All Forum Posts by: Theresa Harris

Go out and inspect the roof.  You could also ask the tenants or a neighbour as they would have seen them taking off the old shingles.  You should be able to see if they raised the A/C units.

I doubt your insurance would let your tenants run a business out of the house.

If you are going to use a property manager, make sure you get a good one as they will be handling any day to day problems.  Buy a place that will attract a good tenant, usually a home in good shape in a good neighbourhood.

If you haven't already, add that you want to inspect the rental unit again AFTER the tenants move out and before closing.

With condos you also have to consider how they are run.  I've seen some where they are hit with lots of special levies for major repairs because the condo board didn't save up enough reserves.  Others are run better and have saved up for the major repairs and therefore you don't have the special assessments.

You are doing good.  If your son asks, tell him that the other unit needs work in order to make it a nice home.  That's the truth and if he goes inside he will be able to see it for himself.

I'd find another lawyer.  

Congrats on the accepted offer. I hope the inspection goes well along with the viewing of the second unit.  It is more complicated that you know the person in the second unit, and weird that she wouldn't let you see it.  From what you said (aside from your sons being friends), it sounds like you'd be better off with a new tenant.  Raising the rent to fair market value may take care of that.

If you haven't already, make sure you change the locks on that unit.

What do you want to do with the property?  If you want to build on it, post the trailer and see if someone wants to buy it and move it or move it for free.  If there is a mobile home park nearby, with vacant lots perhaps the owner wants to buy it.