When using a broker to purchase a home, is it proper etiquette to give a gift upon closing?
A gift at closing from a client is evidence of appreciation for a job well-done and perfectly acceptable. Indeed, my usual policy with brokers who do a good job is to give them an envelope at closing — with a brief letter of recommendation inside that they can use in presentations or on their Web site to attract more business. Q: What percentage can a buyer expect to save from an original asking price since we are now in a recession? Can a person save 5 percent? Ten percent? A: There’s no general rule that says that buyers are somehow entitled to a given discount in a slow market. Instead, you have to look at every transaction as being unique and consider such issues as the initial offering price, any seller contributions or concessions, the condition and location of the property, demand in the local area, the interest rate and the need for the owner to sell. Add it all up and a 10 percent discount may be too little, meaning you’ll overpay for the property; just right, meaning both you
