Realtors vs. Appraisers vs. Zillow “347-0″. That’s approximately the number of times ” most recently this afternoon ” that I’ve been called by Appraisers wanting the scoop on a property I’ve recently sold, vs. the number of times I’ve called an Appraiser to find out the same. Inside Scoop (Literally) Which makes sense: as the listing...Read More
Guilt By Association When agents see a listing ” in mid-January, in Minnesota ” with leafy trees and a bright, green lawn, their knee-jerk response isn’t to say to themselves, “My, what gorgeous landscaping.” It’s to click on “History” on MLS to see how long the home’s been on the market ” and find out how many...Read More
“Location, Location, Location” “Context, Context, Context” What can you confidently say about a “For Sale” home whose price was just reduced, days before Christmas? A. The home is now a bargain. B. The Seller is motivated. C. The Seller’s Realtor (listing agent) is motivated. D. The home is better-priced** than it was before. Correct answer:...Read More
“What Will Buyers Pay?” vs. “What Value Does a Bank Need to Refinance the Current Mortgage?” [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’re an appraiser or mortgage lender, stop reading now. No? Good. One of...Read More
A Housing Deal — if You Can Afford It Quick! Assuming the Buyer has the financial wherewithal, which is a better deal: buying a $300,000 house for $320,000, or getting a $425,000 house for $400,000? Don’t follow? In the Twin Cities housing market right now, homes in move-in condition at a price that first-time Buyers...Read More
