All Forum Posts by: Matt Clark
Matt Clark has started 20 posts and replied 398 times.
Post: Adding a Duplex to a current lot

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Tyler Ebnet the best way to start is a visit to the jurisdiction's zoning office. They can quickly tell you if it will be allowed or not.
Post: Can I still evict a tenant if he hasn't paid rent after filing?

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Ian Lord once they pay the amount listed on the summons for unlawful detainer the process stops. So, if they bring their account current prior to the next rent charge, then the P or Q process must be restarted when they are late paying that subsequent charge.
You can prevent this in the future when you file the UD. For example, if you file on the 15th of November, you'll probably get a court date around Dec 8. You are allowed to include the Dec 1 rent charge and the Dec 6 late fee on the summons. That way you can keep your original court date if they don't pay Dec rent. Just issue a second P or Q on Dec 6 and take proof of service with you to court.
Also of note, VA code allows one opportunity for the tenant to cure their late payment default every 12 months. So let's say you serve the P or Q and they bring their account current, causing you to stop the eviction process. If you have to serve a second P or Q within 12 months, you can then proceed with the eviction even if they bring their account current.
In regards to accepting rent with reservation, you can include that language in the P or Q. My experience has been that the judges in the Roanoke valley accept this as proper notice.
Post: Tenant only paid half the rent and I want to send 5 day or quit

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Hi Ian Lord . Yes, you can/should send the P or Q. You might also explain to them that it's coming, and that if things are paid in full within the time frame specified you will be happy to stop the process.
Post: Best way to add small front step on flip, need design ideas

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Codes vary from one locality to another, maybe another BPer from your area can chime in. We're allowed 8" here.
It may be compliant with the code in force when it was built, which is usually what matters.
Generally speaking, welding will increase the risk of fire; maybe you should require proof of renters insurance (if not already required). Just execute a lease addendum and it becomes a win-win. He gets what he wants, and you get a tenant-funded improvement.
Post: Best way to add small front step on flip, need design ideas

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Judging from the photo it appears to be code compliant already. I'd save that money for a more pressing repair.
Post: Cash flow after operating expenses

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Doyle Brown Jr. , you might want to run your reno numbers past a good local contractor. In my area $5k wouldn't be close to covering a unit renovation and multiple windows.
Post: Looking for advice

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
Check out Old Dawgs REI Network podcast #041. Lots of good info.
Post: Property Management Platforms

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
I'm a Buildium fan, have been using it for a year on one and two family properties. The tenant interface is great, and they offer integrated tenant screening. It's pretty affordable too... I think about $40/month for up to 40 units.
Post: Roanoke Area Meetep

Matt ClarkPosted
- Roanoke, VA
- Posts 404
- Votes 203
OK, this is actually a "Meetup" not a "Meetep"! Does anyone know how to edit the original post?