All Forum Posts by: David Chwaszczewski

@Arnie Guida  in the future you can add to your lease that only tenants listed on the application are permitted to have keys.  This will not stop tenants from making copies of your keys and giving them to friends or family members, but will give you a leg to stand on if you decide you want to do something about it.

As for your current situation you could talk to the current tenant and ask them about it?  Not sure if you will get a strait answer or not, but worth a shot. 

Your long term tenant isn't used to caring for their yard and may not work out the way you think.  I would get a company to tell you how many times they cut the grass a year and how much per mow.  Then i would  divide the total cost over 12 months and cut that in half and add to the rent for both sides of your unit.  This way you don't have to worry about tenants mowing every 4-6 weeks and your property starts to look abandoned.  Thats my 2 cents!

I 100% agree with @Dawn Anastasi.  Good tenants that you want in your properties care about their safety first and then a clean/updated unit. 

@Chris Buesing So what did you end up doing?  In my rental agreement i have no pets in/out of the home. My thought now is what if i am missing out on good tenants who may stay longer because i allow pets?  I could charge a per pet fee to add to my bottom line per month and collect a pet deposit upfront incase of damages. 

@Patrick Liska  Agree that not everyone knows how to read the code book (still confuses me sometimes).  That is why i mentioned to go to local code enforcement and check with them also.  The book will provide loads and span info needed to do the repair, then code enforcement will confirm and let you know if there is anything more needed when pulling permits.  There are probably things in San Antonio that you would have to do that I would not have to do in the Carolina's.  I read this post as a DIY and was just saying how i would go about it to make sure you have the correct material and sizes.

Whatever it takes to get you started!  I agree, for that cost you can buy a property and make mistakes and still be less then the coaching they offer.  Some people need that hand holding to start and get over the fear of making mistakes.  It could repay itself in a few years, but doing nothing does get you any closer.

 I do like the free 3 day weekends for motivation and networking.  I always look for one thing to take away from any classes like these.  If i can do that it was worth it.

Hey @Meaza Aboye

Welcome to BP.  Great place to learn.  See you around!

@Michael McCartney

http://www.amazon.com/2015-International-Residenti...

Here is a link to the book.  Sure you may find it cheaper online.

As a builder i would suggest looking at IRC handbook to get your information and also talk to local code enforcement(i assume you are getting a permit).  This way you only do it once and you know it is done correctly and you will avoid a potential lawsuits if something goes wrong.

No, how will you buy the property?  You don't want to put your name out there that you buy homes and you can't!  I would look for ways to raise money first (friends, family, loans etc..) then post your add.