Looking for an affordable lot in North Madison County with plenty of space and flexibility? In this latest episode of On the Road with Marcum Sold, Amanda Marcum takes us through Settlers Trace, a quiet and heavily wooded neighborhood just off Boonesboro Road (Exit 95 off I-75), only four miles from the interstate.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to build your dream home, or interested in a low-maintenance lot, Settlers Trace offers a unique opportunity in the Richmond area.

Neighborhood Features and Restrictions

The neighborhood is quiet, with a cul-de-sac layout and heavily wooded lots, perfect for privacy. While there are restrictions to ensure quality construction, they are minimal compared to nearby neighborhoods:

• Ranch-style homes: minimum 2,000 sq ft
• Story & a half: minimum 2,200 sq ft
• Two-story homes: minimum 2,400 sq ft
• Garage requirement: each home must have a 2-car detached or attached garage

Unlike some nearby communities, there are no HOA fees or strict rules regarding pools, fences, or other features, giving buyers more freedom to customize their property.

Location Highlights

Settlers Trace is conveniently located near Winchester and provides easy access to the interstate via Exit 95 or nearby Exit 97. The neighborhood is close to Seven Oaks off Simpson Lane, making commuting, shopping, and dining straightforward while still enjoying a quiet, wooded setting.

Why Settlers Trace Could Be Right for You

• Affordable lots in a private, wooded setting
• Flexible building restrictions for creative homeowners
• Convenient North Madison County location near I-75
• Opportunity to build a custom home without HOA constraints

If you’re considering building your dream home or just want to explore your options in North Madison County, Settlers Trace is worth a closer look.

Contact Amanda Marcum

Curious about this neighborhood or want to know what your current home is worth? Amanda Marcum and the Marcum Sold Team are here to help. With years of experience in the Richmond area, Amanda can guide you through the home-buying or selling process every step of the way.

📞 Call or text: 859-353-2853 🌐 Visit: https://www.marcumsold.com/home-value/

If you’re looking for a move-in-ready home with modern upgrades, privacy, and an open layout built for everyday living, you won’t want to miss this open house.

Join us Sunday, January 4th, from 2–4 PM at 432 Balite Way in Richmond, KY, and see firsthand what makes this home such a standout.

Fresh Updates & Thoughtful Design

As of December 17, 2025, this energy-efficient Mark Wilds home has been refreshed with brand new carpet and fresh paint, making it feel clean, bright, and truly turnkey.

Inside, the open-concept floor plan centers around a chef-inspired kitchen designed for both function and style. You’ll love:

• A gas range
• Ample countertop space
• A dedicated pantry
• Additional overflow pantry storage in the laundry room

The great room features vaulted ceilings, creating an open, airy feel, while tile flooring in the dining area adds durability and style.

Indoor Comfort Meets Outdoor Privacy

One of the most unique features of this home is the screened-in porch - a private retreat perfect for quiet mornings or relaxing evenings, even though the home is located within a neighborhood.

Outside, you’ll also find:

• A flat, privacy-fenced backyard
• A storage building for tools or equipment
• A covered front porch
• A convenient side-entry man door off the garage

A Primary Suite Built for Relaxation

The primary ensuite offers a peaceful escape with:

• A walk-in closet
• Separate walk-in shower and soaking tub
• Double bowl vanity

Additional features include a security system and a gas tankless water heater, adding both comfort and efficiency.

Join Us at the Open House

This home truly checks all the boxes - updates, layout, privacy, and thoughtful extras.

📍 Open House: Sunday, January 4th
⏰ Time: 2–4 PM
🏡 Address: 432 Balite Way, Richmond, KY

If you’ve been waiting for the right home - or just want to see what’s possible in today’s market—this is your opportunity.
Stop by the open house, explore the home, and let’s talk about what your next move could look like. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just gathering information, Amanda Marcum is here to help you make confident decisions.

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum: 859-353-2853

Winter in Berea is anything but quiet. From hands-on art experiences to laid-back social gatherings, the first week of January is packed with opportunities to connect, create, and unwind. Whether you’re a longtime local or exploring the area, these events showcase exactly why Berea’s community spirit shines year-round.

Here’s what’s happening around town this week:

🎨 Glass Snowman Workshop

January 3, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Fire & Fern Glass Studio – 217 Adams St.

Warm up by the furnace and create a one-of-a-kind winter keepsake at this seasonal glass workshop. Participants will design and shape a handmade glass snowman, choosing custom colors for hats and scarves - from icy blues to classic reds and forest greens.

This immersive experience is perfect for creatives of all skill levels and makes for a meaningful piece of décor or a thoughtful handmade gift.

🧠 Monday Live Team Trivia

January 5, 2026 | Doors at 6:00 PM | Trivia 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge – 440 Chestnut Street

Looking for a fun and social way to kick off the week? Grab your friends - or join a team when you arrive - for Monday night trivia hosted by Drew of Questionable Activities.

✔️ Free to play
✔️ All ages welcome
✔️ Prizes for winners
✔️ Cash bar + food truck available

It’s a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes Mondays something to look forward to.

🪵 Woodcarver Wednesday

January 7, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Madison County Public Library – 319 Chestnut Street
🎟️ Free Event

Every Wednesday, talented local woodcarvers gather at the library to demonstrate their craft. Watch live carving, enjoy fiddle music, ask questions, and learn more about this intricate Appalachian art form.

This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Berea’s deep-rooted creative traditions - perfect for all ages.

🍷 Wine Down Wednesday

January 7, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Historic Boone Tavern – 100 Main Street

Midweek relaxation never tasted so good. Stop by Crafted at Boone Tavern and enjoy:

• $2 off glasses of wine
• $5 off bottles
• Cozy indoor seating or beautiful porch views

Wine Down Wednesday is a favorite local tradition and a great excuse to slow down and savor the moment.

Why Events Like These Matter

Local events are more than calendar fillers - they’re what create connection, culture, and community. Berea continues to offer a vibrant mix of creativity, history, and hospitality that makes living here truly special.

If you’re considering a move or simply want to experience more of what Berea has to offer, this week is a great place to start.

Ready to Make Berea Home?

From community events to neighborhood insights, having a local expert makes all the difference.

📞 Thinking about buying or selling?
Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853 to talk about your next move and discover what makes life in Berea so special.

If a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while.

After a stretch where many people felt stuck, 2026 is shaping up to be a year with more balance, more options, and more clarity for people who want to make a move. Not because the market is suddenly “easy,” but because several key conditions are shifting.

Here’s what the experts are saying you have to look forward to.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com:

“After a challenging period for buyers, sellers and renters, 2026 should offer a welcome, if modest, step toward a healthier housing market.”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Top economists have one word to sum up the housing market for 2026: opportunity. Lower mortgage rates and a rising supply of homes are expected to open up the housing market . . . something the real estate industry and potential home buyers and sellers have been waiting for, following three years of stagnation.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American:

“. . . for the first time in several years, the underlying forces are finally aligned toward gradual improvement. Mortgage rates may drift down only slowly, but income growth exceeding house price appreciation will provide a boost to house-buying power — even in a higher-rate world. Affordability won’t snap back overnight, but like a ship finally catching a steady tailwind, it’s now sailing in the right direction.”

Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow:

“Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand. Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever

Just remember, while the national outlook is improving, conditions will still be different based on where you live. Some markets will move faster than others. Some will see stronger price growth. Others will remain flat. As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“Market performance will hinge on local economic conditions, making 2026 one of the most geographically divided markets we’ve seen in years.”

That’s why understanding what’s happening in your specific area is key. The national trends set the stage, but local dynamics determine how they play out for you. And that's why you need an agent.

Bottom Line

If you want to talk through what’s expected for our local market and which trends you’ll want to take advantage of, let’s connect.

Thinking about making a move in 2026?
The national outlook is improving, but what really matters is how these trends apply right here in our local market. Let’s talk through what opportunity looks like for you, whether you’re buying, selling, or just planning ahead.

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853 to get clear, local insight and a strategy tailored to your goals.

If you’re searching for a home that blends thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a community built for connection, you won’t want to miss this open house!

📅 Saturday & Sunday, January 3^rd and 4^th
🕐 1:00–3:00 PM
📍 Magnolia Pointe | Lot 168 – The Alexander II

Join us this weekend to tour the Alexander II, a beautifully designed home by Payne Homes, a trusted local builder with more than 30 years of experience in Madison County.

Designed for Everyday Living & Entertaining

From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the attention to detail and functional layout that make this home stand out.

On the main level, enjoy:

• 9’ ceilings that create a bright, open feel
• Rich hardwood floors throughout the living, dining, and kitchen areas
• A well-appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry, and breakfast bar
• Mudroom/drop zone just off the garage
• Tile-floored laundry room
• Convenient half bath

This floor plan is ideal for both daily living and hosting family or friends.

Spacious Bedrooms & a Luxurious Primary Suite

Upstairs, you’ll find four generously sized bedrooms, all featuring walk-in closets - a rare and highly desirable feature.

The primary suite offers a true retreat, complete with:

• Double vanities
• Linen closet
• Beautifully tiled 5’x3’ walk-in shower

Need even more space? The finished basement includes a 5th bedroom, 3rd full bathroom, and a family room, perfect for guests, a home office, or additional living space.

Quality You Can Trust with Payne Homes

When you purchase a Payne Home, you can do so with confidence. Known for their award-winning floor plans, premium standard features, and energy-efficient details, Payne Homes has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship throughout Madison County.

✔️ 1-Year Builder’s Warranty
✔️ HOA Fee: $250/year

Life in Magnolia Pointe

Magnolia Pointe is more than a neighborhood - it’s a community designed for lifestyle and connection. Residents enjoy:

• Family park
• Walking trails
• Fishing ponds
• Dog park
• Streetlights and cluster mailboxes for a clean, cohesive look

Plus, an upcoming phase will connect Union City Road to Mission Drive, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Utilities include KU Electric, with Richmond Utilities providing gas, water, and sewer.

Join Us This Weekend

Whether you’re actively house hunting or just starting to explore your options, this open house is a great opportunity to experience the quality and lifestyle Magnolia Pointe has to offer.

📞 Questions or want more information? Check out the full listing here: https://www.marcumsold.com/search/details/5om/0/

Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853

We’d love to welcome you this Saturday or Sunday from 1 - 3 PM - come see why so many buyers are choosing Payne Homes and Magnolia Pointe for their next chapter. 🏡✨

When you’re buying a home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make - right alongside choosing the right real estate professional - is selecting the right mortgage lender. While online and internet-based lenders may seem convenient at first glance, the difference between working with a local lender versus an online lender is bigger than many buyers realize.

In a recent FAQ video, Amanda Marcum shares why choosing a local lender can make a night-and-day difference in your home buying experience.

A Real Person You Can Sit Down With

One of the biggest advantages of working with a local lender is simple but powerful:
you’re working with a real person.

Home buying is a complex and highly personal process. Questions come up. Concerns arise. Details matter. With a local lender, you have the ability to:

• Meet face-to-face
• Ask questions in real time
• Walk through documents together
• Build a relationship based on trust

Instead of being routed through call centers or emails, you can sit down with someone who knows you, understands your situation, and is invested in helping you succeed.

Guidance Through a Complex Process

Mortgages aren’t one-size-fits-all. From credit questions to loan programs to timelines, the home financing process can feel overwhelming - especially for first-time buyers.

A local lender takes the time to explain:

• How the mortgage process works
• What loan options best fit your goals
• What to expect at each step of the transaction

That personal guidance can reduce stress, prevent surprises, and help you move forward with confidence.

Same Services - More Accountability

Here’s something many buyers don’t realize:
Local lenders often offer the same services and loan products as large online lenders.

So, the real question becomes - why wouldn’t you want to work with someone local?

A local lender lives and works in the same community as you do. They have a reputation to uphold. They’re someone you might run into at church, school events, or around town. That level of accountability matters.

Local lenders are motivated to provide:

• Clear communication
• Reliable timelines
• Strong follow-through

Because relationships - not volume - are at the heart of their business.

A Stronger Team Means a Smoother Closing

As a realtor, Amanda knows firsthand how important teamwork is during a real estate transaction. When buyers work with local lenders, it often leads to:

• Better communication between lender and agent
• Faster problem-solving
• Fewer delays
• Smoother closings

That collaboration benefits everyone involved, especially the buyer.

Thinking About Buying a Home?

Choosing the right lender can shape your entire home buying experience. If you’re considering purchasing a home and want guidance on trusted local lending partners, Amanda Marcum would be happy to help point you in the right direction.

👉 Start here: Learn more about buying a home https://www.marcumsold.com/buyers/

📞 Have questions or need a lender recommendation?
Call Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853

Buying a home is too important to navigate alone - surround yourself with a local team you can trust.

Looking for a home that combines comfort, style, and one of the best locations in Richmond? This well-maintained split-foyer home offers everything you need and more, from spacious living areas to beautiful outdoor spaces.

Spacious Living for Every Lifestyle

This home features 4 bedrooms and 2 family/living spaces, perfect for growing families or those who love to entertain. On the main level, you’ll find:

• 3 bedrooms, including a primary suite with ensuite bathroom
• Full guest bathroom
• Spacious laundry room with cabinetry that stays
• Great room with vaulted ceilings for a bright and open feel
• Dining space off the kitchen with abundant pantry storage
• Kitchen featuring a charming, tiled backsplash

Downstairs, there’s additional living space perfect for a second family room, media room, or play area. The 4th bedroom is ideal for a home office, complete with a wall of built-in bookshelves and cabinetry. Plus, there’s an unfinished room providing easy access to all the home’s mechanicals.

Garage & Storage

The oversized garage measures 27’ deep, providing plenty of space for vehicles, tools, or storage. Outdoors, you’ll find:

• Gorgeous landscaping
• Covered rear deck for relaxing or entertaining
• Privacy-fenced backyard
• Storage building for lawn equipment

For convenience, the washer and dryer are included with the sale, and the seller’s riding lawn mower is negotiable.

Location, Location, Location

Situated in one of Richmond’s most desirable neighborhoods, this home is close to shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities, making it a perfect combination of comfort and convenience.

Schedule a Tour Today

Homes like this don’t stay on the market long. If you’re ready to experience all this property has to offer, contact Amanda Marcum today!

📞 Call or Text: 859-353-2853
🌐 View listing and more details: https://www.marcumsold.com/search/details/61z/0/

Make this beautiful Richmond home your next place to call home!

On the Road with #MARCUMsold: Discover Deer Creek Estates in Richmond, KY

If you’ve ever wondered what makes certain neighborhoods stand out in the Central Kentucky real estate market, you’re not alone. In this episode of On the Road with #MARCUMsold, Realtor Amanda Marcum takes us on a tour of Deer Creek Estates, a hidden gem community in Richmond, KY - showcasing why it’s capturing the interest of today’s homebuyers.

Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or just curious about local neighborhoods, this spotlight highlights what makes Deer Creek Estates a place many families are proud to call home.

A Neighborhood with Character

Located in the heart of Richmond, Deer Creek Estates offers a peaceful, family-friendly environment that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Known for its:

• Quiet streets and welcoming community vibe
• Well-maintained lawns and attractive homes
• Convenient access to local amenities and services

Residents enjoy a lifestyle that blends comfort with small-town charm.

This neighborhood is perfect for buyers seeking both convenience and a sense of belonging - places where neighbors know each other by name and morning walks feel like moving meditation.

Homes that Fit Your Life

Amanda points out in the video that Deer Creek Estates features a variety of home styles and sizes, making it ideal for different phases of life - from first-time buyers and young families to move-up buyers looking for more space.

Many properties offer:

• Spacious yards and mature landscaping
• Comfortable interiors with classic layouts
• Room to grow and personalize over time

The mix of homes here creates an inclusive atmosphere where buyers can find a property that feels like home right from the start. Click here to view the full video.

Why Buyers Love It

What stands out most in Amanda’s community tour isn’t just the homes - it’s the lifestyle Deer Creek Estates supports. Locals frequently describe the neighborhood as quiet and safe, yet close enough to shopping, schools, and major roadways for easy travel and a balanced daily routine.

For buyers who want suburban peace without isolation, this neighborhood strikes the perfect balance.

Your Neighborhood Expert: Amanda Marcum

Real estate isn’t just about properties - it’s about helping people find a place where life happens. Amanda Marcum knows the Central Kentucky market inside and out, and neighborhood spotlights like this are part of what sets her apart. With years of experience guiding buyers and sellers across Madison County, Amanda’s insight helps clients make confident decisions that align with their goals.

Whether you’re curious about Deer Creek Estates or considering a move somewhere else in the area, connecting with a trusted local realtor like Amanda can make all the difference.

Thinking About Making a Move?

If you’d like to explore homes in Deer Creek Estates or any other part of Madison County, Amanda and the #MARCUMsold Team would love to help. From personalized tours to market insights and negotiation expertise, they’re with you every step of the way.

👉 Check out homes for sale now: https://www.marcumsold.com/
👉 Call or message Amanda to schedule a tour: 859-353-2853

Whether it’s finding the right neighborhood, touring homes, or understanding today’s market trends, we’re here to make your real estate journey informed and enjoyable.

Choosing the right real estate professional can make all the difference, especially when you’re navigating one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. At Marcum Sold, our goal has always been simple: deliver exceptional service, clear communication, and real results for every client we serve.

But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what recent clients have shared about their experience working with Amanda Marcum and the Marcum Sold Team.

⭐ “The Standard for Service and Client Excellence”

Randy Harris, Local Guide

From day one, Randy saw firsthand what a strategic, data-driven real estate approach looks like.

“Amanda and her fantastic team of realtors set the standard for service and client excellence. From Day 1 till our house was sold, Amanda and her team worked social media vigorously. Each week we received a quantitative analysis of showings, website visits, visitor location, and other pertinent data…”

For sellers, transparency and communication matter. Weekly reporting, clear pricing guidance, and proactive marketing are part of how we ensure our clients always know where they stand - and what’s working.

⭐ “Professional, Knowledgeable, and Always Responsive”

Jon B.

Selling a home often involves preparation, strategy, and the right improvements before hitting the market. Jon highlights how guidance and responsiveness made the process smoother and more successful.

“Amanda provided valuable insight on the improvements and referred us to great contractors… She was readily available and always quick to respond.”

From advising on smart pre-listing upgrades to coordinating trusted local professionals, our role goes beyond listing a home - we help you prepare it to stand out.

⭐ “Exactly What Buyers Were Looking For”

Teresa Anglin

Understanding what buyers want - and marketing a home accordingly - is critical in today’s market. Teresa’s experience reflects the importance of listening, asking the right questions, and executing with intention.

“Amanda listened, asked all the right questions, and marketed exactly what buyers were wanting… Professional photos and mass marketing across numerous platforms got our home sold to a wonderful family from another state.”

Strategic marketing, professional presentation, and broad exposure help connect the right buyers with the right homes - no matter where they’re coming from.

Why Clients Trust Marcum Sold

Across every review, a few themes consistently rise to the top:

• Clear communication and responsiveness
• Strategic pricing and expert guidance
• Data-backed marketing and reporting
• A hands-on team approach from start to finish

Whether you’re selling, buying, or relocating, our mission is to walk beside you every step of the way - confidently, professionally, and with your goals front and center.

Thinking About Making a Move?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Madison County or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help you take the next step with confidence:

👉 Thinking about selling? Start here:
https://www.marcumsold.com/sellers/

👉 Planning to buy next? Learn more here:
https://www.marcumsold.com/buyers/

📞 Have questions?
Call Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853

Your experience matters - and we’re here to make it a successful one.

If you’ve been watching the real estate market closely, you may have felt it - things are starting to shift.

After a slower, more cautious stretch, buyer activity is showing signs of life again. Mortgage rates have eased from their recent highs, and that change is making a noticeable difference in how buyers are behaving. More people are paying attention, more conversations are happening, and more homes are starting to move.

So what’s really going on - and what does it mean if you’ve been thinking about selling?

Let’s break it down.

When Rates Settle, Buyers Re-Enter the Market

Today’s buyers are extremely rate sensitive. Even small changes in mortgage rates can be enough to bring people off the sidelines.

As rates have come down over the past year, mortgage applications have increased. That’s often one of the first indicators that demand is starting to be rebuilt. Buyers who paused their plans aren’t necessarily waiting for “perfect” conditions anymore - they’re adjusting to today’s reality and re-engaging when the numbers start to feel workable again.

The takeaway? Lower rates don’t just improve affordability - they restore confidence. And confidence is what gets buyers back into showings, writing offers, and moving forward.

Pending Sales Are Telling a Promising Story

Another encouraging signal is the rise in pending home sales - homes that are officially under contract. Pending sales are important because they give us a preview of what closed sales may look like in the coming months.

Recent national data shows pending sales reaching their strongest levels of the year, which suggests the market is regaining momentum heading into 2026. This doesn’t mean things are suddenly overheated - but it does mean buyers are actively making decisions again.

For sellers, that matters.

More contracts today often translate into stronger sales activity tomorrow.

What This Means If You’re Considering Selling

If you’ve been waiting for a clearer sign before making a move, this may be it.

Here’s why:

• Buyer interest is improving. As rates ease, more buyers are touring homes and taking action - especially those who’ve been waiting patiently.
• Early movers often benefit most. Listing before competition ramps up can mean better positioning, more attention, and less pressure to chase the market.
• Motivated buyers are re-entering. Many of today’s buyers feel like they’ve already waited long enough - and that urgency can work in a seller’s favor.

If you previously listed your home without success or decided to hold off because the market felt quiet, it may be time to revisit that plan with fresh eyes.

Bottom Line

Buyer demand is showing signs of life, and the market is heading into 2026 with renewed energy. If selling is on your radar, timing — along with pricing and strategy — can make all the difference.

If you’d like to explore your options, I’d love to help you take the next step with confidence:

👉 Thinking about selling? Start here:
https://www.marcumsold.com/sellers/

👉 Planning to buy next? Learn more here:
https://www.marcumsold.com/buyers/

📞 Or call me directly at 859-353-2853 to talk through what’s happening in our local market and how you can take advantage of the momentum building into 2026.