August 17th came and went, the day the NAR Settlement rules fell into place. Everyone agrees it's been a confusing time for agents and consumers alike. Trying to sift through the new rules and be compliant have presented many challenges. Here's one simple solution for the new commission rules: START WITH A BUYER AGREEMENT The NAR Settlement requires agents to use Buyer Agreements (BAs) prior to showing property. The definition of a Buyer's Agent is that you do the following work on behalf of your buyer: The agreement must include a “specific and conspicuous” disclosure of the amount or rate of compensation you will receive. The amount of compensation must not be open-ended and can go lower but never over the agreed upon amount. PUT IT IN THE OFFER Here's where it … [Read more...] about One Simple Solution for the New Commission Rules
How to Create a Memorable Outdoor Summer Gathering
It's been a great summer so far, especially those summer nights. As fall approaches, now is the time to gather friends and food and make magic happen in your back yard. Following are tips on how to create a memorable outdoor summer gathering: … [Read more...] about How to Create a Memorable Outdoor Summer Gathering
How to Achieve Low Maintenance Landscaping
Many homeowners don't have a green thumb and might feel overwhelmed by the thought of landscaping. Or they're short on time and don't want the hassle of constant watering. Following are a few ideas on how to achieve low-maintenance landscaping: … [Read more...] about How to Achieve Low Maintenance Landscaping
Why You Should Care About Appliance Limit Upgrades
If your eyes glaze over when you hear the words "appliance limit upgrades," you are not alone. What even is that? you might be asking yourself. And why should I care? It's a somewhat unexciting topic, to be sure, until you are faced with phone calls from clients you just sold a high-end home to. Unfortunately, that built-in sub-zero refrigerator just broke down and now your clients are faced with a $10,000-$20,000 replacement bill right after closing on their dream house. Not a happy moment. But being able to calmly tell them to call the home warranty company you so thoughtfully chose for them is worth gold. And that is why you should care about appliance limit upgrades. Here's the skinny on appliance limit upgrades: … [Read more...] about Why You Should Care About Appliance Limit Upgrades
How to Secure Your Home for a Worry-Free Vacation
The whole point of a vacation is to take a vacation from our worries. Peace of mind is a little easier to maintain if you feel confident that the house you left behind for a week is safe and secure. Here are tips on how to secure your home for a worry-free vacation: … [Read more...] about How to Secure Your Home for a Worry-Free Vacation