Answers by Lynne Tran

You would pay more for a top lawyer to defend you in court, right? For your biggest asset which is your house, wouldn’t you hire a top agent?

I actually always do the walk through a couple of days before the close of escrow date to allow us (my client and I) to communicate any issues with the listing side and seek resolution before the close of escrow. Waiting until the day of the COE would be too late, especially if there's a need to call up an professional or to show the problems to the listing side. Once the escrow is close, it's very difficult to resolve.

I always ask the listing agent for copies of all available home inspection reports (property , termite, roof, foundation (if needed), etc.) and the seller's disclosures and questionnaire. They will likely show potential problems with the home. The seller's disclosures and questionnaires would show potential problems with freeway noise, etc. If the home inspection reports are not available from the listing agent, I strongly recommend buyers to conduct their own home inspections. I recommend and schedule the most reputable inspection companies for them.

The right plan depends on the seller's situation. I usually negotiate with the buyer's side a rent back period for up to 60 days to allow time for the seller to find and buy a new home. Assuming a 30-day closing period for the current property, that rent back period gives the seller a total time of up to 3 months. I also work closely with my clients to arrange for the two properties to close escrow within the time line that fits their needs (time to clean up the current one, to move to the new one, etc.) while minimizing their costs.