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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)
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)
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)
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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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What’s Your Real Estate Dealbreaker?Ever walked into a house and immediately said, “Nope”? We’ve all got that one thing we just can’t overlook. Today, I’m calling out some of the biggest real estate dealbreakers I hear from buyers in the Auburn and Opelika area—and you might be surprised which ones make the list.• Tiny Closets: If there’s no room for your wardrobe (or your backup wardrobe), it’s a no-go.• Weird Layouts: That awkward kitchen-next-to-bedroom combo? Yeah, no thanks.• Outdated Kitchens: Sometimes the “vintage charm” is just… old.• Bonus Round: What’s your “absolutely not” when it comes to buying a home?Your turn—what’s your biggest dealbreaker when touring homes? Let me know in the comments or reach out if you’re house hunting in Auburn or Opelika. Let’s find the one that c...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What Every First-Time Buyer Should Know (But Usually Doesn’t)Buying your first home? Buckle up — it’s a ride. Most people think it’s all Pinterest boards and open houses, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes that no one really talks about until you’re knee-deep in paperwork and panic-Googling what “escrow” means. Let’s break it down:• Hidden Costs – You saved for the down payment, but did anyone warn you about closing costs, property taxes, insurance, or the HVAC that breaks a month after closing? Yeah. Welcome to homeownership.• The Emotional Rollercoaster – One day you’re in love with a house. The next day your offer’s rejected. Then you find another one. Then the inspection reveals mold. Then you cry. Then you close. It’s a lot.• Long-Term Thinking – Don’t just fall for ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
If You Have to Ask, Yes—Your Paint Color IS a ProblemIf your walls are neon green or still rockin’ sponge paint from the early 2000s, this is your sign. Time to repaint—yes, even if you still love it.• Bold paint screams “project” to buyers.• Funky accent walls distract from the room’s layout.• Super dark shades make your home feel smaller in listing photos.• Repainting is cheap compared to the extra $$ you could make.• Want to sell? Neutral is the name of the game.The truth is, buyers aren’t buying your taste—they’re buying potential. And it’s a lot easier for them to imagine their life in your home when it doesn’t look like a lime green jungle or a SpongeBob flashback.Be honest—what paint color in your house absolutely needs to go?#AuburnAL #bhhs  #OpelikaAL #AuburnRealtor #OpelikaRea...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Another Smooth Closing at Muncie, Mattson & Gunter, P.C. in Auburn, ALYesterday was a day worth celebrating — another real estate closing wrapped up smoothly at the office of Muncie, Mattson & Gunter, P.C., and I couldn’t be happier for both the buyers and the seller!There’s something so rewarding about seeing everything come together. From the initial offer to the final signature, it’s always my goal to make the process feel seamless and stress-free — and yesterday’s closing was exactly that.Huge thanks to the team at Muncie, Mattson & Gunter for their professionalism and efficiency. Their office always runs like clockwork, and it makes a world of difference when you have experienced attorneys guiding the closing process with care.To my wonderful buyers and seller — congratulations! I’...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Living in Auburn AL: What Zillow Can’t Tell YouZillow is great for prices. But if you want to live in Auburn, AL—not just buy a house—you need more than a price tag. You need the insider scoop.• Some neighborhoods turn into tailgate zones every football season.• Others? Super quiet… but you better like long grocery runs.• Traffic near campus? It’s real—and it’s not on Zillow.• You can’t see charm in a Zestimate—think historic streets, walkable coffee shops, or where locals actually walk their dogs.• And if schools, noise levels, or local vibes matter to you, algorithms just don’t cut it.Want the truth about what it’s like to live in Auburn, AL? That’s where I come in. I’ll help you go beyond the listings and find the lifestyle that actually fits you. Thinking about moving to Auburn or O...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What’s the Weirdest Thing You’ve Ever Found in a House?Houses can hide some seriously strange surprises… and as a realtor, I’ve seen my fair share.• Secret Rooms – That moment you find a hidden door behind a bookcase and wonder, “Was this a panic room… or something way weirder?”• Intense Wallpaper – Like the house where every room was covered in velvet-flocked floral straight out of the Brady Bunch era.• Creepy Basements – You wanted storage. You got “don’t go down there after dark” vibes instead.Every home tells a story, but some stories feel more like a plot twist.So, tell me — what’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever found in a house? Drop your strangest discovery in the comments. And if you’re house hunting in Auburn or Opelika, I promise to check the basement before you fall in love w...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
The Most Annoying Thing About Your House That You Pretend Doesn’t Bother YouEvery homeowner has that one thing they’ve learned to live with… but secretly can’t stand.• Squeaky Doors – You know exactly how to ninja your way past them for that midnight snack.• Creaky Floors – They add “character,” right? Until they wake the baby, the dog, or your last nerve.• That One Outlet That Never Works – You curse it every time you try to plug in your vacuum… but somehow, it still hasn’t made it to your repair list.We all pretend it’s “not that big a deal,” but deep down, that one annoying thing drives us nuts.So be honest—what’s the little house quirk you’ve just learned to live with? Drop it in the comments or message me your favorite homeowner confession.Buying or selling a home in Auburn or Opel...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What’s the One Room You’d Rip Out of Your House Tomorrow?Every home has that one room. You know the one—where you walk in and think, “Why is this even here?”Here are a few of the top offenders I hear about from buyers and sellers in Auburn and Opelika:• Formal Dining Room – Gorgeous, yes. Practical? Not so much. It’s often the prettiest dust collector in the house. More and more buyers are favoring an open layout or flex space instead.• Cramped Half-Bath – That awkward little powder room where guests have to do a 3-point turn just to wash their hands. A bigger bathroom or even added storage would make better use of that space.• Sunken Living Room from the 70s – It might be “vintage,” but it’s also a broken ankle waiting to happen. Not to mention, good luck arranging your furniture aroun...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Are You Secretly Sabotaging Your Own Home Sale?You’ve got a great home, a decent price, and it’s listed online — so why isn’t it selling? Truth is, many sellers unknowingly sabotage their own sale with silent deal-killers that send buyers running.Here are a few I’ve seen way too often in Auburn and Opelika:• Refusing to declutter – Buyers can’t imagine living there if all they see is your stuff.• Staying home during showings – This is so uncomfortable for buyers. They’ll rush through or skip altogether.• Overpricing because “Zillow said so” – The market sets the value — not a website algorithm.• Leaving pets loose or odors untreated – Barking, litter boxes, or ‘wet dog’ smells = buyer exit stage left.• Trying to negotiate every minor detail – If you nickel-and-dime everything, buyers wi...
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