All Forum Posts by: Wes Harding

Have you tried asking any of the neighbors if they know the owner or the back story on the home?

Hey Matt. I have done 203ks projects in the past as a GC. Best thing would be for you to find a design-build company to help control the design and construction budget. Any design-build company with a general contractors license and the appropriate insurance that meet the FHA guidelines should be able to help you. You will likely need to pay for design and structural engineering up front to include the construction estimate in the 203k application. It is possible to not pay out of pocket for design up front but this increases the likelihood of your project exceeding the 203k budget. The old motto of people don't plan to fail, they fail to plan is very true with design and construction. The 203k does set aside an allotted amount for unforeseen overages but it is very specific. If you can't find a design-build company, talk to a lender who has done 203k projects and they should be able to recommend someone. Good luck!

It may depend on how the permits were pulled. If the permit and building plans stated the new square footage this record will likely go to the county assessor. Assessor would update specifics to the property. The property taxes would be reevaluated by the assessor once they process the city paperwork and more than likely reevaluated again after the appraisal and refi. You may want to contact the assessor to see how this is dealt with.

I wouldn't avoid the city, they can ensure everything is done to code and correct, there's nothing more expensive than doing something twice. A quick google search and you will find a ton of foundation contractors who can help you. Good luck.

Try yelp or houzz. Both home advisor and Angie's list the contractor has to pay to get your lead which doesn't work for most small construction companies. If you're really desperate you can call supply houses like a plumbing or paint store and see if they will offer up a referral.

Not all spray foam is the same. You need Polyiso foam which is R7 per inch. You only need 7" of foam to get to R49. It is more expensive.

If you're considering doing this yourself, CAT5 is low voltage so you don't have to worry about getting electrocuted. If the walls are already open it's a simple and affordable upgrade that can make a big difference for a potential buyer in a higher end market so I say go for it. You may want to also run a few HDMI cables and conduit for future wiring in the walls where you plan to hang TVs.