We also tell them that we charge $25 per hole for TV mounts, shelves etc I think that $10 up-front investment has reduced the number of issues by probably 80%.Our walls are textured (sand textured in Milwaukee, orange peel textured in the western suburbs - yes, there is an actual dividing line), so we try to avoid the usual palm-sized patch and fill only the hole without making it bigger, so we can get away without texturing.

There simply isn't enough margin in this business to layer on a national company, without charging you an arm and a leg and/or doing a substandard job.

(Yes it still happens, but it is a lease violation, and we have a solid leg to stand on should we need to pursue eviction or collections later.)

@Mickey Petersen I would 1031 exchange into a larger better cash flowing property or whatever gives you a leg up on your wealth building.

If you didn’t touch the plumbing you MIGHT have a leg to stand on. 

Quote from @Lorraine Hadden: Take these California Malls ---- Eastmont Mall - Closed (Oakland); Carousel Mall - Closed (San Bernardino); Laguna Hills Mall - Closed (which was featured in BACK TO THE FUTURE); and the Village at Orange - Closed.

With your maintenance and construction background, you'll definitely have a leg up in creating value, whether you go with a smaller home or a multi-unit property.If you're exploring seller financing and deal structuring, connecting with experienced investors here in Chicago will be a game changer.

Some solid areas to look at are:Riverside, Avondale, Murray Hill, San Marco, San Jose, Orange Park, southern part of west side, east Arlington, pockets of the Northside.I’m on my phone so a little tough to go in great detail, but you can message me and we can find a time to chat if you’re interested.Chris - thanks for the reply.

You will have a leg up on the language, transactions, inspections etc.  

so every step is tougher.2. you don't really compare the interest rate when purchased and the interest rate when refinancing - that is apples and oranges.