Easier Sell in Summer? The problem with tuck under garages is what’s “over” the “under”: usually, a bedroom. If that bedroom happens to have hardwood floors, and it’s Minnesota in the winter . . . it can be unpleasantly cold. The two other problems with tuck under garages: 1) they tend to be single stall;...Read More
Two-Part Test [Editor’s Note: Seller liability for ice dams and other home issues is case-specific, and affected by local and state law. For legal advice, please contact an attorney.] At least in Minnesota, there is a two-pronged legal standard for Buyers to recover from Sellers for damage caused by an ice dam (or any post-closing...Read More
60 above zero: Floridians turn on the heat. People in Minnesota plant gardens. 50 above zero: Californians shiver uncontrollably. People in Duluth sunbathe. 20 above zero: Floridians use coats, thermal underwear, gloves, wool hats. People in Minnesota throw on a flannel shirt. 15 above zero: New York landlords finally turn up the heat. People in...Read More
How do appraisers account for a bowling alley in the basement? Or some other unusual feature, like a helicopter landing pad, 10,000 gallon aquarium, basement basketball court, or dozens of other unusual ” and therefore hard to estimate ” home features? They don’t. Huh?? Self-Cancelling Features If it’s possible, the preferred strategy in such situations...Read More
Negotiating is a crucial part of any deal, and lays the foundation for a clear, enforceable contract. Haggling is . . . an annoying waste of time. What’s the difference? Exactly two decimals. $5,000 vs. $100 So, a $5,000 item on a $300,000 house is the stuff of negotiation. A $100 item (or less) is haggling. (Note: accountants’...Read More
What’s the difference between a “Tudor” and a “Revival Tudor?” As far as I can tell . . . none. In fact, “Revival Tudor” appears to simply be the more formal name for what everyone commonly refers to as plain old “Tudor.” Here’s a good working definition: “The essential characteristics of a Tudor Revival house...Read More
