All Forum Posts by: Jean Mercer

It will be smartest to add meeters - it would save you money in the long end. Tenants tend to use less power when they are responsible for the bills. Also, no one can complain that they are being charged for power someone else is using if you try to divvy up the bill.

I share a garage with my neighbor

in just such a configuration.  It is not a problem. 

Be sure to have the sewer line scoped.  Sewer line collapse can be very expensive and it will happen at some point on an  old system.

My experience was in a different City/State.  My advice - Get permits and follow the

building codes and zoning laws. If you try to go around them it will end up costing you dearly!

I suggest you go to RentOMeter.com - enter the address, they will tell you what like properties in the neighborhooh rent for.  

If you live in an area of the country where it freezes - do not, repeat, do not store a used

washer in your garage.  There are parts of the washer (also the case with used dishwashers and refrigerators with water features.)  that hold water and will freeze and damage parts.  When purchasing a used appliance You do not know where it was stored prior to being offered for sale.  Only purchase from a reputable dealer or if you can test the appliance.

Thank you for explaining.  However, I think many sales listed as non-conforming are

actually ILLEGAL - conversions,  having been done without permits even though the

current zoning may now permit them.   So important to do your due diligence. 

Well, I am confused.  How does one get a permit for a non-conforming unit?  What determines if it is permitted or not?

I would shy away from

purchasing a building with

nonconforming rentAL units.

The city can shut you down

and make you convert them back and at today's codes.  It can be very expensive.  I  speak from experiance.

Spokane is always years behind on financial recovery.  There is a lot for sale at good prices but do not bank on a quick turn around.  I spoke with a friend in Spokane Valley today; however, and she reports that some new listing have been selling quickly out there. Buy and Hold must keep in mind - if your property is not rented by Oct, 1st it will in all likelihood be empty until April .  People just do not move in the winter unless they are forced to - and those are not usually the tenants you want.  I have been concerned with the high crime for the city - Meth addiction leads to most of it.