The Buried Mea Culpa Once upon a time, the likes of William Safire and George Carlin could be counted on to call out linguistic curiosities. In that spirit, I offer up the very confused expression, “Out of an abundance of caution.” Overcompensating Practically dripping with CYA (“Cover-Your-A**”), it’s almost always invoked by a contrite person...Read More
Divorce Settlement Screw-Up’s: Exhibit A Test your knowledge of mortgage finance, and answer the following question (aired at a continuing ed class yesterday): If a deed is given from an ex-husband to an ex-wife,** the ex-wife is automatically the sole owner of the real property and the sole obligor on the mortgage. A. True B....Read More
WSJ: $25 Billion Just in U.S. Almost a year and a half ago, I speculated that’s Volkswagen’s liability stemming from its emissions cheating scandal was likely to be far above consensus estimates at the time. See, “Calculating VW’s Financial & Legal Hit From Emissions Scandal.” My ballpark estimate: $35 billion. So, how close did I...Read More
Two Risks, Not One [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.] If Buyers can waive a home inspection altogether (they can), it stands to reason they can get...Read More
Ballpark Estimate: $35 Billion “Resale values on Volkswagen AG‘s diesel cars in the U.S. have taken a tough hit in the weeks since auto maker’s emissions scandal emerged, falling an average of 13%, or about $1,700 per vehicle since mid-September as car dealers stay away from the tainted vehicles, according used-car pricing guide Kelley Blue...Read More
DIY Drawbacks Do-it-Yourself always has perils, but particularly so when it comes to using a drone to take home photos. Here’s just a partial list of the drawbacks and other considerations that come to mind for Realtors tempted to try it themselves: 1. The $5k required to buy a commercial-quality drone. 2. The $5k that’s...Read More
