In one subdivision, we had 3,000 sq ft minimum finished size, minimum 2 car garage with either side or rear entry, and 90% of the front facade had to be masonry, brick, stone or stucco, among other requirements.

I have just finished fixing all the violations and communicated this to the inspector to schedule the inspection.

I don’t know what kind of finishes your have in your property or how close you actually are to ECU, but I would talk to local property managers to ask them what’s renting quickly.

I make sure, with my clients, that square footage and finishes are taken into account and your not comparing your pricing to something that isn't actually comparable.

Sellers — if you’ve got an FHA or VA loan with a low balance, you might be sitting on a hidden goldmine.Success Story 1👇A client in Fallon, NV had started renovations—tore out the kitchen, bathroom, and flooring—then realized they couldn’t afford to finish.

See what houses are going for along with what finishes are needed to hit that. 

Hey everyone,I’m comparing two 3-unit properties in Chicago and could use some insight from local investors.Option 1 – South Side (near Woodlawn area):Priced around $830KModern finishes, newer construction styleCurrent rents around $2,195, $2,000, and $2,000The area has a lot of new developments and new 3-flats going upMy concern: with so many new buildings being added, there’s likely going to be more rental competition, and property taxes may jump once reassessments catch up to all the new construction.Option 2 – Pilsen area:Priced around $735KAlso modern updates but smaller units (two 2-beds and one 3-bed)Taxes are currently low, but likely because the property hasn’t been reassessed since the recent renovationsThe area feels more established, with strong tenant demand and characterSo I’m weighing the growth potential and higher risk in the newer South Side market versus the more stable rents and potentially upcoming tax adjustments in Pilsen.Would you lean toward the newer-construction area with possible tax jumps but longer-term appreciation upside, or the lower-tax, established neighborhood that might get hit with reassessment later?

Many DIY dig-outs end up with seepage issues.Ceiling height and egress – Even though it’s not a legal unit now, make sure it meets or could meet Chicago’s 7' min height and emergency exit standards if you ever plan to finish it.Permits and documentation – Ask if any permits were pulled or if there’s evidence of inspection.

If they can’t provide that, it’s a sign they may not be organized enough to finish the project effectively.

I just finished a CCIM-style breakdown of a 10-unit multifamily near Myrtle Beach that recently traded.