[Editor’s Note: I’m glad to report that, effective next year, the National Association of Realtors is tightening the rules on so-called pocket listings. I first criticized the practice on this blog more than eight years ago(!) — the post below originally appeared May 18, 2011. Please note that the views expressed here are solely those...Read More
Three Steps — Then, in Reverse I don’t recall ever being confronted with 3(!) deadbolt locks before ” the case at an Edina duplex I showed recently. Figuring out which one worked is just one of the challenges that Buyers’ agents face.** First, they need to pop open the lockbox that contains all those keys....Read More
“Shhh! Don’t Tell Anyone My House is for Sale” “Listing agent will not also represent Buyer.” —Clause added to every listing contract I sign. [Editor’s Note: The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway (“Berkshire”), or any other entity referenced. Edina Realty is a subsidiary...Read More
Wielding Veto Power Over Buyer’s Lender, Inspector [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.] “Whoever has the gold, make the rules.” –“Golden Rule” (at least, one version). “Whoever...Read More
Telling Buyers’ Agents What to Lock — and What NOT To It may be a surprise to home owners, but — at least in my experience as a listing agent (representing Sellers) — it’s exceedingly rare for Buyers’ agents to finish a showing and fail to lock up the home properly. In fact, I’d say...Read More
Showing Instructions: “Please Take Off Shoes, Leave Card, Turn Off All Lights” It’s a high quality problem to have, to be sure. But, I knew I’d shown A LOT of houses the other week when, after finishing chatting with Edina Title’s Richelle Pikala in her office, I reflexively turned off her overhead light on the way out. Force...Read More
