Starker Exchange: “I’m planning to exchange my San Diego rental house for an apartment building in Texas. I know there’s different kinds of exchanges. I heard I should do a Starker Exchange. What exactly is that?” ***ANSWER: The name is from a 1979 court case: T.J. Starker vs. US. A Starker exchange is one name

Should I use a lockbox to sell my home? “I’m talking to agents about selling my home in Clairemont and one said I don’t need a lockbox for agents to see my home. Won’t it be harder to sell my home without one?” ***ANSWER: You’re right. And any agent who (except for special cases) tells

What about Probate Sales? “Hello Gary. My wife and I see your name everywhere. Question- We’re looking for a home in Pacific Beach for our daughter. Do you recommend buying a home at a probate sale?” ***ANSWER: First, some info… A probate sale occurs when someone passes away without a living trust naming a willing,

Landord Assistance Sites “I’ve been investing in real estate for a couple of years. My wife and I own 3 rental condos that we manage ourselves. Can you recommend any good websites to learn more about what I need to know as a landlord?” ***ANSWER: Here’s a couple: www.SDCAA.com www.kts-law.com For San Diego Rental information

What about Loan Contingencies? “How does it work if I’m buying a home but cancel because I find a problem with the home or my bank won’t give me the loan. Is that breaking the contract? And do I lose my deposit?” ***ANSWER: Most contracts have contingencies letting you cancel and get your deposit back

Should I use my Credit Union? “I’m going to be buying a home soon and I’m a member of the XXXXXXXX (name deleted) Credit Union. Should I go there to get my home loan or to my bank?” ***ANSWER: Credit unions are funny. Because they’re non-profit, you get some curious results… Occasionally, credit unions have

How about some tips about fixing up a property to sell? “My wife and I are selling our home in Pacific Beach shortly and moving to Vegas due to her job transfer. What work should we do to our home to ready it for sale? And will we really get more money or will someone

Condo vs. Townhome “My husband and I can’t afford a detached house yet, so we’re going to buy a condo. Is there a difference between a condo and a townhome?” ***ANSWER: “Condominium” is a form of ownership in which you own an interest in an entire property (the condo complex), with the exclusive right to

What about Termite Reports? “Hi Gary, it’s XXXXX. As you know, I’ll be calling you to list my house this summer. I want to get your advice. I think the whole termite requirement is a racket. Every home has termites. But I’m a realist and I know I’ll need to clear the house to sell

How do I find out my credit score? “I want to buy a home next year. I know my credit has problems from a few years ago, but I’ve paid all my bills on time or early since 2003. How do I find out what my credit score is now?” ***ANSWER: Residents of California (and