All Forum Posts by: Josh Sexton

Asking for a highest and best isn't being greedy, it's just being a practical business person. Tenants usually understand and if they are that enamored with the unit, they'll pay a bit extra.

The most important thing, however, is that you're satisfied with your applicant pool. Only ask for a highest and best from the applicants who you think will treat the property well and help to minimize your long term costs.

Assuming you would be happy with any of your applicants, go ahead and ask for some more money. Let them know why you're asking and remind them why it's worth it. This is a business and a little extra in rent each month sure feels good but a modest increase won't turn off applicants.

I've been taking a look at the resources here and there's a ton of good information. I'll need to start passing this along to my clients.

You can learn a lot by studying the market and the property online but nothing beats having boots on the ground. At the very least, hire an inspector to take a look at the property for you to make sure it is structurally sound. A lot of stuff can be fixed without too much hassle but you need a good foundation

You can have contractors place bids on the work but you'll want to make sure they have a solid working history so you aren't taken advantage of.

I've been coming to BiggerPockets for a while now and have used the forums to answer questions about had about different aspects of investing. I feel a bit overwhelmed with the wealth of knowledge you have collectively.

I work for a real estate/construction/property management firm that does a lot of value-added investments here in Chicago. I'm trying to learn as much as I can, especially as we begin to move into other markets.

I'm very excited to begin working with you all and I welcome any help you're willing to provide.