The Department of Justice Has It Wrong

The Department of Justice is suing the National Association of Realtors for price fixing and restraint of trade. Several major real estate franchises have settled…

Say Thanks to the Good Guys

When people’s perceptions about community safety take a negative turn, I pay attention because it usually means there will soon be a decline in property…

Getting Your Finances in Order

Unless you have enough cash to buy a home outright, acquiring a home requires finding a lender who thinks you’re a safe bet. This means…

When to Get Appraisal – Part 3

Besides satisfying your curiosity, knowing your home’s value can come in handy. A home appraisal is an unbiased evaluation to determine your property’s market value.…

When Should You Get an Appraisal?

Besides satisfying your curiosity, knowing your home’s value can come in handy whether you’re selling, refinancing, or managing your taxes. A home appraisal is an…

The Unintended Consequences of Regulation

You’ll have to excuse me while I step onto my soapbox for a moment. Government regulation is not only getting in the way of efficiency,…

The Finances of Downsizing May Surprise You

Recently, I received an inquiry from a retired couple living in Ukiah’s El Dorado subdivision. They asked whether they could take their tax basis with…

Tips for a Quick Sale

When it comes to selling your house, it can be tempting to ignore some of your Realtor’s advice, especially when they want you to do…

When to Get Appraisal – Part 2

Besides satisfying your curiosity, knowing your home’s value can come in handy whether you’re litigating a legal case, dealing with estate issues, or managing an…

To Save on Taxes, Timing Matters (Part II)

When it comes to income and investing, understanding how timing affects your taxes is a big deal. Profits from your investment property are affected by…