All Forum Posts by: Sandee Sampson

I purchased a newly built duplex in August of 2021 to house hack. Before I closed on the property, I'd expressed concern to the builder about the side yard which had, what I felt, was a significant angle. For whatever reason (I suspect to cut cost and time because they were behind) they did not build a retaining wall like they did for the other five properties they built at this time. I was concerned so much so that I switched which side I would live in because of it. I was concerned that there would be substantial erosion of the yard and here we are three years later and it looks like I was correct to be concerned. The ground is now about 4-5 inches below the foundation line and it's also causing issues with my neighbor's adjacent yard. Surely this could be an issue with the foundation of the house soon.

I reached out to the builder twice by email and once by certified mail and there has been no response. I had an estimate done ($7k) because at this point the sprinkler piping is exposed and I'm afraid that could lead to an even greater problem. The contractor suggested building a French drain along the fence line and finishing it off with a retainer wall to match the others the builder did. He would replace the dirt and sod to correct the erosion issue as well as provide proper drainage.

I have two questions:

1. Do I have a case even though we are past the 1 year warranty mark for the property?

2. What kind of attorney can assist with this case?...a construction attorney? Any referrals?

Any guidance is much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Howdy! :) Thanks so much for the quick reply, @Steve Garcia!

I just registered with ALE Solutions and I'm checking out Jesse Vasquez as you suggested.

Would you suggest listing on AirBnB as well?

Again, thanks so much for responding with your insights. 

Hello @Steve Garcia

I've taken the plunge and I also have a 3/2 half duplex in the Arlington, TX area. I just completed furnishing the property and listing it on Furnished Finders. So far, I've had a few leads but I haven't had a booking yet. I'm currently checking out some of the teachings that @Sandor Lau mentioned. Have you had any luck so far? I'd love to hear how it's going for you. :) 

 Gotcha! Thanks John!

Thanks, Trish! I've asked to schedule a call with them but then I get "ghosted" - no response. That's what set off my "spidey sense" that it may be as a scam... I'll stay vigilant though...thanks again! :) 

I've been contacted (through Zillow) by three individuals claiming to be with an independent company offering short-term residence to traveling nurses, professionals and interns. Has anyone heard of this approach being a scam? I ask because I was unable to find no online presence for the last contact I received. Just curious...thanks in advance! :)

If you're a BP Pro member you can use BP Insights which is the "Rentometer" like tool: Bigger Pockets Insights: Analyzer Tool. Hope this helps... :) 

@MattDevincenzo...thank you so much! :)

Hi BP Fam,

I'm not sure if this is the right forum but here goes my question...

I just hung up with a seller who has a property that is zoned commercial and on which he pays commercial taxes in Harris County (Texas). He currently has a residential tenant in the property. Is this legal? 

Thanks in advance!