All Forum Posts by: Jim Shepard

Mindy Jensen it sounds like they probably split the 220 at the range to feed the living room. I'm not sure about Colorado codes but normally the range should be on a dedicated circuit. I bet this is a serious code violation in your jurisdiction. I would go back to the original builder and discuss with him. If he / she is reputable, they should fix the problem. If not blow the whistle at the local code enforcement office. I would also suggest that you turn off all of the 220 circuit breakers and see if it shuts off any 110 circuits. The electrician may have done this elsewhere in the house.

I actually use both and here's why. I utilize the inspector's report to reopen negotiations when we find problems with the property that we weren't aware of while we were looking at the unit. The 50 - 60 pages of mostly fluff that inspector prints out can be intimidating to the average homeowner. It also looks more professional and unbiased than just the word of a contractor. I also use the contractor as a second set of eyes to spot problems. The contractor can also give me a better idea on what it is going to cost to repair. I would also suggest you use a third professional for a termite inspections.

You want everyone over 18 to fill out an application. Do a credit and background on all applicants that you have chosen. People split up and you may end up with the tenant that didn't fill out an application otherwise.

Don't give her a one year lease - you don't want to live with her attitude! I would give her a 30 day notice the day you close.

Jerica Shorter since you are out of state you need to get an attorney involved now. The clock is ticking and it's in the favor of the tenant. The attorney will send him a 3 day or 5 day pay or quit notice, whichever is appropriate for Virginia. If he doesn't pay then the attorney should start the eviction. You tried to work with him and he shafted you. I'd also suggest that you look into a property manager since the rental is out of state. I manage my own rentals at home but have a pm take care of the ones out of state.

I second what Kim Meredith Hampton had to say. Tenants will sneak in a pet any way so you might as well get additional rent (I charge $25 a month per pet) Also get a separate pet deposit of $275 (per pet) . I have it in my lease a maximum of 25 pounds when full grown. No viscous breeds and I require them to have Renter's insurance with me listed as an additional insured.

Besides using Craigslist & rentometer as Alex Capozzolo suggested, you should go look at houses for rent in your area. Attend open houses to see what the house is like in the inside. You'll start learning your market and will know what a house will bring in rent. Good luck!

I have a second home in Florida and you have to have the A/C going or you will get mold. If the tenant shuts off the power, put it in your name and subtract the cost from their security deposit.

Sounds like you just dodged the bullet on that one! It was your lucky day.

I agree with Eugene Kemp . You need to have a pest control company spray again for the roaches. The chemical will NOT kill their eggs which will hatch in about 2 weeks. Then call the pest control company out again before the roaches mature enough to reproduce. The only thing that survived the Hiroshima blast were cockroaches - survived 7000 degrees!