Author: Monty
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Five cost cutting tips for relocation companies
Reader Question: Historically, rising costs have been the biggest challenge in the relocation industry. We work to control and reduce costs with little tangible results. As a senior executive with one of the leading relocation providers in the industry, what is your take on the relocation industry’s ability to reduce relocation costs? Anonymous Monty’s…
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Home seller should decide list price
Reader Question: Is it wise to have your house professionally appraised, before you talk to an agent about listing? I asked my banker for an appraiser’s name as a referral, and they suggested an appraiser they use for loan purposes. I was wondering if I could get closer to an asking price, rather than taking…
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Seven helpful tips for home improvements
Reader Question: I am worried that my home improvements are not going to pay off at all when I sell my house. Do all home improvements make financial sense? Jason C. Monty’s Answer: Not all home improvements make financial sense. Some homeowners make improvements because they want a particular feature or “feel, ” without…
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Fair Housing Act and the non-payment of rent
Reader Question: I have a minority tenant living in my duplex who is behind over two months rent. I had given them extra time when they first missed the payment because I fear being sued or reported and because they take good care of the apartment. They have twice since broken a promise to pay.…
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Four simple tax considerations for new homeowners
Reader Question: Having bought our first home last year we are getting all our home documents in order. What are the home ownership tax considerations we should know? Jared and Annie C. Monty’s Answer: One of the most appealing advantages of being a homeowner is the tax incentive offered by the tax code. Here…
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Listing agent flip-flops on price
Reader Question: Our agent flip-flops on price. We listed our home two weeks ago for three hundred fifty-nine thousand nine hundred dollars. Our agent recommended this price and showed comparable sales that supported the recommendation. Yesterday they presented an offer for three hundred five thousand dollars and suggested we accept it. We are stunned and…
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Six huge real estate transaction errors. Can you spot them?
Reader Question: We purchased and updated an “ as-is ” home in the late nineties. The seller tried to renege at the closing, but our agent prevailed. Her help created a bond, and we remained friends for years. We spoke highly of her, sent her clients and potential employees. We decided to move and listed…
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Should my real estate agent also represent a buyer?
Reader Question: If my listing agent has a potential buyer, can he represent a buyer as well as the seller? Michelle G. Monty’s Answer: The agent that listed your home contracts with the broker who is your agent in the sale. You have representation, so the question is; will the buyer seek representation, and if…
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Deal with inherited property issues quickly
Reader Question: We have inherited property issues. My father passed away and left the house to his four children of which I am one. We all agreed to allow a disabled sibling to live in the house free of charge. He lived in the house for five years and passed away. His fourth of the house…
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Eight tips for a relocated employee incurring a $90,000 loss
Reader Question: My husband is a relocated employee through his employer. They use a large relocation firm. Our benefits package pays some costs, but no house buyout. We bought a new home in the new location. Our old house has been on sale for over 18 months. The agent says new home construction is the…