Based on what you have said so far, my guess is that you may have 2 problems - poor draft on the vent and an open pipe joint somewhere.

It barely meets code & has a tendency to separate @ the seams & joints.

Often times they also require a business license and business inspections for this joint living situation.

The other issue with having a joint account with cash in it, is any claims against the contractor could be made against that account, doesn't matter that the contractor borrowed the funds.I don't suggest the joint account approach.

If you don't have to drive by hookers or the back of trashy commercial joints, then don't go that way. :)

I would probably remove and replace the damaged section of the lumber and reinforce the butt joint.

There are differences in title, joint and several ownerships, rights in title, life estates, conveyance of partial interests and improper conveyances, liens, rights of easements and encroachments apparent by a proper survey, along with claims by creditors and others that puts even the most astute investor in areas of the unknown.To imply that investors should learn to do a title examinations is not good advice.

Why is the knee jerk reaction always that the contractor wants too much money?

My GI is between $9,900.00 and $12,100.00 Once I fix it up I will be looking at a GI of $13,200.00 I was hoping to do a joint venture but no takers yet.

With gross rents well over $2k.Couple that with creative financing, joint ventures or good leverage - it's hard to beat.I drank the Rich Dad Kool Aid several years ago & wish I had acted sooner - as most people do.