Saving 2.7% of $0 Contrary to popular perception, not all “For Sale by Owner” homes (“FBO’s”) are created equal. Perhaps the biggest misconception is that FSBO sellers are trying to avoid paying any commission. Wrong. The vast majority are only trying to save half a commission — specifically, the portion payable to the agent representing...Read More
“Relationship Shorthand” What’s the opposite of “guilt by association?” “Honor by association.” How does that play out in residential real estate? When, as a listing agent (representing the Seller), the Buyer’s agent, lender, inspector, and title company all check out with flying colors . . . it’s highly likely that the Buyer ultimately will, too. Of...Read More
Three Questions to Ask One of the last hurdles for would-be Sellers and their agents to surmount before signing a listing contract often is how to handle prospects who’ve already expressed interest in the home. Sometimes, what appears to be very serious interest. The conversation usually goes something like this: Homeowner: “My neighbor’s daughter/son-in-law’s best...Read More
“Withheld From MLS” — But For How Long? It’s customary — at least for every listing I’ve ever taken — for the Seller to sign a “Withhold From MLS” form allowing me more than the otherwise maximum three days to have the home officially on the market. Wouldn’t it be smart, therefore, for the Seller...Read More
Piggybacking on the Uptown Art Fair If you’re a Realtor listing a home in or near Minneapolis’ Uptown neighborhood, what does this weekend’s art fair represent? Free advertising — and tons of extra foot traffic! Which is why there is sure to be a bumper crop of open houses there this weekend. P.S.: If you’re interested in...Read More
When the Best Defense is a Good Offense Not every “For Sale” home is in “mint, move-in condition” — nor is that a realistic goal for many sellers (be it due to limited time, money, energy, or simply a cold-eyed cost-benefit analysis). When that’s the case, though, getting top dollar for the home hinges on...Read More
