Owning a home means more than just making mortgage payments—it also means keeping up with regular maintenance to protect your investment. Whether you’ve owned your home for years or just moved into a new one in Auburn or Opelika, keeping a home maintenance log can save you money, reduce stress, and even help when it’s time to sell.

Here’s why every homeowner should keep track of their home maintenance—and how to get started.

1. Stay on Top of Repairs and Seasonal Tasks

A home maintenance log helps you stay organized and proactive. By tracking tasks like HVAC servicing, gutter cleaning, and roof inspections, you’ll reduce the risk of expensive emergency repairs.

Examples of routine tasks to log:

  • Changing HVAC filters

  • Flushing…

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Buying a home or investment property is a big commitment—and sometimes, it makes sense to do it with someone else. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or business partner, co-buying can make real estate more accessible, especially in markets like Auburn and Opelika.

But like any major decision, there are pros and cons. If you’re thinking about teaming up to purchase a property, here’s what you should consider first.

Pros of Buying Property with a Partner

1. Shared Financial Responsibility

When two people buy together, you can combine incomes and assets, which often allows for:

  • A larger down payment

  • Better loan terms or mortgage approval

  • More flexibility in choosing the right property

This can help you…

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If you're preparing to sell your home in Auburn or Opelika, you might be wondering if offering a home warranty could help your listing stand out. A home warranty can be a smart tool to ease buyer concerns, especially in competitive markets—but it’s not always necessary.

As a local real estate expert, I often get asked if offering a home warranty is worth the cost. Here's what you need to know before deciding.

What Is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major systems and appliances in the home, like:

  • HVAC systems

  • Electrical and plumbing

  • Water heaters

  • Kitchen appliances

It’s different from homeowners insurance, which covers damage from fire,…

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When buyers walk through your home, they're not just looking at square footage—they’re imagining their life there. And while you might be focused on big things like your kitchen remodel or new flooring, buyers are noticing other details that could influence their decision to make an offer.

As a real estate expert in Auburn and Opelika, I’ve been through countless showings and I can tell you—first impressions matter. Here's what buyers really pay attention to during a home tour (and how you can get your home ready).

1. Curb Appeal Sets the Tone

Before they even walk through the front door, buyers are already forming opinions. A well-kept lawn, clean front porch, and welcoming entryway can create instant confidence in your property.

Tips:

  • …

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College isn’t just about academics—it’s also a time when many parents look at smart housing alternatives for their children. If your student is attending Auburn University, buying a home instead of renting an apartment can be a wise investment for your family.

As a real estate expert in Auburn, I’ve helped many parents navigate this process. Whether you're buying to save on rent, create future equity, or invest in a rental for post-graduation income, here's what you need to know about buying a home for your college student.

1. Understand the Benefits of Buying Instead of Renting

While renting is often the default option, buying can offer several long-term benefits:

  • Save money on rent over the course of 4+ years

  • Build equity in a…

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Owning investment property can be a smart way to build wealth, but it doesn’t mean you have to hold onto it forever. There comes a time when selling your rental property makes more sense than keeping it—especially if you're looking to cash in, reduce stress, or reinvest elsewhere.

As a real estate expert in Auburn and Opelika, I’ve worked with many property owners who weren’t sure if it was the right time to sell. Here are five clear signs that it might be time to consider listing your investment property.

1. You’re No Longer Seeing Strong Returns

When your rental income no longer covers your expenses—or your return on investment (ROI) is dropping—it may be time to reevaluate.

Ask yourself:

  • Has your cash flow decreased?

  • Are…

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If you’ve been house hunting in Auburn or Opelika, you've likely seen homes sell fast—and often above asking price. With rising prices and fierce competition, you may be wondering:
Should I wait for the market to cool down before buying a home?

It’s a smart question—and one I get often as a local real estate agent. The short answer? It depends on your goals, your finances, and how long you're willing to wait. Here's what you need to think about before putting your search on pause.

What Does a “Hot” Market Really Mean?

In a hot real estate market:

  • Homes sell quickly, often within days

  • Multiple offers are common

  • Prices tend to rise due to low inventory and high demand

  • Interest rates may start to climb if…

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In today’s digital-first market, your listing photos are your first showing—and they need to impress. Whether you're selling a cozy condo or a spacious family home in Auburn or Opelika, the quality of your real estate photos can directly impact how quickly your property sells—and for how much.

As a local real estate expert, I’ve seen firsthand how great photography can generate buzz and how poor-quality photos can keep a beautiful home sitting on the market. Here’s why real estate photos matter more than ever—and how to make sure yours help, not hurt, your listing.

First Impressions Happen Online

Before a buyer even sets foot in your home, they’ve likely scrolled through dozens of listings. You only get one chance to catch their eye—and that…

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