April, 2009Archive for

Snowstorms and Property Management

This is just a quick update on what is happening. On my rental that had the water leak, I had another issue.  A 30+ year old Russian olive tree couldn't take the weight off a recent very wet snow storm.  The whole tree fell over.  It appeared to be rotted near the center of the trunk.  I have spent my evenings doing tree removal.  It has taken 3 trips so far and I have removed about 2/3 of the tree.  I went out and bought an electric chainsaw.  Don't laugh, that little 3 Hp bugger has gone th...

Playin in the Dirt

Now that springtime is upon us I can't help but play in the yard.  Yard work drives me.  Inside the house is ok, but my time is best spent in the yard.  In my backyard I have two cloths line poles that are likely original.  There is also a concrete path that follows the lines.  The layout is similar to most homes in the area.  Since I have a modern dryer in the house, there is no need for the line.  If I ever had to dry closes outside, I have string and a tree.  One pole is near the house and wi...

Finally Out

I finally got the non-paying tenants out of one of my houses.  I poorly managed this one and let the tenants slide way to long.  I should have had the eviction papers on them by the 15th of march.  Instead I listed to their excuses.  First time landlord mistake that I have been warned about 100 times.  I guess I just had to learn the hard way. Apparently the tenants decided it was my fault they didn't pay and left a few surprises for me when I went back into the house the following day.  Two ...

Progress Report 4/2

I thought now would be a good time to check up on what I have accomplished and take a look at where I am headed. My own home. -I contacted a buyers agent.  Found a house (3/1) in an older neighborhood.  I picked up the house for 90k with a VA loan.  Current market value is 125k.  -Minor repairs throughout.  Replaced the locks.  Bringing the lawn back to life.  It looks pretty good actually. -Security system. -Replaced the original furnace circa 1954. -New gate.  Slightl...