Not Just Peace of Mind The most obvious reason to buy a home warranty? To avoid an unexpected, budget-busting home repair — or several of them. In return for an annual premium ranging from $500 – $1,000 (depending on coverage and home features), most such policies cap homeowners’ out-of-pocket expense for repairs at $100...Read More
Three Benefits Listing agents (representing home sellers) are big fans of home warranties. Personally, I love them. That’s because listing agents know ” even if their clients don’t ” that a home warranty can help smooth over inspection issues (“Benefit #1”), and make a dated home more attractive to cash-strapped, first-time home Buyers — especially...Read More
It’s not uncommon for agents to see homes marketed as a “Grandma’s house.” Less usual: homes marketed as a “Grandpa’s house.” I’m not sure about other Realtors’ association with each type of home, but here are mine: Grandma’s House: —”Vintage” Kitchen with lots of old appliances (wall oven, mixer, etc.); —Old(er) window treatments, floor coverings,...Read More
Loose Door Knobs and Caviar-Stocked Fridges [Editor’s Note: 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.] Test your knowledge of today’s housing market, and answer the following question: Which of the...Read More
Loose Door Knobs and Caviar-Stocked Fridges Test your knowledge of today’s housing market, and answer the following question: Which of the following issues are properly raised by a Buyer’s home inspection, and resolved either by a Seller price concession, or the Seller assuming responsibility for repair(s)? A. The dated Kitchen; B. A concrete driveway with multiple...Read More
Centerpoint Energy “Pipe Protection Plan” Never mind my almost 17(!) years as a Realtor. I’ve been a Minnesota homeowner now stretching back over three decades. During all that time, I’d never been pitched a monthly “(gas) pipe protection plan” — until last week. Here is Centerpoint Energy’s marketing spiel: “As your natural gas utility, CenterPoint...Read More
