22 December 2025 | 6 replies
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.
30 December 2025 | 2 replies
If you follow the classic definition, Class B is above the median price for the city and usually dosn't cash flow unless you put 30% or more down.
27 December 2025 | 6 replies
For that, The Richest Man in Babylon is a classic — it lays out timeless lessons on saving, investing, and managing money.
29 December 2025 | 13 replies
Some of the classics include The Millionaire Next door, JL Collins Simple Path to Wealth, Mike Piper Oblivious Investor, Just Keep Buying by Nick Maggiulli, Simple Wealth Inevitable Wealth by Nick Murray-although I disagree with him that most need a financial advisor with a simple 3 bucket plan and low cost TSM Index funds.
19 December 2025 | 13 replies
One of those classic examples of buy at 70% MAO before renovation costs, thinking it was going to be a cosmetic flip, and then it over-ran estimates with a foundation repair and the delay was enough to hit the 'window' of market reversal, or miss the sale window at a respectable ARV.
30 December 2025 | 16 replies
Rich Dad Poor Dad is also a classic.
31 December 2025 | 14 replies
It sounds like you’re weighing the classic first-home versus first-investment dilemma, and honestly both paths have pros.
10 December 2025 | 0 replies
However, if the property is fully marketed, it's essential to physically visit the site to make informed decisions.During the property tour, I make it a point to see various units, including classic, updated, and down units.
10 December 2025 | 6 replies
Quote from @Scott Chilton: It sounds like classic slab-on-grade water issues, especially on a flat lot.