All Forum Posts by: Steven Stohlman

@Ryan Corcoran I would add that yes, I am using IG to build my network. I’m always on the lookout for other investors to see what they are doing and how they are doing it. My current trouble with it is more of my network are not local to me. What I mean is on IG the people I’m connected with are from all over the country. My Facebook pages are much more local. Saying all of that I’m still committed to using IG to grow my network. I think of Grant Cardone saying use everything to get your message out. I think he even runs a Snapchat channel. Hope that helps.

@Ryan Corcoran great question! I use both Instagram and Facebook to promote my business and I’m really working hard to grow my IG profile. I have purchased 3 houses as a direct result of my Facebook page. The owners of those properties follow me on IG as well but I feel the deals were a result of my FB presence. I have purchased adds on both platforms and They were not very successful in getting more deals. I use both platforms by adding constant content of the properties I’m working on, have purchased and when they are available for rent. I do get people reaching out to me regularly on if i have houses for rent on both platforms. Hope this was helpful and I’m very interested in how you will use IG to grow your business.

@Bryan Feik Hi Bryan. I use Cozy for my property management and have been for a year and a half. I have had no issues with rent collections and the background/credit reports are nice. I have not listed a property for rent through them yet. I like the automatic late fees, the easy addition of a bill like water or sewer. I have not had a maintenance request through it yet. Hope that helps.

@Aaron Nihiser I bought my first property through Hubzu.com and I have no complaints about it. Your post has me thinking I should look on the site again! I will say this, the house was listed as a 2 bedroom 1 bathroom and it was really a 3 bedroom 1 bathroom so it worked out well for me. The house was close to where I live and I was able to get inside before the auction ended. Hope that helps.

@Young S. Find a new agent that works the way you do.

@Steven Pesavento I charge $250.00 non refundable Pet Deposit and $50 per month Pet rent.

@Austin Cureton welcome to the show!

@Michael Szypulinski

- Home Depot sells prefabricated laminate countertops that might work for you. I have used them on some properties. I’ve also made my own, they are pretty simple to make a nice looking countertop. I also use a local countertop fabrication company when I have a weird layout or pressed for time.

- cabinets I have bought from a local company and Home Depot. For my properties I put cabinets in that are well built and will hold up to tenants.

- appliances I usually buy used for my rentals or a scratch and dent store.

- interior doors I buy from Home Depot, you may try Re-store if you have one.

- Cabinets, I have only completely replaced 1 whole kitchen with new cabinets because I totally changed the layout of the kitchen. The other properties I have made my own doors and drawers to fix what was at the property. I also have painted the cabinets. The old (1940’s) built in place cabinets are really well built. You can buy new doors and drawers online if you can not make them yourself. (It’s not that hard, google and YouTube are your friend) cabinets can get expensive quick.

-I put tub surrounds in on my properties, always the same. (All my rentals look the same) For me the tile is not worth it, the tub surround is $100.00 and pretty durable and easy to replace.

- I usually rip out all old and overgrown landscaping, plant with new easy to care for plants and mulch.

- paint I use Sherwin Williams 

- i don’t add any extra storage, the garage should be fine.

Like any service, there are good providers and bad.I agree with @Bleu T.  In watching what condition their truck is in and what kind of tools they use are good indicators. The Handyman should be insured, you can ask who there agent is and give them a call to verify.

Ask around for recommendations from friends and family, ask around at Home Depot or any supply house. 

Good luck.

Vinyl plank flooring in the kitchens and baths. If the hardwood floors are decent I refinish them, if not, more vinyl plank! No carpet!

Sherwin Williams Super paint in satin on the walls, Pro Classic Semi gloss on the trim and doors. Pick a color and stick with it for all properties.

Bathroom gets a simple shower surround and a good bath fan.

Good luck.