If you’ve been searching for a spacious, well-built home in one of Richmond’s most desirable communities, you won’t want to miss this upcoming open house.

Join us Sunday, January 18th, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. to tour 1009 Mission Drive, Richmond, KY, located in the Magnolia Pointe neighborhood. This home showcases the popular Alexander II floor plan by Payne Homes, offering the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality.

A Home Designed for Everyday Living & Entertaining

From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design throughout the main level:

• 9’ ceilings for an open, airy feel
• Rich hardwood floors in the living, dining, and kitchen areas
• A beautifully appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a breakfast bar
• Mudroom/drop zone off the garage for everyday organization
• Tile-floored laundry room
• Convenient half bath on the main floor

Upstairs, you’ll find four spacious bedrooms, all with walk-in closets, including a stunning primary suite featuring:

• Double vanities
• Linen closet
• Large tiled 5’ x 3’ walk-in shower

Need more space? The finished basement adds even more flexibility with a fifth bedroom, third full bathroom, and a family room - ideal for guests, a home office, or movie nights.

Built by Payne Homes – Quality You Can Trust

This home was built by Payne Homes, a trusted local builder with over 30 years of experience in Madison County. Known for award-winning floor plans, premium standard features, and attention to energy-efficient construction, Payne Homes delivers confidence along with craftsmanship.

You’ll also enjoy peace of mind with a 1-year builder’s warranty.

Life in Magnolia Pointe

Magnolia Pointe is more than just a neighborhood - it’s a lifestyle. Residents enjoy:

• A family park
• Walking trails
• Fishing ponds
• Dog park
• Streetlights and organized cluster mailboxes for cleaner streets

Plus, future development will connect Union City Road to Mission Drive, adding even more convenience.

Utilities include KU Electric and Richmond Utilities for gas, water, and sewer. HOA fee is $250 per year.

Visit Us This Sunday

There’s no better way to experience this home than in person.

📍 1009 Mission Drive, Richmond, KY
🗓 Sunday, January 18th
⏰ 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Walk through the layout, explore the finishes, and imagine yourself living in this beautiful Magnolia Pointe home.

Ready to Learn More?

If you can’t make the open house or would like more details, pricing, or private showing information, I’d love to help.

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

Whether you’re actively house hunting or just starting to explore your options, let’s talk about how this home - or another great opportunity - could fit your next move.

Your dream home might be waiting at 1009 Mission Drive. 🏡✨

When you’re buying a home - especially in Kentucky - it’s easy to focus on the big things: price, location, layout, and condition. But there’s one step in the process that often gets overlooked and can save you thousands down the road: the pest inspection.

As a local Realtor®, I’m asked all the time whether a pest inspection is really necessary. My answer is simple and confident: yes - absolutely.

Why Pest Inspections Matter on Existing Homes

When purchasing an existing home, a pest inspection is incredibly important. While many buyers think it’s just about termites, the reality is much broader.

A professional pest inspection looks for:

• Termites, which can cause extreme structural damage (yes, I’ve personally seen termites eat drywall)
• Wood-destroying organisms
• Carpenter ants
• Wood-boring bees
• Other pests hiding in places most buyers would never think to check

Inspectors examine both the interior and exterior of the home, including crawl spaces, foundations, framing, and other hard-to-see areas. These are issues that often don’t show up during a general home inspection but can absolutely impact the safety and value of the home.

Simply put: a pest inspection is well worth the money.

What About Newer Homes or New Construction?

Even if a home is brand new, I still strongly recommend a pest inspection.

Here’s why:

• Pests don’t discriminate based on a home’s age
• Newer homes can still have hidden issues
• It provides peace of mind and documentation

For new construction, builders typically pre-treat the soil before building. That treatment is usually warranted for five years, which is great - but it’s still important for buyers to understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how to maintain protection over time.

A Small Step That Protects a Big Investment

Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Skipping a pest inspection to save a little money upfront can lead to costly repairs later - and unnecessary stress.

My job is to help you avoid surprises and protect your investment from the very beginning.

Let’s Make Sure You’re Covered

If you’re buying a home and have questions about inspections, timelines, or what to expect during the process, I’d love to help.

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum (859-353-2853) to talk through your next steps and make sure nothing gets overlooked. Having the right guidance - and the right inspections - can make all the difference in a smooth, confident home purchase.

Your home should be a place of comfort, not unexpected repairs. Let’s do it the right way. 🏡✨

If you’ve been dreaming of building a home on an acre lot with room to breathe - without giving up convenience - this newest Madison County development deserves your attention.

Hi friends, I’m Amanda Marcum with the Marcum Sold Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, and in this episode of On the Road with Marcum Sold, I’m taking you through Callaway at Boonesboro, one of Richmond and Madison County’s newest acre-lot communities.

Location, Location… and Convenience

Callaway at Boonesboro is located just three miles from Exit 95 off I-75, right off Boonesboro Road toward Winchester. That means:

• Less than 15 minutes to Richmond Centre
• Easy access to Hamburg and Lexington
• Close proximity to Clark County
• About one mile from Boonesboro Elementary School

It’s a location that offers the best of both worlds - peaceful surroundings with quick access to everyday amenities.

About the Neighborhood

Phase One of Callaway at Boonesboro is officially open, and lots are selling. This phase includes 32 total lots, with:

• Lot sizes starting at 1 acre
• Some cul-de-sac lots offering up to 3 acres
• Gently rolling land with beautiful Kentucky farmland views

Winter is actually a great time to explore a development like this—you can really see the lay of the land without heavy foliage hiding the contours.

Building Guidelines & Restrictions

Callaway at Boonesboro offers flexibility while maintaining a high-quality aesthetic throughout the neighborhood. Key restrictions include:

• Minimum square footage
• Ranch homes: 1,800 sq ft
• Story-and-a-half: 2,000 sq ft (1,500 on main level)
• Two-story homes: 2,400 sq ft (1,200 on main level)
• Minimum two-car garages
• Roof pitch: 8/12
• Fencing allowed: four-board plank fencing
• Exterior materials: primarily brick and stone, with limited accents (vinyl/Hardie allowed per plans)

There is already a spec home underway, and several respected builders are active in the neighborhood, including Mark Wilds and Andrew Luxton, who is also one of the developers.

Schools

Homes in Callaway at Boonesboro are zoned for:

• Boonesboro Elementary
• Michael B. Coddle Middle School
• Madison Central High School

Pricing & Future Plans

Lots are currently priced at $90,000, and they’re moving quickly - proof that buyers see the value here.

Planned neighborhood features include:

• Sidewalks (installed by homeowners as they build)
• Future development beyond Phase One, expanding the community further

Is Callaway at Boonesboro Right for You?

If you’re looking for:

• Acre lots
• Custom or semi-custom home options
• A newer community with strong long-term value
• Easy interstate access without feeling “suburban crowded”

…this could be an excellent fit.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Move

If you’d like more information about available lots, want to connect with a trusted builder, or are curious whether Callaway at Boonesboro aligns with your goals, I’d love to help.

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

Whether you’re ready to build now or just starting to explore your options, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s make your next move a confident one. 🏡✨

Choosing the right real estate team can make all the difference - especially when you’re navigating one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. At Marcum Sold, our mission is simple: deliver exceptional service, clear communication, and results that truly matter to our clients.

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.

⭐ “Made the Buying Process Very Easy.”

Matthew Ashby | First-Time Buyer – Richmond, KY

For many buyers, especially first-timers, the home-buying process can feel overwhelming. Matthew’s experience highlights what we strive for with every client - clarity, responsiveness, and guidance at every step.

“Working with Amanda Marcum has been great! Has made the buying process very easy so far. Anything that has come up, she was on top of it right away… she has been very helpful in helping me understand my options and the process.”

Helping clients understand their options and feel confident in their decisions is a cornerstone of how we work - especially for those buying their first home.

⭐ “Unmatched from Start to Finish.”

Alisha Ashby | First-Time Homebuyer – Richmond, KY

Buying your first home comes with questions, nerves, and big decisions. Alisha’s review speaks to the care, communication, and preparation our team brings to every transaction.

“Amanda and her team at MARCUMsold are unmatched… they walked us through every step and made sure we were prepared. Communication through the entire process was clear and efficient.”

From education and preparation to negotiation and closing, our goal is to ensure clients feel supported, informed, and confident - no matter their experience level.

⭐ “Top-Notch from Listing to Closing.”

Niki Lewis | Home Seller

Selling a home requires strategy, precision, and strong marketing. Niki’s experience reflects the level of detail and execution Marcum Sold brings to every listing.

“Every detail from the amazing photographs, beautifully written listing description, widespread marketing… to the closing was TOP NOTCH!”

With multiple showings immediately, competing offers, and a contract signed within days, this seamless experience demonstrates the power of strategic pricing, professional marketing, and expert negotiation.

What These Reviews Have in Common

Across buyers and sellers alike, a few themes stand out consistently:

• Clear and constant communication
• Expert guidance through every step
• Strong negotiation and advocacy
• Strategic marketing that delivers results
• A smooth, stress-free experience

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a longtime residence, or making your next move, Marcum Sold is committed to putting your goals first.

Ready to Get Started?

Your experience matters - and choosing the right team can make all the difference.

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853
🌐 Visit here to learn more
📍 Proudly serving Richmond, Madison County, and surrounding areas

Let’s make your next move a successful one - with confidence, clarity, and results you can feel good about. 🏡✨

Looking for things to do in Berea, Kentucky, this January? From live theater and mindful moments in nature to guided hikes at the Pinnacles, Berea is kicking off the new year with events that bring the community together. Whether you’re a resident or considering calling Berea home, here are three upcoming events you won’t want to miss.

🎭 The Adventure of the Clutching Claw

January 9–18 | Multiple Showtimes
📍 Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road North

Step back into the late 1890s with this suspenseful and entertaining production presented by The Bluegrass Players. Set at Wichita Hillside University, the story follows the mystery of a shadowy figure known as The Clutching Claw. With multiple performances throughout the week and weekend, this is a great option for theater lovers or anyone looking for a unique night out.

Showtimes this week include:

• Friday, January 9 | 8:00–9:15 PM
• Saturday, January 10 | 8:00–9:15 PM
• Sunday, January 11 | 4:00–5:15 PM

🌲 Forest Meditations

Saturday, January 10 | 10:00–11:00 AM
📍 Berea College Forestry Outreach Center, 2047 Big Hill Road

Looking to slow down and reconnect? Forest Meditations offer a peaceful way to start your Saturday. Held in the “Nature’s Classroom” gazebo, this weekly gathering welcomes participants of all experience levels. Bring a mat or cushion if you’d like - chairs are provided - and enjoy a grounding hour surrounded by nature.

🥾 Nature Hikes at the Pinnacles

Saturday, January 10 | 1:00–3:30 PM
📍 Berea College Forestry Outreach Center

Perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike, these group hikes are a wonderful way to explore the Pinnacles while meeting new people. The pace and route are decided by the group, making it a comfortable and confidence-boosting experience for everyone.

🧠 Monday Live Team Trivia

Monday, January 12 | 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge, 440 Chestnut Street

Grab your friends (or join a team when you arrive) and test your knowledge at this weekly trivia night hosted by Drew of Questionable Activities. Trivia runs from 7–9 PM, with doors opening at 6 PM. It’s free to play, all ages are welcome, and there are prizes for the winners - plus a cash bar and food truck on site.

🎤 Tuesday Open Mic

Tuesday, January 13 | 6:00–10:00 PM
📍 Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge

Support local talent or take the mic yourself at this welcoming open mic night. Featuring music, poetry, and performance, this is a supportive listening-room environment hosted by Erica Chambers. Sign-ups begin at 6 PM, with performances starting at 7 PM. No cover charge and all ages welcome.

Experience the Lifestyle That Makes Berea Special

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, events like these are just one of the many reasons people love living in Berea. If you’re exploring the area or considering moving, getting to know the local community is the best place to start.

✨ Thinking about buying or selling a home in Berea?
Living local means knowing local. If you’d like to talk about neighborhoods, market trends, or finding a home close to the lifestyle you love, I’d be happy to help.

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853
Let’s find a place where you can enjoy everything Berea has to offer - both inside and outside your front door.

Deciding whether you’re ready to buy a home - especially in today’s market - can feel overwhelming. I talk with buyers every week who are weighing finances, mortgage rates, home prices, and the overall economy, all while trying to figure out if now is the right time for them.

Here’s the truth: while market conditions matter, your personal situation matters more.

As NerdWallet puts it:

“Housing market trends give important context. But whether this is a good time to buy a house also depends on your financial situation, life goals and readiness to become a homeowner.”

Instead of trying to perfectly time the market, focus on what you can control. These five questions can help you gain clarity and confidence about your next move.

1. Do you have a stable job and income?

Buying a home is a long-term commitment. Knowing you have steady employment and reliable income gives you peace of mind when taking on a mortgage. Stability doesn’t mean perfection - it means confidence that your income supports the responsibility of homeownership.

2. Have you figured out what you can comfortably afford?

Your buying power isn’t just about what a lender will approve - it’s about what fits your lifestyle and financial goals.

This is where speaking with a trusted local lender makes a huge difference. A lender can help you understand:

• Your pre-approval amount
• Estimated monthly payments
• Current mortgage rates
• Closing costs and upfront expenses

Clarity upfront helps you shop smart and avoid stress later.

3. Do you have an emergency fund?

Homeownership comes with responsibility - sometimes unexpected responsibility. As you plan, make sure you’re not stretching yourself too thin.

CNET recommends:

“You’ll want to have a financial cushion that can cover several months of living expenses, including mortgage payments, in case of unforeseen circumstances.”

Having savings set aside helps protect your investment and your peace of mind.

4. How long do you plan to stay in the home?

Buying a home typically comes with upfront costs, and equity builds over time. If you’re planning to move again soon, it may not be the right moment.

According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors:

“Five years is a good, comfortable mark. If the price of your home appreciates considerably, then even three years would be fine.”

Think about your future plans - career moves, family needs, or lifestyle changes - and factor those into your decision.

5. Do you have the right real estate team in place?

This one matters more than most people realize.

Having a knowledgeable local REALTOR® and a reliable lender on your side can simplify every step—from determining readiness to navigating negotiations and closing. The right team helps you understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence (whether that’s now or later).

Bottom Line

You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting the conversation.

If buying a home is on your radar - even if you’re not sure when - let’s talk. I’ll help you evaluate your readiness, connect you with trusted local professionals, and create a plan that makes sense for you.
📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853 to start the conversation.

Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience at 224 Sunset Avenue, a fully updated 1909 Craftsman home in the heart of downtown Richmond. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence showcases original hardwood floors, restored windows, and detailed millwork, preserving the character of the home while incorporating thoughtful updates for contemporary living.

Home Features

• Main Level: Spacious living room with abundant natural light, adjoining dining room ideal for entertaining, bedroom and full bath perfect for office or guest use.
• Kitchen: Modern appliances, custom cabinetry, granite-style surfaces, and an efficient layout for cooking and daily use.
• Upstairs: Three additional bedrooms and a beautifully updated bathroom featuring a clawfoot tub, custom vanity, and period-appropriate finishes.
• Laundry & Storage: Large main-level laundry room for practicality.
• Outdoor Spaces: Covered front porch, covered back patio, and a large private backyard ideal for relaxation, gardening, or outdoor dining.

Prime Downtown Location

Located just minutes from downtown Richmond, the courthouse square, restaurants, pubs, and local businesses, this home offers convenience and accessibility. Popular local destinations like Madison Gardens and The Paddy Wagon are just a short walk or drive away.

Recent Updates

• Flooring refinished throughout
• Original windows restored
• Kitchen and bathroom renovations
• System and cosmetic improvements completed over time
• Move-in ready with video tour, 3D tour, and interactive floor plan available

Join Us for the Open House

Experience this historic craftsman in person at our Open House on Sunday, January 11th, from 1-3 PM. Walk through the home, explore the updates, and imagine the lifestyle this downtown Richmond gem can offer.

📞 Ready to make this home yours? Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853 to schedule a private showing or to learn more.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of Richmond history with all the modern touches you want! 🏡✨

One of the most common questions sellers ask as they approach closing day is simple, yet important: “When do I actually get my money?”

If you’re preparing to sell your home, understanding how and when proceeds are delivered can help you feel confident and prepared for closing day. Here’s what you need to know.

What Happens on Closing Day?

On the day of closing, buyers and sellers meet at the local law firm to finalize the transaction. Expect to spend about an hour at the closing table signing documents that officially transfer ownership of the property.

Once all paperwork is completed and the keys are handed over, your proceeds are released.

How Do I Receive My Proceeds?

In most cases, sellers receive their proceeds the same day as closing.

You’ll have two common options:

• Certified Funds (Check): You’ll leave the closing table with a certified check issued by the local law firm. These are guaranteed funds and can be deposited immediately.
• Wire Transfer: If preferred, your proceeds can be wired directly into your bank account.

Your closing attorney will walk you through both options ahead of time so there are no surprises.

Why This Matters

Knowing that you’ll receive guaranteed funds on closing day can make planning your next move - whether that’s buying another home, relocating, or paying off expenses - much easier and less stressful.

Working with a local team also adds peace of mind. From the law firm to your real estate agent, having professionals you can meet face-to-face ensures clear communication every step of the way.

Bottom Line

You don’t have to wait days or weeks after closing to access your money. In most cases, you receive your proceeds the very day you close, either by certified check or wire transfer.

If you have questions about the selling process or want to know what to expect from start to finish, we’re here to help.

📞 Thinking about selling? Call or text Amanda Marcum at 859-353-2853 to walk through your timeline and next steps with confidence.

Looking for the perfect blend of country charm, convenience, and versatile living space? This fabulous mini farm at 233 Cunningham Lane, Winchester, KY has it all - and it could be your next home!

Located less than 2 miles off the Mountain Parkway, this ranch-style home offers easy access while still giving you the peace and privacy of a homestead.

Spacious One-Level Living

This single-level ranch features 3 bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite designed for comfort and relaxation:

• Vaulted ceilings and a walk-in closet
• Private access to the covered back patio
• Spa-like ensuite with a corner jet tub, separate glass-door walk-in shower, double bowl raised-height vanity, and linen closet

The home has been thoughtfully updated and designed for modern living while still keeping a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Versatile Additional Space

The previous owners enclosed the garage to create a large family/game room with a half bathroom, perfect for entertaining or multi-functional use:

• Home office
• Gym or workout space
• Playroom for kids
• Game or media room

Whether you need extra space for work, play, or relaxation, this home has it covered.

Outdoor Features & Mini Farm Amenities

This property isn’t just about indoor comfort - it’s perfect for outdoor enjoyment and mini farm living:

• Covered front and back patios for relaxing or entertaining
• Fenced backyard for privacy and pets
• Brand new above-ground pool, included with the sale
• 2-car detached garage
• Additional shed and barn for storage, hobbies, or livestock

It’s the ultimate combination of country living, entertaining space, and convenient access to the city.

Why This Property is a Must-See

Mini farm enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and anyone looking for a flexible home layout will appreciate everything this Winchester property has to offer. From entertainment-ready spaces to quiet, private outdoor areas, this home is ready for your family’s next chapter.

Don’t wait - homes like this don’t stay on the market for long!

📞 Call or text Amanda Marcum today at 859-353-2853 to schedule a showing or learn more about this unique homestead.

🌐 Visit the listing for more details: https://www.marcumsold.com/search/details/62j/0/

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/