All Forum Posts by: Colin L.

 Hey Ronald,  

Thanks, that is great information.  If it comes together lets talk some more!

 Sorry about that!  I should know better.  When I say I'm from NY everyone thinks I mean NYC.  The property is east of Syracuse in a smaller town. 

Hello,  I am putting in an offer on a home in upstate NY (I am originally from the area), but I'm unfamiliar w/ rehab costs.  Any rehabbers in the area care to share their experiences?   The property in question is an older 2 story home, about  2000 SF, will need a lot of work, new roof, windows, hvac, kitchen, interior finishes, etc.  I know that is still fairly vague but any help is appreciated.  

Very nice job!  My thoughts on the extra insulation is that you won't see a return in the short term for things like that, because people can't see them, but in the long term it could go a long way in building your "brand" and a following.  The Boston firm Placetailor is a great example of this.  

 I'd say $200/SF and up for small to medium scale MFH is not unusual in SD.  

Also, not to make things more complicated but if you can build 5 or more units on a property, you can increase the # of dwellings even more by agreeing to include housing for low income tenants through the state density bonus law.  Developers often go for the 35% max bonus which would put you at 7 units total.  Adding more units on a lot of course makes it more difficult to fit everything so the state incentivizes developers by allowing reduced parking and other variations (for instance reducing a rear yard setback from 15' to 10') to make the project work.

My advice would be to go to the Santee planning department and speak with a planner about your ideas for the property.  

I would not want to touch any property in Houston damaged by flood.  Unless drastic measures are taken to mitigate the flood risk its almost certain happen again.  

As an architect, I like the ADU idea. You get to leverage your skills, time and network towards your investment. By designing it yourself you save money, you can get discounts at a lot of interior finish stores, you can call in some favors from your contractor buddies, etc, etc. As an owner occupant you could manage the construction yourself if your into that kind of thing. Also I hear that Airbnb thing is a good way to make extra money from an ADU (depending on the local laws).

Up until this season I'd say Highgarden.

Hey David, sure would love to know who it is, thanks!

I'm looking for opinions on the cost to tent a property in San Diego for termites.  The property is 5 units (one detached 3BR in the front, and four 2BR's on the alley side).  I've got one estimate for $6,200 for tenting, and I'm curious if other San Diego investors could chime in and let me know if that is a reasonable price or if I should shop around.  Any help is appreciated!