When a Glendale Rancho Sale Gets Complicated: The Fixer Mindset
Selling a home is rarely as simple as putting up a sign, accepting an offer, and opening escrow. Sometimes, even a strong sale can become complicated. This Glendale Rancho was a perfect example.
A Challenging Showing Schedule
The seller worked nights. She started work at 3 p.m. That created a very tight schedule for showings and open houses. Early morning appointments were difficult. Nevertheless, we made it work.
We also held a Glendale broker open house. Getting the property in front of local agents helped generate interest and gave us another opportunity to showcase the home. From the beginning, I knew this transaction would require flexibility.
We listed this 1,100-square-foot Rancho on July 6. Fortunately, buyers responded quickly. We received three offers and opened escrow on July 15. Then the inspections began.
The Foundation Inspection Changed Everything
The buyer conducted a foundation inspection. The inspection raised concerns about seismic retrofitting. LC Construction estimated the work at $32,750. That was a significant number for a 1,100-square-foot home built in 1947. Naturally, my seller became very worried. I understood her concern. I also knew we needed to find solutions quickly.
Then we uncovered another issue. Although the sewer line was relatively new, the seller’s plumber had left some clay pipe in place. That created another potential expense and another negotiation point. At this stage, I have lost a lot of sleep. I really liked my client. I wanted to protect her interests and get her safely through escrow. Meanwhile, she was extremely nervous. Every new inspection issue added more stress.
Communication Became Another Challenge
Unfortunately, the transaction became even more difficult. The buyer’s Realtor was in Europe for most of the escrow. Another agent handled the transaction in her absence. However, the substitute agent appeared overwhelmed by the situation.
Communication became frustrating. Emails and phone calls often went unanswered. In a real estate transaction, that creates unnecessary problems, stress and delays. Escrow already involves deadlines, inspections, disclosures, repairs, and negotiations. When communication breaks down, everyone feels the pressure.
This Is Where I Become the Fixer
Fortunately, solving problems is part of my job. I contacted one of my favorite plumbers. He reviewed the plumbing situation and provided a much lower estimate for the work.
Then, once again, Seismic Safety came to the rescue.
They examined the foundation and reviewed the seismic requirements. Their estimate came in at just over $18,000. That was a huge difference from the original $32,750 estimate.
Instead of simply accepting the buyer’s number, we investigated our options. We found qualified professionals. Most importantly, we found a practical solution. That is what I mean when I say my role is the fixer.
The Sale Came Together
We originally listed the Glendale Rancho at $990,000. Despite the inspection issues, the communication challenges, and the stress, we stayed focused on the goal.
In the end, we negotiated through the inspection issues and successfully closed the sale for $1,034,375. That is $44,375 over the original list price.
For me, this transaction reinforced an important lesson. Problems will happen during escrow. The key is how you respond to them. A good Realtor does more than put a property on the MLS. A good Realtor communicates, negotiates, investigates, and finds solutions.
Most importantly, a good Realtor stays calm when the client is anything but calm.
This Glendale Rancho sale tested everyone’s patience. It also reminded me why experience matters.
Sometimes, the most valuable thing a Realtor brings to a transaction is the ability to fix problems when they arise.
