Reader Question: How do I find lost closing statements for a property I sold in 2004 in a 1031 exchange where the title company and 1031 companies are gone, the real estate agent is deceased, her company no longer has any records, and the mortgage company no longer has those records? Monty’s Answer: Fifteen […]

Reader Question: I would like to get a home ready to rent but I don’t know where to start. I am a novice investor. Structurally the house is sound, but it has been neglected and needs to be cleaned up! The kitchen and master bathroom needs updating, and an in-ground pool and fencing need to […]

Reader Question: I need negotiation advice. ​I own a duplex and occupy one of the units. I have accepted an offer from a buyer for the property. My tenant’s lease extends eight months past the date of closing. I have negotiated a rent back to stay in my unit until the end of my current tenant’s […]

  Reader Question: My property on the east coast has been re-zoned to high density. I have received many solicitations from real estate developers. I suspect that they do not have my best interests in mind. What agents-real estate attorneys, must I consult? Monty’s Answer: My interpretation of your question is that you want help […]

The ten flashpoints in real estate contracts are contract subjects to make certain you understand.

Reader Question: I envision the real estate service is delivered differently than a physical product. I can touch a product, examine it, use it according to instructions to “test” if it works. Outside of the legal documents, much of the real estate service is oral. I cannot “test” it in a traditional sense. Can you […]

Sample agent deliverables. Useful real estate agents are honest, knowledgeable, and efficient. Every enterprise in every field of endeavor seeks these qualities in individuals with whom they choose to associate. There are many reasons the real estate industry has set the bar low, which is why the real estate service consumer has to be alert […]

Reader Question: I am a new real estate agent. I am twenty-two years old, and I want to leverage my time to build a solid foundation. Residential home sales appeal to me as an excellent segment to start my career. What advice would you have for me on the best path? Monty’s Answer: Real estate […]

Reader Question: We have a vague home inspection issue. I own a home inspection company of 21 years and my inspectors are ASHI Certified. During an office presentation, this issue was brought up: “Why are more inspectors’ comments more vague in how to diagnose the issues found. Instead, clients have to consult with additional professionals to […]

  An alert for condominium buyers Reader Question: We bought a condo unit in a mid-rise development on the west coast. We had the unit inspected, and the inspector turned up several repair issues. They fixed the repairs correctly. We closed on the unit and moved in. Within a couple of months, we learned that […]

A Home Inspector Asks: What are the main questions you get from consumers, or real estate agents, about home inspectors? Monty’s Answer: Most of the questions come from customers so here are seven types of frequent questions and a question (number 2) I have seen only once. Typical consumer questions 1. What does a home […]

Reader Question: I am a home inspector. ​I work with an agent who is always pressuring me to “take it easy” with the home inspection, I refuse to lower my standards, but I’m concerned about him finding a replacement. How would you suggest I approach ​t​his? ​Monty’s Answer: The situation you describe may be a […]