All Forum Posts by: Yan B.

Sharon, I have been a happy stREITwise investor (non-accredited) for a few months now. The only thing I did not like, for some reason it took them several weeks to process my initial deposit and create my profile page, so that I could log in and see my account. No issues after that. Just received my second quarterly dividend payment, which was a good way to start a new year. Be advised, if you choose to invest with them, you won't be able to get your money out for a few years. 

Looking for an advice on the most effective and efficient way to block up an old basement window.

Background: I was chasing leaks in the basement of my old house and found an old boarded-up window behind the drywall. I guess there used to be a window well on the outside that was filled with dirt. The window was originally cut in the foundation, there is metal frame still attached. No idea what's on the other side of that boarded up window, other than dirt and the A/C unit above it.

I consider myself fairly handy though I've never done anything with blocks/bricks/mortar. My goal is to block up this window without digging it out first. I think the first step should be removing metal window frame and any spikes/nails still in the wall. Not sure what to do after that. What type of block/mortar should be used? Or, is it better to leave this to a pro?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Which is the most friendly to landlords?

Everyone, thank you for your responses and encouragement! I am not a fan of the city but will definitely look in my backyard (NW and W burbs).

Greetings fellow investors,

I am complete noob, been looking to buy a 3-4 unit somewhere in Chicago area, preferably in the north-west or west suburbs. My question is, with rising taxes, anti-landlord regulations, stagnant job growth, and people leaving the area, is it still a good idea to buy an investment property here? Would I be better off somewhere else?

Thanks in advance.

Update: asbestos test results came back, all negative. A load off my shoulders :) Next stop: closing. Then the real fun begins :)

Thanks everyone, I think I'll start with getting it tested.  Has anyone here had any experience with the store-bought asbestos testing kits (they cost under $10 and need to be mailed to a lab)?

So I am in the process of buying a fixer upper property. My plan is to occupy it as my primary residence while fixing/upgrading it, and eventually sell it after 2-3 years with maximum tax benefits. Anyway, the basement ceiling is covered with old broken tiles, and inspection report clearly states that might contain asbestos. Which means, I can't simply toss them in a dumpster and live happily ever after. If I hire somebody to gut the basement (which I am planning to do), don't I have to tell them about possibility of asbestos for legal reasons? Also, suppose I get samples tested for asbestos. Can I trust the company that is doing the testing? Don't they have vested interest in "finding" asbestos even if it's not present? 

Suddenly, this deal is not looking so great...

Thank you @Mark Nolan

I've been interested in buying from an auction, going to watch this thread