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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)
Mastering the Art of Real Estate Negotiation: How to Secure a Deal That Makes You HappySelling your home is exciting, but the negotiation process can be nerve-wracking. Will you get multiple offers, or will silence fill the air? And if you only get one or two offers below your expectations, what should you do? Don’t worry—I’m here to help you navigate this process smoothly and land a deal you’ll be thrilled with!Get Those Offers InIf you’re not in a rush to sell, it might make sense to see what offers come in over time. But if you want a quicker sale, setting a deadline can create urgency. By pricing your home competitively and setting a deadline, you increase your chances of getting multiple offers—potentially above your asking price.Understand the OfferWhen an offer comes in, don’t ju...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Did you know that the quality of windows in a home can reveal everything about a builder’s priorities? One of the most expensive line items in a remodel or new build is the window and door package—it’s a true reflection of a home’s overall construction quality. When buying a home, it’s easy to be wowed by beautiful upgrades like custom tile and stunning countertops. But don’t let those fancy details distract you from the bigger picture—like the quality of the windows. In fact, asking about the brand of windows is like looking into the soul of the builder. I’ve heard of million-dollar homes with windows that are absolute junk, and it completely colors your view of the rest of the house. If a builder skimps on windows, which is one of the most expensive and critical parts of construction,...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Big Design Updates for Your Home on a Tight BudgetWant to refresh your home’s look but working with limited funds? You don’t need a massive budget to make a big impact! Small changes can go a long way in transforming your space, and here are some design updates that can do just that.Lighting: Think of light fixtures as the jewelry of your home. Just like the right accessories can amp up or tone down your outfit, lighting does the same for a room. Swapping out an outdated fixture for something new can completely change the vibe of your space.Cabinet and Drawer Hardware: Updating the hardware on your cabinets and drawers is a simple but effective way to make a major impact. Whether it’s the kitchen or bathroom, new knobs and pulls can instantly modernize and refresh the room’s overall fee...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Beware of AI Scams During Home Closings: How One Closing Attorney Caught a FraudsterIn an increasingly digital world, scams are evolving, and homebuyers and sellers need to stay vigilant. Recently, a closing attorney encountered a high-tech scam that involved AI-generated identities. A scammer used AI to create a lifelike figure to impersonate a real person in an attempt to notarize documents remotely. The AI avatar even had a realistic-looking ID. However, the scam fell apart when the attorney, sensing something was off, asked the figure to raise its hand. Since the AI wasn’t programmed to respond to that command, it failed, revealing the scam.This story is a powerful reminder that, while remote notarization can be convenient, it’s essential to work with professionals who can spot pote...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Closing Day: How to Ensure a Smooth Transition When Selling Your HomeThe finish line is in sight! Closing day is the final hurdle before you can officially hand over the keys and move on to your next adventure. While the excitement builds, it’s natural to feel a bit anxious. But with the right preparation, you can get through it smoothly. Here’s what you need to know.Get Those Repairs Done EarlyIf you’ve agreed to make repairs, don’t wait until the last minute. Completing repairs at least a week before closing allows time to fix any lingering issues. Keep receipts, invoices, and take photos as proof of completion to avoid any surprises during the buyer’s final walkthrough.The Final Walkthrough: What to ExpectTypically, 24 hours before closing, the buyers will inspect the home to ensure ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Maximize Your Home’s Value with These Garage UpgradesYour garage is more than just a parking spot—it’s an untapped asset that can significantly boost your home’s value. From enhancing curb appeal to creating a functional workspace, these simple improvements can make a big impact.1. Upgrade Your Garage Door:A fully automatic, well-designed garage door is a must. Opt for lighter, aluminum doors that complement your home’s exterior for an instant value boost.2. Enhance Ventilation and Insulation:Proper insulation and ventilation protect your car and home from extreme temperatures and harmful fumes. This upgrade also adds to your home’s energy efficiency.3. Smart Storage Solutions:Declutter and organize with labeled bins and sturdy shelves. A clean, organized garage signals ample storage to...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Stand Out in a Competitive Market: Certify Your Pre-Owned HomeIn today’s competitive real estate market, how do you make your home the one buyers can’t resist? One effective strategy is to take a page out of the car sales playbook and certify your pre-owned home.Just as buyers feel more confident purchasing a certified pre-owned car, offering a certified pre-owned home can set your property apart from the competition. By conducting a thorough home inspection before listing, you can identify and address any issues that might deter potential buyers. This proactive approach not only demonstrates transparency but also provides peace of mind to buyers, knowing that they are purchasing a home that has been well-maintained and is free from major concerns.Taking care of health and safety issues...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
 Country’s BBQ Ribbon Cutting: A Fresh Start with Familiar Flavors! Today, I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon cutting for the new Country’s BBQ, and wow – it looks amazing! I’ve made so many wonderful memories at their old location over the years, and while I’ll miss that building, the new one is absolutely stunning. The inside is beautifully decorated, and they even brought the huge rocking chair from the original spot – such a nostalgic touch! Plus, they’ve added a drive-through for those busy days when you’re craving that delicious BBQ on the go. What’s your favorite dish at Country’s BBQ? And what are some of your favorite memories from the old location? I’d love to hear!As a top realtor in the area, I love staying in the loop with all the exciting things happening around to...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How a Good Listing Agent Navigates a Multiple Offer SituationAs a listing agent, one of the most critical roles I play is helping my clients sift through multiple offers when selling a home. Each offer is different—some may be at or around the list price, some may be over, and others may be extremely high in hopes of winning the deal. However, higher offers don’t always mean smoother closings.From my experience, the way an offer is put together can often reveal the experience level of the buyer’s agent. Some agents, particularly newer ones, may encourage their clients to submit an extreme offer, but here’s the reality: the home still needs to appraise at that price. If it doesn’t, the deal could fall apart, wasting valuable time and money for the seller, who may need the proceeds to pur...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Tuten Agency with Allstate Insurance Ribbon Cutting   I’m excited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tuten Agency with Allstate Insurance here in Auburn, AL! They’re committed to helping residents find the right insurance solutions, from auto and home to life and renters insurance, ensuring you’re covered for the long haul. As a local realtor invested in our community, I love supporting businesses that provide essential services to Auburn residents. It’s all about building relationships that support your needs now and in the future! If you’re buying or selling a property in Auburn or the surrounding area, I’d be honored to assist you. Follow me for the latest in real estate and let’s make your next move stress-free! #SupportLocal #bhhs #AuburnAL #TutenAgency #AllstateInsurance #...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
What Should You Do if Your FHA Appraisal Comes in Below the Contract Price?You’ve found your dream home, but the FHA appraisal comes in lower than the contract price. Now what? This situation can feel frustrating, but don’t panic – there are options for both buyers and sellers to navigate this hurdle! 1. Request a Price ReductionOne option is to ask the seller to lower the purchase price to match the appraised value. Sellers want to close the deal, and this is often the most straightforward solution. If the seller agrees, you’re all set! 2. Make Up the DifferenceAs the buyer, you can choose to cover the difference between the contract price and the appraised value out of pocket. This may not always be ideal, but it’s an option if you’re in love with the property and want to move forward...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Are you holding out for a real estate market crash before you buy a home? You might be waiting forever—and missing out on great opportunities right now!If you’re waiting for the market to crash before buying a home, you could be stuck waiting indefinitely. I’ve been a realtor since 2008, and I remember when foreclosures and short sales were everywhere, and deals seemed to be falling from the sky. Yet, even then, some people held back, frozen by bad news and hoping for prices to drop even further. Many of those deals never came, and those buyers missed out.The truth is, there are always opportunities in the market—if you know where to look. While your dream home might not be in your preferred zip code or even the same county, there are properties available within your price point today. ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Is a Spec Home the Right Choice for You? Here’s What You Need to KnowSearching for a new home can be overwhelming. Between finding the right budget, making competitive offers, and navigating inspections, it’s easy to get lost in the process. That’s where spec homes come in—they offer a streamlined solution for many buyers.What is a Spec Home?A spec home, short for speculative home, is a newly built house designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Builders create these homes based on anticipated market trends and popular features, aiming to sell quickly. Unlike custom-built homes, spec homes have pre-set layouts and finishes, allowing for a faster move-in experience.Why Choose a Spec Home? Move-In Ready: Spec homes are brand new and move-in ready, often with a one-year warranty that ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so the last thing you want is for that investment to turn into a money pit. That’s why a thorough home inspection is crucial!The Top 3 Most Expensive Home Repairs—and Why a Home Inspection is a Must!When buying a home, it’s easy to fall in love with the perfect layout, beautiful finishes, and ideal location. But don’t forget—what you can’t see can hurt your wallet! As a realtor with over 35 years of experience in banking and real estate, I always emphasize the importance of a home inspection. Here are the top three most expensive home repairs that can turn your dream home into a financial nightmare:1. Foundation Repairs:Foundation issues are no joke. Problems like moisture damage, wood rot, or termite damage can easily co...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Discover a Healthier You with J. Simpson Fitness!If you’re looking to get in shape and transform your approach to nutrition and overall wellness, I highly recommend checking out J. Simpson Fitness, Auburn & Opelika’s premier personal training studio. Their mission is to guide and support clients in achieving their fitness goals while focusing on sustainable, healthy habits. Whether you want to tone up, lose weight, or just live a healthier lifestyle, they have the expertise to help you reach your full potential.As a local realtor who loves supporting businesses in our community, I know how important it is to invest in yourself—and that includes your health! Just as I’m here to guide you through the home buying or selling process, the team at J. Simpson Fitness is here to support your fi...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Can you take light fixtures and curtain rods with you when selling a home?Thinking about selling your home? Here’s a key detail you don’t want to overlook: what items are you required to leave behind?When selling your home, it’s important to know that anything attached to the walls or structure—like curtain rods, light fixtures, and built-in shelves—typically needs to stay with the property. Many sellers are surprised by this, but these items are considered fixtures and are part of what the buyer expects to get when they purchase the home.If you have curtain rods, light fixtures, or other attached items that you’d prefer to take with you, it’s crucial to remove them before putting your home on the market. Not only will this avoid any potential misunderstandings with buyers, but it also ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
SmartBank Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Auburn, ALToday, I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for SmartBank in Auburn, AL!  SmartBank is committed to delivering exceptional banking solutions, including checking, savings, investing, and planning services to help you meet your financial goals. Their mission to serve the community aligns perfectly with my dedication as a top realtor to stay informed about all things Auburn and support local businesses. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a property in Auburn, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. With my deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to exceptional service, let’s achieve your real estate goals together! Ready to make your next move in Auburn? Let’s make it happen with confidence and local ex...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Are We Moving Toward a Balanced Market?The real estate market is shifting! With growing inventory, we’re inching closer to a balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers hold all the power. Here’s what you need to know.What’s a Balanced Market?A balanced market typically means a 5-7 month supply of homes for sale, where prices stabilize and both buyers and sellers have equal opportunities. We’re not quite there yet, but inventory is on the rise, moving us closer to this sweet spot.Current Market Trends More Homes on the Market: Inventory has increased, meaning homes are sitting longer. As a buyer, you have more choices. As a seller, pricing right is crucial! Fewer Offers per Listing: Sellers may need to be more flexible, while buyers face less intense competition. Buyers Have More L...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Discover the Warmth and Community at Christ Methodist Church of Auburn!Today, I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Christ Methodist Church of Auburn, and I can’t express enough how wonderful the experience was! This church isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a community where everyone is welcomed with open arms and warm hearts. I’ve had the joy of attending their Sunday school and Bible studies in the past, and every time, I’ve felt embraced by their spirit of love and fellowship.Christ Methodist Church of Auburn, a Global Methodist Congregation, is known for worshiping passionately, loving extravagantly, and witnessing boldly. Whether you’re new to Auburn or looking for a church that feels like home, I highly encourage you to give Christ Methodist Church a try...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Slash Your Mortgage Rate Now: 4 Steps to Save Big!Tired of waiting for lower mortgage rates? You don’t have to sit on the sidelines! With a few smart moves, you can cut your mortgage rate by up to 1.5%, potentially saving $400 a month or $4,800 annually on a $500,000 home. Ready to learn how? Let’s dive in!1. Shop Around for the Best RateDid you know that comparing offers from multiple lenders can save you up to 86 basis points on your mortgage rate? Many buyers settle for the first offer they get, but a little comparison shopping can lead to big savings. Don’t leave money on the table—explore your options!2. Boost Your Credit ScoreA credit score of 750 or higher can shave off 39 basis points on your rate. Keep your credit utilization below 30% and make on-time payments to improve your ...
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