
What is the Consumer Objective When Hiring an Agent?
The consumer objective is to procure an agent who provides a compelling value proposition. One who has the requisite skill and experience to achieve the consumer's desired outcome while producing the highest qualitative and quantitative benefits. Qualitative benefit is derived from elements like protecting a client's best interests and providing superior customer service. In the case of a seller, quantitative benefit includes selling at top dollar, in the fewest days possible and negotiating low contingency risk. Essentially, the consumer objective is to procure the agent who achieves optimal...

Majority of Home Sellers & Buyers Worry About a Housing Bubble & Price Crash
Naturally, home sellers and buyers are often concerned about home prices. It's an asset class they either own or are considering owning. This concern becomes even greater when the impacts of the Great Recession and 2008 housing collapse are still visible in the rearview mirror for so many people. In 2017, ValueInsured surveyed 1,079 adults and 58% agreed there would be a "housing bubble and price correction" in the next two years (sometime in 2018-19). That was up 46% from the previous survey. Meanwhile, 83% of respondents believed it was a good time to...

The definition of a legal bedroom in Virginia is typically determined by local municipality zoning codes as generally established by the International Residential Code (IRC). The definition can vary by jurisdiction, building type and zoning for a particular lot. The requirements for a legal bedroom can be confusing and often times misunderstood by consumers. A universal requirement and general starting point for a bedroom is a safe means of egress in the event of a fire - exit door and window. Occupants must be able to safely exit in the event of an emergency and first responders must be able to easily enter.

The Economics of Our Decisions
I find the discipline of economics intriguing and how the science becomes involved in most of our decision making. The laws of economics impact every level of society from government, to businesses, households and individuals. The study of consumption behavior plays a central role in economics. Most consumers make rational decisions about the products and services they purchase based on value and preference. Generally, consumers are trying to get the most for their money. In economic terms they are trying to maximize total utility, or satisfaction, given their budget constraint.