Dear David,
Can a Realtor help me purchase a home that is For Sale by Owner? – Eager Buyer

Dear Eager,

Absolutely! In fact, it is widely believed in our industry that 75-80 percent of “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) sales involve a Realtor on the buying side.

Buying a For Sale by Owner requires modified paperwork and a much deeper level of investigation, since an owner selling their home themselves is not held to the same standard of disclosure as someone who is represented by a Realtor. Given this standard, it’s wise to bring your own representation to the bargaining table. An experienced Realtor can provide accurate market information, negotiate strategically and refer trusted partners (inspectors, lawyers, etc.) to protect you throughout the buying process and avoid any regrets down the road.

Dear David,
I’m having a hard time making the decision to purchase. How do I know that an even better house isn’t right around the corner? – Unsure

Dear Unsure,

House-hunting is a lot like dating. The task of finding “the one” can feel pretty overwhelming and it’s not unusual to be nervous about commitment. When shopping for a home, I ask my clients to make a “top ten” list of their favourite features. A property that checks 8 out of 10 boxes (and falls within their budget) is generally a great candidate. When adding a few personal touches can make it a 10, you know you’ve found your new home.

Dear David,
What is knob and tube wiring? – Wired

Dear Wired,

“Knob and tube” wiring, also known as “open” wiring, is the oldest type of residential electrical service and was considered the norm until the 1940s.  The system consists of individual strands of copper wire, supported by ceramic knobs. Because knob and tube lacks a ground conductor, it can be identified by wall outlets that have two-pronged receptacles (though two-pronged receptacles were also present in the two-wire system that followed know and tube). Today’s three-wire grounded system, with its three-pronged receptacles, was popularized in the mid-1960s.

Knob and tube is not inherently problematic, except in areas where water is present. Kitchens, bathrooms, basements and outdoor receptacles do pose safety hazards for an ungrounded system and any knob and tube in these areas should be modernized. Most insurance companies will not cover knob and tube; the few that do will likely require a professional inspection to confirm that no exposed wires are present.