Due diligence

Just what is due diligence.... Quite simply it means getting off your arse.... and finding out for yourself. Sure we as your Realtor are your go to person, but there is tremendous liability sometimes in getting that info.

Think about this...

I had a client ask me about lot lines. Sure I can make an educated guess but you need to hire a surveyor to find out exactly where the lot lines are.

I had a client ask me whether Novi schools or Northville schools were better. I gave them some independent websites to check out. Because my opinion might be biased.

I had a client ask me what the building codes were and what could he build on the property. Sure I went down to the building department and got the building guidelines. But I make no assumptions on what can or can't be built. I gave him the info, the building inspectors name, the local architects name, and the buyer needs to do the rest.

I had a client ask about the association rules. So I'll be glad to get the by-laws and the association members phone numbers. But you need to ask the questions.

I had a client ask me about the seriousness of a sex offender living down the street. I gave them the website to check it out. And I asked them to call the local police to check out the sex offender. I'll never tell anybody that somebody on the sex offender list isn't serious. Even if they got busted for urinating in public I can't make that judgment call for you. You have to do it.

YOU NEED TO ASK THE QUESTIONS... because I want you to know the answer. Don't rely totally on your Realtor.

• I'm not being lazy
• I might be biased on what I think is the best.
• I want you to here it from the horse's mouth. From the professional. From the source.
• I want to you to be absolutely sure you have the right answer
• I don't want you to think I steered you wrong, if somebody gave me the wrong answer.
• I don't want the liablity that comes with the wrong answer.
• I don't ever want to come across as just giving the answer you want to hear in order to sell the house.

I'll point out where to find the info and who to talk to but I want you to make the decision.

Russ Ravary your Metro Detroit real estate agent serving Livingston, Wayne, and Oakland County

Join my foreclosure club, Search Metro Detroit foreclosures and get the latest foreclosures emailed to you before you miss out on the deal.