“Substantially the Condition,” Defined (Sort of) [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.] “Buyer has the right to a walk-through review of the property prior to closing...Read More

Left Holding the (Garbage) Bag: Reason #17 for Buyers to Do a Walk-Through Inspection It’s certainly possible that the weekly garbage collector will haul away all of the Seller’s junk, left curbside. But, I wouldn’t count on it. And neither should the Buyer. Instead, I’d negotiate either: a) a $500 escrow (holdback) from the sales proceeds,...Read More

Agent-to-Agent Closing Courtesy While the Seller is busy passing house keys, garage door openers, etc. to the Buyer at closing, guess what the Buyer’s agent often gives the listing agent (representing the Seller)? No, the correct answer isn’t, “a flask of whiskey”. Rather, it’s the listing agent’s lockbox. As a courtesy, Buyers’ agents will often...Read More