It’s not unusual for the same word to have multiple meanings. “Aloha” is Hawaiian for both “hello” and “goodbye.” In Hebrew, “shalom” means “hello” and “goodbye” — and “peace.” But, no single English word I’m aware of has more protean meanings than the word “on.” I catalog no less than 27(!) discrete definitions. Consider: One. Throwing down the gauntlet...Read More
“It Depends on What the Definition of ‘It’ Is” “Take it outside,” if you’re a certain age (I am), invariably means there’s about to be a fight somewhere inside, and the proprietor of the establishment/bartender/host of the party wants nothing to do with it. Contrast that definition with the original, literal one: Dad, grilling on...Read More
Unsolicited Advice to Would-Be Home Sellers [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 your prospective Realtor won’t agree to adding the clause above to your listing contract...Read More
Client to Agent: “What Would You Do?” “You break it, you own it.” —The Pottery Barn Rule. “You make it, you own it” (translation: if you make a decision for a client . . . you are responsible for the consequences). —Real estate corollary, Ross Kaplan. Whether it’s in the context of choosing a home, negotiating a deal,...Read More
When the Realtor REALLY IS a “Neighborhood Expert” In finance, “eating your own cooking” means that the investment advisor has their own money in the same kinds of investments that they recommend to their clients. So, what’s the Realtor definition of “eating your own cooking?” Here’s mine: a Buyer’s agent who recommends a neighborhood or condo building...Read More
Flies Tenants, Honey, & Vinegar “A home sale can have many potential deal killers. Emotions can run high. There can be hidden agendas. From tenants who don’t want to move to the child who doesn’t want to see the family home sold, third-party players can block or undo a transaction. For agents, it can mean...Read More
