Question: “We can’t find anything we like in our price range. I’m trying to convince my wife to go for a fixer-upper so we can buy in the neighborhood we like. What do you think?” Answer: Great idea! Many people have bought fixer-upper homes and proudly shown me the before and after photos once their

Question: “I just got married and my wife and I are planning to buy our first home and I have a question. What happens if a house fails a home inspection?” Answer: Home inspectors don’t pass/fail a home. They inspect it, describe its condition, and indicate what needs attention now or possibly in the future.

Question: “We’re buying a home and had it inspected. It’s an older home and there are several issues. The main one is that the electrical is not to code. Don’t they have to fix that and bring it to code?” Answer: A common misconception amongst homebuyers and many agents is that items must be brought

Question: “We found a house we like, but it had a major mold problem. The seller says it’s all been taken care of.  Do you think it’s safe to buy it?” Answer: There’s benign mold, and there’s “toxic mold,” so I assume you’re talking about the latter. Many people can live in a home even

Question: “Hi Gary, I’m starting my home search what’s the best website to use?” Answer: Great question! I’m going to suggest you use my website, www.SearchSDHomes.com, and here’s why… It’s very user-friendly and simple. Many major sites you’ve heard of have inaccurate or out-of-date information. Mine does not. All the major sites are basically looking

Question: “When I bought my house, I was told the property line is at the fence. Do you think that’s correct? Should I look at a map?” Answer: Ever played the kid’s game of “Telephone”? One person whispers a phrase to the next person, who whispers it to the next person, and so on. The

Question: “I’m so frustrated. I keep calling about homes for sale on Zillow and other sites, as well as on for sale signs, and they’re always sold. Any suggestions?” Answer: Let me answer that in multiple parts… WEBSITESMany well-known websites have inaccurate and outdated information about homes for sale and home values. They can be

Question: “What’s the best way to get a good deal? We’d like to find a home at least 20% below market.” Answer: Not sure how to answer that, but I’ll try. First of all, not to sound harsh but your odds of success are just above zero, if that. Opportunities to buy property at such