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Auburn, AL Real Estate News

By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Weirdest Thing Seen at an Open House – You Won’t Believe These StoriesI’ve seen a LOT of weird things at open houses in Auburn and Opelika.I’m talking…🫣 Mannequins in EVERY room🐍 A taxidermy snake staring you down🛁 A guy asleep in the bathtub like it was totally normalY’all. You cannot make this stuff up.But I know I’m not the only one with stories. So now I’m asking you:👉 What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever seen during a house tour?Whether you’re a homebuyer, REALTOR®, or just love wild real estate stories, I want to hear it. And if you’re buying or selling in Auburn or Opelika, don’t worry — I help you skip the creepy and focus on homes that actually make sense.📲 Call or text me at 334-332-7263🔗 Browse Auburn & Opelika listings hereNeed a REALTOR® outside Alabama? I’ll personally co...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Pick ONE Free Home Upgrade – Which Would You Choose in Auburn or Opelika?You get one totally free home upgrade — but you have to decide right now.What’s it gonna be? A new roof (no more leaks, plus higher resale value)? A tankless water heater (hello, endless hot showers and energy savings)? Or luxury vinyl plank floors (a stylish, low-maintenance dream)? Each upgrade boosts value, comfort, and appeal — but in different ways. Auburn and Opelika homeowners, which would YOU choose?If you’re buying or selling a home in the Auburn-Opelika area, this decision isn’t just hypothetical. I’ve seen how one smart upgrade can be the tipping point for buyers or the thing that saves you money long-term.🏡 Want help picking the upgrade that adds the most value to your home? Let’s talk. Whether you’re u...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Why ‘Move-In Ready’ is a LieIt’s spotless. It smells like cookies. It’s labeled “move-in ready” like it’s a done deal.But here’s the truth: even the most polished listings have quirks, flaws, or forgotten repairs. That shiny listing? It might come with a broken garbage disposal, a loose stair railing, or a closet door that mysteriously won’t shut. And yes—this happens with brand-new homes too. Builders miss things. Sellers overlook things. Home inspectors find things.The only thing guaranteed on closing day? Your mortgage payment.That’s why you need someone who knows how to look past the candles and cute decor and spot the stuff that could cost you later.I help buyers in Auburn and Opelika go beyond the “move-in ready” label and see what’s really going on—before the keys are in hand. Fr...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
That Listing You Love? It’s Probably Already Gone.You spot the perfect house on Zillow—your heart skips a beat. It’s charming, priced right, and checks every box.But then you call… and it’s already sold. It’s not your fault. Sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com don’t always update in real-time. By the time a home shows up online, serious buyers may have already toured it, submitted offers, or even gone under contract. In fast-moving markets like Auburn and Opelika, waiting on public sites means showing up late to the party.That’s where I come in.I’ll get you set up with real-time MLS alerts, so you see new listings the moment agents do. No delays. No guesswork. Just the info you need—when you actually need it.And when the right home pops up? I move fast. I know how to schedule tou...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
How to Not Get Suckered Into a Money Pit It’s got character. It’s got charm. And your heart already moved in.But… does it also have a 30-year-old HVAC, sketchy wiring, or a crawl space that’s seen things? Falling for the look of a home is easy. But buying without knowing what’s underneath? That’s how you end up in a money pit.That’s where I come in. I help buyers in Auburn and Opelika look past the fresh paint and pretty staging to spot the real issues—the ones that cost big later. From outdated systems to signs of structural problems, I’ll guide you through what’s worth loving… and what’s worth walking away from. I’ll also help you decide what’s fixable, what’s a dealbreaker, and what’s worth negotiating before you ever sign.If you want someone who knows how to spot the red flags (and ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Dear Sellers: We Can Smell the Air Fresheners. What Are You Hiding? Buyers aren’t dumb. If they walk into your home and immediately get walloped by a cloud of eight clashing air fresheners, they’re not thinking “ah, lovely.” They’re thinking “what are they trying to cover up?” Overpowering scents scream desperation—not cleanliness. Pet odors? Musty carpets? A lingering funk? Buyers can sniff out more than you think. Here’s the secret: if you want your home to smell clean, it actually has to be clean. Not perfumed. Not masked. CLEAN. I’ll help you prep your home to make the best first impression—smell included. No cover-ups needed, just smart strategy and real results.If you’re planning to sell your home in Auburn or Opelika, let’s make sure buyers aren’t running for the door—or holding ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
If Your Pet Picked the House… Let’s be honest—if your pet had the final say, what would they want in the next home?Hans (my 140-pound mastiff) would choose: A backyard the size of Jordan-Hare Stadium A snack drawer at nose height And zero vacuums, ever. Would your dog demand a sunny window and a squirrel-watching perch?Would your cat insist on 7 sunbeams and absolutely no dogs allowed?Truth is, our furry friends have priorities too—and I help you find a home that works for everyone in the family.Buying or selling in Auburn or Opelika?I’ll help you sniff out the perfect fit—no leash required. Drop your pet’s home must-haves in the comments or text me at 334-332-7263.Let’s find your pack’s perfect place: www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com#IfMyPetPickedTheHouse #Auburn #Opelika #HomeBuyingW...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Yes, That Price is Ridiculous. No, You’re Not Crazy. You see a basic 3-bedroom house in Auburn or Opelika listed at $600K and wonder… Is it just me?It’s not just you. Some sellers are out here testing the market—or flat-out dreaming.But here’s the good news:There are still well-priced homes out there. You just need someone who knows where to look (and what to avoid). That’s where I come in.I’ll help you: Spot the homes that are actually worth seeing Avoid overpriced listings that are sitting for a reason Understand what fair market value looks like in your price range Stay informed and confident—not frustrated and confused Ready to stop doomscrolling Zillow and start finding real options in Auburn or Opelika?Let’s cut through the noise and find the home that’s right for you. Text or cal...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Why Is There Always One Random Step Down Into the Living Room? (And What It Means When You Sell)You know the one—a perfectly normal house, and then BAM… one rogue step down into the living room. Why is that even a thing?•  Welcome to the “ankle-breaker feature.”• It’s charming until someone twists their knee going for snacks.• Sunken living rooms had their moment (mostly in the ‘60s–‘80s), but now buyers ask one thing: Can this be fixed?• That one step can feel cozy or like a lawsuit waiting to happen—depends on how it’s staged.• Selling a house with a quirky layout? I’ll help you highlight the charm, avoid buyer freak-outs, or price it right for today’s market.Whether you’re buying or selling in Auburn or Opelika, I help you navigate the surprises—like random drops in floor level—so yo...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
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...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
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...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Real Estate Dealbreakers That’ll Make You Say “Nope” Faster Than You Can Say MortgageEveryone’s got a dealbreaker when it comes to real estate.Maybe it’s a bathroom with carpet.Maybe it’s a neighbor who treats their yard like a parking lot.Or maybe—like me—it’s when you have to walk through one bedroom to get to another. NOPE.Buying a home in Auburn or Opelika means more than just picking a house—it’s about finding the right fit. And the dealbreakers? They help narrow it down real fast.Here are a few “absolutely nots” I’ve seen over the years: Showers with carpeted floors (yes, it’s a thing, unfortunately) No closets in the master bedroom Driveways so steep you need a rope and pulley system Entire home painted Pepto-Bismol pink Neighbors who hoard junk in the front yard These red flags ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
What It’s REALLY Like to House Hunt When You’re New to AuburnThinking of moving to Auburn, Alabama? You’ve probably looked at a few houses online, maybe even mapped out how far they are from campus or downtown. But here’s the truth: Google Maps doesn’t tell the whole story. As a top-rated REALTOR® in Auburn, I work with newcomers every day—especially Auburn University faculty and staff—who quickly learn that real-life house hunting in Auburn is about more than just square footage or ZIP codes. Here’s what you’ll want to know before diving in: Google Maps Doesn’t Capture the CommuteWhat looks like a quick drive online might feel totally different during game day traffic, a rainy morning, or a school pick-up run. I help my clients understand how the flow of Auburn life actually feels—not ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
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...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Relocating for Auburn University’s Harrison College of Pharmacy? Read This FirstIf you’re relocating for a faculty or staff position with Auburn University’s Harrison College of Pharmacy (HCOP)—welcome to one of the top pharmacy schools in the nation and to the warm, welcoming city of Auburn, Alabama. Whether you’re joining HCOP to teach, research, or support future pharmacists, here’s what you need to know about the area and your real estate options nearby.  About the Harrison College of Pharmacy at Auburn UniversityFounded in 1885, HCOP is among the oldest and most respected pharmacy schools in the South and consistently ranks in the top 25% of pharmacy programs nationwide.HCOP offers: A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree Dual-degree options like Pharm.D./MBA and Pharm.D./MPH Gradua...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
I Went to the World’s Shortest Party on the Tiger Paw!Only in Auburn would a crosswalk upgrade turn into a celebration—so of course I had to join the fun!  The City of Auburn hosted the World’s Shortest Party to celebrate the brand-new X-crossing at Toomer’s Corner, and I was there front and center—treat in hand, camera ready, and yes, I grabbed a photo with Aubie himself! The new crosswalk is designed to improve both pedestrian safety and traffic flow downtown. It officially went into effect after the party and here’s what locals and visitors should know: Traffic flows uninterrupted unless someone presses the crosswalk button. Pedestrians must activate the ‘walk’ signal by pressing the button. No right turn on red—that goes for bikes and scooters too!This was such a fun way to mark a c...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Should You Buy That ‘As-Is’ Home? Here’s When It’s a Hidden Gem vs. a Money PitWhen you’re house hunting in Auburn or Opelika, the words “sold as-is” can feel like a giant red flag. Visions of a crumbling roof, cracked foundation, or a wild backyard might start flashing before your eyes.But here’s the truth: an “as-is” home could be your best deal yet—or a total money pit. The difference? It all comes down to strategy.Here’s how to spot a hidden gem instead of a regret-filled remodel:• Get a Home Inspection — Even If It’s “As-Is.”An as-is label doesn’t mean “don’t look.” In fact, a home inspection is crucial. Know whether you’re dealing with surface-level issues or serious problems that could sink your budget later.• Understand Why It’s Being Sold As-Is.Not every as-is home is a disaste...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
If Your House Had a Superpower, What Would It Be?Ever wonder what kind of superpower your house would have if homes had magical abilities?  Whether you’re buying, selling, or just daydreaming, here’s a fun way to reimagine your dream home in Auburn or Opelika, Alabama.• Self-Cleaning Floors – Because honestly, who really enjoys sweeping and mopping every other day? Imagine your floors sparkling 24/7—effortlessly.• Endless Storage – For all those holiday decorations, keepsakes, Costco hauls, and maybe even your kids’ art projects from 2008.• Perfect Temperature Control – No thermostat arguments, no utility spikes. Just crisp, consistent comfort at 72° year-round.So… if your house had a superpower, what would it be? Leave a comment or share your pick—because your perfect home might be clo...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
Are You Over-Decorating? 5 Things That Turn Buyers Off InstantlyWe all want our homes to feel personal, stylish, and full of character. But if you’re thinking about selling, there’s a fine line between cozy and “can’t unsee it.” In Auburn and Opelika, I’ve toured plenty of beautiful homes that sat longer on the market simply because the decorating overwhelmed buyers.Want to sell faster and for more money? Avoid these five over-decorating mistakes that turn buyers off immediately:• Too Many Bold Paint ColorsOne statement wall? Sure. But a different neon shade in every room? That’s a hard pass. Bold colors can make rooms feel smaller and distract buyers from the bones of your home.• Over-The-Top Themed RoomsYes, your Star Wars room is cool — but a floor-to-ceiling Millennium Falcon mural ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
 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...
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