All Forum Posts by: Marlin Q. Parker, Sr., Esq.

Thanks fr chiming in. Both units are entirely separated so the basement is not a common area; however, it is not suitable to serve as a bedroom. Regarding the lease, renewal is not an option, Furthermore, if we obtain actual evidence of a substantial lease violation (e.g. unauthorized tenants), we will move to evict.

This is a multifamily (side-by-side duplex). Again, I want to thank everyone for providing valuable advice. While we cannot dictate where a tenant sleeps, we will definitely address the unauthorized tenants.

Hello all,

I have a rental property in PA. The tenant recently informed my PM that during periods of substantial rain, some water leaks in her bedroom; furthermore, she currently uses the basement as a bedroom instead of the 3 bedrooms on the 2nd floor. The basement is a common area (boiler and hot water heater) with no privacy and no bathroom facilities; however, it does have a window and two doors (one to the the backyard and the other to the the first floor) . In addition, the basement needs to be painted and renovated. I cannot find anything in PA Code that addresses this matter for private rentals. Can we stop the tenant from doing such? In addition, we believe unauthorized tenants have actually moved into the basement and  plan to inspect the property soon. Thanks in advance for your assistance. 

GM Keith. I am genuinely interested.

My PM has been excellent; since 2020, I have used Speicher Select Properties (814) 255-9500.

Congrats! Enjoy the moment; truly savor your accomplishment

My PM posts to all the largest sites (Realtor, Zillow, etc); accordingly my properties are usually leased within two weeks of listing. My longest vacancy was roughly fifty days; however, the property went to market in late October. Heads up- if anyone has a seller financing deal in Johnstown, please contact me; I am seeking an interest only deal for 1 year (maximum). 

I am also interested in investing in Erie, PA; currently I have two units in Southwestern PA but look to expand. Could you offer some advice regarding neighborhoods, investor-friendly local banks (portfolio lenders), property management companies? Also, in that jurisdiction, must the water bill remain in the owner's name? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. 

Thanks

Hello all, 

What are your average closing costs? What percentage do you find reasonable? We have a $33K property under contract in PA; furthermore, we find the lender's loan estimate for $7200.00 in closing costs egregious. Coupled with the 25% downpayment, we would have to bring $14833.00 to the table at closing. Again, the fees seem unreasonable and excessive. I welcome your feedback.