Devin Kroner

Absolutely understandableaEUR"and you're not alone. Many people move for reasons related to lifestyle changes, neighbor dynamics, or simply wanting a fresh start. You are not legally required to disclose why you're moving, and your reason for selling doesn't need to be shared with buyers or even widely discussed during the listing process. That said, if there have been specific incidents that could materially affect the value of the property or pose a safety or legal concern (like police involvement, property damage, or ongoing disputes), it's important we talk through those. In most cases, though, general dissatisfaction with neighbors due to noise or personality clashes is not something you are obligated to disclose. Your agent's job is to help you present your home in the best possible light, navigate any challenges, and protect your interestsaEUR"legally, ethically, and strategically. Focus on what makes your home shine and create a smooth path to a successful sale.

You're absolutely right to ask the questionaEUR"and you're not wrong for wanting to protect the value of what's likely your biggest asset. Selling a home is a major decision, and it should feel like a partnership where your voice and goals matter. So first, let me say this: you deserve a clear explanation, not just a price. There's a big difference between pricing to sell and undervaluing your home. I've helped hundreds of families sell, and in my experience, the best results come when we balance market data with your expectationsaEUR"not ignore either one. I never push for a price just to make a sale fast. I work to create a strategy that meets the market while still respecting your goals. For example, I recently worked with a seller who felt their home was worth $25,000 more than what another agent quoted. After a thorough market review, staging advice, and some targeted marketing adjustments, we listed slightly higher than that agent suggestedaEUR"but with a clear plan. The result? We attracted multiple offers and sold for full asking. So, yesaEUR"you absolutely should talk to another agent. Ask them how they came to their values and to show you the data that they used, because not all agents are running comps and evaluating properties the same way... or the right way! Make sure the homes are truely comparable in terms of age, size, sqfootage, bedrooms, bathrooms, updates and improvements, layout (ranch vs ranch, not ranch vs 2 story) and so forth. They MAY be right, but they should be able to prove it with data, not assumptions and theory.

That's a great question, and the answer really depends on your goals. If you're planning to stay in the home for a while and you truly need the extra bedroomaEUR"say, for family or guestsaEUR"then converting the loft could be worth it simply for your lifestyle and comfort. From a resale perspective, it's important to ask: Would this conversion feel like a true value-add in your local market, or would it look like a quick " add-onaEUR? just to sell? Buyers are savvy, and they can tell when a space was thoughtfully designed versus hastily closed off. The impact on value also depends on your area's buyer trends. For example, if homes in your neighborhood with an extra bedroom are consistently selling faster or for a premium, then a conversion might help you compete. But if most buyers value that open loft spaceaEUR"maybe as a home office, playroom, or flex areaaEUR"you could risk losing that appeal. Before you decide, I'd recommend: Looking at recent sales in your areaaEUR"how do loft vs. extra bedroom homes compare? Considering the cost of the conversion versus the realistic return. Thinking about how buyers will feel when they walk into that space. Will they see it as a natural, useful bedroom, or as a compromised layout? Sometimes just staging the loft with intention (as an office or guest area) can create that same perceived value without the expense.

First of all, I want to sayaEUR"you're not alone. Many people inherit homes that need work, and navigating repairs with limited funds or credit challenges can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are creative, real-world solutions to help you move forward, even in a tight spot. Here are some options to consider: dY"? 1. Renovate Strategically, Not Fully Instead of a full renovation, focus on high-impact, low-cost improvements that boost your home's value and appeal: Paint: A fresh coat makes a massive difference. Lighting & Fixtures: Updated fixtures feel modern and clean. Curb Appeal: Landscaping and a clean entryway make a great first impression. Deep Cleaning & Decluttering: It's free and powerful. If the home is structurally sound, these updates can help it shine without breaking the bank. dY', 2. Use Equity or Sell As-Is Even if you owe $10,000, the home may have equityaEUR"especially in today's market. Depending on the home's condition and local demand, we could look at: Selling as-is to an investor or cash buyer who will handle repairs. Listing with strategic improvements that don't require full renovation. Ask your agent to can help you determine what route gives you the most return and least stress. dY> 3. Partner with a Renovation-Friendly Agent That's where your Trusted Advisor (AGENT) comes in. They will work with: Local contractors who may offer deferred payment until closing. Stagers and cleaners who work with tight budgets. Vendors familiar with estate sales and credit-challenged situations. Together, you and a good agent can create a custom planaEUR"whether that means prepping for sale now, renting for income, or holding while you clean and fix it up in stages. dY?? 4. Creative Financing Options Even with poor credit, there are possibilities: Home improvement loans through community banks or credit unions Private lenders or co-signers Local grant programs for inherited or inherited-income homes (I can help research these) Sell a portion of the equity to an investor and stay involved in the profit Talk through your goalsaEUR"whether it's keeping the home, selling it for maximum return, or just getting out from under the weight of it, with your agent or a few agents to see who can best help you with your vision and needs!

First, I completely understandaEUR"this isn't an easy situation. Selling a home is a major life event, and if the relationship with your current agent isn't working the way you'd hoped, it's absolutely fair to explore your options. Here's how to approach canceling a listing agreement the right way: dY"? 1. Review the Agreement Terms Start by looking at your signed listing agreement. Most include: A start and end date Cancellation or termination clauses Any potential fees or notice requirements This helps you understand your rights and obligations before moving forward. dY'! 2. Have a Direct (But Respectful) Conversation Reach out to your agentaEUR"or their broker if you're uncomfortableaEUR"kindly but clearly explaining that you'd like to cancel. A simple, respectful message like: " Thank you for your efforts so far, but I don't feel this is the best fit for me. I'd like to discuss the process of ending our agreement.aEUR? Most agents would rather release you than work with someone who feels uncomfortable or frustrated. dY"? 3. Get It in Writing Once the cancellation is agreed upon, make sure everything is confirmed in writing. You may be asked to sign a release form, and in some cases, you might need the managing broker's approval as well. as i,? 4. Understand Post-Cancellation Clauses Some listing agreements include a " protection period,aEUR? meaning if someone who saw the home during the listing ends up buying it later, the original agent may still be owed a commission. Knowing this helps avoid any surprises. aoe... 5. Move Forward Confidently If you're canceling because you're unsure about the strategy, communication, or results, know that the right agent will take time to listen, align with your goals, and walk beside you through the entire processaEUR"not just list your home.

dYZ? Green Flags in a Real Estate Agent (a.k.a. Signs You've Found a Keeper!) Buying or selling a home is a big dealaEUR"so you want more than just someone with a license. You want someone who's in your corner, knows their stuff, and won't ghost you when things get real. Here are some solid green flags that say, " Yes, this is my agent!aEUR? aoe... They Listen First, Talk Second A great agent asks you what matters mostaEUR"and actually listens. If they're trying to understand your goals, not just sell you a house or snag a listing, green flag! aoe... They're Local Experts (Not Just Zillow Scrollers) They know the neighborhoods, the trends, the off-market gems, and how to price your home like a pro. Bonus points if they know the good taco spots too. dYOE(R) aoe... They Communicate Like a Human No ghosting. No confusing jargon. A good agent keeps you in the loop, answers questions, and explains the process like they want you to understand it. aoe... They're Not PushyaEUR"They're Strategic A solid agent won't pressure you into decisions. Instead, they lay out the options, highlight pros and cons, and help you make a move that makes sense. aoe... They're Calm When You're Freaking Out Let's be honestaEUR"real estate can get stressful. A true pro brings peace, not panic, and knows how to solve problems when things go sideways. aoe... They Have Receipts (a.k.a. Experience and Results) Whether they've helped 5 families or 500, look for agents who can show you their track record, share real stories, and provide solid references. aoe... They're Not Just in It for the Sale Look for someone who sees people, not just price tags. You'll know it when they care more about your journey than just their commission check. dYs|Bottom Line: A green flag agent makes you feel heard, supported, and empoweredaEUR"and they've got the knowledge and hustle to back it up.

Does working part-time make someone a bad real estate agent? Not at all. And being full-time doesn't automatically make someone great, either. The real question you want to ask is: dY'? " Does this agent have the experience, availability, communication, and skill to guide me through one of the biggest financial decisions of my life?aEUR? aoe... Green Flags to Look ForaEUR"Part-Time OR Full-Time: Clear communication and responsiveness Knowledge of your local market Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills A track record of successful transactions (or a great mentor/team if newer) A professional network of lenders, inspectors, contractors, etc. The ability to be present and available when you need them most dY",, Part-Time Agents Can Be a Great Fit IF: They're upfront about their availability and manage expectations well They have systems or a support team in place to cover showings, emergencies, or time-sensitive situations They're actively investing in learning, staying current, and providing great service Plenty of part-time agents are rockstars who balance other roles (family, ministry, school, etc.) while still providing top-tier service and results. a?+- Full-Time Agents Can Be a Red Flag IF: They have poor communication They're disorganized or overextended They rely on their title but don't deliver on service Real estate is about commitment to the client, not just calendar hours. So should you work with a part-time agent? If they are responsive, experienced, and clear about their availabilityaEUR"yes. If a full-time agent is too busy or treats you like a numberaEUR"maybe not. The key is finding someoneaEUR"part-time or full-timeaEUR"who treats your goals as their own.

Great questionaEUR"and one that every seller should be asking. Let's start with the big truth up front: dY'? There are no set or standard commissions in real estate. Every agent, every brokerage, and every situation is different. That's why it's so important to not just ask " What does your fee cost?aEUR? but also, " What does your fee include?aEUR? dY'! What You Should Know: Real estate commissions are negotiable by law. Some agents work on a full-service model, offering extensive marketing, staging, professional photos, negotiation strategy, showing coordination, and personal guidance. Others may offer limited servicesaEUR"or lower feesaEUR"but you may need to handle parts of the process yourself. It's common to see total commission (paid at closing) in the range of 2-6%, split between the listing agent and buyer's agentaEUR"but again, this varies. dY? Ask Yourself: What am I really looking for in an agent? Do I want full-service guidance with marketing, negotiation, and support? Am I willing to handle parts of the process myself to save on fees? Do I want the highest possible returnaEUR"or just the quickest sale? Then, when an agent presents their fee, don't be afraid to ask: dY'? " Can you walk me through what I get for that investment?aEUR? Because two agents may charge the same percentage, but deliver very different experiences and results. dY? What About Selling By Owner? Yes, it's possible to sell your home without an agent (FSBO). But it's important to know: FSBO homes often sell for less on average than agent-represented homes (according to NAR studies). You'll be responsible for marketing, pricing, paperwork, negotiation, scheduling, disclosures, and compliance. Many FSBO sellers still end up paying a buyer's agent commission to attract serious buyers. That doesn't mean FSBO is wrongaEUR"just that it comes with tradeoffs. You may save on commission, but you may leave money on the table or face more stress in the process. dY"' Final Thought: When it comes to commissions, don't just shop for the lowest feeaEUR"shop for the best value. A great agent should be able to show you how their service pays for itself in peace of mind, protection, and better results.

What Is House Hacking? Great questionaEUR"and no, it doesn't involve breaking into anything. dY~,, House hacking is a creative real estate strategy where you use your primary residence to generate incomeaEUR"often by renting out part of the propertyaEUR"to offset or even eliminate your housing costs. dY?! Common House Hacking Setups: Buy a multi-family property (like a duplex, triplex, or fourplex), live in one unit, rent out the others. Rent out part of a single-family home, like a finished basement, separate entrance apartment, or spare bedroom. Purchase a home with an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)aEUR"like a garage apartment or in-law suiteaEUR"and rent it out. Rent by the room if you're single or okay with roommates. dY', Why People Love It: Live for lessaEUR"or free. Rental income helps cover your mortgage, taxes, and insurance. Start building wealth. Your tenants help you pay down the loan while you gain equity. Tax benefits. You may qualify for deductions on expenses related to the rental portion. Entry point to investing. You learn the ropes while still living in the homeaEUR"low risk, high learning curve. dY?" Is It Worth It? It can be! But like anything, it depends on your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. House hacking might be worth it if you: Want to build wealth through real estate but aren't ready to buy a separate rental yet Are okay sharing your space (at least a little) or managing tenants Want to drastically lower your monthly expenses while living in a home you own Are buying in a market with good rental demand It might not be a fit if: You need total privacy and don't want to manage people The local zoning or HOA rules restrict renting The layout of the home isn't conducive to splitting or sharing space Bottom line: House hacking isn't just a buzzwordaEUR"it's one of the smartest moves first-time buyers or young investors can make when done right.

First, thank you for your serviceaEUR"your sacrifice and dedication matter, and you absolutely deserve a safe, stable, and lasting home for your family. You're not alone. Many veterans leave the military with credit challenges due to transitions, deployments, or unexpected financial hardship. But the good news? There is a path forward. And you've already taken the first step: asking for help and refusing to give up. Here's how we can move forward together: dY? 1. Explore Your VA Loan Benefits As a veteran, you have access to VA home loansaEUR"one of the best programs available. Some key benefits: No down payment required No private mortgage insurance (PMI) More flexible credit requirements than conventional loans Even if your credit isn't perfect right now, many VA lenders will work with scores as low as 580"620aEUR"sometimes even lower with strong compensating factors. dY'! 2. Start a Credit Recovery Plan (The Right Way) You don't need " perfectaEUR? creditaEUR"just improving credit. A few steps to start: Pull your credit report (free at AnnualCreditReport.com) and review it for errors or items you can settle. Pay down small balances and avoid new debt while building on-time payments. Connect with a HUD-certified credit counselor or a reputable lender who can guide you on what to fix first. I know credit repair can feel overwhelming, but it's like rebuilding a homeaEUR"one brick at a time. And you don't have to do it alone. dY"? 3. Find the Right Lender and Realtor Team Not every lender is experienced with VA buyers or credit-challenged situations. But there are great ones who understand your goals and will fight with you to get there. The right Realtor can connect you with: VA-experienced lenders Credit repair partners Creative solutions like lease-to-own or low-credit programs Homes that meet VA standards and long-term needs dYOEY 4. Keep the Long-Term Goal in View This isn't just about buying a houseaEUR"it's about building a life. A safe place for your kids to grow. A legacy of ownership. Stability for your family's future. You've served this country. Now it's time someone serves youaEUR"with dignity, strategy, and heart.

Who owns your property photos? In most cases, the photographer or the brokerage that hired the photographer retains legal ownership of the photosaEUR"not the homeowner. Even though they're pictures of your house, if you didn't take them yourself or pay a photographer directly under a contract that transfers rights to you, you likely do not have full rights to reuse or distribute them however you want. dY", So, what does that mean for you? If the agent or brokerage paid for the photos, they typically have a license to use them for marketing your property while it was listed. You may not have the legal right to use those same images for a new listing with a different agent, or for personal promotion on social mediaaEUR"unless you get permission. Reusing photos without permission could lead to copyright issues, even if it's unintentional. aoe... What Can You Do? Here are a few simple, respectful steps to move forward: Contact your former agent or the photographer (if you know who took the photos) and request written permission to reuse them. Some may grant usage rights for a fee or with proper credit. Ask your new agent (if you're relisting) if they can coordinate reuse or arrange new professional photos. If in doubt, it's safest to take new photosaEUR"especially if any updates or changes have been made to the home since the original shoot. dYZ? Pro Tip: Fresh listing = fresh energy. Even if you can reuse the old photos, new images can bring better lighting, improved staging, or seasonal updates that make your home stand out even more the second time around.

dY"^ What Is a Seller's Market? A seller's market happens when there are more buyers looking for homes than there are homes available for sale. This imbalance creates high demand and low supply, which shifts the advantage toward the seller. dY'! Key Features of a Seller's Market: Homes sell quickly (sometimes in days) Multiple offers are common Buyers may offer above asking price Fewer seller concessions (like repairs or closing cost help) Less room for negotiationaEUR"buyers have to come in strong aoe... Is It Better for the Seller? YesaEUR"usually. In a seller's market, the seller is in the driver's seat. Here's why: You can set a competitive price and potentially sell for more than list price. You'll likely have leverage in negotiationsaEUR"you can be choosy about offers and terms. Your home may sell faster, reducing the stress and cost of carrying the property while it sits on the market. as i,? But Here's the Catch: Even in a hot market, pricing too high can still backfireaEUR"buyers are savvy. A seller's market doesn't guarantee a bidding war or huge windfallaEUR"it just improves your odds if your home is well-presented and well-marketed. If you're planning to buy another home after selling, you'll be entering the same competitive marketaEUR"which can be tough as a buyer. dYZ? Final Thought: A seller's market is an opportunityaEUR"but strategy still matters. The right pricing, staging, and marketing plan can help you maximize that opportunity.

First, thank you for asking this. It's not an easy subject, but it's one of the most important ones a homeowner or family member can face. The truth is, when someone passes away, what happens to their home depends entirely on what kind of planning (or lack of planning) is in place. dY? SoaEUR| What Does Happen to a Home When Someone Dies? 1. If there is a will and estate plan: The home is passed on to the person(s) named in the will. The property may still need to go through probate, but it's usually more straightforward. If a trust is used, the home may avoid probate entirely, which speeds up the process and offers privacy. 2. If there is NO will or plan: The estate enters probate court, where the state decides who inherits the home based on local laws (which may not reflect the family's wishes). This can be lengthy, expensive, and emotionally drainingaEUR"especially if multiple heirs are involved or disagree. If there are debts or a mortgage, the home could be sold to cover costs unless someone steps in to assume the loan or buy out other heirs. dY'" Why I Got Into Insurance and Estate Planning Honestly? Because I've seen what happens when people don't plan ahead. Families fighting over property, homes lost to probate, spouses or kids left with unexpected bills and no safety net. When I started in real estate, I thought helping people find a home was the most meaningful thing I could do. But then I saw how quickly that homeaEUR"and the security it representsaEUR"can be at risk if the unthinkable happens. That's what led me to expand into life insurance, wills, and estate protection. So find someone similar, or ask your agent or trusted advisor who you can talk to locally to guide you through this process. It's not hard, but it can be difficult because many people don't want to think about it! Not to " sellaEUR? anything, but to help families stay protected, whole, and financially stable when life takes an unexpected turn. dY>! What You Can Do (Without Making It Awkward) If you're worried about how to bring it up with your aging parent, here's a gentle way to approach it: " Hey, I've been learning about estate planning and realized I don't really know what would happen with the house if something ever happened. I want to make sure I can help carry out your wishesaEUR"do you already have something in place, or is that something we should talk about together?aEUR? It's about honoring them, not rushing them. Most parents are relieved when their adult kids are willing to step up and help. aoe... Tools That Can Help: A simple will (can be done affordably with an attorney or through trusted partners) A living trust (to avoid probate in many cases) Life insurance (to pay off the home or help heirs manage costs) A transfer-on-death deed (available in some states) Clear written instructions for what they want to happen with the home

dY?? First, Know This: Your Realtor is on your team. Anything you share with them in the course of your listing is confidentialaEUR"legally and ethically. So while there are some things you can keep private, you usually don't have to. That said, there are a few categories where oversharing might cause complications, not help the process. dY>' Things You Might Not Want to Tell Your Realtor (at least not right away): 1. "I'm Desperate to Sell No Matter What" Even though your agent is working for you, if that kind of statement somehow gets relayed (directly or indirectly) to buyers or buyer's agents, it could weaken your negotiation position. It's better to say: " I'd like to sell quickly if possibleaEUR"what can we do to make the timeline work in our favor?aEUR? 2. Too Much About Personal Drama Family disagreements, relationship stress, or neighbor feuds don't typically need to be disclosed unless they directly affect the property's sale or condition. Focus on what impacts the house, not the household. 3. Legal Trouble or Pending Lawsuits (Unless Property-Related) If it's unrelated to the property, your agent usually doesn't need to know. But if it does affect your ability to sell (liens, divorce, probate, etc.), then it's best to be upfront so they can help you navigate it properly and protect your interests. dY'? What About Financial Info? You don't have to reveal your personal net worth or exact debt situation unless it affects your ability to sell, price the home, or cover costs like repairs, closing fees, or relocation. If you're tight on funds for repairs or prep, telling your agent can actually helpaEUR"many experienced agents (myself included) have creative solutions, like: Staging consultations Vendor partnerships with delayed payment As-is strategies Seller credits or pricing adjustments dY--GBP How to Set Boundaries (Gracefully): If something feels too personal or you're not sure if it's relevant, just say: " I have a few personal circumstances I'm working through, but let's focus on what directly impacts the sale. If anything comes up that affects the process, I'll be sure to let you know.aEUR? That keeps things respectful, professional, and focusedaEUR"without awkwardness. aoe... Final Word: A great Realtor won't dig for gossip or make you feel pressured to share more than you're comfortable with. The goal is to build trust, create a strategy, and work toward your goalsaEUR"without judgment and with full confidentiality. And hey, if you're ever unsure whether to share somethingaEUR"just ask them. No offense taken, and no hard feelings from us when we know someone is being genuine.