All Forum Posts by: Cameron Richard

Hey everyone, I’ve been digging into the BiggerPockets podcasts lately, and from what I’ve heard for buy and hold investing Dave often targets 8-12 % cash-on-cash returns on small multifamily deals, especially in more affordable markets.

I’m looking into small multifamily in a cheaper market like Des Moines, Iowa. But with interest rates being what they are now, I’m wondering if that 8-12 % CoC target is still realistic (after underwriting vacancy, repairs, CapEx, etc.)

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience.

@Andy Sabisch Thanks for the great info Andy! There is one stair that is pretty badly cracked and it appears the previous owners sealed it with some sort of glue but it is still a tad unstable it seems. What is your recommendation for stabilizing a partially cracked tread? Appreciate your insight. 

I’m currently working on my first rehab project — a duplex I bought in Des Moines, IA for $236K that I’m house hacking. We’re nearly finished renovating the bathroom, but now we’re moving on to the interior stairs.

The stairs were previously carpeted. I ripped up the carpet and found old hardwood treads underneath that are in rough shape — visible cracks, staple holes, and general wear. There’s also a curve at the top landing, which adds a little complexity.

I’ve narrowed it down to two options:

Option 1 (Leaning Toward This):

Patch, paint, and add non-slip grip strips

• Sand and fill the damaged treads with wood filler or Bondo
• Paint the treads and risers 
• Add non-slip grip strips for traction and durability

Option 2:

Install vinyl stair tread caps or a Cap-A-Tread system

• More expensive
• Looks nicer and matches our LVP
• Trickier to install, especially the curved top step
• Might make more sense long-term once I move out and fully rent both sides

Curious what other investors and DIYers would do in this situation, especially those with rental experience. Would you go with the budget paint/grip strip approach for now and maybe upgrade later? Or would you spend the money up front for a more durable and finished look?

Appreciate any feedback 

I’m currently renovating a 1952 duplex in Des Moines, IA, and one of the major updates needed is replacing the windows — about 11 total.

The current windows are very old and drafty, so I’m planning to get bids from 5–6 local window installers over the next week or two. That said, I’ve never replaced windows before, so I’m unsure what type of window I should be asking for that's ideal for a rental property. I am looking for something that is durable, looks good, and has great value. 

Questions:

1. What type of window do you recommend for rental units like this? 

2. Are there specific brands or series you'd recommend (or avoid) for rentals?

3. Anything I should specifically ask for in quotes?

Thanks in advance!

I recently purchased a 1952 duplex in Des Moines that still has the original windows, most of which are in very rough shape. I'm planning to replace 11 windows and am looking for a trusted window installation company or contractor.

If anyone in the Des Moines market has gone through window replacements and was happy with the company or installer they used, I’d really appreciate any recommendations or referrals. Thanks in advance!

Investment Info:

Small multi-family (2-4 units) buy & hold investment in Des Moines.

Purchase price: $236,000
Cash invested: $13,109

Purchased first duplex in June 2025 as a house hack. This property needs a cosmetic rehab and the majority of the work I will be doing DIY.