All Forum Posts by: Jerome Foster

I am doing a rehab job (rental), and I need NEW doors/trim.  The floors will be hardwood (after, carpet removal) throughout MAIN floor of home (including bedrooms).....

What is the TREND for today, and beyond (short....)......?   Also, there will be WHITE baseboards/shoe throughout......  

NOTE:  There is "original" WOOD (nice) for the casing of each door now....  Will it be "ok" with WHITE doors, or should I paint?  Is the 6-panel door the absolute "got to have".....?

Trying to maximize the INSIDE appeal.....

Hello BP -  I am looking for some guidance on staircase railings, especially for Section 8 rental approval.  Can I have an OPEN side to the staircase into the basement area....?  Or, is there a requirement to have railing on BOTH sides going into the basement.   

I ask because to put railing on BOTH sides would NOT allow certain (ie; couch, bed, etc) furnishings to be easily placed in the basement....  I dont want HOLES in my walls, or railing removed/replaced just to get furniture into this room.   This home is in Cook County Illinois.    HELLLLLLP - in rehab mode, but NEED NEXT steps - no waste for money.....ijs....

Please see the attached photo of - current state.....  Is this "ok"....?

Everyone - thank you so much for your feedback !   I am a NEW investor, so I value your opinions.....

@Melissa Kirchhoff - Yes, this would be for rental purposes.   Most homes in the area are 3/1, but this would allow me to have a 4/2 (bathroom is already in the basement).  I am hoping to maximize my rental income by doing this update.

@Scott Steffek - I think you HIT THE GRANDSLAM with your response.   This is exactly my situation.  I want to create a NEW bedroom in basement (4th bedroom).  There is NO door in the basement.....but, I want an "official" bedroom.  Section 8 is possible for this rental, but I want to SIZE UP with this room.  Its HUGE !!!   This property is in Riverdale, and you may be familar (since you have homes sold in Dolton/SH).   There is a bathroom in basement, and I know someone will use room for sleeping, so I need the CYA.....  If you know contractor - pls advise.  

Thanks @Jeff B.  Have you used them for your investment properties....?

I am looking for opinion on VALUE ADD for egress window in basement.   I have heard that this can INCREASE value of your home substantially, and also INCREASE RENT potential for buy-hold properties.   Also, if anyone has contractor recommendation for Chicago (south), pls advise. 

I am in the FINAL days before closing on my 1st rental investment.   I would like to know if anyone has suggestions for INSURANCE COMPANIES that will cover the home while I rehab, and until I rent the home.   

Any suggestions?   The home is in the south suburbs of Chicago.  

@Shawn Coverdell - thank you very much!   I will click CASH button first.....

@Perry Farella - I would like to know more about your lending requirements/guidelines/parameters, etc.