Does Anyone Actually Use the Formal Dining Room? (Or Is It Just Storage Now?)Serious question: Does anyone actually use their formal dining room anymore? Or is it just that one pristine room you walk past like it’s roped off at a museum?Let’s be honest—most people clean it once a year before company comes over… and the rest of the time, it’s low-key a storage unit with a chandelier. You know what I mean: holiday decorations, unopened Amazon boxes, and maybe even a rogue dog bed no one admits is there.In Auburn and Opelika, I tour a lot of homes, and the formal dining room is one of the most underused spaces I see. Sure, it can be stunning—high ceilings, crown molding, a gorgeous table no one eats at—but is it really worth the square footage?Some homeowners are turning them into home off... 07/10/2025

Moving to Auburn, AL? Read This Before You Buy or RelocateIf you’re thinking about moving to Auburn, Alabama, let me give it to you straight: this town is unique—and not always in ways you can Google. As a local Auburn REALTOR®, longtime resident, and Auburn University alum, I’ve helped countless families, professionals, and faculty find homes here—and avoid real estate regrets.Here’s what you really need to know before relocating to Auburn:  Game Day Traffic Isn’t a JokeDuring football season, Auburn University (auburn.edu) transforms into an SEC frenzy. Expect traffic, crowded grocery stores, jam-packed restaurants, and limited showing windows. If you’re not a football fan, you’ll want to choose your neighborhood—and your Saturday plans—accordingly.  Neighborhoods Aren’t One-Size-Fits... 07/08/2025

This house sold before Zillow even knew it was an option.That’s not luck—it’s strategy.Zillow is great for browsing, but it’s not the full market. In a place like Auburn, Alabama, some of the best homes are sold before they ever hit the public sites. Why? Because local agents like me know what’s coming—and who to call.Here’s what really happened:• I knew this home was about to become available, thanks to my network of agents, builders, and sellers.• My buyer was ready—pre-approved and focused—so when the home popped up, we acted fast.• We made the match before the listing ever went live.• No Zillow alerts. No bidding war. Just smart strategy and great timing.If you’re relying on Zillow alone, you’re already behind. But when you work with a well-connected local REALTOR® who lives and bre... 07/09/2025

 Walking Through Downtown Auburn & Auburn University with Hans – 4th of July Flags & Local CharmIf you were in Downtown Auburn or near Auburn University today, you may have spotted me and my big pup, Hans, enjoying a patriotic walk! Hans proudly sported his red, white, and blue collar as we strolled past flags flying downtown, the historic campus buildings, and all the beauty that makes Auburn so special this time of year. We couldn’t help but stop and soak in the moment—especially seeing downtown decked out for the 4th of July.These walks remind me just how lucky we are to live in a place that blends community pride, university energy, and small-town charm—all in one walkable, dog-friendly downtown.       Thinking About Moving to Auburn?If you’re considering a move to Auburn, AL or Ope... 07/04/2025