All Forum Posts by: Bob Jaeger

I came across a service provider recently that could create a "we buy houses" type website and then drive traffic to it via Google pay per click program and Facebook ads.  I like the idea of simply paying for this service but wasn't overly impressed with this particular company.  Anyone know of any others?

@Boots Bonner Attach a hand-held sprayer where the shower head is currently and spray systematically from low to high on the control wall for a few minutes in each location. Have a helper watch from down below. Start at the level of the tub overflow, then at the caulk line where tub meets the wall, then above tub spout, then the shower control valve. The person watching down below will know when you’ve found the area that’s causing the problem. Sometimes caulk is the correct solution. Often though it’s more involved. Feel free to message me for more help.

I'm a huge fan of online, review driven sources like Yelp and Home Advisor.  With reviews, you can see what your getting into with a contractor in advance.  Remember, you get what you pay for.

Hi Philip,

Help me better understand your question so I can try to provide an answer for you.  What do you mean when you say "with a tub in back?"

Hello Bigger Pockets community! 

I'm looking for either NP 1st position notes within 30 days of FC Sale date or recently foreclosed assets in the suburban Chicago Market. SFR, Town, Condo, Multi all OK. Not interested in Chicago proper. Ideal max ARV less then $300K. I have the ability to close on aprox $1.2M in the next 6 months. Please contact me if you have something.

Thanks!

Bob

The problem with that is your creating a wall assembly that isn’t complete. To be correct the exterior side needs a vapor barrier and should be weather resistant. The existing window does not accomplish these things as it should.

MUST HAVE A REHAB PROJECT BY THE END OF APRIL!

Hi guys and gals. I'm a construction pro and need to have my next project started soon to stay on track with our goals. We're looking for a property in the western suburbs of Chicago and will gladly consider a NPN with upcoming sale date, wholesale or other distressed property. Please PM me. Thanks!

Bob

@ Great question.  I always uses online sources like HomeAdvisor, Yelp, Angies List.  There's many others of course but the key to me is being able to see reviews, good and bad, from a solid batch or previous customers.  Knowing the reputation of a contractor before you engage them saves a world of drama.  I don't ask them for references because they may suck 50% of the time but there only going to give you the good ones.  We all want the best price but the vetting process should be the same as it ever was.  Get multiple bids from reputable contractors and make sure you are absolutely clear on the scope of work and timing.  Don't start by having and unrealistic budget and force yourself into working with bad contractors. 

I agree with Mike Reynolds completely.  I avoid keeping windows in the shower whenever possible but I understand that eliminating it is not always an option.  Mechanically speaking, its a water problem waiting to happen as is the case for you now.  What you want to focus on now is putting it back together in the best possible fashion.  Some sort of true water impermeable surface is best here which is why Mike and I both like a solid surface of some sort.  Note that we are not suggesting tile here because the grout joints will be the weak points destine to fail again in the future.  Make a template from cardboard and take that with to a countertop fabricator.  Remember that this piece should be the first thing installed on the wall and all other surfaces installed around it.  Think like a drip and overlap surfaces accordingly always directing water out to the desired location.  Also, make sure you address any water damage to the framing behind the existing drywall.  You cannot put good work over a bad frame and expect it to last.  

Hi Donald, I just emailed you. If you’d like to send a few photos I’d be happy to comment on your shower/tub.