Craftsman2005 Home Estimator Isgreat!
I just purchased the dowloadable version for $26 and it is so comprehensive. The estimates are for labor and materials and avg. time to complete. The estimates are based on zip codes and covers everything from changing light fixtures to room additions. Now I feel confident that when I receive a bid for something it is realistic or not!
could you PM me to let me know where you bought it?
Mark
Why PM? The rest of us might want to know as well...
I would like to know too. Thanks!
Please explain to me how it keeps anybody honest? Because your book says a job takes $759.00 to do and one contractor says $1200.00 and another says $900 is the one who says $1200, $300 more dishonest than the one that says $900 who is only $141 more dishonest?
Good luck with a guide book. I hope the book can show up to do the work when you want it done.
To each his own[ Edited by mark19401 on Date 03/14/2005 ]
Ok, Ok, Ok...good explanation...you have sold me...I might even get that book...Regards, CWal
Rehab,
How many newbies do you think will spend money on an excellent book like that? I would bet less then 1%.
Most will go after the quick estimator programs...........and you know as well as I.............. many will think they are being ripped off my a legit contractor because of the bad or missing information in those quick estimator programs.
Some members like to make a living by scaring the newbie rehabber into thinking that most contractors have nothing better to do then rip you off...............but WAIT.........if you buy my book or program I CAN PROTECT YOU. blah blah blah.
I truly do feel sorry for many of them..............but it does get a little tiring in trying to explain to the new rehabber that they are not going to learn the business overnight nor will they become a pro by investing into some program or tape that claims to be all you need.
Yes they may be helpful if one understands the concepts of the business.....however ......as you said.............garbage in, garbage out............most do not understand the business or what it cost to run a business.
NC_Yank
I have bought 2 houses and an 3 flat in estate sales. The answer is real simple, the heirs want the most money as quick as possible with the fewest strings attached.
Cash offer, quick close, short attorney and inspection period. The last home I bought we wrote the family a letter stating we intended to rehab the property as they were worried it was going to be torn down for new development.
Do more listening then talking with the family and try to structure a win-win deal. If it is a hot property, undervalued with other interested parties, cut the check.
I hate to tell you, but the man is right.
The obvious things are the only things you can get from a forum...
If you REALLY want to get creative, you should talk to the family and see what it is that is motivating them. If they need the money to buy a new car, offer to sweeten the deal by buying a new car.
You just got to talk to them and see!
Off white paint-tan carpet "relo beige" Works with a lot of different colored furniture.
I like pure white for the walls... Just the base color that you find in 5 gallon buckets... But a 5 gal or 2 at a time and just paint all the walls that color... It makes rooms look bigger and brighter... Beige, grey, or tan carpets work for me... Whatever is on sale or i can get a good deal at the home depot...
Good Luck!
[addsig]
I get 5 gallons of OOPS paint, all in beige, throw it all in a 5 gallon bucket and see what I get. Usually the color comes out pretty nice, and how can you beat $25 for 5 gallons of color?
Your not living in the house go with white and beige unless you can get another color that is netural cheaper. Beige and white appeal to most people.
I would add tht make sure you use a semi gloss. Makes it look better in my opinion. Also I would use a little darker than a beige more like a sand dune. Just so it contrasts nicely
depending on how you financed the house, I would try to rent it. That will accomplish 2 things, seasoning for you being on title and 2nd help reduce your tax liability.
Barcardidark,
I am in the process of trying to secure my 1st rehab. How much mony did you have to come out of pocket using your hml? Did ou hae to pay for the appraiser and insurance or did you roll it into your loan. Any details that you can provide will be appreciated.
Thanks
bacardidark313 ...I think yzerone meant seasoning for whoever wants to Buy the house.
Your best bet is flat fee and pay the normal commision to the selling agent. I