The Condo Trap: How One Buyer Nearly Lost $160,000 — And How a Skilled Agent Saved the Deal

By , on August 13th, 2025
Buyer beware when buying a St Louis Condo

Buying a condo may seem straightforward, but the reality is that it comes with layers of complexity that most buyers—and frankly, many agents—don’t fully understand. Recently, I represented an investor client who was purchasing an off-market condo through a wholesaler. On the surface, it looked like a quick, easy, all-cash deal. But within days, it became clear that without an experienced condo buyer’s agent, this transaction could have ended in a $160,000 disaster.

From the beginning, I raised the question of the condo resale certificate—a critical document that Missouri law requires sellers to provide. This certificate includes essential information about Continue Reading →

St. Louis’s Brick Legacy: The History Behind the City’s Unique Architecture

By , on November 20th, 2024

A recently released documentary sheds light on St. Louis’s rich architectural heritage, centered around its iconic use of brick. The film traces the city’s brick legacy, revealing how local clay, craftsmanship, and historical events like the 1849 fire shaped the city’s skyline. It explores not only the artistry and resilience of St. Louis’s brick buildings but also the challenges posed by neglect and urban decay. The full documentary is available below, offering an immersive dive into this fascinating history.

One highlight of the film is its emphasis on the unique aesthetic qualities of brick, as one contributor notes: “Brick Continue Reading →

Homeowners: Take Advantage of the Zonolite Trust Fund for Vermiculite Removal

By , on October 24th, 2024
Vermiculite Insulation - Zonolite Asbestos Claim

If your home contains Zonolite attic insulation (ZAI), which is known to include vermiculite contaminated with asbestos, you may be eligible for reimbursement through the Zonolite Trust Fund. This fund, created as part of the bankruptcy proceedings of W.R. Grace & Co., helps homeowners offset the cost of removing hazardous insulation. Below, we outline how you can file a claim and access the resources needed to ensure a smooth reimbursement process.

How to File a Claim

To receive reimbursement, you’ll need to provide documentation proving that vermiculite-based ZAI was present and has been removed from your home. Accepted evidence includes Continue Reading →