All Forum Posts by: Lisa Thoele

So I'm sure there is another way to do this that is probably better but I use IFTTT with gmail to automatically populate a Google Sheets document - there is an applet that is called "When I email IFTTT add a row to Google Sheets" - I'm not techy and I got it set up.  I can use voice commands to populate the email message.  It will also add an attachment the the row if you want to take pictures - just add the attachment to your email.  

Karen, that's such valuable info to think about.  I've done pretty extensive remodels, total gut, fire damaged, hoarder house but I've never had to have engineering for what I've done (I had to have a retaining wall engineered).  It doesn't scare me but I would have never thought about the extra expense and time and what the plan B would be if the load walls couldn't support that weight!  Glad I asked and do really appreciate you sharing.  

 Thanks so much for the info Karen! I didn't up buying the house  - it came down to the numbers was a bummer really wanted the project but that was an unknown factor on my estimates - whenever I encounter something like that I like to be on the look out so I can come up with data for next time! My contractor would be doing the work - he threw a number out at me but it was just off the cuff without researching it and I think it's been a while since he's done that so it was really a guess. It makes sense they would be different for a manufactured home! Your project turned out super great!! Thanks for taking the time to respond.

Karen - this turned out great!  I was looking at replacing the trusses on a flip I was analyzing - I would love to know a round number on what those or the total roof cost you!  Love the tongue and grove ceiling,  If its not too much trouble!  

@Patrick Isaac  - I use Cosmos for supplying the granite or quartz.  They have a warehouse in NW Portland.  I use Bella Pietra out of Salem for installation.  I used a different granite supplier for my personal residence but have used Bella Pietra for my own home and several projects.  PM if you want details on how it all works.  

 ^^^^ So much this! I would love to learn more about this strategy.  I've looked a few homes zoned commercial but didn't know what to do with them.  Super interested and following.  

 @Ethan H. Thanks for sharing your sweet story.  I love hearing how God is working in someone's life!  Bless your journey with this little girl!  My sister and her family live in Eagle and I've thought about Nampa as place to consider investing because the prices seem lower than Portland?  My family and I will be there this summer - maybe my husband and I could take you to coffee and hear about what you are doing!

We switched to Medi-Share this year.  Its basically only for an extreme emergency and is a sharing type program so not technically insurance but does allow you to be exempt from the tax penalty of not having insurance.  Thank goodness haven't had to use it so just keeping our fingers crossed that it works like it says it does :-) if we were to need it.  Same deductible was going to cost us $1,400 a month as a family and now costs around $350.  We can choose our own providers.  You pay for your own non-emergency or non-illness related medical expenses (well visits and general check-ups).  Something to check out.  There are many similar systems.  We picked this one because it was the biggest and we had an acquaintance who uses it and has had to take advantage of the benefits.  Best of luck - its a super frustrating part of being self-employed- trying to navigate what's right for your situation.  

@Liz Cole it would be interesting to find out more about that abandoned property!  Are you in a tourist area?  There is a tiny house "hotel" in Portland.  Also, there is an RV park near where I live that placed vintage trailers onsite that you can rent by the night.  I think they are both run like an Air bnb type model.  So many creative ideas.