Articles

Disagreeable neighbors? Legal options vary

It’s one of the facts of community living: Where you have neighbors, you can have problems. There are some things you can do about annoying neighbors and some things that could land you in legal trouble. Start by talking to your neighbor. Share what’s bothering you. Keep your composure and try to approach the conversation from a place of kindness and curiosity. You could even help rectify the situation if you’re willing. For example, if you’re

Read More »

Blockchain, cryptocurrencies and real estate: the basics

Blockchain and cryptocurrencies are evolving technologies that could transform the financial industry and, by extension, the real estate industry. Only time will tell how significant the impact will be. But as you’re probably hearing these terms more and more in the media, it’s a good idea to get an understanding of the basics. Technology fundamentals A cryptocurrency, such as bitcoin or ethereum, is a digital currency exchanged over the internet. These currencies provide a secure way

Read More »

Smart lock technology enables keyless home entry

Smart lock technology is changing the way realtors show your home. These Wi-Fi or Bluetooth enabled locks allow users to lock and unlock their door remotely, using a mobile app. As a homeowner, you can use a smart lock system to manage guest access, giving people digital power to unlock your door for a single entry or an extended period of time. Similar technology has been designed for the real estate industry. The Prempoint mobile app

Read More »

iBuyers: How technology is changing real estate

iBuyers are investors who use technology to make a fast offer on your home, sight unseen, based on a proprietary valuation model. iBuyers, such as OfferPad, Opendoor, and Zillow Instant Offers, provide an alternate sales model for people who want to sell their home fast, sometimes in as little as three days. How it works iBuyers operate in select major markets. Sellers request a home offer, and then these investors use public information, seller-supplied information, and

Read More »

With bump clauses, sellers can keep shopping for better buyers

Keep your bird in the hand while continuing to search for others in the bush. That’s what you get with a bump clause. In home sales, a bump or “kick out” clause lets sellers enter into a contract while continuing to seek out alternate buyers. If the sellers get a better deal, they can bypass the original buyer. Typically, bump clauses are used when the buyer has a home-sale contingency. Buyers sign a contract and submit

Read More »

The IRS Loves Your Business … and That is NOT Good

The IRS continues to focus their audit activities in key small business areas. The wise business owner is well advised to be able to defend the following five areas to keep the IRS at a comfortable distance: Business or hobby? Be ready to provide proof your business is truly a business and not a hobby. Those who fail in the eyes of the IRS can have their expense deductions severely limited, while still required to report

Read More »

How to Survive 3 Unavoidable Banking Trends

Smartphones and other technological advances enable banks to create products and services that dramatically change the way you bank. Here is a primer on three of the biggest banking trends and tips to protect your money: The traditional bank branch is going away. A recent report from consultants McKinsey & Company claims an average of three bank branches are closing every day. Many of the branches that remain open are either closing their lobby or drive-through

Read More »

Retirees Should Check Withholdings…or Else…

According to a recent announcement by the IRS, retirees might not be withholding enough for taxes this year. This is due to vast tax changes in 2018, making old withholding levels obsolete. The IRS is urging retirees to check their withholdings now and make adjustments if needed to avoid penalties. Could it be you? How do you know if you are withholding enough? While the IRS offers a new withholding calculator online, it’s designed for employees

Read More »

Don’t Let a Disaster Derail Your Business

With the recent frequency of hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods and wildfires, it’s worth reviewing ideas to ensure your business can survive if it faces its own disaster. Here are some steps you can take to create a disaster plan for your business:

Read More »

5 Annual Tax Essentials

The more things change the more they stay the same. This is especially true when it comes to reviewing your tax situation. Mark your calendar to review these essential items each year to ensure you are not missing something that could cause tax trouble when you file your tax return:

Read More »
Email us now
close slider