Answer: You didn't accept that offer. When you made a change, you were making a counter-offer to the buyers. Usually, you include a statement that the counter-offer is good for only a few days and will expire if not answered. If you had such a clause, and haven't received a response in the specified time, you're not bound. The buyers couldn't come back now and hold you to anything.
If your counter-offer didn't contain an expiration date, consult a real-estate lawyer about where you stand.
GETTING RID OF TENEANT
Dear Edith: How can I get rid of my tenant who is such a headache for us, constantly complaining of every little thing and costing us a lot of money? -- e-mail
Answer: If the tenants don't have a lease, give them written notice to leave. You don't have to give a reason. In many places, that must be done at least one full month before the rent is due, but you'd better find out just what the rule is in your area.
If they have a lease, read it to see if they've done anything to violate it. If so, contact a lawyer, go to court and have them evicted.
HELP THREE WAYS
Dear Edith: My fiancee and I are looking to buy a home. She has very little credit and I have less than perfect credit. However, my income is almost double hers. Do you have any suggestions for us? -- J.
Answer: You need help three different ways. First, a mortgage broker can analyze your financial situation to see if you'll qualify for a mortgage loan, for how much and where. Then a real estate broker can help you find the right property. And finally, a lawyer can draw up an agreement to head off problems that sometimes arise when a not-yet-married couple takes on co-ownership.
I usually try to hold "consult a lawyer" advice to no more than once per column, but I see it crept in four times this week!