Have licensed real estate agents in Wisconsin answer your questions

Is it a bribe?

Home buyer here. Wondering if I can offer an extra incentive with my home offer, like tickets to a football game, a concert, dinner out, etc. Looking for a way to set my offer apart. But I'm wondering if that's seen as a bribe.

Is a new construction house like new car depreciation?

Is a new construction house like new car depreciation? People say as soon as a new car is driven off the lot it depreciates. I'm wondering if a new construction house is the same. Do I pay a premium for the new and as soon as I live it is, does the value go down?

Should I update my house photos for sale?

My listing photos are from the holidays. Decorations are up in the photos because we were hoping it would sell. Now that the holidays are over should I have new photos taken?

Does an unpermitted basement count in square footage?

DIY finished basement. No permits were used. Does this basement count in square footage? Do you forsee any issues down the road?

What adds value a loft or bedroom?

We have a loft that we could wall off and make into a bedroom (it has a window and closet). We like the look of the loft, but are wondering if making it into a bedroom will add value to the home?

How big should I make my downpayment?

How big should I make my downpayment? If i can squeeze and put more than 20% down should I? I'm also worried about having a cushion if something breaks on the house.

Why is San Francisco so expensive?

Thinking of moving to San Francisco, but why is it so expensive? I'm wondering if I can afford it.

Are ceiling fans out-dated?

we liked our ceiling fans. they're so useful! but are they out-dated?

When selling and buying do I pay closing costs on both?

Selling one house and buying a new one... do I pay closing costs on both homes? Do I pay different closing costs for each home? How are they different?

what is a partition sale in real estate?

what is a partition sale in real estate?

Does a swimming pool add value to a house?

We'd really like to get an in-ground pool, ideally with an outdoor kitchen too. We live in Wisconsin, so we could only get use out of it for part of the year. Does the pool add value to our home? Or do people see it as something else to care for and that would turn them away from the house?

Can we negotiate on damage we don't see?

We are buying a house and are pretty sure there was a leak in the carpeted basement that was fixed, but the carpet is still there. I'm worried that there is mold under the carpet but won't know till we pull it up. If there is, I want them to pay for it to be replaced. How can we check without pulling it up?

When is the best time to sell my house?

We want to get the best possible price for our house and limit any complications. When is the best time to sell?

Should I replace my hollow doors?

My house was built in 1934 but someone replaced all the the interior doors with hollow ones, not solid wood. It seems weird in this historic house. Is it worth my money to replace them all before selling? - Rick

Can I negotiate the commission rate?

Can I negotiate the commission rate for my agent? I don't want to be rude or offend them. I also don't want them agree to a lower rate and then not help me to get the best price. What do you recommend? Thanks!!

How much do most real estate agents charge?

What can I expect to pay a real estate agent and can I just sell my home by owner for less?

Do all realtors charge the same percentage rates?

Do all realtors charge the same percentage rates?

How do I find out who built my house?