All Forum Posts by: Mark Nolan

One thing to consider depending on the age of the unit is if it has been de-leaded.  In Mass, we need to have units built before 1978 deleaded if any occupants are under 6 years of age.  This can be very, very expensive ($12k for one of my units) but has to be done.  The only thing more expensive than deleading is a lead poisoning lawsuit.  Of course, check your state laws to see if any of this is applicable.

Aside from that, I don't see much of an issue.  Good luck!

I use Kwikset Key Control deadbolts on all my units:

http://www.kwikset.com/smartsecurity/key-control.a...

One master key for literally every door I own, each property gets 1 single key for all of their locks (typically 3 deadbolts), and it takes less than 10 seconds per lock to re-key between tenants.  Literally couldn't be happier to carry one key that I use to access any lock in any property, it's a game changer IMO.

It's always in my lease that tenants can't paint.  I use Silver Drop in most rooms, and by sticking by to just that one color, I usually just need to touch up between tenants rather than paint the entire place again.

If you're going to allow them to paint, have it in the lease that it has to be done by a professional (approved by you) and that you have to approve the color as well.

Most people think they can paint when they can't.  Their inability to do a good job is going to continue to cost you real dollars.

I just started putting in Behr Silver Drop in my units and love it!  Was going to go Agreeable Gray but it's easier to grab 5 gallons at Home Depot.  I'll be going neutral gray on all of my units from here out.

Definitely a little dark for my taste, but if you're getting them rented ASAP, clearly it works for the people that matter!

I am in a similar situation and was wondering how to go about this as well.  I have a two family where one unit was already rented M2M when I closed on the property.  I am going to be raising the rent and converting them to a year long lease and was curious of the protocol as well.

They're great tenants but well under market and have utilities included.  I need to either have them sign a new year long lease with some increased fees or send them on their way.

Much appreciated guys!

@Ray Hurteau I have a decent log of contractors that I've used for various projects (great electrician, plumber, floor guy, countertops, etc.) but with the scope of the work I was hoping to get a general contractor who has experience coordinating larger jobs.  

@James MorrisonAppreciate the recommendation!  I'll reach out to Steve shortly.  Thanks!

Hi all!

I recently purchased my second multi family home (my first true rental/investment property) with my brother and we're looking for a general contractor in the Watertown or greater Boston area.

The two units are beautiful, but there was an illegal basement in-law that looked straight out of a saw movie.

I've gutted it almost entirely, and junk removal comes tomorrow, but I'd like to explore some options.

We aren't looking for finished living space, but we'd like it to be nice dry storage with laundry for both units.  We need someone that can clean up and separate the basement electrical, demo a bathroom in the basement, and clean up other loose ends (mostly plumbing)

We also would like to add a small retaining wall (4 feet-ish wide) and get the short driveways leveled.

Depending on pricing, we may want to do some structural work (extending under house drive to accommodate more cars for example) and in the future upgrading and relocating the boilers, so that is something to consider as well.

Anyone looking for work and a long term relationship?  Let me know!