common (and cringe-worthy) questions buyers ask:👉 "Do you think the roof’s okay?"💬 Spoiler Alert: I’m Not a Roofer—And Neither Is Hans (Although He Tries)In this episode titled “Not In My Scope”, a curious buyer points to some very obvious roof damage and asks for my opinion.Cue me, holding a Scope of License handbook the size of a phone book:“I’m not a roofer… or inspector… or psychic…”Just when you think it can’t get better, here comes Hans—my 140-pound mastiff mix—donning a construction hat and volunteering:“I’ll go up there. But if I f...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The Impact of a Home Office on SalesIn today’s world, a dedicated home office is no longer just a luxury—it’s a must-have for many buyers. As remote work continues to rise, homes with functional office spaces are gaining significant traction in the Auburn-Opelika real estate market. If you’re thinking of selling your home, here’s why a home office could be a game-changer.Why Home Offices MatterThe demand for home offices has skyrocketed in recent years. Buyers now prioritize homes that offer dedicated spaces for work, studying, or managing a household. A well-designed home office not only meets this need but also sets your home apart from others on the market.Home Office = Higher ValueHomes with home offices often sell faster and for higher prices. Why? Buyers see value in a space that’...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 Don’t Pretend You’re Ready to Buy a House If You’re Not: Real Estate Etiquette 101Buying a home is a huge step—but pretending you’re ready when you’re not? That’s a big no-no. It’s one of those unspoken rules that every future homeowner should know, yet too many ignore. So, let’s talk about what not to do when you’re just starting to explore the market.  The Truth Hurts, But It HelpsHere’s the reality: real estate agents, especially buyer’s agents, work on commission. That means when they schedule showings, spend time coordinating with sellers, drive across town, and answer dozens of your questions—they’re doing it with the expectation that you are a serious buyer.But if you’re still in the “just looking” phase, that’s okay! What’s not okay is pretending you’re ready to make offers whe...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Understanding HOA Rules: Key Considerations for Buyers, Sellers, and AgentsNavigating the ins and outs of homeowners associations (HOAs) is essential for both buyers and sellers in today’s real estate market. As HOAs become increasingly common, understanding their impact on property transactions is crucial for making informed decisions.Why HOAs Matter for HomebuyersNearly 30% of U.S. homes are governed by an HOA, and this number continues to rise. Newer homes, especially, tend to be part of an HOA, with about 84% of newly built homes in 2022 being under one. HOA communities often lead to higher property values, with homes in such communities commanding a 5% to 6% premium. This is because HOAs help maintain property aesthetics, amenities, and neighborhood standards, which in turn attract...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 For Sale: Updated 2 Bed/2 Bath End-Unit Condo in Longleaf Villas – Gated Community with Pond Views | Auburn, ALLooking for a low-maintenance lifestyle in one of Auburn’s most sought-after communities? Welcome to 447 W Longleaf Drive #1116—a beautifully maintained 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom end-unit condo in the desirable Longleaf Villas Condominiums complex. This gated community offers peaceful living with scenic views, convenient access to local hotspots, and top-notch amenities.Step inside to discover updated flooring with no carpet, granite countertops, and freshly painted walls—all upgraded around 2021. This condo boasts large closets, abundant storage, and an HVAC system replaced in December 2020. Plus, all kitchen and laundry appliances are included!Enjoy your morning coffee or unwind...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Consumer Guide: What You Need to Know About Home InspectionsAre you ready to buy or sell a home? A home inspection can make all the difference! Here’s what you need to know to protect your investment and navigate the process like a pro.Main Points: What is a Home Inspection?A home inspection assesses the condition of a property, identifying potential issues in the structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and more. It can also test for health hazards like mold, radon, lead paint, or asbestos. Is a Home Inspection Required?While not mandatory, inspections are highly recommended and can be added as a contingency in the purchase agreement. This safeguards buyers from unexpected costly repairs. Some buyers may waive inspections in competitive markets but should weigh the risks ca...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How to Sell a Home in a Flood Zone in Auburn and Opelika: A Realtor’s GuideSelling a home in a flood zone may seem challenging, but with the right strategy, you can still attract serious buyers and close the deal. As an experienced Auburn and Opelika realtor, I can help you navigate the complexities of selling a flood-prone property. Let’s explore how you can turn this unique situation into an opportunity!Selling a home in a flood zone requires careful planning and transparency, but it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker. Here’s what you need to know:Disclose Flood Zone InformationFirst and foremost, be upfront with potential buyers about the property’s flood zone status. Full disclosure is not only a legal requirement but also builds trust with buyers. As your realtor, I’ll help ensure a...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Don’t Be Late to Home Showings—or Bail Entirely: Why Courtesy Matters in Real EstateImagine prepping your home for a showing—corralling pets, entertaining kids in the car, and stepping out just in time for a scheduled buyer to arrive… but they never show. Or they casually stroll in 30 minutes late without a heads-up. Frustrating, right? As a realtor, I see this scenario all too often from the other side—and it’s a problem that can ruin more than just a schedule.Your Agent’s Time is Valuable—Respect ItWhen you schedule a home tour with your agent, it’s not “just another appointment.” Behind the scenes, your agent has often lined up multiple showings, coordinated with sellers (who may have kids or pets to juggle), and sometimes even rearranged other clients to accommodate your schedule.If...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What to Know About Selling a Home with a Well in Auburn and OpelikaSelling a home with a well can feel a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right knowledge and preparation, you can turn this unique feature into a selling point. As a local Auburn and Opelika realtor, I’ve helped homeowners highlight their well-equipped properties and close deals with confidence. Let’s dive into what you need to know.Selling a home with a well requires some extra attention, but it can be a great asset for the right buyer. Here are the key steps:Get Your Well InspectedBefore listing your home, schedule a professional inspection to ensure the well is in good working order. Buyers will want to see proof of its condition, water quality, and any recent maintenance.Highlight the Benefits of a Wel...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Should You Call the Listing Agent If You See a House You Love Online?You’re scrolling through homes online and BAM—there it is. The one that makes your heart skip a beat. Your first instinct might be to call the listing agent directly, but is that really the best move for you as a buyer? Let’s break it down.  The Truth: You Should Call Your Buyer’s Agent—Not the Listing AgentWhen you see a home you love online, the best course of action is to contact your buyer’s agent—not the listing agent. Why? Because the proper channels of communication in real estate are designed to protect everyone’s interests.Your buyer’s agent will reach out to the listing agent, who will then communicate your interest to the seller. This creates a clean and professional line of communication, ensuring that both...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Selling a Home with Mold: What Auburn and Opelika Sellers Need to KnowMold in your home doesn’t have to mean trouble for your sale. While it’s true that mold can deter buyers, the right strategy can help you sell your home quickly and at the best price. As a seasoned Auburn and Opelika realtor, I’m here to guide you through the process, from remediation to closing the deal.Selling a home with mold might sound daunting, but with the right approach, you can overcome this obstacle and still attract serious buyers. Here’s how: Understand the ProblemMold can result from leaks, humidity, or poor ventilation. Identifying and addressing the root cause is essential before putting your home on the market. Buyers will appreciate a proactive approach to this common issue. Professional Mold Remediat...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 What I Learned from the Auburn Citizens Academy (With a Little Help from Hans)As a top realtor in Auburn, AL, I know that understanding the local community is just as important as understanding the real estate market. That’s why I recently took part in the City of Auburn Citizens Academy—a 7-week behind-the-scenes experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for how our city runs. This blog is hightlighting some fun ideas from session 1.From touring the fire department to riding along with police officers and learning how 911 dispatchers manage emergencies, it was both eye-opening and inspiring.Of course, I didn’t do it alone—my 140-pound sidekick Hans (my lovable mastiff mix) was there in cartoon form to bring some comic relief to the adventure.  1. Police Ride-AlongSpending time wi...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Understanding Property Taxes: What Every Homebuyer Needs to KnowWhen purchasing a home in the Auburn-Opelika area, understanding property taxes is crucial to managing your budget and avoiding unexpected expenses. Property taxes can significantly impact your monthly payments and overall affordability, so it’s important to get a clear picture of how they work. In this blog, I’ll explain the basics of property taxes and how they affect your homebuying experience.What Are Property Taxes?Property taxes are taxes assessed by your local government based on the value of your property. They help fund essential public services such as schools, police, fire departments, and infrastructure. The amount you pay is determined by a combination of your home’s value and the tax rate set by the local muni...
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