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Determining the most profitable real estate improvements

By Robert Bruss, Tuesday, November 2, 2004.

If you are a homeowner, or perhaps a home buyer considering the purchase of a fixer-upper house, you will profit from reading "How to Increase the Value of Your Home" by Vicki Lankarge and Daniel J. Nahorney. This enlightening new book explains which home improvements are profitable and which might be enjoyable but won't add as much market value as their cost.  more...

Angry buyer cautioned before slandering inspector

By Barry Stone, Tuesday, November 2, 2004.

Dear Barry,

We are very unhappy with our home inspector. When we bought our home, he reported what he thought was a roof problem and an interior mold problem. He admitted that he was not a licensed roofer or a mold expert and recommended further evaluation. After moving in, we hired a roofing contractor and a mold expert. Both said there were no problems. Thus, we wasted $200 on needless inspections because of this home inspector who, by his own admission, is not qualified. The last thing we want is to deal with him ever again, and I intend to spread the word about his services.  more...

Real estate developer makes illegal lot sale

By Robert Bruss, Tuesday, November 2, 2004.

DEAR BOB: On March 4, 2004, we placed a $5,000 deposit with a signed contract to buy a lot in a new manufactured-home development. We had up to one year to decide what type of house to build. Four days after signing the contract, we felt we made a hasty mistake and asked the sales manager if we could get our money back. He said, "Once the ink is dry, it's a done deal," because we had a signed contract. We were also told to hold on to our lot, because when the final phase is completed, it will be easier to sell to a potential buyer because it is close to the clubhouse.  more...