All Forum Posts by: Chris L.

I have some new tenants of a few months and we're having crazy moisture issues. They have complained about mold growth inside the apartment. I have found the humidity their cooking to be the cause. I've seen about 75% humidity indicated by a humidistat.  Been dealing with this for a few months, the roof, plumbing, walls are sound. The mold/water wipes off easily. 

I've set them up with a portable dehumidifier, they are using the power wall vent next to the range. The tenants are Latino and definitely are cooking alot, seem to like to boil things.  I did ask her if she is cooking for others and she told me just for the four residents. (I have no reason not to believe her) 

This is a brick two story duplex circa 1954', I've owned for pushing 15 years. I've personally lived in both units in the past and have never had moisture issues in either apartment. 

I'll try to post a few pics of the wet walls I found today. Also on today's inspection, I found several windows wet on the insides. Wet window sills, even the blinds are wet. 

I'm at the point where I'm going to have to ask them to leave as I simply don't know what else I can do.  Language has been a bit of a issue too,  I do use a translator app. 

Get pics of the Bull and the damage. Talk to him in person if possible and be reasonable, get his cell or email if you can and do all follow up contact that way and save it. These things happen, I would let it go if he cooperates. If no cooperation then the Sheriff gets a call. After that its court time, sue for damages.   

Yes! I would strongly consider a fourplex, that's the max number of units for a conventional loan. I would put the 20% down and finance for 30 yrs fixed with todays great rates. Alternatively you can also do a FHA loan and cough up the PMI for a lower down, 4%?

It is my understanding that commercial loans are variable rate. With current rates so low, why not lock it in for 30 with a conventional mortgage. You will probably need 25 or 20% skin in it and that's not a bad thing. My outlook is if you're not in for at least 20% probably shouldn't be there. 

Then you will pay PMI

I make it a point to NOT chase my money. I will accept it if I'm at the property but I don't ask. The rents come to my personal residence either by mail or in person, they just slide it in my mailbox.

My late fee starts on the 4th. Only had to charge it once, could have let that one go but then you know what happens.

Tenants either pay or not, if not then I proceed with eviction.  very simply.          

BTW Its not that I wouldn't buy, its just that I by fixer uppers and the scale of whats generally needed is dramatically different.  

Personally I stay away from anything pre 50's or so.  I like the well built brick homes from the  50's 60's that are common in my area. I could go rite down the road to Northside where there is a bit of a boom going on, but the housing stock is mostly much older.  To me the really old houses need a lot of work to be right. Think full gut job. Electrical, HVAC, full plumbing replacement ect.