Answer: It Depends on the Buyer ” and the House* It may be a surprise to people who associate Minnesota with year-round Arctic cold, but summers here ” while admittedly not long ” can be hot and VERY sticky. Hence the locals’ preference for central air conditioning. Which raises the question: if a home lacks...Read More
“Just Sign Here” [Note to Readers: The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced. If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] Which sounds less intimidating (at least if you’re not a lawyer): “let’s meet at my office at...Read More
Realtor-Speak, Translated I don’t know about other listing agents (representing Sellers), but I have to suppress an eye roll when, following a showing, the Buyer’s agent contacts me and asks to be “kept in the loop” if something happens. That “something,” of course, is another offer. Sometimes, Buyers need a day or two to put...Read More
“Three Bedrooms NOT on One Level” Every once in awhile, you see a single family home being touted by the listing agent as a “townhome alternative.” What do they mean? Features At least to this Twin Cities Realtor, it’s shorthand for a detached home with many of the following attributes: —Around 2,000 to 2,500 square...Read More
What’s a “1.5 showing?” When one partner in a couple has seen the house and likes it, and gives their partner a green light to take a look. Rules & Exceptions As a general rule, Realtors acting as a Buyer’s agent prefer that both (all**) decision-makers be present at all showings. That’s not only more efficient,...Read More
Consumer Psychology and the Too-Precise Price When you see an oddly-priced “For Sale” home, there are two possible explanations (at least in my experience selling residential real estate): One. Drawing Attention. The way to stand out from homes listed at $389,900, $399,900, etc. is to price at $398,731 or some such (I haven’t seen a home...Read More