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Choosing a Realtor

After recently buying one home and selling another, I know from experience it pays to find a GOOD realtor before you start the process! Ask your friends if they have used a realtor lately that they were happy with. Ask neighbors, and look for a realtor who has been helping clients buy and sell homes for several years. Also, ask yourself what you expect from your realtor, and how much you expect them to do for you.

Is it Home Sweet Home or a Money Pit?

Occasionally you hear the sad story of a new homeowner who finds him/herself the owner of a money pit. In some states, sellers are required by law to disclose to buyers any known problems with the house, such as roof damage or plumbing faults or potential hazards in the area, such as floods, earthquakes, fires and the environment.

Are Home Warranties Really Worth the Money?

Many of these warranties aren't worth the paper they're printed on.  As an incentive to buy, many realtors negotiate a home warranty policy paid for by the sellers of the home. Often, these policies seem like an excellent idea, especially if the buyers are purchasing an older home. Normally the policy comes a week or so after the sale of the home, and they stipulate that any repairs on the home must be approved by them first.

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