Theresa Lussier's Q&A

It all depends on the area you are looking, and what is the Fair Market Value (FMV) of neighboring, comparable homes. It is possible that 10k might mean structurally sound, but needs cleaning, newer HVAC, updates. It also might mean that this property is structurally compromised and needs either demolition or extensive repairs to make it habitable.The purchase process has an inspection period built in. For a specified length of time, you may have any inspections completed. If a major issue (habitability) comes up during the inspection period, you then have the option of negotiating for repairs, or, backing out of the contract, depending on the seller. Most foreclosed homes, estate sales, and other transactions will say "As Is" which indicates that the seller will make no repairs.An experienced Buyer's Agent will be able to advise you on the FMV in any neighborhood.

If you have a Buyer's Agent looking out for your interests, they should be able to write an Occupancy Agreement that will cover the stay in detail. You do not want to assume anything, and you do want to get everything in writing. In addition, speak with your lawyer about how to protect yourself.

Did you sign a Buyer Broker Agreement? Those will often state a commission rate, but if not, all commissions are negotiable, as there is no set commission rate. Remind your agent of that. He should also show you the buyer's agent commission on the MLS listing, if you haven't seen it for yourself. You can have any and all contracts read by a lawyer, if you have one. This might be an excellent time to use them.

You can find answers to any questions here. Remember though, that you must act quickly to take advantage of the credit. Your home must be purchased BY Dec 1, 2009. With closings taking 45 days or longer, you don't have much time left to take advantage of this credit.Best of luck.

You can offer whatever you want. However, if you'd like to get your offer accepted, then you need to understand what is motivating the seller and craft an offer that meets the seller's needs as well as your own. Find out as much about the seller that you possibly can. You are working towards a meeting of the minds. Back up an offer with facts- apples to apples comps of other homes in the area and why your offer is fair. Then be prepared to move along to the next home if the seller is offended.

As part of the purchase contract, it should be in writing what stays and what goes. The assumption is that electrical fixtures stay, hot tubs are typically negotiated. Did you, or your buyer's agent take photos of the property as you went through it? Carry a camera, or cell phone w/camera, everywhere and document everything.If this is a concern- that more items/fixtures will be taken from the home, everyone needs to be aware of this. The price was determined by very specific terms- the fixtures were part of the terms. The listing agent, the bank, all need to be aware that the home you put an offer on- the terms of the contract, have changed. If you don't want the property at this time, you can withdrawal your offer prior to acceptance from the bank. It doesn't appear, from what you've said, that you are without options.

Most likely yes, but the extent of problems would depend on the location of the property, the age of the property, the condition of the property, and how the property was prepared for vacancy.Are you in an area that freezes and thaws? Is there high humidity? Has the property been winterized? Vandalized? More information about location and condition might help us give you a more useful answer.

A good area for what?The question is too vague to give you a definite answer. Determine your priorities. Typical buyer concerns are commute time, quality schools, proximity to areas of interest, home costs or value in the area. You can find most of the information you are looking for with some quick googling.

If you have a contract with this agent, call the broker. If this is the broker, call the local board or your attorney.Otherwise, why would you want to get a hold of an agent who doesn't respond? Do yourself a favor and find another agent.

Without knowing all the details, there are specific performance issues that your real estate agent, if you are using one, your attorney, the title company should be hammering away at. No one gets paid until there is a closing and the check clears the bank, so there are many people who should be working to get this issue resolved quickly.If you are not represented by a real estate agent or other real estate professional, then at the very least, contact your attorney to fight for you- either to pressure the sibling to sign, or to advise you on your legal rights with regards to the contract.