Ask David

Do I need a status certificate?

Dear David, When selling a townhome, must a status report be presented in order to complete the sale? If so, who pays for this report, is there a standard cost, and does it have an expiration date? – FACT CHECKING DEAR CHECKING: When selling a condo townhome, obtaining a copy of the status certificate is

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Ask David

Should I buy from the listing agent? Condo Reserve Funds

Dear David, We’ve been visiting a lot of open houses lately. I’ve heard we can get a better deal if we buy directly from the listing agent. – EAR TO THE GROUND DEAR EAR: Sometimes buyers misunderstand the nature of the Realtor-client relationship and think they can get a better price on a home by

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Ask David

Severing an existing lot, hidden condo fees?

Dear David, I’m thinking of buying a run-down residential home on a half-acre lot. I would like to sever it into two lots, sell one of them, and renovate the home. What’s involved and is this advisable? – BIG PLANS DEAR PLANS: The short answer is that you’ll need to do your homework, starting at

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