On Real Estate

Jim Valentine: What to look past without getting hurt

Jim Valentine on Real Estate

Jim Valentine on Real Estate

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It is easy to get swept up with “gotcha” real estate, from either direction. Most people are more afraid of how they are going to be “gotten,” taken advantage of, rather than perpetrating harm on their counterpart in a transaction, but it has the same effect. When that mindset is pervasive in the minds of the participants it can create mistrust and slow things down.

So what can you really work with in a transaction that isn’t going to ultimately hurt you? One of the biggest misunderstood deficiencies in a home is paint. Needing new paint, or touch up paint here and there, doesn’t mean you are buying a problem. Most paint matters are easily mitigated, often by the new owners and their family with a painting party. If there is dry rot where paint is exposed you might have a more serious issue, but some peeling or faded paint isn’t a deal breaker.

A plumbing leak here and there, likewise, isn’t always a showstopper. From a dry gasket to a worn out something or other, a leak that is caught and repaired isn’t that big of a deal. Make sure that it hasn’t been going on for a while, again looking for dry rot and even mold. An efficient plumber can fix matters quickly and you will be able to enjoy the home you wanted.

Plumbing and electrical problems often create anxiety greater than the problem really is. Flood can damage a home and electrical issues can create a fire which can be devastating. Most people don’t understand how to work with either and figure that the repair is going to be expensive. If you have an honest contractor that will treat you right you will solve you problem quickly and affordably and will want them on your speed dial for future issues. Get an estimate for such repairs before you walk from the home you want.

Landscaping can be dicey. Yes, you can add water and have things grow, but if your landscaping is compromised be careful about what your replacement costs are going to be. It can take time and can be a substantial investment. Windows seem like a costly item to most people, but, again, using the right vendor can also make this component painless.

Unless you are buying a new home, remember that you are buying a resale. There will be things about the home that might need attention, but they aren’t always as bad as they seem. Some inspection lists are long, but the cost and effort to mitigate them is minimal. Other times you can have one or two items that just aren’t worth the cost, hassle or worry. Look at your situation with clear vision. If it’s a bump in the road, remember, “What’s a hurdle to a hurdler?” Handle it and keep moving.

Let the professionals tell you what they can do for you. Most things in life that you have little or no knowledge of how to do, seem daunting. You will be amazing how easy some of these things are to fix at nominal cost resulting in you being able to own your home in great shape at a great price. Let the others be afraid to venture. Put the work in on the home you’ve selected and see what the situation really is. If it works for you then move forward and enjoy the fruits of your labor. If it doesn’t then it is wise to know when to walk away.

Real estate is about solving problems. That is how money is made in real estate. Don’t let a problem stop you — use it a warning sign and proceed with caution, proceed.

When it comes to choosing professionals to assist you with your Real Estate needs … Experience is Priceless! Jim Valentine, License No. BS-03481, RE/MAX Gold Carson Valley 775-781-3704. dpwtigers@hotmail.com.