Moving comes with some unavoidable expenses, but you can cut some moving expenses by following these tips. The most obvious way to save money is to move yourself rather than hiring a moving company to pack your belongings and truck them to your new place. If you have a choice about when to move, and … Read more
I am happy to announce that I have to get back to Schat’s Bakery to pick up some more gift cards because I’m getting several excellent column ideas. Thank you! Although I had planned to talk about rules for renters, this week I’m responding to a question about fireplaces. Spring in Ukiah can be chilly, … Read more
Moving can be exciting, but it tends to come with a few drawbacks (like getting all your earthly possessions from one location to another). So, this column is about some important steps to take to make your move as smooth as possible. As I’ve mentioned before, if you’re selling your house, it is best to … Read more
Consumer confidence is a funny thing. As adults, we understand that wanting something doesn’t necessarily make it so (for example, no matter how much we want our favorite dessert to have zero calories, it doesn’t); however, with consumer confidence it’s the opposite. When enough people believe something, it becomes true. It’s not actually the belief, … Read more
Would you like to receive a check from the bank to supplement your income after you turn 55 years old? If you own your own home, the equity in your home can become a source of income, and you don’t have to have any other income sources to qualify. I know it sounds too good … Read more
Most of us wouldn’t trade our pets for anything, but when it comes to selling your home, why limit your audience to pet lovers? I would never suggest trying to hide the fact that you have pets, but I would recommend you follow a few tips on minimizing the negative effects pets can have on … Read more
COSTCO is coming! Before I get going, I want to disclose that Realty World Selzer Realty is the listing agent for the property COSTCO will build on. That doesn’t change what I’m about to write, but it’s always important to be up front. Will COSTCO mean boom or bust for Ukiah? When you ask someone … Read more
When you sell a house, you are legally obligated to disclose anything that would negatively affect the value of the property or a buyer’s interest in owning it. So, if you’re selling your home, you probably have quite a list to compile. In Mendocino County, real estate agents typically use an 11-page document that covers … Read more
If you’re interested in investing, 1031 Exchanges are a wonderful, legal way to defer tax liability almost indefinitely. Sound good? Read on. As always, when I write about investing or tax implications of owning real estate, I am simply sharing my opinion. If you are thinking of investing or have questions about taxes with regard … Read more