The Dilemma: New house or Existing Home? Q: We are debating whether to buy a new house in a new subdivision or an existing home nearby. Any suggestions on which is the better long-term idea? Raymond L A: Well Raymond, the first thing to consider with real estate is of course: Location. As you are looking at new or old in the same area, then the other things to consider are affordability, securing finance, and what works best for you.…
Read More →Psychology of Auction: Social Proof! We are often asked about how auctions work, and what makes a good auction so thought we would share the following article that we wrote for another publication: Have you ever wondered about the psychology of auctions? Have you heard of “social proof? If you understand it you can use it to your advantage. If you attend any auction across Auckland there’s a good chance you’ll see the follo…
Read More →Building Inspection: Standard Clause or Additional Clause? Q: What is the difference between using the Building Inspection clause on the front of the standard sale and purchase agreement, and inserting a building clause in the “additional clauses” section? Which would you recommend to a purchaser? Raewyn T. Good question Raewyn. Firstly, there is no obligation to use the standard clause rather than your own ‘custom’ clause (which you can …
Read More →Who’s Looking after Whom? Q: We have recently sold our house and bought another. Dealing with different sides of these two real estate transactions has been a little confusing. When we sold we dealt exclusively with the agent we were selling with, but when we bought we used a buyer’s agent and yet we still had dealings with the seller’s agent? I’m interested in whose best interest’s agents are meant to represent. Danny Y. A: Great question…
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