Answers by Julianne Clark

Best route I would think if you have exhausted obvious ones -- is go to county records and trace back the previous owners and see if you can find the original one and contact them. Many times the "builder" gets lost over time -- especially if its was a decades in the past.

It’s best to reach out to a local real estate agent for an estimate of your property’s value. Real estate markets are highly localized, and this forum covers a broad area. A local agent can provide accurate information and verify past sales of similar properties to help you settle on a listing price. Even if you plan to sell without representation, you can still ask for their assistance with the understanding that if you can’t sell on your own, you’ll contact the agent who did the research and estimate.

An outbuilding such as a free standing shed is listed as included in sale -- like the refrigerator or the washer and dryer. Depending on your financing -- if the shed is substantial -- it could need to be inspected. For example -- the roof is old and needs replaced. In some situations -- it becomes not just a storage spot -- its a sale contingency if in poor condition. I have had client in the past remove sheds in bad condition or install new roofs to get financing approval.

Are you unhappy with the negotiations or changing your mind about buying the property -- and looking for a way to get out of the purchase? Do you think that you did not get a good deal? It always best to be forward with clients if there is a close relationship with the co-op agent. Real estate agents know one another -- we work together in the same communities and many times even socialize together. Have a good working relationship with the co-op agent is not a bad situation for a buyer or a seller. I am curious the reason you are looking to void the contract -- there must be more to your question.

There are agent that specialize in foreclosure properties -- in recent years -- that is not a large field to work with. Have you found a specific property that is in foreclosure and you are looking for an agent to help you buy or are you just looking for a deal? Your question sounds like the latter. Looking for a particular property as a discounted price. Find an agent in the area that you have interested in an talk to them about ways of finding off market properties or negotiating a good offer.

You didn’t mention if you plan to sell it yourself or hire an agent to assist with the sale. Either way, you can reach out to a local agent and ask about the sale value—most are happy to help if there’s a chance to assist in the sale. Alternatively, you can do your own research by checking your county property site for recent sales in the area or browsing various real estate websites to get an idea of the value. Land often has a wide range of potential values, depending on who’s interested when it’s listed and the state of the vacant land market at the time. If you decide to work with an agent, look for someone experienced in land sales in the area, as selling land is quite different from selling houses.

Is the home you're buying a mobile home? Mobile and manufactured homes are considered personal property in some states and are taxed differently than traditional stick-built homes. There are closing costs, including taxes, when purchasing real estate, but mobile homes are handled differently.

I have never had a problem with people stopping by open houses. Sometimes it nice to break up the time if is a slow day with a visitor. Be upfront and chat with the agent a little beforehand. Of course -- if they are busy talking and touring actual potential Buyers -- convey to the agent that you are just touring and not a Buyer so that they can maintain their focus with potential client.

It depends on your community. The county may be able to help you find a plat map/survey from the past. It would show a this easement. Did you not have a survey done prior to installing the fence to be assure of your corners? The easement behind houses is sometime to get emergency vehicles or its for utilities. Contact your county first. If there isn't a recorded plat -- have one done!

The Buyers earnest money is applied to the Buyers closing costs at settlement. Only time that doesn't happen is if they "default" on the purchase of the home and the Seller is awarded this escrow (or earnest money). In SC, we are an attorney state and the earnest/escrow money is held by the Buyers attorney and then applied at closing.

I agree with all the responders. Interview several agents. Each agent will bring to the table a different set of skills and approach -- as well as pricing strategy and recommendations. We are in a changing market with a larger amount of homes to choose from for a Buyer. Yours needs to stand out in some way to silence the pull of the other comparative homes. Price can sometimes be that factor.

Credit scores are based on a Buyers history of regular on time payments. You may need to work on boosting your credit score to qualify even for a $130K loan. Talk to a local hometown banks lenders or a credit unions. Sometimes in house loans base a borrows qualifications on non traditional sources or methods and vote for the approval.

Call or visit your county zoning & assessment departments and ask them these questions. Once the property lines are merged -- can they be divided. How will merging effect your tax bill. The same with the removal of the house. Always best to go directly to the local source. Also, don't forget to ask if there are any fees.

You need to reach out to an agent in the Reno/Sparks area to help you with this property inquiry. There will be some tax record research needed on the local level.

This a tricky spot to be in. As an agent -- we do a lot of pricing research to determine a fair offer price. (Regardless of the current selling price) Having a $50K pricing discrepancy is a bit shocking at this price point. The Seller does not need to sell the property to you at this appraised amount and an appraiser can make mistakes and miss an important comparative property -- especially if the are not local. There needs to be further conversation between you and your agent and your agent and the Sellers agent -- plus bring the appraiser into this. Having lower mortgage payments would be a win for you -- unfortunately it isn't that simple.

This not just about recovering the cost to fix your garage issue. It is a financing issue for any Buyer looking for a loan. It is a negotiation issue for any Buyer looking for a deal. What you are describing is deferred maintenance and should be addressed prior to listing. Put your self in a Buyers shoes -- if the Seller neglected to repair an obvious issue -- what else is there mentality. This is not about recouping its about not getting slammed with a lowball when an offer is submitted!

Before you get involved with a real estate lawyer and their expense -- contact "your agents" broker in charge and explain the situation. A resolution may be easier than it appears. The broker in charge is responsible for the agent and will help resolve your concerns.

Absolutely! No commitment on either parties. This gives you and the agent an opportunity to decide if its a good fit and continue with a longer term or move on.

Yes you can -- as long as you are allowed to. You will need to verify minimum lot sizes and setbacks through your local zoning board. I am not sure how long it may take in Florida for a subdivision to be completed -- in my area, it takes awhile. A survey is first. Are both properties completely separate? Not sharing any utility connections? Are you marketing the property as live in on and rent the other and cover your costs? You may need to focus your marketing to a wider range of people and maybe homesteading sites. Family compounds are more and more popular. Good luck!

Although this is not typical -- it is not unusual either. There are Lenders that issue pre qualifications for Buyers who may not really qualify once the financing is applied for. Asking for a pre approval from a trusted Lender is assurance to the Seller(s) that the letter that you received is accurate. Please also remember -- the Selling agent represents the Seller(s) and any requests that they make to you (if you are not represented by a Buyers agent) or to your Agent who is relaying to you -- is conveying the Sellers wishes. (Builders often ask Buyers to use their approved Lender if they want special incentives.) From your questions -- I am wondering if there are special circumstances that are in play here. Verify with Lender #2 that their approval check will not negatively affect your credit. Another thing to think about is that you should rate/term shop your financing. Maybe this second lender will be able to offer you a better financing program, rate, terms, etc. If not, then you know that your initial Lender is the route to go.

Depending on your state -- either a real estate attorney or title company. Buying a property requires the transferring the ownership -- it is more than the exchange of money for goods. You may want to consider a title search -- to make sure that this property does not have any liens, additional owners or unpaid debts. If you buy the home without clearing up these issues -- you may find yourself now responsible for covering any unpaid bills/liens or only own a part of it.

If it is a or was a building lot -- then to build on it. If it is not zoned to be built on -- find out what is allowable on the property and what is not -- and can they file for a zoning change. Maybe they want to put a storage building/garage, garden, chickens, park their RV/camper or boat. Is the Buyer a neighboring house that could expand their yard?

Both are valid concerns. They may do an extra excellent job for you or the exact opposite. They could give you a reduction in cost or the exact opposite. Talk to them and express your concerns. It could be perceived that you do not "trust" them enough to help with something as important as your home sale. The other thing to keep in mind is the amount of experience the agent has.

Your question is not very clear Angela. Are you looking to buy a home that is a HUD property -- and need help finding the house -- and an agent that works with HUD homes?? There is a lot of online resources for doing research on government foreclosures and financing options. Some agents will focus and specialize on selling these type properties. Another option is pull up ChatGPT or Gemini and ask your questions. You will be amazed at how quickly you can find the answers you are looking for. Good luck!

I am not sure how you were able to sell the home and transfer title with the mortgage being satisfied. There is a mortgage lien on the property when its financed. Did you not use a real estate attny or title company for the sale transfer? That is what they do -- insure clear title.

Depending on your financing type and the amount you put down toward the purchase of the home -- yes -- you can pay your own taxes and insurance. If you are using a government loan (USDA, VA, FHA) -- those costs (as well as other fees) are built into your monthly payment. Most times -- using conventional financing with 20% down and you can be in control of paying those associated costs yourself.

You are old enough now in most states. Are you paying cash or financing? If financing -- you need to qualify for a loan and that requires work history and down payment. Best place to start is finding someone who can refer you to an agent in your area that is experienced with first time homebuyers. They will be a wealth of information to get you started on your journey into homeownership!

There can be ways. Have your daughter contact her agent and discuss what is practical and allowable in your state. It may mean that she will have to compensate the Buyer and her Agent in some way for the change of mind.

Everything in a real estate transaction should be in writing and agreed upon by signing & dating by both parties in the transaction. What should be listed is -- what will be done, by whom, by when and who will pay. This covers both parties. Talk to your listing agent and/or your attny.

These are questions you should be discussing with the Lender that pre-approved you. You do not want to get into a house poor situation! If your lender is not willing to discuss home buying costs and how it will affect your finances -- you need to find another one. Home purchasing is a long-term investment should be entered into only when you are ready and informed on expectations and expenses.

You need to contact a mortgage lender to answer these questions. They will ask you questions about your financial situation, employment, credit and income. Afterward -- you will have a better idea if and what you can afford. There is not fee for this service. If you do not want to talk to a person -- I would imagine there are some websites to help with determining preapproval amount and online lenders as a starting point. At some point you will need to make that phone call.

Do you need financing?? If so, do you have any military background? Is your credit score good?? In your question you mention that you are looking for a "rent to own", HUD home or foreclosure. I am assuming you are looking for an inexpensive fixer upper. Most agents in most real estate brokerages have the ability to assist you with HUD or Foreclosure homes. Government and Bank foreclosures are mainly listed with real estate brokerages. Rent to owns are usually owner represented. In my experience -- a home is listed as a "rent to own" because it will not qualify for financing, or no one wants to buy it. With this method of purchase -- you will need to "buy" the property within a giving amount time -- few years usually. You agree on a monthly rental amount and a small percentage goes toward the "purchase" price and when the term (few years) ends -- that amount is applied to the remaining balance and that is what you will finance or pay in cash. There is usually a large nonrefundable downpayment required -- that way if you are unable to purchase at the end of the term or change your mind -- it, as well as the money applied to the purchase price is not refunded. Basically, you just lived there as a renter and the owner get the property back. Many times, an attorney will be involved to protect the parties. I would contact some of your local senior services to see if there are any special programs or assistance that you qualify for.

First question -- did you have a home inspection? Second question -- were you working with a Buyer Agent representation or using the Sellers agent? A home inspector would have given you a snapshot of the property, its mechanicals and life span as well as repairs that will be need now and future. That inspection can be used to ask the property owner to make repairs prior to your purchase. If you were working with the Sellers agent as a customer or in a dual agent situation -- they were not really your representative. I understand your frustration. More details are needed. A Realtor is not licensed home inspector and can only relay what they know to be facts.

Debts are paid by your fathers estate. You may want to contact and attorney to help you. There may be some debts that could go unpaid. Make sure you research which ones they are. Your fathers credit score no longer matters.

I am sorry to hear that your partnership is not working out Collin. If the property split cannot be resolved between the two of you -- then, unfortunately you should get an attorney involved to protect your interested in the investment. Did you split mortgage payments and household costs? That would entitle them to a share of profit from selling. If you paid the initial deposit -- it is reasonable that $$ should go back to you in the division. Another alternative is keeping the property (if you can afford too) and your partner leaves. Have a value assessment completed (usually an appraisal or Realtor CMA) and calculate appreciation. That amount would be divided. I would also calculate and remove selling deductions before splitting -- like real estate commission and other transfer and closing fees that would be charged if you outright sold. (If both names are on the deed and mortgage -- there will be additional costs in having their name removed.) Selling may be the easiest route...

The question to ask yourself is -- would you, if you were looking online to buy a house online, schedule a home tour for a property you could not first see the inside? The answer should be "no". You too would want to see the inside condition prior to taking time out of your busy schedule. It may not work for you, and it could save you and them time and in prep & energy. It is in your best interest to allow interior photos if you truly want to sell the property. No photos are a signal to interpret that the inside is not good shape. You are hiring your agent to get your home sold -- no photos are hindering their ability to find a Buyer. Keep in mind that the real estate market (in many areas) is not like it was a few years ago. More inventory and longer days on the market. Ask to review the professional photos beforehand and publishing the listing. If any are really concerning -- ask to leave them off. As a Realtor for 18 years -- I only allow a potential Buyer to photograph vacant houses without getting permission.

When an appraisal comes in low -- the Buyers agent is usually notified by the appraiser of the situation. That agent usually notifies the Sellers agent. Together they try to find comparable sales that may help the appraise and justify the sale price. Once the report is submitted to the Buyers lender -- it is difficult to change. An appraisal is the value of the home at that time. If next week a house sells high or low -- the value may be adjusted. Talk with your agent and see what options there are to keep the sale moving forward. Keeping in mind, depending on the type of financing this Buyer is using -- the appraisal value can "stick" with the home for a few months. In other words -- any other Buyer using the same lending program, their appraisal will be the same valued amount.

If you are not pre-approved -- your agent will recommend that you speak with a lender prior to scheduling home tours. (They may even have some suggestions of local lenders to contact.) Price range is only part of your home search. The type of financing and special requirements (such as closing cost assistance) needs to be know before house hunting. If you qualify for a 100% financing loan -- the condition and location of the home that you can buy with that financing matters. No one wants to fall in love with a house that they cannot buy. If you are a serious Buyer, then getting approved is a very important first part of the process -- otherwise you are window shopping.

In my 18 years real estate experience -- rent to own can get really messy. Make sure you get an attorney involved if you decide to go that route. Also -- get enough nonrefundable down money -- that if the Buyer is unable to get financing at the end of the "rent to own term", your covered for any "remodeling" they did...

Hi Jerome -- if you sold the home and you are staying there for 4 months -- renting -- then the new owners are your "landlord" while you are living there and paying rent. That would be on the Sellers. Of course, it could get sticky since you "sold" them the house -- very recently. As a good faith effort -- I would just pay for the repair.

A Buyer Broker agency agreement can be property, day, weekend or several month specific. It is important for the Buyer and the Agent to have a good relationship between them. If its not a good match -- either should not be committed to being locked into a contract. Buying a home is stressful enough and having a great agent that you like is important to make the experience memorable. The same goes for the agent -- if the Buyers are syncing with the agent -- that agent should not have to continue to work with someone that they do not fit well with. Start out small and if it is working -- then commit.

Agents are trained to be able to represent both Buyer and Seller clients. Like any business -- the more you do, the more skilled and better you become. Talk to your agent frankly and ask him if he is working with a seasoned mentor agent/broker to provide advice and guidance. Just because he has limited experience with listing homes does not mean that he is going to be a bad choice. If he is motivated and not overly busy -- selling your property and finding a Buyer will be his main focus.

I can not see any benefit of taking the property "off" the market during the holidays. Think of this -- here may be an opportunity to allow a property showing while people are on their holiday break. For example -- there may be extended family in town that would consider moving and want to tour your property if it was available. If you are concerned about showings being scheduled during your own holiday festivities -- then block out that time and do not allow property tours. The average days on market is tallied differently with each multiple listing service area. Taking it off the market or pausing the listing -- may not do anything but miss that opportunity window when people have more flexibility to view homes during the holidays. Talk to your agent about your concerns. The real estate market is no longer in hypermode as it was for 2020-2022+. It is becoming more normalized which means houses take longer to sell.

Seller financing was common practice in the past. My advice is to have an attorney draw up or review any contract the Seller is using -- so that you are fully aware of the terms and conditions you are accepting. Many times Seller financing is for a limited time -- under 5 years. After which you will need to get traditional mortgage. You negotiation is at the initial purchase. Money that you put down may or may not be refundable if for some reason at the end of the term you are not able to get traditional financing. Have your inspections done before signing and maybe even pay for an appraisal to assess current value of home. If for some reason home values decrease -- you will be locked into the price you accepted when you "bought" the home using the Sellers as your Lender. There are situation that Seller financing is beneficial. Make sure you are in that kind of situation. Traditional financing will have a title search and appraisal as part of the purchase. Your taxes and property insurance can be included in your monthly payment to aid in budgeting and it will remain pretty consistent (fluxuations are increases in property taxes and insurance rate) for the life of the loan or until you refinance. There is a sense of security in using a lender or bank to hold the loan for you home purchase.

Sounding like you and your frustrated neighbors need to consult legal advice through a local real estate attorney familiar with the area, community and has handled closings in the community. I can understand your frustration and really do not think you will get the answer you are looking for on this forum. To many unknown variables and all states have different laws pertaining to property management.

The risk assessment depends on you and your long term goals. An ARM can be a great tool if approached in the correct way. Do your research to determine what the financial saving may be and the risk involved if the rates change up or down. Find a local lender (or two) that will be straightforward with you about the program and not just try to sell you a loan. Anticipating mortgage rates changes is like gambling or predicting the weather. There is some skill involved as well as an element of chance.

That decision should be made by the Buyers and Buyers agent. Disclosure you are not well and if they ask -- tell them why. Let them make the decision to tour or not to tour. In my experience -- a Seller should never turn down a showing opportunity. In most instances -- a Buyer will not circle back if the day/time that they want to tour is not granted. They just move on to the next one.

You left out some details? Are you living in the home? Is It a VA loan. Is it a rental property? Did he intend on living there and them due to health issues was not able to occupy? Majority of the time -- the mortgage holder only cares that the monthly payment is made -- and not who makes it.

The real question is -- is it professional built or shoddy workmanship? A Buyer will have a home inspection and any deficiencies may be found if it was a handyman special. If permits were not taken out for the construction -- that too can create issues for the sale. How did you purchase the house (cash or a loan) and was it evident when you bought it that it was not built by a professional builder? There are many people that are skilled in construction -- yet do not have a contractors license. All will need to be disclosed. Disclose ahead of time to avoid litigation in the future.

Permitting will alert the county/township that you are adding an outbuilding to your property and it will incur "value" to your residence and possibly a reassessment. Speak to you county assessor department to get clarification on how this calculation is based and may be an estimate of what to expect in incensement.