Screw them together to increase shear strength.One lesson I have learned is not to put the jack near an existing footing.

About to start a new construction project and looking to come in at $85-$90 per sq foot.

I am worried that we wont be able to get a commercial tenant for either of the storefronts because of a lack of parking and limited foot traffic.I am looking for ideas for business to put into the storefronts.

However iv read that it doesnt take money at all so im curious as to how i get my foot in the door.

with minimum --or no rehab --you are looking at fairly new --less than 10 years old -- and may brick --low maintenance --so you compare --replacement costs, cost per unit, cost per foot for whats for sale --and narrow down to number of units --say 15 to 25 as first target and not 15 to 50 -- Figure out how much NOI you need to survive -- and what type investment do you need -- will he cosign with you on a loan --how much down payment will you borrow from him --when do you what to pay back --or offer him equity sharing etc -- Business Plan is your own objectives and Loan Package is different from a Business Plan --

I just need to get my foot in the door!

As to the units, ask a general contractor there or other owners what the costs are per foot.

Bedroom in a rehab had paneling that went up 8 feet, in a room with a 10 foot ceiling.

The financing on them was the same (buyers with 3% down and max loan amounts).Now there are a few rehabs of the same house listed at $320K, without any of the same finishes as the tricked-out house.How did the appraiser on the tricked-out house get a $75/square foot increase?

@Jay HinrichsThanks Jay.Most investors buying these properties from our of state or nation do not know the expert tips from people that have had a foot on the ground for many years.I am fortunate to have learnt from some area experts here on the ground that still look after these things for us and make the numbers work.I sure have seen the oven method many times.I have also been collecting rents from great people/tenants that sometimes have to be short $50 for that month due to buying food or other bills.The rents must be kept affordable otherwise the tenants will not stay long.Thanks.