All Forum Posts by: Calvin Shih

Hi All - Please let me know of recommendations for hard money lenders that will lend on single-family homes as a primary residence. Most hard money companies I've spoken with only offer financing for investments. 

 I'm looking to offer all-cash on a home to get a better deal, then refinance once escrow closes. 

Thanks, 

Calvin

Happy 2021 All! I will be starting a major home renovation soon. I'm looking for a construction loan that I can roll into a permanent loan once construction is complete. I've reached out to all the major banks, who are only offering cash-out refinancing. This will not work as I purchased the home last year only. 

If anyone has a recommendation for a local bank, credit union or mortgage broker, please let me know. 

Thanks, 

Calvin

Have finalized plans with our architect, and looking for recommendations for local general contractors. We've sent out proposals to several GCs already, but everyone is super busy and it's been hard to get anyone to commit. Our project would be a complete remodel of a 5,000 SF home, which includes turning the basement into a legal ADU.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!

Purchased a large 4,000 SF fixer upper SFR in Oakland and about ready to submit plans to the City of Oakland. While I am waiting, my thought was to start some of the demolition work myself to save time and money. My kitchen, 4 bathrooms and a bedroom need to be completely gutted.

First Question: If I do the work myself, where can I rent a dumpster and what would the cost be for pickup afterwards?

Second Question: Is it worth the time and effort, or should I just let my contractor handle the work? I'm told the demo work is really not that expensive to hire out. I've also never done this type of work before, but thought it may be worth learning. 

Thanks BP Community!

-Calvin

Am in the process of getting permits to convert my basement into an ADU. I live in the Cleveland Height neighborhood in Oakland. Wanted advice on:

1. The cost to have PG&E install a separate meter for electricity. I already need PG&E to approve upgrading my electrical from 100 to 200 amps. 

2. Cost to implement RUBS water metering. In Oakland, if tenants don't pay their water bill can you cut off their water?

Thanks, 

Calvin

KWW Kitchen Cabinets & Bath in Oakland right? Thanks!

@Calvin Kwan Thanks Calvin. Have you had good experiences with Chinese brand quartz or granite countertops? The prices are a lot better, but I'm just worried about the quality vs. Italian brands. I don't mind using cheaper countertops for the ADU, but the main kitchen I want to go somewhere above mid grade but don't need the absolute best.

My wife and I recently purchased a fixer upper home in Oakland with an ADU unit in the basement. We will need to complete renovate the home. Looking for suggestions on where to shop for new wood flooring, tile flooring and counter tops (kitchen and sink). We've gone to All Natural Stone in Berkeley and Granite Expo in Emeryville. The prices varied widely, so not where to start. We plan to sell the home in 5-7 years, so want to buy durable and cost effective materials. All input is welcome. Thanks!

Hi Aamir,

I'm a broker in SF who focuses exclusively on NNN investments all across the U.S. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

- Calvin