Read about everything related to buying a home, from getting a good mortgage to making your offer the most attractive.
Learn how to maximize your home’s value and read what issues come up in the home selling process.
From maintenance to investment income, read articles about owning and managing your property. Whether you’re maintaining your property or looking to build long-term value, these guides help you make smart decisions as a homeowner.
I’ve spent over five decades in real estate, as an agent, broker, developer, consultant, and national real estate advice columnist. Through helping in more than 20,000 home transactions, I learned one thing: buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be confusing.
DearMonty.com exists to give you clear, unbiased guidance so you can make confident decisions — without pressure, sales tactics, or hidden agendas.
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I’ve spent over five decades in real estate, as an agent, broker, developer, consultant, and national real estate advice columnist. Through helping in more than 20,000 home transactions, I learned one thing: buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be confusing.
DearMonty.com exists to give you clear, unbiased guidance so you can make confident decisions — without pressure, sales tactics, or hidden agendas.
Read moreComing from two
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Reader Question: Can my neighbor put up a 4 x 12 “for sale” sign on my property without my permission? What do you suggest I do about it? Monte Monty’s Answer: Hello Monte, thanks for your question. No one can put…
Continue readingReader Question: Monty, I built my house back in 2001. I have a concrete driveway that is 250′ long. It started to lift (push up) in the center of the slabs within years 4-5. Over the last 3-4 years, it…
Continue readingReader Question: Hi, I’m trying to buy a piece of land from a private owner. Apparently he got the property at auction several years ago. My title company found an unsatisfied mortgage from 27 years ago. It seems that the…
Continue readingReader Question: When putting a bid on a home, how much below the asking price is a reasonable first bid? Christina H. Monty’s Answer: Hello Christina, that is a good question. It is not an easy question to answer because…
Continue readingReader Question: Hello Monty, I have a question on a method of buying, what it is called and if it is legal. I would like to buy a house that the owner owns free and clear. Let’s say the sales…
Continue readingReader Question: Monty, I am a first time homebuyer. I have been saving for several years and have a good down payment, but I am in no hurry. I like your column, but there are so many topics to consider….
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Reader Question: I have seen estimates and rules of thumb regarding the value added to a home by finishing the basement. They vary widely, from $20.00 to $90.00 per square foot. An online website values my home for $150 per…
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