“Buy on Bread, Sell on Cheese” In the wine industry (which I otherwise know nothing about), “buy on bread, sell on cheese” means that if you’re a wine buyer, you’d be well-advised to eat a piece of bread in between tastings. Because bread is neutral, it will clear your palate for the next wine. By...Read More
What difference does it make if someone selling a home is a teacher, social worker, lawyer, or doctor? I’d say little or none: the home’s condition and features — plus the Seller’s Disclosure and Buyer’s inspection later on — speak for themselves. The exception? When the Seller is a master carpenter, and the home reflects their handiwork —...Read More
Real Estate Oxymorons Well, yes, that “new roof in 1998” would be a selling feature — if it were 1999 or 2000. Almost 20 years later, however, what the listing agent is really telling prospective Buyers is that the roof is close to if not past its expected life (20-25 years for most 3-tab asphalt...Read More
What’s in an Adjective? A LOT It may seem like a subtle distinction, but home sellers are a LOT safer billing their “new” Kitchen as simply “newer.” The difference? Buyers purchasing a new Kitchen might reasonably expect to see paid receipts. So might the appraiser representing the Buyer’s lender, once the deal advances from inspection...Read More
“Mid-Transaction” vs. “Pre-Transaction” Phone Calls If your Buyer is competing in multiple offers, and the Seller was supposed to be back in touch by 7 p.m. Saturday night and it’s now 8:30 p.m, you betcha’ you’re eager to take a phone call to find out exactly what’s going on. On the other hand, when a stranger...Read More
Surprisingly Spacious Four-Level(!) Split in Southwest Minneapolis Where: 5737 Oliver Avenue South. What: 2 BR/2 Baths with four finished levels, vaulted Living Room with Fireplace, and over 1,600 finished square feet on a huge, .22 acre lot. When: listed March 21; closed April 1 (Friday). How much: asking price — $250k; sold for $277,500. Who:...Read More
