All Forum Posts by: Josh Randall

Steven Straughn,

I should have been more clear. I realize laminate is typically a floating floor installation. What I was referring to was the glues/adhesives that are used in the manufacturing process. Of course laminate flooring is not impervious to floods. :) Although, I have heard of bathrooms and kitchens being semi-flooded and the laminate being fine after it drys.

And I would agree with you about not using laminate in a rental. Mostly because tenants can destroy anything, even ceramic tile. I prefer something that can be repaired more easily, like vinyl tiles. A somewhat newer product I like is the vinyl planks that look just like wood. They install fast and you can more easily replace a single piece if it gets damaged.

Actually, using laminate in kitchens is fine. Years ago when laminate first came out it wasn't made as well, but it's come a long way. The glues that are used are waterproof so the laminate doesn't puff up when it gets wet like it used to.

Hey Rudy Brown,

As long as it's in line with the comps, and I mean you are comparing apples to apples, I don't see why you wouldn't want to pursue further. Assuming you have an accurate ARV you can't make a decision until you know what the rehab is going to cost. Even if you don't end up buying the house if you can get in there with a GC and do the analysis you'll learn a lot.

It's like @Brandon Turner always says. Even if you only get part of the way on this deal you'll learn a lot and you'll be better off on the next deal.

Good luck!

I would recommend going with the less expensive option. I've installed both and if you get a quality laminate a lot of people can't even tell the difference, especially lower end buyers who aren't expecting any better. And it will hold up fine in Florida's humid weather.

At the price point you are talking about there's no way you are going to increase the value of the house with a more expensive floor. You might sell the house faster, but that will likely be your only benefit. But of course, you always need to know what your competition is doing.

Michael Faulk, You never did get the "Complete Profile" award. I haven't either, but I have no idea why.

Maybe Joshua Dorkin can let us know what we are missing?

Thanks for the reply Shawn Yesner and Wayne Brooks.

I'm curious because my parents have a house which GMAC attempted to foreclose on in April 2009. My dad isn't an attorney, but he knows infinitely more about the law than your average joe. He responded to everything and filed some motions. I'm not sure exactly what he did, but it dragged on for about two years with little activity and so he was able to have the case dismissed in July 2011 without prejudice. It's been two years and GMAC has not tried to foreclose again.

By the way, no payments have been made since October 2008.

I'm sure banks/attorneys hate people like my dad! :)

Will this impact existing foreclosures?

I don't know a lot about it, but from what I've read and heard it sounds like it's good for the banks and bad for homeowners.

It really does depend what part of the country you are located in. In Florida texturing drywall is extremely common. However, it's not like 30 years ago when the ceilings were "Popcorn" and the walls were "Orange Peel", although you do still find that on many older homes. But as you mentioned J Scott, the texture impacts the price. In Florida it is common for drywallers to charge extra for a flat finish because of the extra labor.

In my area buyers expect/want textured walls and ceilings, except for the old variants mentioned above, which they hate and can actually negatively affect the selling price of the home. A smooth finish is usually only requested if a homeowner is planning on wallpapering, but that's a whole other discussion.

I personally like the modern types of texture, but I think it really depends on the other finishes in the home. In Florida average homes have minimal molding, usually just base trim and door trim so the texture adds some visual interest to otherwise flat, boring walls.

I think drywall texture is a perfect example of how you need to understand your market and your buyer's needs/wants.

Me too! Let me know if you find any.

Thanks Michael Smith. Good luck to you too.