Month: December 2019

  • Seven tips to identify a flipped home

    Reader Question: We bought our current home a year ago. We realize houses and their systems are always wearing out, but in this house, it feels like the repairs and replacements are inordinate. The latest example is electrical. The electrical panel box was new, but we have had several electrical issues. The home inspector said…

  • 10 facts to find the best mortgage loan

    Reader Question: How can I find the best mortgage loan? Monty’s Answer: I answered this question several years ago, but it bears repeating. Comparing the cost of mortgage loans is a challenge for most mortgage shoppers. Do this before you look for your home. The most helpful lender may also have the best pre-approval letter.…

  • Five Tips Avoiding a Bidding War

    Reader Question: We tried to buy four homes in 2019. We missed on all of them. We live in one of the cities that always makes the news about multiple offers and a hot market. We were not happy with our agent, but it may just be a case of us looking for someone to…

  • How to gain real estate investing experience

    Reader Question: I have been inspired to go into real estate investing since I have recently lost my job. I don’t have any real estate experience. I don’t have a practical knowledge on how to leverage with OPM (other people’s money). Please recommend what I can do to help me gain experience? Monty’s Answer: There…

  • Do real estate agents negotiate fees on dual transactions?

    Reader Question: Do real estate agents negotiate fees on dual transactions? My wife and I are in the process of downsizing. We have shopped neighborhoods and have chosen where we would like to land. In this process, we have had one particular agent show us 5 or 6 homes. Now it is time to list…