All Forum Posts by: Benjamin Von Blon

I don't know if any specific database with pricing for the area. Some of it can be simply estimating the cost of materials and the time to complete the work multiplied by an hourly rate. Honestly this can be difficult for complex projects early on. We have rough pricing we use with contractors for specific projects and the have to negotiate some times on the final pricing. A large variable is going to be the material and finishes you choose for a project. You can get a ceiling fan that cost $50 or one that cost $450. It'll probably cost roughly the same for someone to hang it, but the material cost can vary widely.

There are two things that I think are important when you are unfamiliar with costs. First, hiring people that you believe will do the job and do it correctly without you having to constantly verify their work. Getting references is a good start for this. Second, getting multiple estimates. Don't always automatically go with the cheapest, but it's amazing how pricing can vary drastically and quality differences may be minute. Especially in the triangle.

@Dorian Dixon For comps, you can get a rough idea of past sales through online sites when looking at sold homes. I try to stay within 6 months, but will go to a year if needed. Without MLS access it can be hard to determine the condition of the property that sold, but you want to compare to homes in good condition for the end value. Look for homes that are similar is size (within a few hundred square feet), style, number of beds and baths. That will help get your after repair value that it should sell near in the end.

@Dorian Dixon What exactly are you looking for help wise? Buyers? Loans? Advice? I work with rehabbers, mostly in the triangle, but if its a deal we can make work we would go to triad.

North Carolina is different than other states I have worked in. I balked at it when I first moved here. The fee is non-refundable, but it allows you to walk for any reason. Any reason. Meaning, the sky is gray today, and you want out, you can during that due diligence period. No contingencies necessary like in other states. The earnest money is rather useless if you can back out for any reason and get it back. 

I'll add to my calendar, hope to make it over

Welcome @Elliot Salman!  There is a meetup that usually takes place the last week of the month.  A keyword alert is a good reminder when and where they will take place.  Hope to see you around.

Hi @Greggy Gordon and welcome! I am in the Raleigh/Durham area, let me know if I can help.

@Brandon Barnes, interested in what areas you work in if you want to message me.

Hi @Jim Brewer and welcome! If you haven't seen the posts or attended, there is a monthly meetup in the Raleigh area. It is usually the last week of the month, but if you set a key word alert you should get a notification when it happens. I'm somewhat new to the area, but I am happy to answer any questions I can.

Does anyone accept or know someone that accepts section 8 for a 4 bedroom? A colleague has a client looking to relocate from out of state.

Thanks