Ask David

Buying mom’s house, a friend’s new real estate license

Dear David, Our family has precious memories of the family home. Now that Mom is going into a nursing home, I would like to buy the property so our family can hold on to it. How can I do that? – KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY DEAR KEEPING: I appreciate your desire to preserve the

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Property tax, MPAC and selling to a developer

Dear David, I purchased a newly-built condo last year. I paid an occupancy fee to the builder before taking possession, which was supposed to cover the property taxes. The city is now billing me a huge amount for supplemental tax (which appears to be the tax due for the past three years).  Who is responsible

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“No commission” agents, Establishing value for probate

Dear David, I have been seeing a lot of commercials where a company advertises that there is “no commission” payable to a real estate agent. How does this work? Does it mean the agent is working for free?  – SOUNDS GOOD DEAR SOUNDS: As far back as I can remember, “House for Sale” signs have

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Selling a worn house, knob and tube wiring

Dear David, I’m not sure how are we ever going to sell our house. It’s looking worn but we don’t have the time or money for a major renovation right now. – OVERWHELMED DEAR OVERWHELMED: Once you decide to sell, it’s often easier to see your home through a buyer’s eyes. Previously overlooked imperfections come

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