All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

Hi Barbara,

If you hired ten subs to install your pool you will have ten variances in technique.

If in the hiring process you obtained three bids, asked for references, called the references, checked the contractors board for complaints, you would have a comfort level with your sub.

Historically, a pool will bring a fraction of the money spent for a return. 

Barbara,

I have seeded and laid sod on many projects, hands down for me sod is the winner.

It's instant and  less fussy. 

With seed you need the right conditions, cooler nights and warm days are what germinates the seed. I have also found that if you comb your hair wrong that day you can end up with an uneven lawn.

Use sod.

Hi Anna,

I like the acid stained concrete as well, the sky is the limit on how creative you can get. I will say though always keep in mind resale whether it is a rental, flip, or permanent residence.

I would keep the stain pattern a little subdued and neutral in color, this will appeal to many more people.

I didn't realize paneling was back in, even if it is I would apply what I said to this as well. Just like before it will be a phase and people will be tearing it out in the future like it's mold.

We have found with all our builds, remodels to remain in the neutral color schemes and have never sat on a property for very long.

Jef, 

There will always be the risk of a contractor not preforming, even if they are good they can get so busy that there schedules become challenged.

When you do your job walk have all the contractors there, this will save you time and let them know you are serious about your numbers. Have a job summary written for each sub with a scope of work, this way there is no questions on what they are bidding.

Each sub should provide you with a referral list and I suggest you call them all, get a good feel for the work they have preformed, was the schedule met, how did they communicate, was the budget kept.

You can also call the contractors board to make sure there are no complaints, see if they are up on insurance and bonds.

Provide the subs with a schedule and make it part of your contract, by signing your contract they are then bound to this schedule.

You will typically have some money at risk with your subs, a percentage will be given to start and depending on the length of the job possibly a draw part way through, never pay in full until you have approved there work and are satisfied.

Hi Steven, 

If we are buying local it is rare that we will even get an inspection. I will give it a good look over and if I see any issues I want an opinion on I will bring in the experts, ie: foundation, hvac ext. check with your jurisdiction, in our state to maintain a license you have to maintain all the insurance requirements, seems like a waste of money to me.

Hi Andy, I have installed quite a few meters and I am not a plumber. I have however plumbed all my personal residence, we are on number 12. If you know how to solder it is quite easy.

They do make meters that can be read remotely, I would encourage spending the extra money. This allows you to take the reading without going into the unit.

Check with your local jurisdiction if permits are required.

I agree with what @Jay Hinrichs has said in both his posts. I to have had extensive damage on rentals. I had one $180,000 rental when turned over had most windows broken, roof shingles damaged, the tenant rebuilt his harley on the living room floor, cigarette burns on the bathtub edges, used,diapers crammed down all the vents, holes kicked in the walls and doors. 

Insurance cover all but deductible.

Hi Michael,

I have used www.mascord.com for years. You may however need to have someone scan through the prints you buy and make sure they line up with what the codes are in your jurisdiction. Even with both fees still pretty inexpensive.

Nicely done John, being tenacious is a great trait to wear. 

I usually shop local vendors depending on what it is I am looking for. I prefer the local lumber yard over the big box store home depot, they know me and it is better lumber.

Flooring goes two ways for us, either local or online, again, prefer local for the ease.

I agree with Ian, always shop your product out for best pricing, I will however spend a little more for convenience.