All Forum Posts by: Lon Breitenbach

yes, it is residential

I am building in a community which requires a fire suppression system (sprinkler) inside the house if the sq/ft is over 2500. My house is over that threshold , and I have found out that the city is incapable of supplying me the water volume required to support the system. After multiple go-around with the city(mayor, fire chief, city admin) I am being told I will be responsible for upgrading the city water lines or will need to install a water tank on my property. My contention is that it is their responsibility to have an adequate infrastructure to support the ordinance that they passed. Any references to an attorney would be appreciated

I have a house under contract w foundation issues. Not uncommon for Austin, but the house also has cast iron drain lines. My concern is that when I get the foundation repaired , the plumbing is going to break . Are there any foundation companies out there that verify pipes are in working order AFTRR leveling , and will take responsibility if I have verified that pipes were good pre- leveling

It is just a form of stucco,, but you may also be referring to Lahabra cement

I am getting ready to build a house for myself which will have quite a bit of glass in it, some of it floor to ceiling.  I would like to get something that will insulate well in the Texas heat but still have a nice design aesthetic. Does anyone have a resource that would help me navigate efficiency/aesthetic/cost 

Chuck,

You never stated what your question is.

I am assuming you want to know if this is a good deal or likely scenario? First, I would get a better handle on your ARV. There is a big difference between 425 and 475.

I am quite familiar with the hotter areas of downtown Austin, but you are going to get a different $/sq ft price if its Tarrytown vs Travis Heights, Eastside vs Westlake. Give us a sense of : Zipcode, Sq/ft, size of lot, and age of existing building. 

Assuming you have your Reno budget accurate, you could then back out all cost and calculate your return

hope that helps

Thanks Lynn

That was my experience with rainwater when building out in Wimberley. The numbers on rainwater are even slower to payback than solar. People seem to like the idea, but when it comes time to write the check, it doesn't seem so vital

Is anyone doing Solar installs as part of their projects? I am familiar with the rebates, tax incentives, and approximate energy offsets to expect, but I am curious if anyone has found it to be an incentive for buyers? Do you recoup your investment if you sell the property?

Specific to Austin Texas, Does anyone have any experience with any of the local install companies here? Ive noticed that in order to qualify for rebates, you have to use an approved installer. 

Lon

Hello All

I am a land developer/new construction/rehab/flipper that just signed up on BP. I live in central Austin and have a few projects in process around town. The one I am most excited about is my first duplex in the 78704, we should be starting construction in the next 30-60 days.

I think I've met a few of the local Austinites at the Big Daddy meetings, but look forward to connecting with as many folks as possible on this forum as well.

My primary focus right now is acquiring properties around the city, i have been focusing on areas south -78704, 78745 but am always open to looking at new territory.

For those of you at all interested in discussing how vacation rentals work, and the nuts and bolts of running them, I have 10 years experience in VRs. It really is a great way to increase rental income, if you are willing ( or able ) to put in a little extra management time. I am happy to talk and share

Lon