All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

Frothy with few deals to be found.

They are looking to get to 2.1% for all properties.  If you are not currently paying at least 2.1%, expect your taxes to go up.

@Sunny Suh Yes, I will PM you his information.  He is very thorough and I cannot recommend him highly enough.  I will continue to use him for real estate in Northern Jersey.

I'm aware of the TLH issues.  I am considering moving most of my Vanguard funds into Betterment because of this issue.

@Sooyeon Kim

Do a tank sweep; I had rebar in my yard from driveway construction so they upsold me on a radar sweep, which was an extra $650, for a cool $1000.  For me, it is worth the peace of mind.

@Sunny Suh Hi Sunny, I used to read the getrichslowly blog before it was sold, and I've read everything that the JCPL provides through its digital library regarding finances.  It's really interesting stuff; I didn't get into this stuff until about 2 years ago, with that famous (in some circles) Shockingly Simple Math post over at MMM.

Tax advantaged accounts are maxed out, but post-tax stuff is mostly in Vanguard.  I've only recently started putting taxable accounts into Betterment, as according to my (and the Mad Fientist's) calculations, the tax-loss harvesting easily eats into the 15 basis points that Betterment charges over Vanguard.  I will continue to use Betterment, and will funnel my future investments into Betterment. 

I admit, I'm also into a couple of whacky things such as Lending Club.

Anyway, keep us updated on your progress!  My inspection has found a lead water main and asbestos tiling, nothing too crazy, with an oil tank sweep pending.

@Sunny SuhGood reading your post.  Looks like you have a good head on your shoulders and it was a pleasure reading your experience.  I can find a lot to relate to as I regularly trawl through Bogleheads, MMM forums, and BiggerPockets.  I agonized over Vanguard vs. Betterment and eventually went up with both, doing my own MMM experiment.

I've also inadvertantly flipped a primary house in Downtown JC and am looking to move into a multi in the Heights within 2 months, with a tenant in place; I will occupy the downstairs unit.  Looks like we have some things in common.  I've sent you a colleage request; I look forward to seeing how your move pans out.

My inspection is in the coming week!

 I'm in the midst of the introductory phone calls with the CEO.  Any further feedback?

 Thanks for the info Robert, but if you want to 'make money when you buy, not when you sell', and place an emphasis on cash flow, then three reasons you mentioned don't appear to apply.  More appreciation plays, no?

That being said, I am also actively looking in the following areas: West side, and either eastern or western heights.

Just curious, why are you looking into these places?  My area has gone from average sale price of 500/sf to 750/sf within the past year, and the Journal Square area has gone from an average sale price of 200/sf to 350/sf within the past year as well.  I think cash flow will be sparse; if not, I'd be interested as well in seeing what Jonathan Boyle has to say.

Best of luck, Nicholas.  I'm local in the Downtown Jersey City area and would like to hear about your progress.