All Forum Posts by: Keith Underkofler

I didn't know that Garrett was still doing his meet-ups. He had one up in Bethlehem, where is the one in Emmaus? I haven't seen him in a while. He also still does a networking breakfast or lunch too I think.

The DIG group has several sub-groups that meet throughout Bucks and Montgomery Counties. It's a great place to get an education and meet people. It's worth looking into, I was a member at one time. If I recall correctly, the sub-groups are member-only and the general meeting is open to all but there's an admission fee.  

I second Gross McGinley, I work with Stuart Schmookler

Personally, I'm currently enrolled in classroom courses. As someone who has been self-employed for decades I understand how important business networking is. Meeting people and shaking hands is the foundation of a strong successful business. 

I'm glad that I decided not to do an online course (although I was tempted). In my class, there are four other investors, one of which is the instructor who has 35+ years of experience as a realtor and investor. 

The conversations that are had and the face to face accounts are invaluable and can't be duplicated through an online course.

Just my two bits,

Best of luck,

Keith

Hi Tracey, I'm General Contractor, in business myself for 20 years. I do a lot of structural repairs, renovations and I see this sort of thing very often.

First, you need to determine if this is a veneer or if it's structural brick. It's not unusual to see cracks like these in a brick veneer. Structural brick not so much. However, based on the age of the house and what I see in the picture, it looks like veneer to me.

The veneer can crack for a myriad of reasons, most of them not major. If the house is built on a slab then look at the slab for settlement issues. If there's a basement or crawl space, you will find further damage on the foundation wall if the damage is of any significance.

Before you spend money on a structural engineer, have your contractor meet you at the property, go through it with him and get his opinion. If you're finding cracking on the inside then you probably have a house with issues, if not then it's likely just the veneer or brick ledge.

Also to note, the home inspector typically is not able to help you determine the root causes of these types of issues. Their liability coverage doesn't allow it. They can only make observations and recommendations. As in "I observed a crack and recommend you ask an engineer"

Best luck,

Keith