“I’m thinking of remodeling our kitchen. We plan to sell when our kids graduate high school in a couple of years and I’m curious how much the remodel will add to the value.”
***ANSWER:
I’m asked this a lot.
The answer: it depends.
It depends on:
1. How much your kitchen (or bath or ???) needs it
2. How nice […]
“Do you usually get the oven and refrigerator included when you buy a home?”
***ANSWER:
Unless otherwise agreed in the contract, all built-in appliances are automatically included. Be careful about stoves that look built-in but are actually slide in. Tell your agent to list them in your offer.
Freestanding appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers are often […]
“Not only do I not like paying mortgage insurance, it isn’t even tax deductible. Can you still get zero down loans without paying mortgage insurance?”
***ANSWER:
They’re hard to come by. But my lender has something unique they call “tax advantaged mortgage insurance” or TAMI for short.
Instead of charging you mortgage insurance, which is rarely tax […]
“Does pest control clearance cover just termites, or does it also cover rats and ants, etc.?”
***ANSWER:
The term “pest control clearance” is a misnomer, as it implies all kinds of bugs, rodents, and other pests will be eradicated.
In reality, a pest control clearance covers “wood-destroying pests and organisms”, which are mainly termites, dryrot, and fungus.
Learn Secrets […]
“I’m looking for a little investment house or condo in San Diego county. Something that’s a real bargain. What areas do you recommend?”
***ANSWER:
In my opinion, the areas that have seen the biggest price drops are, in very rough declining order:
1. Spring Valley
2. Paradise Hills
3. EastLake (east Chula Vista)
4. Oceanside
5. Escondido (parts)
6. Logan Heights
7. East San […]