Archive for May, 2006

What’s it worth?

Wednesday, May 31st, 2006

“I listed my P.B. home with an agent at $1.3 million. When it didn’t sell, I listed with my current agent for $1.15 million. Now she wants me to reduce my price again, but I’ve already come down 150K. I don’t think she’s doing a good job. What should I do?”
***ANSWER:
You didn’t […]

Choose the right agent.

Monday, May 29th, 2006

“My husband and I will be buying a house in Scripps Ranch or UC. He wants his fishing buddy who does real estate on the side to represent us. I know that’s a bad idea, but can YOU tell him?”
***ANSWER:
USING A PART-TIME AGENT IS DANGEROUS! (Excuse the yelling, but I wanted to […]

Selling?

Friday, May 26th, 2006

“We own a duplex in North Park free and clear. We’ve had it 17 years and we’re tired of managing and thinking about selling it. Do you recommend we carry a note so we don’t have to pay taxes?”
***ANSWER:
Instead of getting all your cash at close of escrow, carrying a note (called an […]

Be Sure To Sell Your House

Wednesday, May 24th, 2006

“Gary. My wife and I really enjoy your newsletter. Question- Why typically do home sales fall through? We’re curious for when we sell our home next year.”
***ANSWER:
Based on my 21 years and 3,000+ home sales, here are the reasons home sales fall through, in approximate order:
1. Buyer’s inspections and investigations reveal defects or […]

Condos vs. Homes

Monday, May 22nd, 2006

“Perhaps you can help settle an argument. I want to buy a nice condo in a safe area, but my husband wants a house, even if it’s a little dump in a slummy area. He says he’d never buy a condo because they just keep jacking up the fees and the fees are […]