Shakeout Side Effect: Better Service A year ago, I could count on one hand the number of times a lender contacted me before I contacted them. This year, it just happened three times — in one week. Once, it was the Buyer’s lender letting me know — in my capacity as listing agent representing the Seller...Read More
“I Remember When . . . “ Once upon a time, when I was new in the business, I found Realtor war stories entertaining and instructive (and more than a little horrifying). Now, as an experienced agent, I mostly just find them . . . tiresome (if not annoying). Especially when I’m paying to hear them at...Read More
Deciphering “Realtor-Speak” I’m sure I’m not the only listing agent out there who’s recently fielded some variation of the following query: “I’ve got an investor who might be interested in your client’s property. Would they be open to something like that?” For those who don’t know Realtor-speak, let me translate: ‘my client would be interested in buying...Read More
How do you spell “ice dam?” I know more than a few local homeowners filling out their Seller Disclosure this Spring — or maybe just bad spellers — tempted to add an “n.” And if you had one this past Winter, you’d better disclose it. Either that, or hope that: a) the Buyer’s inspector is oblivious; and b) the...Read More
The Ultimate Aerial Shot For an average home, you take 10 photos. For a more expensive home, you take 18 photos (the maximum number allowed on MLS). For an expensive home in an especially gorgeous setting or with a stunning view (or both), you take 18 photos, plus use a boom to show the home’s context....Read More
Euphemism for “Puny Paycheck” That was the phrase I heard at a real estate course this morning bemoaning the commission checks associated with $25,000 home sales — or leasing a property for 10% – 50% of the first month’s rent (see, “Why I Don’t Do Rentals“). While not common (thankfully) in the metro Twin Cities, home...Read More
