Charlene Hanson's Q&A

While it wouldn't be prudent to spend a lot of money on landscaping, it would be smart to have the lawn mowed, etc. and tidied up.  Remember the underwriter and/or bank review appraiser only see the appraisal comments and pictures.   

Agree with comments here -- time to find a new agent.  And just FYI--it's common for a seller to not respond to lower offers in a multiple offer situation, so you don't see a written rejection.  A good agent would have explained that to you.

This property is listed on the MLS as pending inspection, meaning there is an offer on it an the buyer is going through the inspection process.

Some great comments here. Some buyers don't show all their cards&do spend more than they originally tell their agent; however, if you know your maximum comfort level -- stick to it!  You should feel comfortable with your agent and talk with him about it so he doesn't show you homes above your max. price.  If he showed you sold comps (not just listings) that the home was worth the $335K, he was probably just doing his best to get you the home.  Ultimately, it's your decision and your agent should provide professional guidance.

The current Zillow zestimate is $278,000.  To get a more accurate estimate, call a Realtor do a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis).  You can hire a appraiser to do an appraisal, but an appraisal costs about $400&if you're going to sell or refi, banks want their own appraisal.  If you're thinking of selling, suggest you interview a few Realtors.

In this case, the broker they work for is the dual agent,  and yes, it would need to be disclosed in the purchase&sale agreement (PSA).  Read over the dual agency (section 6) in the Law of Agency pamphlet your agent probably gave you when they started working with you.  Also, ask your agent to go over the standard PSA/Agency Disclosure section and explain it all to you.  Good luck in your house hunting!.