All Forum Posts by: Kate B.

When I purchased a multifamily property in Worcester,  I looked at and rejected many properties.  Then I found a multifamily property sale that was canceled and the sellers (estate sale after death of their mother) were eager to sell it.   I ended up with a great deal due to my unwillingness to accept a bad one.

Take your time with Worcester if you have to, but also be ready for a deal whenever it shows up.  I'm not a pro, so I know you can do it.

It's been awhile since I posted regularly and my situation is about the same if anyone remembers.  I own three properties with no mortgages and one is a three family.   In my three family building, it now is best for payment of rent to be automated.  (Two tenants work late hours when the credit union is closed, and another one is a nurse working double shifts.)

Has anyone found a good way to automate payment, especially one that is free or low cost?

Thanks.

Kate

 Thank you!    It's a nice feeling to end the week this way.

 Bhekizwe, thank you!

 Ardie, thanks for raising that -- it confirms I was right to check it out!   The house has four electrical meters (including LL) and three gas meters.   On the second and third floors, the utilities are in the names of the first two tenants to move in on each floor.   I pay half of the second floor utility bills from the rent of the other occupant who came later.   On the third floor, the occupants split it and work it out themselves.   If needed, I'll change that for the future.

I have a lot to learn about pricing and how to figure out a fair price.

I learned this a long time ago when I got estimates for replacing the roof and fixing the chimney on my primary home.   The estimates were very far apart, the highest more than double the lowest.    I ended up going with the lowest one after getting references and was very pleased with the work.

Later I learned it again about mowing when I sought a few times to have someone mow the lawn at my second home, which I normally do myself.   I kept getting estimates of $150.   Today a very experienced company owner offered me a variety of prices ranging from $30 to $100 depending on the level of service.   He recommended $30.   I went with $75.

I wish I knew how to gain confidence with these things.   I think I end up doing okay, but it's never easy.   It's never comfortable.

Does anyone have any insights about how to make it easier?

Thank you!

 Cindy, I hear you.  I had quotes on jobs, but more were added.  I also asked him if he was including his gas and time for shopping and he said he doesn't do that because he is in Home Depot every day.   It was just a problem he had with everything, rounding it up, and he admitted it.   When I planned a run to the dump, I asked what it cost, if he knew.  He quoted me $30 higher than it was -- for my trip to the dump.   I'm probably not explaining it very well.   I do always get quotes for full projects.   I also decide to do some things myself after I get quotes.  

 Thank you!   

 Thank you!

 Thank you!