Investor · Owings Mills, MD · Member since 2017 · 20 posts · 3 votes
I am closing on a flip and my rehab estimate is more than expected. To compensate I am thinking of installing a new gas furnace (instead of all new duct work and forced air & central air as initially planned. I’ll need to have an alternative for the AC as well.)
Some people are ok with radiators. Others may not be. I am wondering what will sell in the Baltimore city market. The property is in 21239. Thanks in advance.
Real Estate Agent · Baltimore, MD · Member since 2016 · 520 posts · 379 votes
5y
If its a 30k spread it sounds alright but keep in mind its not just the cost of the new hvac which is probably over 10k with ductwork. It really could be closer to 15. That still doesnt count all the soffit work the drywall guys will do and that there is a good chance you will need to pay a plumber for a flex line run if the existing boiler lication doesnt correspond. Also pitchpockets for roof penetrations and disposal of the radiators and old boiler. The radiators and steam pipe can be taken for free and pitchpockets are cheap but the other stuff isnt. I'd add another 5k for that. That doesnt count having to upgrade the disconnect which is potentially thousands more if you dont have the juice to handle a condenser. When all thats done if the soffit hangs too low to eliminate head space the gain could be voided. The mini split option is something else Ive seen and you keep the radiators for heat since mini splits dont heat as well those cost a lot since a lot of the none hvac work is eliminated minus upgradibg the disconnect.
Investor · Owings Mills, MD · Member since 2017 · 20 posts · 3 votes
5y
Thanks Ozzy, yes that’s what I did. It looks like they mostly all have forced air at this price point (above 180k). So we’ll probably need to spring for it. Thanks.
Real Estate Agent · Baltimore, MD · Member since 2016 · 520 posts · 379 votes
5y
If its a 30k spread it sounds alright but keep in mind its not just the cost of the new hvac which is probably over 10k with ductwork. It really could be closer to 15. That still doesnt count all the soffit work the drywall guys will do and that there is a good chance you will need to pay a plumber for a flex line run if the existing boiler lication doesnt correspond. Also pitchpockets for roof penetrations and disposal of the radiators and old boiler. The radiators and steam pipe can be taken for free and pitchpockets are cheap but the other stuff isnt. I'd add another 5k for that. That doesnt count having to upgrade the disconnect which is potentially thousands more if you dont have the juice to handle a condenser. When all thats done if the soffit hangs too low to eliminate head space the gain could be voided. The mini split option is something else Ive seen and you keep the radiators for heat since mini splits dont heat as well those cost a lot since a lot of the none hvac work is eliminated minus upgradibg the disconnect.
Developer · . · Member since 2014 · 520 posts · 162 votes
5y
Radiators heat well but the if you going on the higher end it would make the property an easier sell if there was a HVAC system. Especially if you are competing with other properties in the area. Find subtle ways to cut down on cost ex: finishes, windows, carpet in bedrooms vs hardwood, landscaping.
Investor · Owings Mills, MD · Member since 2017 · 20 posts · 3 votes
5y
Good tips, Shadonna. Thank you.
Thanks for the details, Tim.
Based on all the comps having forced/central air and getting a good deal offered on the HVAC ($9k including duct work), we’re going to plan to get it and try to cut elsewhere.