“We’re going to be selling our rental condo in La Jolla. Should we sell it with the tenants in or should we sell it vacant?”
***ANSWER:
The answer depends on 3 things: are the tenants cooperative, are they reasonably neat, and does the home need a cosmetic overhaul?
If the tenants will be flexible with showings and […]
“How much money is required for a deposit to buy a home? My friend says not to give a deposit over $1,000.”
***ANSWER:
The initial deposit is also called an “earnest money deposit.” $500 doesn’t sound terribly earnest and makes your offer look weak, hurting your chances of getting the home you want. Not […]
“Hello… I’m going to sell my late mother’s home in September. I know you don’t want to hear this, but I plan sell it without a broker to save the 6%. One of my neighbors did, and he didn’t know anything about real estate, so it can’t be too tough. I’ll […]
“I just don’t understand how some real estate agents survive. They spend good money placing ads in the paper, but when you call them they never call you back. I’m looking for a home and can’t even get agents to call me back.”
***ANSWER:
I feel your pain!
In 2003, I started to invest […]
“Hi Gary. I bought a home 3 years ago with 10% down and I’ve been paying PMI [private mortgage insurance]. I know PMI insures lenders against loss on low down payment loans. But my home value is way up, so I think they no longer have any risk. Can I cancel […]