“Starter home“: a relatively small, economical house or condominium that meets the requirements of young people buying their first home. While there’s no precise definition, I have two associations with “starter home”: One. Price Point. Starter homes are (well) below the average price for homes in the local market ” whatever that may be. So,...Read More
Different Homes, Different Buyers It may seem counter-intuitive, but just because two “For Sale” homes share the same block and are listed for the same price, doesn’t necessarily mean they’re direct competitors. In fact, I can think of at least two scenarios where there’s virtually no overlap in the pool of prospective Buyers considering both...Read More
“Highest & Best,” Defined [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.] With scarce inventory and low rates once again spurring multiples offers in the Twin Cities now,...Read More
True or false: what Realtors call “the selling agent” once a deal closes represents the Seller (no, this isn’t another “Grant’s Tomb” question). Answer: false. The agent who represents the owner/seller is called “the listing agent”; post-closing, the Buyer’s agent is referred to as “the selling agent.” Nomenclature Once you work in real estate sales...Read More
Square Pegs into Round Irregular Holes Due to unique shapes of rooms — measurements may vary — please measure if buyer wants exact measurements of L-shaped rooms.” –Excerpt, MLS “Agent Remarks” field. The input field on MLS for room sizes asks for two numbers: the room’s width and its length. Which works great if a...Read More
The Overzealous Agent: Asset or Liability? Don’t squeaky wheels get the grease? And in a hyper-competitive multiple offer situation, isn’t an aggressive agent an asset? (nice alliteration, huh?) Yes . . . to a point. Beyond that point, hyper-aggressive behavior on the part of a Buyer’s agent can become a negative to the Seller (and...Read More
