Across the U.S., Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—also called guest houses, in-law suites, or garage apartments—are growing in popularity. Homeowners add them to provide space for family, generate rental income, or boost property value.

But what about Auburn, Alabama? Can you build an ADU here? Let’s break it down.

What is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a smaller, independent living space located on the same property as a single-family home. ADUs can be:

  • A basement or attic apartment

  • A garage converted into living space

  • A detached guest house or cottage

  • A separate unit attached to the main home

Auburn’s Zoning and ADU Regulations

Whether or not you can build an ADU depends on local zoning…

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Living in Alabama means enjoying warm weather, friendly neighborhoods, and plenty of sunshine—but it also means preparing for the occasional severe storm. From thunderstorms and tornadoes to heavy rains and hail, Auburn and Opelika homeowners should take steps to safeguard their property year-round.

Here’s how you can protect your home from storm damage in Alabama’s climate:

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

Your roof is your first line of defense.

  • Schedule regular inspections to check for missing shingles, leaks, or soft spots.

  • Upgrade to impact-resistant shingles if possible.

  • Keep gutters and downspouts clear so water can flow away from the home.

2. Secure Windows and Doors

High winds can cause significant…

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Buying a home is one of the biggest financial steps many people will take—and in a competitive market like Auburn, flexibility can be the key to success. While most buyers use traditional 15- or 30-year mortgages, there are creative financing options that can make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers or those with unique financial situations.

Here’s a breakdown of some alternative financing strategies Auburn homebuyers may consider:

1. Seller Financing

Instead of working with a bank, the seller acts as the lender and you make payments directly to them.

  • Works best when the seller owns the property outright.

  • Can be helpful if buyers have trouble qualifying for a traditional loan.

  • Terms (like…

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Finding out your homeowner’s insurance has been canceled or non-renewed can feel overwhelming. Insurance isn’t just protection for your property—it’s also often required by your mortgage lender.

If you’re a homeowner in Auburn or Opelika facing this situation, here’s what you can do to quickly regain coverage and keep your home protected.

Step 1: Understand Why It Was Canceled

Insurance companies must provide a reason for cancellation or non-renewal. Common causes include:

  • Missed premium payments

  • Multiple claims in a short period

  • Property issues (roof condition, outdated wiring, foundation concerns, etc.)

  • Company policy changes or withdrawal from your area

???? Tip: Review the notice carefully. If it’s…

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Owning a home in Auburn or Opelika comes with many responsibilities—and understanding your property lines is one of the most important. Whether you’re planning to build a fence, install a shed, or plant trees, knowing where your property ends and your neighbor’s begins helps prevent conflicts, costly mistakes, and even legal disputes.

Here’s what every homeowner should know about property boundaries and how to avoid disputes.

What Are Property Lines?

Property lines define the legal boundaries of your land. They determine where you can build, maintain landscaping, or make improvements, and they clarify where a neighbor’s property begins.

You’ll typically find your property lines in:

  • Your deed and title documents

  • A professional…

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You’ve chosen your fence style, purchased materials, and are ready to begin. But before you dig that first post hole, there’s an important step that many Auburn and Opelika homeowners overlook: getting a property survey.

Without one, you risk disputes, fines, or even having to remove your fence entirely. Here’s why a property survey should always come first.

1. Avoid Encroaching on a Neighbor’s Property

Property lines are not always obvious, and assumptions can lead to costly mistakes. Even a few inches over the line can cause conflicts with neighbors.

Quick Fix:

  • Order a property survey to confirm boundaries

  • Build only within your legal lot lines

  • Protect both relationships and peace of mind

2. Stay Compliant…

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You’ve just moved into your new home in Auburn or Opelika, unpacked the boxes, and started settling in—when you receive a letter from the homeowners association marked “Violation Notice.”

If you’ve never dealt with an HOA before, this can feel overwhelming. The good news? Most HOA violations are simple to resolve when handled the right way. Here’s a step-by-step guide for new homeowners.

1. Don’t Ignore the Notice

Even if it seems like a minor issue, don’t set the letter aside. HOA rules are part of the agreement you signed when purchasing your home. Ignoring a violation can lead to fines or more serious consequences.

What to Check in the Notice:

  • The rule that was violated

  • What action the HOA wants you to take

  • …

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If you’ve been considering real estate investing, multi-family properties—such as duplexes, triplexes, and small apartment buildings—can be an excellent way to start or scale your portfolio. They offer opportunities for steady rental income, appreciation, and reduced vacancy risks compared to single-family rentals.

But like any investment, multi-family real estate comes with trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown of the key pros and cons of multi-family investing, especially in Auburn and Opelika.

What Counts as Multi-Family?

Multi-family real estate includes any property with more than one unit under the same roof. Examples include:

  • Duplexes (2 units)

  • Triplexes (3 units)

  • Fourplexes (4 units)

  • Small apartment complexes…

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You’ve listed your home, and the first offer comes in—but there’s a catch. It’s a contingent offer, meaning the buyer has conditions that must be met before closing.
If you’re selling a home in Auburn or Opelika, you may wonder whether accepting a contingent offer is a smart move. The answer: it depends on your situation.

Let’s break down what contingent offers are, the pros and cons, and how to decide if one is right for you.

What Is a Contingent Offer?

A contingent offer means the buyer wants to purchase your home, but certain conditions must be met first. Common contingencies include:

  • Home Sale Contingency: Buyer must sell their current home before closing on yours.

  • Financing Contingency: Buyer must secure final mortgage…

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Smart home technology is no longer just a luxury—it’s a real selling point. Today’s buyers are looking for convenience, efficiency, and modern features that make daily living easier. From smart thermostats to app-controlled lighting, adding the right smart devices can make your Auburn or Opelika home more appealing and increase its resale value.

Here’s how smart home tech can give your property an edge in today’s market.

1. Why Buyers Love Convenience

Modern buyers are drawn to homes that feel updated and low-maintenance. Smart home devices deliver that sense of ease right away.

Popular Smart Features Include:

  • Smart thermostats (Nest, Ecobee, etc.)

  • Video doorbells

  • Smart locks and keyless entry

  • Security…

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