Home

Former pro wrestler puts money on real estate

By Tom Kelly, Wednesday, May 3, 2006.

Some property investors are like fishermen--some share their secrets while others do not.

And, while many of the most popular rules to get a run-down home ready for sale are common--including fresh paint, new carpet and interior cleaning--it's interesting to hear what absolutely works for small-time players with a proven track record.

Neal Hargrove, 39, spent 15 years as a professional wrestler with the World Wrestling Federation. He made a very good living in the ring as Reno Riggins and plowed most of his financial rewards into residential real estate.  more...

Retailer sues landlord over falsely promised neighbors

By Robert Bruss, Wednesday, May 3, 2006.

Barry Hinesley signed a five-year commercial lease for a 1,200-square-foot store in the Oakshade Town Center shopping center in Davis, Calif. Slightly over a year later, Hinesley filed a lawsuit against the Oakshade owners for fraud in the inducement and for rescission of the lease.

Hinesley alleged Oakshade's leasing representative told him Starbucks, Baskin-Robbins and Dos Coyotes (a regional restaurant chain) would be his store neighbors.  more...

Outdoor wood gets spring cleaning

By Bill and Kevin Burnett, Wednesday, May 3, 2006.

Q: At one time you wrote an article on yearly deck maintenance that included instructions on cleaning a deck and a recipe for preserving it. Can you send me that recipe?

A: You bet we can. Each year around this time, we get a number of questions from readers who want to know how best to care for their outdoor wood, whether it be decking, fencing or siding. With the spring and summer months upon us, it's time for a quick refresher course.  more...

How to determine inherited property's stepped-up basis

By Robert Bruss, Wednesday, May 3, 2006.

DEAR BOB: My daughter passed away unexpectedly at age 32. Her living trust left all her assets to me, including her condominium, which she owned about six years. That living trust was a real blessing because I didn't have to deal with lawyers or the probate court, as I was the successor trustee. The condo has appreciated greatly in market value since her purchase. How do I determine my new stepped-up basis, which you often discuss for inherited property?  more...