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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)
Why Working with a Buyer’s Agent Is a Game-ChangerIn today’s dynamic real estate market, the role of a buyer’s agent goes far beyond just opening doors and writing offers. Buyers are looking for a trusted advisor who can guide them through one of life’s biggest decisions with confidence and care. Here’s why having a dedicated buyer’s agent is invaluable and how I can make a difference for you.Your Advocate in the Complex World of Real EstateNavigating the real estate market can be overwhelming, but that’s where I come in. My role isn’t just to find you a home; it’s to be your advocate, handling the stress, negotiations, and intricate details so you don’t have to. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or exploring multiple offers, I use my expertise to ensure you make informed decisions with...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Why Can Two Appraisers Value the Same Property Differently?It can be frustrating when two appraisers provide different valuations for the same property. But there are several factors that can explain these differences. For example, the timing of the appraisal is crucial. A property appraisal from several months ago may no longer be accurate due to market shifts or economic changes. Always check the effective date of an appraisal, especially if it’s from an estate or pre-sale process.The purpose of the appraisal also matters. If one appraisal is for insurance purposes and another is to determine market value, the numbers can differ greatly. Insurance appraisals typically focus on the replacement cost, not the market value. Other types of appraisals, like for retrospective value or liquid...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Discover Creativity and Fun at Fired Fox Art Studio in Opelika!Looking for a unique, creative way to unwind or celebrate? Fired Fox Art Studio in Downtown Historic Opelika is the perfect spot to bring your artistic vision to life! Whether you’re crafting a snowman ornament like I did or diving into a pottery project, this welcoming studio offers something for everyone.From pottery painting to canvas art and resin creations, their workshops and walk-in sessions cater to all skill levels. The owners, Crysten and Jay Conner, go above and beyond to make every visit unforgettable. I had an amazing time at their ribbon-cutting ceremony, enjoying personalized details, delicious appetizers, and creating my own masterpiece that I can’t wait to pick up!Upcoming Events:Don’t miss these exciting wo...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Things NOT to Do Before Closing on a HomeCongratulations! You’re almost at the finish line of buying your home. But before you get too excited, there are a few critical things you need to avoid doing before closing that could put your purchase in jeopardy. Don’t Open New Lines of CreditThinking of opening a store card or financing furniture? Wait! Lenders check your credit right before closing. Opening new accounts can impact your score or debt-to-income ratio, which could cause your loan to be denied at the last minute. Don’t Make Large Cash DepositsLarge, unexplained cash deposits can raise red flags for lenders. They need to know where your money comes from to ensure you’re not using unverified sources. Always consult your lender before making big financial moves. Don’t Close a Credi...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Watch the Gogue Performing Arts Center Expansion Live!Auburn’s Gogue Performing Arts Center is growing, and you can watch every exciting moment! Since breaking ground in September 2024, dedicated teams have been working tirelessly on two new world-class venues—a studio theatre and the Ham Amphitheatre. Now, with the help of Auburn University Facilities Management, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the construction progress with their live 24-hour webcam feed.As a local realtor, I keep up with all the latest developments and fun happenings in Auburn, so you stay in the know. Whether it’s local events, upcoming projects, or hidden gems, I’m here to guide you not only in real estate but also in experiencing the best of our area.Check out the live feed below to see this new venue take shap...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Home Projects That Could Decrease Your Property Value – Think Twice Before Starting!Are you considering a home improvement project? While updates can add value, some projects may actually lower your home’s resale value. Here’s a rundown of renovations that could cost you when it’s time to sell.1. DIY Projects That Look DIYDIY can be budget-friendly, but if it looks unprofessional, buyers will notice. Projects like painting cabinets or tiles may end up costing you more if they’re not done right. Keep it clean and professional!2. Converting the GarageTransforming a garage into living space may seem like a great idea, but most buyers value storage. Losing the garage, especially in colder climates, can be a deal-breaker.3. Custom Luxury UpgradesOverly customized, high-end finishes appeal to...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Essential Tips for Real Estate Agents at Listing Appointments: Professionalism and SuccessAs a real estate agent, your listing appointment is your first opportunity to impress potential clients and showcase your professionalism. The way you conduct yourself can set the tone for the entire transaction and help build trust with the seller. Here are key things every agent should do at their listing appointments to ensure success.1. Arrive Early and Be PreparedArriving at least 5 minutes before your scheduled listing appointment is essential. Being on time shows that you value the client’s time and are serious about your role as a professional. Arriving late can leave a negative impression, so plan accordingly to avoid any hiccups.2. Park ThoughtfullyAvoid parking in the driveway at the sel...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Building the Future: How AI is Transforming ConstructionConstruction is at the heart of our everyday lives, providing spaces to live, work, and play. But with complex projects that demand careful planning, the industry is ripe for innovation—and AI is leading the charge.Imagine a tool that predicts delays, cost overruns, and resource shortages before they happen. AI is revolutionizing construction by streamlining everything from project management to design and supply chain logistics. With AI-powered tools, construction managers can optimize schedules, improve resource allocation, and reduce environmental impact.AI in design is also making waves by enhancing building information modeling (BIM) and generative design software. These technologies analyze data to create more efficient and c...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Today, we honor the courageous veterans who have selflessly served to protect our freedom and security. Veterans Day reminds us to recognize and thank these heroes—not just today, but every day. This morning, I had the privilege of attending the Veterans Day ceremony in Auburn, AL, where our community gathered to pay tribute to these brave men and women. The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans, and I captured moments from this inspiring event through videos and photos, which I’m honored to share with you. Let’s show our gratitude by supporting veterans in our communities and keeping their sacrifices in our hearts. Join us in saying ‘Thank you’ to a veteran in your life today! THE ENTIRE VETERAN'S DAY CEREMONY IN AUBURN, AL IS AT THIS LINK.  #VeteransD...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
5 Don’ts in Real Estate That Could Cost You BigBeing successful in real estate isn’t just about knowing what to do—it’s also about knowing what NOT to do. Here are five critical mistakes to avoid if you want to thrive: Don’t Neglect Phone Calls and EmailsI’ve worked with buyers who were interested in a property but couldn’t get the information they needed because the listing agent never responded. They moved on to another house. Communication is key—always be responsive! Don’t Cheap Out on Photography and MarketingFirst impressions are everything. Buyers see photos first, and if your marketing is lackluster, they may never even step foot in the house. Invest in professional photos, videos, and staging if possible. Don’t Be Too SalesyNobody likes the pushy “salesperson” vibe. Be genuine,...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Maximize Traffic: The Power of Coordinated Open HousesWant to supercharge the foot traffic at your open house? Here’s a little-known tip: coordinate with other homes in the neighborhood, including For Sale By Owners (FSBOs), and host your open houses on the same day. Why? When buyers can visit multiple homes in one trip, they’re more likely to stop by yours, boosting your chances of making a sale!Advantages of Coordinated Open Houses: Increased Traffic: Buyers are more motivated to visit when they know they can tour several homes in one day. Competitive Edge: Your home could stand out compared to others in the neighborhood, making a lasting impression. Collaboration Pays Off: Whether it’s a neighbor’s FSBO or a listed property, more homes open at once means more buyers are likely to att...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
6 Ways Technology is Revolutionizing Real Estate!Ready to buy or sell in today’s digital world? Tech is shaking things up in real estate, making the process faster, smarter, and more engaging than ever! Here’s a quick rundown of six game-changing tools transforming the industry and why they matter for you: AI-Powered ChatbotsImagine getting your questions answered instantly—even if it’s midnight! AI chatbots make that possible by handling inquiries and booking showings, so no opportunity is missed, and clients feel attended to 24/7. Virtual StagingStaging helps homes sell up to 70% faster. With virtual staging, buyers get to see a property’s true potential, making it easier for them to picture themselves in the space—no physical furniture required! 3D Tours & Virtual Reality ShowingsWan...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How Gen Z Is Winning in Today’s Housing Market Gen Z may be young, but they’re making big moves in real estate! Despite high prices, Gen Zers (ages 19-26) are achieving homeownership earlier than millennials did at the same age. Wondering how they’re doing it?  Here are some of their top strategies: Getting Financially Savvy: Many Gen Z buyers leverage FHA loans for lower down payments, seek out first-time homebuyer grants, and even co-buy with friends to make homeownership possible. Over 65% of them are determined to own a home within five years! Smart Sacrifices: Gen Z buyers are also willing to make compromises. More than half say they’re open to buying fixer-uppers or considering affordable markets where homes are priced under $165,000—places like Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and St. Loui...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Consumer Guide: 10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Buyer’s AgentChoosing the right real estate agent is key to a successful home-buying experience! Here are ten must-ask questions to help you find an agent who’s the perfect fit for your needs: Are You a REALTOR®?Working with a REALTOR® means choosing a professional bound by the REALTOR® Code of Ethics—someone who pledges to protect and promote your interests. What Services Do You Provide?From finding properties to negotiating on your behalf, agents offer a range of valuable services. Knowing what’s included helps you get the most out of your partnership. How Well Do You Know the Area?An agent with local expertise can offer insights and strategies specific to your desired market, making your search smoother. Do You Have Experience with B...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Why Buying a Home Without a Realtor Could Be a Costly MistakeThinking about buying a home on your own? You can, but it might cost you big time!While it’s tempting to go solo in the homebuying process, purchasing a home is far more complex than clicking ‘add to cart.’ As one of the best realtors in the area, I know the pitfalls of navigating this massive decision alone. In fact, 89% of buyers in 2023 used a real estate agent, and there’s a good reason why.Buying a home isn’t just about finding the right property—it’s about understanding market trends, negotiating the best deal, navigating extensive paperwork, and managing the financial intricacies that come with such a significant purchase. Without professional guidance, you risk making costly errors that could result in losing your drea...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?Gutter cleaning may not top your home maintenance list, but neglecting it can lead to serious issues! Think rainwater clears your gutters? Think again! Small debris can accumulate, causing clogs and potential water damage. So, how often should you clean those gutters? Let’s break it down!Why Is Gutter Cleaning Important?Prevent Damage: Clogs can lead to overflowing gutters, which may result in water seeping under shingles, into walls, and even leaking into your foundation.Pest Control: Stagnant debris can attract pests like insects and rodents. Keeping gutters clean helps avoid unwelcome infestations.Extend Gutter Lifespan: Regular cleaning prevents clogs and ice dams, ensuring your gutter system lasts longer and functions properly.How Often Shoul...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Thinking about transforming your home into a smart space but unsure where to start? Choosing the right smart home system can make all the difference in creating a connected, efficient, and user-friendly home!When it comes to smart home systems, three major players dominate: Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home. Each offers unique strengths and trade-offs that cater to different needs. Amazon Alexa provides extensive compatibility, working with a vast array of smart home devices. If flexibility and a variety of speaker options are priorities, Alexa might be ideal. However, it requires installing third-party skills for many features, which can complicate setup and daily use. Apple HomeKit is a perfect match for those loyal to the Apple ecosystem, offering unmatched privacy and sec...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
New Rules for Home Buying in 2024? Struggling to Afford a Home? Here’s What You Need to Know! In today’s market, the classic “30% rule” for housing costs just doesn’t cut it anymore. Home prices are soaring, making it nearly impossible for many first-time buyers to stay within that guideline. With the average home price at $439,000, potential monthly costs can easily eat up nearly half of your income! Why Are Homes So Expensive? It’s not just about high interest rates; the real issue is a severe shortage of available homes. This supply crunch, which started before the pandemic, keeps pushing prices up. Even if rates drop, inventory is unlikely to surge, so affordability challenges will remain. New Rules for Buying in 2024? For some, spending 50% of their income on housing is becoming th...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What Are Seller Concessions in Real Estate? Pros, Examples, and Tips for SellersAre you looking to attract more buyers or speed up the sale of your home? Seller concessions could be your solution!Seller consessions are financial incentives offered by a seller to help ease a buyer’s expenses, making the purchase more attractive. Concessions can cover anything from closing costs to repairs, offering buyers a way to save upfront. In a competitive market or for properties needing a bit of a boost to sell, these incentives can be incredibly effective.What Exactly Are Seller Concessions?Seller concessions are specific costs the seller agrees to cover on behalf of the buyer, potentially lowering their overall financial burden. These concessions are negotiated during the offer process and can s...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Unlocking the Power of Your Home EquityAs a homeowner, one of the most valuable assets you can leverage is the equity you’ve built in your home. Whether you’re considering home improvements, funding education, or handling unexpected expenses, tapping into your home’s equity is a smart financial move. But how exactly can you access it?What Is Home Equity?Home equity is the difference between the current market value of your home and the outstanding mortgage balance. As you pay down your mortgage or if your home value increases, your equity grows.Ways to Access Your Home Equity: Home Equity LoanA home equity loan allows you to borrow a lump sum against your home’s equity. It works like a second mortgage, with a fixed interest rate and set monthly payments. Many homeowners use this option ...
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