All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

I'd say it depends on your goals, abilities and business model.  It's essentially a math problem: what is the best use of your time?  I run into this issue myself: I can do all the work myself but should I?  It seems to make the most financial sense to sub things out, to save time and move the job along.  My problem is that I really love construction work and it's so tempting to don my tool belt!  I usually adopt a hybrid approach. 

The bottom line is: Do what you enjoy and whatever helps you achieve your goals most effectively. There's no right or wrong answer per se but also try not to be "penny wise and pound foolish".   Good luck!

@Brian Tome How about, "The 'Ugly Dormer' House"?  The proportions are terrible. 

It looks like you have your work cut out for you. I'd be interested to see the progress. Good luck with it!

@Nat C. It's not a good sign that he can't cover an amount that small for materials.  Your instincts were right: Find yourself a better electrician!

I certainly applaud and encourage dyi. It's fun and enormously satisfying to build and fix things. However,another thing to consider when deciding whether or not to contract work out, is the quality of the finished product. I suppose it's less crucial on a rental property but for flips the work should always be of a very high quality. To sell someone anything less is criminal. I'm also not convinced that one can do professional grade work after just watching a YouTube video.  Craftsmanship takes years to fully develop. A little bit of knowledge is a dangerous thing.

I suggest that one wanting to learn spend some time working with and for a contractor. I've done that with some people over the years and it can be a mutually rewarding experience. 

@Kris Haskins I like that color door but not on that house.  To my eye, it doesn't fit.  

@Cal C. Interesting topic though I find myself trying to avoid what I've previously done!  I also try to make my choices based on the style and character of the house and neighborhood, which might not be possible if I were locked in to a "trademark".  We house flippers are like artists!

@Rich Riesmeyer Cement board is not impervious. Besides if you have flooding you'd want to remove the wallboard to inspect the inside of the wall (and electrical) for damage and to facilitate drying, so you don't have mildew growing inside.

@David Shulski Time is money (it feels funny saying that to an accountant)!  The faster you get the house finished, the sooner you can sell it. You also have to factor in your monthly holding costs (taxes,interest on any loan, etc).  I also think a house that has been professionally remodeled is more marketable than one that has been done by a non-professional. Which would you want to buy? 

@Jake Recz There's little point in asking us what we think you need; your city knows exactly what you need and you'll just have to comply (even if you don't agree or understand).  If the house was flooded, then you almost certainly will have to have electrical work done.  Good luck with your project!

Welcome to BP!

@Duane Jones Did you remodel the basement?  That's likely where the problem is (assuming the test is accurate).