He is an engineer and a seasoned landlord with 100+ units, but he said it was the most stressful time of his life.

Selling would reset our finances, relieve stress, and give us capital for a multifamily purchase, but I don’t want to prematurely give up an appreciating OC asset. 

I'd expect decrease in values of RE located within a mile of a campus.

Most of the stress new investors feel isn’t because the deal is bad, it’s because they’re trying to make foundational decisions while under contract.I see people get stuck because they haven’t answered a few key questions in advance:– What financing am I actually approved for today (not in theory)?

It’s also a strategic time to:Review your financial performanceUpdate lease agreementsPlan maintenance for the year aheadReassess vendor relationshipsEvaluate tenant satisfactionEnsure compliance with evolving regulationsA thoughtful review now can prevent stress later and set your property up for a successful year.Partnering for Peace of MindIf you’re realizing that last year required more time, energy, or expertise than you expected, you’re not alone.

Quote from @Marc Winter: After just finishing my home inspection recertification, I plugged your question into the system, heres what it said:Most likely cause: Differential movement + thermal expansionThis type of crack is commonly caused by one or more of:Thermal expansion/contraction of a long brick wall (brick expands more than people realize)Lack of control joints in the masonryMinor differential settlement between structural elements (floor line, lintel, or bond beam)Possible interaction with a floor diaphragm or window header lineHow I’d classify itCategory: Non-structural / serviceability crackSeverity: Low to moderateRisk: Usually cosmetic unless it continues to growWhat would confirm thisCrack aligns near a floor levelNo stepped “stair-step” patternNo widening at one endInterior walls at same level may show hairline cracksThe stepped / jagged, diagonal through mortar jointsWhat it looks likeStair-step pattern following mortar jointsChanges direction vertically and horizontallyLocalized area rather than full-lengthSome patched/effloresced areas nearby⚠️ Most likely cause: Foundation movement (settlement or heave)This pattern is classic for:Differential foundation settlementSoil shrink/swell (expansive clay, poor drainage)Localized footing movement (corner or bearing point)The stair-step pattern forms because masonry is weakest at mortar joints, so stress releases there.How I’d classify itCategory: Structural movement crackSeverity: Moderate (possibly increasing)Risk: Needs monitoring; may require repair beyond cosmeticWhat would raise concernCrack width > ~⅛ inchNoticeable brick displacement (one side proud)Interior drywall cracks aligning with this locationDoors/windows near this area sticking🧠 Why these two cracks have different causes (important)Even though they’re on the same wall:1. global wall movement (temperature / restraint)2.  

As rates have decreased you can see an uptick in seller financed notes.

I’ve been in real estate for about two years, and last year was my best yet — and I’m hoping to make this one even better.I love making every transaction smooth, fun, and stress-free for my clients.

I won't delve too deep into what this actually represents but hint: USD purchasing power is decreasing rapidly. 

The right answer usually depends on portfolio size, time commitment, and how much operational stress you’re willing to carry.