All Forum Posts by: Candy Geo

Hi @Nathan Gesner revisiting this post I wrote a while back and I understand what your are stating. While I certainly don't make claims that Astrology can predict the future, I do believe it can be used as a tool and marker for making decisions both personal and financial. This is just my personal opinion based on my own experiences and set of beliefs. I have also learned recently that some experts in the finance world do utilize Astrological events to make certain decisions and that some did "know" about the 2007 financial crisis. Who knows maybe those people did become billionaires? I certainly don't know and like all things it's best to use our discernment while trotting the web. 

Here is an article I stumbled across that might peak your interest into learning more about Astrology: https://www.forbes.com/sites/l...

*Disclaimer: I am sharing my personal opinions and views and not financial advice!

@Bianca Montes De Oca

Bianca, my condolences go out to you and your family for your loss. I have very close friends who lost a loved one and are still living in the same house, not really by choice, but due to Probate and other legalities. It certainly hasn't been easy for them. Depending on your situation, you definitely have options available. I would agree with @James Carlson and say you might be better off listing the property for sale, especially if you are not ready to take on the management of repairs, tenants, etc. I recently came across an investment company called Easy Knock, not sure if they are on BP, but they propose an interesting concept for homeowners. You might want to look into them or I am sure there will be buyers in the community who can help you out if you decide to sell.

I totally agree with some of the previous comments! If I were adding Curb Appeal to this Duplex here is what I would do: 

*I added a fun rendering mock up for visual explanation, things are not to scale so don't come after me! ;D

1. Definitely replace the 2 front doors with matching ones. I would even paint them a nice light teal to have them contrast with the existing exterior paint. The same goes for any missing windows or older doors. I would also consider either building out a deck like Unit 1 has or ditching it and making sure both front entrances have a small ramp for accessibility, in case some of your tenants are elderly or handicapped.

2. Landscaping- Add drought tolerate plants such as Lavender, Bougainvilleas, grass bushes, etc. It might be tricky to tell, but I added Bougainvilleas (in image) to help create separation between units. Also if you decide to add any type of front lawn, I suggest pavers and clover grass to help cut back on watering expenses. I also added window boxes for fun and to give you an idea. I am not too familiar with plant varieties and landscaping go to's for Colorado, so this might have to differ from what I suggest.

3. Definitely loose the swamp cooler/AC unit! You might want to consider a mini split or other unit on side of units as opposed to right in the front. Often these units are a killer for enhancing curb appeal!

4. Based off the photo, it appears the parking area is also in the front, which as part of 'Tenant Proofing' I would add some sort of railing or fencing to prevent tenants from parking too close to the property. This will also help keep any children safe and create more security for tenants and you as the property owner. 

5. Lastly are some additional details. I would add an architectural medallion to the top front since it looks a little bare. I would also swap old lighting fixtures for new ones, I chose copper ones to match the roof. If you have the budget, definitely add a new layer of asphalt and create designated parking.

Hi Jorge, 

Send me a DM and I will be happy to share info, my father-in-law is a Licensed Contractor in Bakersfield and investor friendly!

I am curious if there are any Astrology enthusiasts in this platform and if you ever utilized Astrological info/events to help make your decisions when it comes to Real Estate Investing. I personally find Astrology very interesting and I am not talking about the typical Horoscope you read in a newspaper or magazine, but actual Planet alignments and happenings in the Cosmos. I will say that most of the Astrology I follow is coming from a few well known Astrologers that tend to use more of the Spiritual or metaphorical lens on the subject. Since the beginning of July a few of those Astrologers have been talking about this great Conjunction between Uranus/Mars/North Node in Taurus happening on July 31st-August 1st. According to Astrologer Chani Nicholas and a few others the planets can often be depicted as archetypes and each carry an energetic theme that often plays out on our planet. Uranus is known as the "The Rebel" usually disrupting or shaking things up literally and figuratively. Some even claim that Uranus might have played a role in previous historical revolutions. Mars is known as the "God of War" like that of mythological references and can be very action oriented as well as carry a triggering, aggressive, or volatile energy on Earth. The North Node is what is often considered the aim or direction in Life we have individually and collectively. This North Node is in the zodiac sign of Taurus which carries themes around Money, agriculture, and the ways we choose to Live on our planet. The North Node is also squaring off with Saturn which has themes around old systems, structures and traditions including political standards. While I understand this may lean a lot more on the mystical woo-woo side, I still find it fascinating that some Astrologers referenced previous historical/political/cultural events that happened around the same time certain planets lined up or squared off. For example, one astrologer mentioned that the last time Uranus was squared up with Mars was in 2007 and prior to that 324B.C. Looking back at 2007 from a Real Estate standpoint, it was when things started to plummet right before the financial crisis of 2008. Two Astrologers even mentioned there might be serious natural disasters such as earthquakes, which one did actually happen recently in The Philippines along with other natural occurrences in the US. In my personal opinion Astrology and Real Estate are cyclical and I would be curious to dig in further and research what planet alignments occurred during certain important events throughout history. Regardless of what you might believe about Astrology, I definitely find it can be useful like other data and analytics to make important decisions towards your investments. Of course just like any tools you can use it for your benefit or detriment. We certainly don't carry that magical crystal ball that can predict the future and what people choose to do with their Money or investments is definitely gonna come down to personal and hopefully more educated decisions. Just wanted to share these thoughts on here. 

*Disclaimer: All information shared is my thoughts/opinion on the subject and I do not recommend any information be used as personal, financial or investment advice. 

References to information shared: 

Chani Nicholas https://www.instagram.com/p/Cg...

Danielle Page https://www.instagram.com/p/Cg...

Sheseesthestars https://www.sheseesthestars.co...

Leslie Gailbraith https://thelinepodcast.com/epi...

@Deanna Gerald Hi Deanna, that's fantastic to hear! I love California, been raised here nearly all my Life but there are so many factors both personal and business that are pushing us to explore new horizons and Arizona really aligns with our pursuits! Feel free to DM me anytime!

Hello BP Fam! 

My hubby and I have not been as active on this platform or with our REI business but definitely ready to dust off and pick up again. Our strategy has been in Wholesaling, which I will be honest has not worked all that much for us, not because it doesn't work, but rather we just haven't put in enough effort or consistency to build a track record with our business. We have also been seeking deeper into our Souls and took a deep dive in 2020 into Spirituality, Energy Work, and Sacred Plant Medicines. We have also learned that we both have a great path in order to fulfill our purpose and Real Estate Investing is still something we aim to achieve on this path. Even though Wholesaling is a great strategy, we are definitely ready to expand and actually start acquiring properties to hold as rentals/short term rentals. We are planning a big move out of California and to Arizona, possibly the Tempe area, which will be a great refresh for our family and business.

@Robin Grimes

@Robin Grimes

These applicants may sound crazy but all too familiar. I used to be an On-site Manager at an 18-unit building in LA and was also in charge of leasing so I learned to develop a pre-screening for potential applicants that way less of my time was wasted. It's amazing how many random questions come up even when you try your best to be as descriptive as possible in the listings. The comments and requests of some people were straight up ridiculous, so I feel ya!

Hello fellow BPers, I am interested in purchasing a 2-4 unit rental property in Charlotte, NC and looking for insights on your experience in renting in this city. Also any advice you can share on the property taxes and other tips to consider would be greatly appreciated! All the best and Happy Investing!

The property is currently 2 units- 3/1 & 1/1, but plans are for a 2/1 & 1/1. Plans set for foundation, electrical, windows, roof, trusses, basically entire remodel! Already city approved with permits and engineer plans in place to start work.

It is in a commercial area with rental potential if you decide to buy and hold. 

311 1/2 6th Street Taft, CA 93268 (for some reason address shows up as 1/2 on Google and Property Radar)  

Asking price: $50k cash only + escrow/closing fees

We are looking to close very quickly before listing it on the market for a higher price!

Please DM me if you are interested and would like to see photos! Only serious buyers need reply!