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Showing posts from August, 2018

2018 Guide: Taking the Work Out of Short-Term Rentals

Buying a home or an apartment for the purpose of short-term rental is a smart investment in today’s economy. You build your financial portfolio, and the return-on-your-investment is immediate in most cases. When it’s tough to find long-term cash flowing rental properties, short-term rentals may be the answer. There are pros and cons to investing in short-term rentals, Airbnb, or vacation rentals, but they can be great money-makers. This post is brought to you by Wendy Dessler of Rentbelly. What should you do before you buy a short-term rental?  Of course, short-term leases are most popular in particular areas. They should be The post 2018 Guide: Taking the Work Out of Short-Term Rentals appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2C5cT89 via IFTTT

Can Sellers Continue to Show Their Home Until the Buyer Removes Their Inspection Contingency?

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The Case of the Mysteriously Missing Inspection Clause “Seller Shall/Shall not have the right to continue to offer the Property for sale until this Inspection Contingency is removed.” –old Minnesota Residential Purchase Agreement, lines 192. – 193. [ Editor’s Note :  The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] At least until this August, Minnesota home buyers and sellers negotiated whether or not the seller could continue to show their home while the buyer performed their inspection. Now? It’s unclear. That’s because the governing clause (above) mysteriously disappeared when this year’s form changes went into effect August 1. While Realtors wait for guidance from their brokers, general counsel (if they have), and the Board of Realtors, one option is to simply add back the old clause, then have both parties in...

“Bad Grommet!#%!” (and similar-sounding expressions)

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P.S.:  “What’s a Grommet??” OK, so “Bad Grommet!!” isn’t exactly what I muttered when I saw the misplaced grommets** in my custom sign rider this morning. But, it sounded similar. The reason for my aggravation? The fix required a time-eating return trip across town to my sign company, to drill new grommets. Fortunately, they made the correction while I waited . . . **Grommets are the metal-lined holes in a sign rider, through which the rider attaches to the “For Sale” sign above it. Examples of Realtor sign riders — besides the Realtor’s name — include “Coming Soon!,” “Open 1-3 p.m.,” and “Skyline Views!” from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MSw6OG via IFTTT

Just Listed! 4709 West 40th Lane in St. Louis Park’s Minikahda Vista

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Surprisingly Spacious 6 Bedroom(!) Home with > 4,000 Square Feet Where :  4709 40th Lane, St. Louis Park. What :  Modified two-story with 6 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths; total finished square feet = 4,068. When : on the market today(!). How much :  $750k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. You’ll love this beautifully updated and expanded home on an oversized, .23 acre lot in the heart of high-demand Minikahda Vista. Highlights included the newer eat-in Kitchen with granite countertops; a deluxe upper level Owner’s Suite including steam bath and walk-in closet; and the huge, finished lower level perfect for teens, guests, or exercise/work. Other nice features you’ll appreciate: 4(!) full Baths, a Mud Room with tons of storage, and the convenient attached Garage. This home is extra-spacious outside, too:  the lot is 168′ deep, including a huge, level backyard. Please call (952-285-3182) or email me (rosskaplan@edinar...

Resolving Post-Closing Housing Disputes: How Credible is the Threat of Litigation?

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Double-Edged Sword “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” –Proverb. [ Editor’s Note : The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] Even though litigation is notoriously expensive, at least a few home buyers elect to preserve their right to sue — rather than arbitrate** — any post-closing disputes because of that fact. Their logic? Because lawsuits are so costly, they believe the mere threat of litigation is a negotiating club that can be used to extract a settlement from the Seller. Pyrrhic Victory? Unfortunately, there’s one, major defect in that thinking:  before the Seller will incur legal fees, the Buyer will — and their legal fees will come first. And while some plaintiffs are under the impression that, if they prevail in court, the judge will order the defendant to pay th...

The Difference Between “Negotiating” and “Haggling”

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Negotiating is a crucial part of any deal, and lays the foundation for a clear, enforceable contract. Haggling is . . . an annoying waste of time. What’s the difference? Exactly two decimals. $10,000 vs. $100 So, a $10,000 item on a $250,000 house is the stuff of negotiation. A $100 item (or less) is haggling. (Note:  accountants’ term for the difference is “materiality.”) P.S.:  It takes two to haggle.  One side can put a stop to it by making clear that their final terms — whatever they are — are indeed final. Then the other side gets to decide if they want the deal or not. See also , “Splitting the Difference & Other Negotiating Tactics “; “ The Difference Between a Home Inspection Addendum and a Repair List” ; and “ The Key to Successful Negotiating:  Getting to Yes?  Or, Getting to No? “ from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2BYerkD via IFTTT

On the Market This Monday (Aug. 27): 4709 40th Lane in St. Louis Park’s Minikahda Vista

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Surprisingly Spacious 6(!) Bedroom Home with > 4,000 Square Feet Where :  4709 40th Lane, St. Louis Park. What :  Modified two-story with 6 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths. When : on the market this Monday. How much :  $750k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. Treat yourself to this beautifully updated 6(!) Bedroom home with over 4,000 square feet in the heart of high-demand Minikahda Vista. The newer upper level (2006) includes a smashing Owner’s Suite, Master Bath, and Walk-in closet; Laundry (one of two in the home); and two more large Bedrooms. The main level is an entertainer’s dream, with a huge newer Kitchen, formal Dining Room, and 300 square foot Living Room. You’ll love the huge lower level — perfect for teens, guests, a Home Office, and/or Studio/Exercise Room; the home’s versatile floor plan is ideal for large or multi-generation families. With over 4,000 total square feet, tons of storage, and a ...

Why I Paid Off My Car without Making One Extra Payment

I bought a 2010 Audi S4 as my daily driver 6 years ago. It has been a great car and a fun car as well. I got a letter in the mail this month from Audi saying I had paid off the loan on the car! Some of you who follow me may be surprised that I had a loan on that car since I also have a 1999 Lamborghini Diablo, a 1998 Lotus Esprit, a 1981 Aston Martin V8, a 1986 Porsche 928, and a 1991 Mustang. I could have paid cash for the car when I bought it The post Why I Paid Off My Car without Making One Extra Payment appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MCH7nZ via IFTTT

What is the Average Profit on a House Flip?

I have seen many video ads and Facebook ads about the average profit on a flip being $66,000. I flip a lot of houses, and that number seemed very high to me. I did a little research to figure out what the actual average profit on fix-and-flips is. I can tell you that $66,000 is not the average net profit that house flippers make: it’s just the gross profit. That number is leaving out any expenses house flippers have, and it includes houses that were not flipped as well. Check out the video I did on the average profit on The post What is the Average Profit on a House Flip? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2wkDJnu via IFTTT

How Long Does it Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents and brokers can make a lot of money, but it can also take quite some time to become successful. Many people get their real estate license but end up quitting the business because they do not make enough money in the beginning to survive. How long does it take to become successful in real estate? It could take a couple of months, or it could take a year depending on the person, the market, their niche, and how much time they dedicate to the business. Why does it take a while to make money as a real estate The post How Long Does it Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OYMM4q via IFTTT

Resolving Post-Closing Housing Disputes: How Credible is the Threat of Litigation?

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Double-Edged Sword “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” –Proverb. [ Editor’s Note : The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] Even though litigation is notoriously expensive, at least a few home buyers elect to preserve their right to sue — rather than arbitrate** — any post-closing disputes because of that fact. Their logic? Because lawsuits are so costly, they believe the mere threat of litigation is a negotiating club that can be used to extract a settlement from the Seller. Pyrrhic Victory? Unfortunately, there’s one, major defect in that thinking:  before the Seller will incur legal fees, the Buyer will — and their legal fees will come first. And while some plaintiffs are under the impression that, if they prevail in court, the judge will order the defendant to pay th...

The Difference Between “Negotiating” and “Haggling”

Image
Negotiating is a crucial part of any deal, and lays the foundation for a clear, enforceable contract. Haggling is . . . an annoying waste of time. What’s the difference? Exactly two decimals. $10,000 vs. $100 So, a $10,000 item on a $250,000 house is the stuff of negotiation. A $100 item (or less) is haggling. (Note:  accountants’ term for the difference is “materiality.”) P.S.:  It takes two to haggle.  One side can put a stop to it by making clear that their final terms — whatever they are — are indeed final. Then the other side gets to decide if they want the deal or not. See also , “Splitting the Difference & Other Negotiating Tactics “; “ The Difference Between a Home Inspection Addendum and a Repair List” ; and “ The Key to Successful Negotiating:  Getting to Yes?  Or, Getting to No? “ from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2BYerkD via IFTTT

On the Market This Monday (Aug. 27): 4709 40th Lane in St. Louis Park’s Minikahda Vista

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Surprisingly Spacious 6(!) Bedroom Home with > 4,000 Square Feet Where :  4709 40th Lane, St. Louis Park. What :  Modified two-story with 6 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths. When : on the market this Monday. How much :  $750k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. Treat yourself to this beautifully updated 6(!) Bedroom home with over 4,000 square feet in the heart of high-demand Minikahda Vista. The newer upper level (2006) includes a smashing Owner’s Suite, Master Bath, and Walk-in closet; Laundry (one of two in the home); and two more large Bedrooms. The main level is an entertainer’s dream, with a huge newer Kitchen, formal Dining Room, and 300 square foot Living Room. You’ll love the huge lower level — perfect for teens, guests, a Home Office, and/or Studio/Exercise Room; the home’s versatile floor plan is ideal for large or multi-generation families. With over 4,000 total square feet, tons of storage, and a ...

How Long Does it Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents and brokers can make a lot of money, but it can also take quite some time to become successful. Many people get their real estate license but end up quitting the business because they do not make enough money in the beginning to survive. How long does it take to become successful in real estate? It could take a couple of months, or it could take a year depending on the person, the market, their niche, and how much time they dedicate to the business. Why does it take a while to make money as a real estate The post How Long Does it Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OYMM4q via IFTTT

Real Estate Marketing 101: When to Acknowledge a Home Needs Updating — & When Not To

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Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder Buyer When should a listing agent (representing the Seller) explicitly market that a home “needs cosmetic updates” (or the equivalent)? Less often than you might guess. Here are my three reasons why: One . The pictures tell the story. For years, websites like EdinaRealty.com have allowed an unlimited number of home photos; since this June, so does MLS.  See , “ Max Number of Photos on MLS Now? “The Sky’s the Limit” .” Given all that exposure, the listing agent hardly needs to tell prospective Buyers that the home “just needs your decorating touches” — they can see for themselves (note:  the asking price often suggests that as well). Two . “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”  Yes, many (if not most) Buyers might agree that a given house is dated. However, it’s always possible that the Buyer loves the home just the way it is. In that case, conceding that the home is dated is essentially an unforced error that hurts the Selle...

The Many Uses (Still) For Liquid Paper (“White-Out”)

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In a supposedly paperless world, why does anyone still need something to correct paper mistakes? I know at least one, non-standard application:  touch-up paint for Realtor sign riders. It’s not as good as white nail polish, and not as water-repellent (or long-lived) as oil-based paint, but in a pinch . . . it’ll do! from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2NvMbqP via IFTTT

Why I Paid Off My Car without Making One Extra Payment

I bought a 2010 Audi S4 as my daily driver 6 years ago. It has been a great car and a fun car as well. I got a letter in the mail this month from Audi saying I had paid off the loan on the car! Some of you who follow me may be surprised that I had a loan on that car since I also have a 1999 Lamborghini Diablo, a 1998 Lotus Esprit, a 1981 Aston Martin V8, a 1986 Porsche 928, and a 1991 Mustang. I could have paid cash for the car when I bought it The post Why I Paid Off My Car without Making One Extra Payment appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MCH7nZ via IFTTT

Can Sellers Continue to Show Their Home Until the Buyer Removes Their Inspection Addendum?

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The Case of the Mysteriously Disappearing Inspection Clause “Seller Shall/Shall not have the right to continue to offer the Property for sale until this Inspection Contingency is removed.” –old Minnesota Residential Purchase Agreement, lines 192. -193. [ Editor’s Note :  The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] At least until this August, Minnesota home buyers and sellers negotiated whether or not the Seller could continue to show their home while the buyer performed their inspection. Now? It’s unclear. That’s because the governing clause (above) mysteriously disappeared when this year’s form changes went into effect August 1. While Realtors wait for guidance from their brokers, general counsel (if they have), and the Board of Realtors, one option is to simply add back the old clause, then have both parties ini...

“Bad Grommet!#%!” (and similar-sounding expressions)

Image
P.S.:  “What’s a Grommet??” OK, so “Bad Grommet!!” isn’t exactly what I muttered when I saw the misplaced grommets** in my custom sign rider this morning. But, it sounded similar. The reason for my aggravation? The fix required a time-eating return trip across town to my sign company, to re-do the sign. Fortunately, they made the correction while I waited . . . **Grommets are drilled holes in a sign rider, through which the rider attaches to the “For Sale” sign above it. Examples of Realtor sign riders — besides the Realtor’s name — include “Coming Soon!,” “Open 1-3 p.m.,” and “Skyline Views!” from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MSw6OG via IFTTT

Just Listed! 4709 West 40th Lane in St. Louis Park’s Minikahda Vista

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Surprisingly Spacious 6 Bedroom(!) Home with > 4,000 Square Feet Where :  4709 40th Lane, St. Louis Park. What :  Modified two-story with 6 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths; total finished square feet = 4,068. When : on the market today(!). How much :  $750k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. You’ll love this beautifully updated and expanded home on an oversized, .23 acre lot in the heart of high-demand Minikahda Vista. Highlights included the newer eat-in Kitchen with granite countertops; a deluxe upper level Owner’s Suite including steam bath and walk-in closet; and the huge, finished lower level perfect for teens, guests, or exercise/work. Other nice features you’ll appreciate: 4(!) full Baths, a Mud Room with tons of storage, and the convenient attached Garage. This home is extra-spacious outside, too:  the lot is 168′ deep, including a huge, level backyard. Please call (952-285-3182) or email me (rosskaplan@edinar...

What is the Average Profit on a House Flip?

I have seen many video ads and Facebook ads about the average profit on a flip being $66,000. I flip a lot of houses, and that number seemed very high to me. I did a little research to figure out what the actual average profit on fix-and-flips is. I can tell you that $66,000 is not the average net profit that house flippers make: it’s just the gross profit. That number is leaving out any expenses house flippers have, and it includes houses that were not flipped as well. Where does the average profit of $66,000 on a house flip The post What is the Average Profit on a House Flip? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2wkDJnu via IFTTT

Resolving Post-Closing Housing Disputes: How Credible is the Threat of Litigation?

Image
Double-Edged Sword “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” –Proverb. [ Editor’s Note : The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] Even though litigation is notoriously expensive, at least a few home buyers elect to preserve their right to sue — rather than arbitrate** — any post-closing disputes. Their logic? Precisely because lawsuits are so expensive, they believe the mere threat of litigation is a negotiating club that can be used to extract a settlement from the Seller. Pyrrhic Victory? Unfortunately, there’s one, major defect in that thinking:  before the Seller will incur legal fees, the Buyer will — and their legal fees will come first. And while some plaintiffs are under the impression that, if they prevail in court, the judge will order the defendant to pay their lega...

The Difference Between “Negotiating” and “Haggling”

Image
Negotiating is a crucial part of any deal, and lays the foundation for a clear, enforceable contract. Haggling is . . . an annoying waste of time. What’s the difference? Exactly two decimals. $10,000 vs. $100 So, a $10,000 item on a $250,000 house is the stuff of negotiation. A $100 item (or less) is haggling. (Note:  accountants’ term for the difference is “materiality.”) P.S.:  It takes two to haggle.  One side can put a stop to it by making clear that their final terms — whatever they are — are indeed final. Then the other side gets to decide if they want the deal or not. See also , “Splitting the Difference & Other Negotiating Tactics “; “ The Difference Between a Home Inspection Addendum and a Repair List” ; and “ The Key to Successful Negotiating:  Getting to Yes?  Or, Getting to No? “ from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2BYerkD via IFTTT

How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents and brokers can make a lot of money, but it can also take quite some time to become successful. Many people get their real estate license but end up quitting the business because they do not make enough money in the beginning to survive. How long does it take to become successful in real estate? It could take a couple of months or it could take a year depending on the person, the market, their niche, and how much time they dedicate to the business. Why does it take a while to make money as a real estate The post How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OYMM4q via IFTTT

Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell?

I have 20 house flips going right now. I own a brokerage, and I have sold thousands of homes as an agent/broker. I have a lot of experience selling houses and have learned over the years how to sell houses to maximize profit. I post all my flips on YouTube, and many people tell me my houses should have more repairs done, more landscaping done, different materials, etc. In a perfect world, it would be great if I could make every house perfect, but that is not possible. It takes time, money, and aggravation to make a house perfect. In The post Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2N6GPBP via IFTTT

How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante

This has been a crazy year. I started a real estate brokerage, bought a huge commercial building, and I also bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante. The Aston Martin V8 has been one of my favorite cars since I was a kid. Many people don’t know what they are or think they look like a Mustang, but I love them. I have only seen a few of them in person, and pictures do not do them justice. Ironically, the first one I saw in person I ended up buying a couple of years later. The car I bought even The post How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MFWbQS via IFTTT

Real Estate Marketing 101: When to Acknowledge a Home Needs Updating — & When Not To

Image
Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder Buyer When should a listing agent (representing the Seller) explicitly market that a home “needs cosmetic updates” (or the equivalent)? Less often than you might guess. Here are my three reasons why: One . The pictures tell the story. For years, websites like EdinaRealty.com have allowed an unlimited number of home photos; since this June, so does MLS.  See , “ Max Number of Photos on MLS Now? “The Sky’s the Limit” .” Given all that exposure, the listing agent hardly needs to tell prospective Buyers that the home “just needs your decorating touches” — they can see for themselves (note:  the asking price often suggests that as well). Two . “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”  Yes, many (if not most) Buyers might agree that a given house is dated. However, it’s always possible that the Buyer loves the home just the way it is. In that case, conceding that the home is dated is essentially an unforced error that hurts the Selle...

How to Spot a Newbie Realtor: Exhibit A

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Beginner Drafting Mistakes “As I am smoking . . . I don’t expect to be thanked .” –What John Hurt’s character — in “Love and Death on Long Island” (1997) — says to the cab driver, when the latter points to the cab’s “Thank You For Not Smoking” sign, and asks Hurt to extinguish his cigarette. [ Editor’s Note : The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] To be sure, it’s far more common for novice Realtors to miss needed signatures, than to collect extra signatures that aren’t actually required. Which is why the “Dual Agency” signature block on the standard Minnesota residential Purchase Agreement is such an easy blunder for newbies to make. “Dual Agency Does/Does Not Apply” At least in Minnesota, Realtors must disclose to their clients if the Buyer and Seller are being represented by t...

Wow! Fern Hill Colonial in St. Louis Park’s Fern Hill Neighborhood Now $575k(!)

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4 BR/3 Bath Colonial Just Blocks From City Lakes What : 4 Bedroom/3 Bath two-story Colonial with 2,650 finished square feet on a gorgeous, level .20 acre lot. Where : 2851 Huntington Avenue South in Fern Hill; about four blocks southwest of Cedar Lake, and one mile west of Lake Calhoun. How much :  just reduced from $600k to $575k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. Don’t miss your chance to own this stylish Colonial with four(!) Bedrooms up on one of Fern Hill’s prettiest blocks. You’ll love the blend of formal and informal spaces on the first floor, including the Living Room, Dining Room, Den, and Kitchen/Family Room overlooking the level, fenced backyard (screened Porch, too!). Hard-to-find 4 BR’s Up Upstairs, enjoy the private Owner’s Suite and huge walk-in  closet; the lower level Amusement Room has its own fireplace. Quality construction and lots of nice updates throughout, featuring hardwood floors; newer Ande...

And That’s It (Until Next June) For 8-9 p.m. Showings

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One Showing — or Two? If Sellers were OK with it — and Realtors’ “smart” keys worked then — it would be possible to show homes in late June in Minnesota between 9 and 10 p.m. After all, the sun sets after 9 p.m. on June 21, and twilight lingers almost till ten. Unfortunately (or maybe not for tired Realtors and homeowners), smart keys automatically time out after 9 p.m., making such showings a “no go.” Late(r) Summer Fast forward to late August, and sundown is now just after 8 p.m. Which means my advice to would-be Buyers is to look no later than 7 to 8 p.m. If they like the home, they’re just going to have to double back to see it during full daylight, when it’s possible to assess the exterior, yard, and neighboring homes — not to mention how the interior looks during daylight. So, why not just save time — and a showing — and see the home during daylight the first time? P.S.:  I actually prefer to show homes on cloudy days rather than sunny ones. Even dark hom...

What’s Amazon Got Against Oatmeal?

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100%(!) Price Hike at Whole Foods If inflation should ever rear its ugly head again, here’s a prediction about where it will first appear: no , not at the gas pump, in your cable bill, or at the pharmacy counter. More likely in the grocery aisle. Exhibit A:  Whole Foods’ just-doubled price for a cup of prepared oatmeal, from $1.99 to $3.99 (note: my family splits our shopping between Costco, Cub, and Whole Foods). If you’re doing the math, that’s a 100%(!) increase. Trial Balloon? Best guess is that this is a mere, um . . . taste of what’s to come, price-wise, as Amazon more fully integrates Whole Foods. Look for Jeff Bezos to selectively test such increases, expanding them when they stick, rolling them back when they don’t. Personally, I’m going back to making my own oatmeal at home . . . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MCgP4x via IFTTT

The incredibly high cost of construction and more open attacks against Prop 13.  California housing takes a turn.  

There is now a concerted attack on Prop 13 as people with two ounces of common sense realize that no, grandma isn’t being kicked out onto the streets because property taxes are going through the roof.  In fact, there is now evidence highlighting what we all knew and that is Prop 13 is a gift […] from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OJ2jFi via IFTTT

On the Market This Monday (Aug. 27): 4709 40th Lane in St. Louis Park’s Minikahda Vista

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Surprisingly Spacious 6(!) Bedroom Home with > 4,000 Square Feet Where :  4709 40th Lane, St. Louis Park. What :  Modified two-story with 6 Bedrooms and 4 Full Baths. When : on the market this Monday. How much :  $750k. Who : listed by Ross Kaplan, Edina Realty – City Lakes. Treat yourself to this 6(!) Bedroom home with over 4,000 square feet in the heart of high-demand Minikahda Vista. The newer upper level (2006) includes a smashing Owner’s Suite, Master Bath, and Walk-in closet; Laundry (one of two in the home); and two more large Bedrooms. The main level is an entertainer’s dream, with a huge newer Kitchen, formal Dining Room, and 300 square foot Living Room. You’ll love the huge lower level — perfect for teens, guests, a Home Office, and/or Studio/Exercise Room; the home’s versatile floor plan is ideal for large or multi-generation families. With over 4,000 total square feet, tons of storage, and a huge .23 acre lot, t...

How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents and brokers can make a lot of money, but it can also take quite some time to become successful. Many people get their real estate license but end up quitting the business because they do not make enough money in the beginning to survive. How long does it take to become successful in real estate? It could take a couple of months or it could take a year depending on the person, the market, their niche, and how much time they dedicate to the business. Why does it take a while to make money as a real estate The post How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OYMM4q via IFTTT

Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell?

I have 20 house flips going right now. I own a brokerage, and I have sold thousands of homes as an agent/broker. I have a lot of experience selling houses and have learned over the years how to sell houses to maximize profit. I post all my flips on YouTube, and many people tell me my houses should have more repairs done, more landscaping done, different materials, etc. In a perfect world, it would be great if I could make every house perfect, but that is not possible. It takes time, money, and aggravation to make a house perfect. In The post Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2N6GPBP via IFTTT

How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante

This has been a crazy year. I started a real estate brokerage, bought a huge commercial building, and I also bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante. The Aston Martin V8 has been one of my favorite cars since I was a kid. Many people don’t know what they are or think they look like a Mustang, but I love them. I have only seen a few of them in person, and pictures do not do them justice. Ironically, the first one I saw in person I ended up buying a couple of years later. The car I bought even The post How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MFWbQS via IFTTT

How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent?

Real estate agents and brokers can make a lot of money, but it can also take quite some time to become successful. Many people get their real estate license but end up quitting the business because they do not make enough money in the beginning to survive. How long does it take to become successful in real estate? It could take a couple of months or it could take a year depending on the person, the market, their niche, and how much time they dedicate to the business. Why does it take a while to make money as a real estate The post How Long Does It Take to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent? appeared first on InvestFourMore . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OYMM4q via IFTTT

Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell?

I have 20 house flips going right now. I own a brokerage, and I have sold thousands of homes as an agent/broker. I have a lot of experience selling houses and have learned over the years how to sell houses to maximize profit. I post all my flips on YouTube, and many people tell me my houses should have more repairs done, more landscaping done, different materials, etc. In a perfect world, it would be great if I could make every house perfect, but that is not possible. It takes time, money, and aggravation to make a house perfect. In The post Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell? appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2N6GPBP via IFTTT

How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante

This has been a crazy year. I started a real estate brokerage, bought a huge commercial building, and I also bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante. The Aston Martin V8 has been one of my favorite cars since I was a kid. Many people don’t know what they are or think they look like a Mustang, but I love them. I have only seen a few of them in person, and pictures do not do them justice. Ironically, the first one I saw in person I ended up buying a couple of years later. The car I bought even The post How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MFWbQS via IFTTT

How Do You Know If You Are Ready to Invest in Real Estate?

A lot of people want to be real estate investors but never actually buy a house. Many others take years before they invest in real estate. It can be tough figuring out if you are ready to buy an investment property. There is a lot to consider: education, money, markets, and more. One thing to remember is there is no perfect time to start investing. Investing itself is the best way to learn how to do things better and learn what type of investing suits you best. How much education do you need before you invest in real estate? You The post How Do You Know If You Are Ready to Invest in Real Estate? appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OMgM3B via IFTTT

Real Estate Marketing 101: When to Acknowledge a Home Needs Updating — & When Not To

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Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder Buyer When should a listing agent (representing the Seller) explicitly market that a home “needs cosmetic updates” (or the equivalent)? Less often than you might guess. Here are my three reasons why: One . The pictures tell the story. For years, websites like EdinaRealty.com have allowed an unlimited number of home photos; since this June, so does MLS.  See , “ Max Number of Photos on MLS Now? “The Sky’s the Limit” .” Given all that exposure, the listing agent hardly needs to tell prospective Buyers that the home “just needs your decorating touches” — they can see for themselves (note:  the asking price often suggests that as well). Two . “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”  Yes, many (if not most) Buyers might agree that a given house is dated. However, it’s always possible that the Buyer loves the home just the way it is. In that case, conceding that the home is dated is essentially an unforced error that hurts the Selle...

Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell?

I have 20 house flips going right now. I own a brokerage, and I have sold thousands of homes as an agent/broker. I have a lot of experience selling houses and have learned over the years how to sell houses to maximize profit. I post all my flips on YouTube, and many people tell me my houses should have more repairs done, more landscaping done, different materials, etc. In a perfect world, it would be great if I could make every house perfect, but that is not possible. It takes time, money, and aggravation to make a house perfect. In The post Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell? appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2N6GPBP via IFTTT

How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante

This has been a crazy year. I started a real estate brokerage, bought a huge commercial building, and I also bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante. The Aston Martin V8 has been one of my favorite cars since I was a kid. Many people don’t know what they are or think they look like a Mustang, but I love them. I have only seen a few of them in person, and pictures do not do them justice. Ironically, the first one I saw in person I ended up buying a couple of years later. The car I bought even The post How and Why I Bought a 1981 Aston Martin V8 Volante appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2MFWbQS via IFTTT

How Do You Know If You Are Ready to Invest in Real Estate?

A lot of people want to be real estate investors but never actually buy a house. Many others take years before they invest in real estate. It can be tough figuring out if you are ready to buy an investment property. There is a lot to consider: education, money, markets, and more. One thing to remember is there is no perfect time to start investing. Investing itself is the best way to learn how to do things better and learn what type of investing suits you best. How much education do you need before you invest in real estate? You The post How Do You Know If You Are Ready to Invest in Real Estate? appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2OMgM3B via IFTTT

Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell?

I have 20 house flips going right now. I own a brokerage, and I have sold thousands of homes as an agent/broker. I have a lot of experience selling houses and have learned over the years how to sell houses to maximize profit. I post all my flips on YouTube, and many people tell me my houses should have more repairs done, more landscaping done, different materials, etc. In a perfect world, it would be great if I could make every house perfect, but that is not possible. It takes time, money, and aggravation to make a house perfect. In The post Does a House Flip Have to Be in Perfect Shape to Sell? appeared first on Invest Four More . from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230700 https://ift.tt/2N6GPBP via IFTTT

How to Spot a Newbie Realtor: Exhibit A

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Beginner Drafting Mistakes “As I am smoking . . . I don’t expect to be thanked .” –What John Hurt’s character — in “Love and Death on Long Island” (1997) — says to the cab driver, when the latter points to the cab’s “Thank You For Not Smoking” sign, and asks Hurt to extinguish his cigarette. [ Editor’s Note : The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.  If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.] To be sure, it’s far more common for novice Realtors to miss needed signatures, than to collect extra signatures that aren’t actually needed. Which is why the “Dual Agency” signature block on the standard Minnesota residential Purchase Agreement is such an easy blunder for newbies to make. “Dual Agency Does/Does Not Apply” At least in Minnesota, Realtors must disclose to their clients if the Buyer and Seller are being represented by the...