“I really need to sell my home in Clairemont and move on, I only owe $152,000 so I still have a lot of equity, but I won’t sell if it means losing money from what I paid…” Answer: I understand how you feel. Obviously no one likes to lose money. Here’s my blunt but honest

“Hi Gary, We’re starting to look for a house. We saw one that just came up for sale down our street and we’re waiting for the open house so we can see it. If we like it, can you help us buy it?” Answer: Yes, we can definitely help you purchase that (or any) home.

“My uncle is very sick and I’m his only heir. He’s deeding me his home now to make it easier for me to sell it after he’s gone. Of course he’ll stay there as long as he lives. Is there any downside to what we’re planning to do?” Answer: STOP! Do nothing until you consult

“My husband and I can’t afford a detached house yet, so we’re going to buy a condo. Is there a difference between a condo and a townhome?” Answer: “Condominium” is a form of ownership in which you own an interest in the entire condo complex with the exclusive right to use the designated “airspace” that

“What repairs are required to sell a home?” Answer: By law, your water heater must be correctly strapped and smoke detectors up in all sleeping areas (bedrooms or the hall outside). The City of San Diego requires low flow toilets, showerhead, and faucets, but you may transfer responsibility to a buyer, who will likely expect

“What items are included with a home?” Answer: Free-standing appliances (refrigerator, washer, dryer) only go with the home if the seller agrees in the contract. Even if the marketing materials call them included, they must be in the contract or you have no right to them. That’s because marketing materials are not part of the

“I know rates are lower if you get a conforming loan. What is that exactly?” Answer: Usually when people mention conforming loans, they’re talking about loans that conform to the FNMA (Fannie Mae) guidelines and loan limits. Here are the FNMA loan limits for San Diego for 1-4 units: 1 Unit = $417,000 (single family,

“Do I need insurance on a condo?” Answer: Virtually all condos have fire insurance on the structure… …However, you still need insurance for the interior components (flooring, cabinets, etc.) for your possessions, and for liability. Most banks are requiring this to fund a loan. Please verify the above with your favorite insurance agent. Check out

“My wife and I plan to sell our home in a few weeks. Our front yard is a mess and needs to be redone so we have better curb appeal. Should I put in rock instead of grass?” Answer: Do you want me to be honest or give you the politically correct answer? The politically