Archive for the ‘Ask A+’ Category

Mary asks…

Design of masonry building?

Hi i need to analyse a masonry building for seismic loads and to provide adequete retrofiting measures. I studied IS1905, it gives detail for design but i need some information regarding analysis.

aplus answers:

The UBC standard in the U.S. Is mostly obsolete, only a few jurisdictions are still using it, because it hasn’t been updated since 1997.

The U.S. Standard for seismic is ASCE 7-02 or 7-05 or 7-98, (via, if you wish, IBC 2000, 2003, or 2006) depending on what code is relevant to the jurisdiction. In India (if you’re in India), you need to find out what that equivalent is (Perhaps Eurocode? I have no idea), but that will give you more insight into the code required analysis, including force distribution.

Barring that, the most relevant item in seismic analysis is the weight of the building elements, and their connections, start finding out what the floor weighs, is there a sprinkler system, carpet, ceiling tile, how much the structural floor weighs, wall partitions inside the building, etc. When it comes to determining adequacy, you also need to find out how floors are connected to walls, how walls are reinforced (I hope they aren’t cyclopean or unreinforced walls, because those will probably not meet current code unless you are in a very low seismic zone, I don’t have any idea how India’s seismic zones lie, I just know Bam in (Iran?) had a bad earthquake a few years ago.

Sorry I can’t be of more help.

Michael asks…

Programming/Design: What to learn first?

The following is a list of courses that I can take to help me learn basic functions of web design, database design and building servers. Is there a better order to take them in?

Web design and Graphics
Object oriented analysis and design
Dynamic HTML
TCP/IP
XML
Java
AJAX
Visual Basic C
C
PERL/CGI
IIS 6
Windows Server
PHP and MYSQL
SQL
Oracle

TY!

aplus answers:

I’d go with Dynamic HTML (webpage design), then php & mysql this will cover some database design stuff that can be implemented within your webpages.
You will want SQL as well if your working with databases.
For building servers, Windows Server, IIS6. Skip the TCP/IP, this is networking protocols. Perl and CGI may be useful for web server programming also.

Joseph asks…

Is there any analytical ways to increase design loading on structure. It is difficult and time consuming?

but it is less expensive than actually strengthening the members. The building owners resist paying for extensive analysis and the design fees are not sufficient to permit detailed investigation. Comment on why this is so.

aplus answers:

Either increase the size of the members, increase the number of members, or reduce the load.

I see no other options.

If you are using wood, you could switch to steel, or use glu-lam wood headers or beams (but they are more expensive).

Building owners will have to suck it up, if they want their building inspected and approved for public or private occupancy.

Life is cruel, but deadly if codes are not complied with.
There is a reason why they are there.

Sandra asks…

Why do building owners resist paying for extensive analysis?

and the design fees are not sufficient to permit detailed investigation. Commend on why this is so.

aplus answers:

Owners only understand that the building can stand on its own
that the engineer who construct it is also responsible
that 99 % of the building is safe for a time that
that whenever there is an earthquake damages, insurance is justified
that when big fire will occur, investigation will focus on where the fire started.
If it is a typhoon that destroyed the building, other houses also are destroyed. . I t is just natural

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Linda asks…

how can I find building projects to analysis and design and give details from home &send by email?

I’m a structural engineer.I wanna find a work at home job about analysis & design & giving details for building structures useing softwares like Etabs Sap Safe Acad … plz help me to find such projects

aplus answers:

I am working at a structural office right now and good luck all those programs are around $5000 a pop and I find that engineering can only be done as a team thats the only way an efficient design can be made without any mistakes

Chris asks…

In the analysis and design of a building, which of the following loads is considered to be acting on walls.?

In the analysis and design of a building, which of the following loads is considered to be acting on walls.

aplus answers:

If you would finish the question and add the loads you might get an answer.

We need more input in the form of additional details.

You can add additional details to any question by bringing your question up.

Look at the Action Bar under your question.
There is a pencil Icon there.
Hover your cursor over it.
A drop down box will appear.
Click on the Add Additional Details Tab.
You can not change any wording on the original question, You can only add details.
You can add additional details multiple times.
I will check back later to see if I can help you better.

Question answered:
1-31-11 @ 12:06 AM
1-31-11 @ 7:31 PM

Ben

Nancy asks…

Why is it important to use System Analysis and design methodologies when building a system?

aplus answers:

It is important because improperly coded algorithms can crash the system or require geometric scaling resources.

Performing system analysis and using best practice methodologies help prevent common bad coding techniques.

Paul asks…

structural analysis and design of one story building in a tropical area?

aplus answers:

So sorry, I’m normally quite accommodating.
But this is 1/2 a day of well paid work for me normally. I’ll give you a design with it’s calcs. If you want one, but you’ll have to ask REAAAALLLYY nicely.
Ps. If you give me a country, I’ll even supply the appropriate wind calcs. For the local hurricanes.
Where I live it’s based on the worst in 50 years. But every country is different.

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Ruth asks…

What are three parts of a feasibility analysis?

What are three parts of a feasibility analysis? building software

aplus answers:

Can it be done given the time constraints (you need it by when)?

Can it be done given the resource budget (people/equipment/money)?

Can it be done in a way that meets performance and other quality requirements(glitchy bugs, performance, resource consumption, etc)?

(I can also think of a 4th feasiblity tenet — Is the problem solveable by current (or anticipated) technology?)

We have a saying in the software industry, you can have it quickly, you can have it bug free, or you can have all of your desired features. Pick two.

Joseph asks…

What software is best suited for building financial models?

I’m trying to find some extra help in building financial models. Specifically in the area of Budgeting, Cost Analysis, Future Projecting, and Backward/Forward Price Analysis for Setting Predetermined cost of inventory.

I have been using excel but the software is not really powerful enough. I have use all types of functions and equation but it in all is just a spreadsheet which would not allow me to track price, history, future, etc…

As you can see, I am new to financial modeling so please, for anyone who is able. What resources do you use in helping you to build a Financial Model?

Really, anything will help.

I am thinking Access but not sure if it would allow to use functions like excel. In whole, is excel the best there is or is there some other software that is better suited for modeling?

Again. Please help.

aplus answers:

If your company has a big enough IT budget, you should contact one of the major statistical/analytical software vendors. (Or have your IT guys help you look into it.) It sounds like you need a lot more than a cheesy Excel spreadsheet and Access ain’t going to cut it any more than Excel.

Http://www.sas.com

http://www.spss.com

etc.

These guys have products that answer exactly what your questions are driving at. I have used the SAS products and I think they’re the best.

If you have no budget at all, you still need something better than Microsoft toy products, so look into the freeware/open source stuff — I know about QuantLib but I suspect there are others: http://quantlib.org/

What did they use at school where you learned about modelling? Or have you been learning on your own?

David asks…

$100 down incentive program HUD california question?

Ok, here’s the deal. A few questions hopefully someone can answer in a DETAILED format and not some quick over the counter answer. Serious answers only please as this is a serious matter.

I’m a first time home buyer. I’ve been searching for homes for quite awhile putting in bids and losing by a couple thousand each time or even worse, to cash investors.

I’ve turned to looking at HUD homes because I don’t have to worry about offering more than the appraisals or cash investors getting involved until after the owner occupant timeframe, giving me a chance to MAYBE buy my first home.

Here are a few questions that I can think of that no one can give me a simple, for dummies answer.

Accepted offer. what if I get a home inspection and it reveals problems NOT listed in the initial property inspection report, can i back out without forfeit or will HUD pay for repairs or adjust their price accordingly?

How much will the net be if i pay all closing costs? The house is in Southern CA, $115,000. FHA loan.
3.5% down – $4,025
6% closing/commissions/etc – $6,900
Total out of my pocket – $10,925 (this number is not exact, just a hypothetical)
Will the net still be $115,000 because I’m covering ALL my closing costs or is there some other formula for finding out that number?

If a property doesn’t have a big sign saying $100 down payment incentive, does any HUD home financed through FHA still qualify?

I’m working with GMAC Realty and Wells Fargo Mortgage, do I still qualify for the $100 down payment incentive? Is there a list of some sort that I can see that will show all APPROVED lenders/agents that I can use?

Upon closing, will i be receiving the hud document with all signatures or will i have to inquire with an attorney, of my own or theirs, to have all paperwork sent to me?

I will appreciate it greatly for anyone in the community who can take the time and answer these questions to the best of their knowledge.

aplus answers:

If you are coming to the table with the 3.5% down payment, you simply deduct this amount from the purchase price, which is $115,000, therefore your net loan amount would be $110,975.

You would not be required to pay the commission of the real estate agent as HUD has a agreement that the real estate agent would be paid by them for a certain percentage or a flat fee, normally HUD pays a certain percentage. Therefore you would not be required to pay the $6,900.

Closing cost could be inserted in your purchase contract and see if HUD will pay all or a portion of this.

Closing cost consist of securing a title report, appraiser cost, escrow fees, points and fees you have to pay your mortgage company for doing your mortgage loan. These fees and cost differ in how much a house would cost.

Any closing cost would be paid by you at the closing out of your pocket and would not have anything to do with your mortgage loan. So when closing comes around be prepared to sign a check for the amount of closing unless you can get HUD to pay all or some per your sales contract.

If you are currently working with a bank or mortgage company they should have given you a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) by now indicating the approximate cost of your closing and how much you should contemplate bringing to the closing table.

If anything change during the coarse of your purchase such as interest rate or another cost is added you should be sent another GFE indicating this change.

The bank, mortgage company or your real estate agent should be able to tell you if you are qualified for the $100 down payment though I am sure this is just a come on and read something like “as low as $100 down.”

Any lender that is qualified to do FHA mortgage loans will do just fine, you will find those that can do FHA mortgage loans. Most FHA mortgage loans require 3.5% down as you have stated.

Some HUD properties are sold as is without warranty. This will be a disclosure given to your by the real estate agent you are working with. If this is the case anything found by your inspector will be things that you would have to repair yourself after the purchase.

There are some that will give you an allowance for certain obvious things that need repair such as carpet, missing commodes and wash basins. Again these items would be listed along with the amount that HUD will pay for the repairs.

If there are things that need repairing you might see if you are qualified for the FHA 203-b mortgage loan. This mortgage loan will in addition to the purchase amount also include the repair amount. So if your loan amount is $115,000 minus the down payment then the repair cost would be added to this amount. So if the repairs came to $8,000 then this amount would be added to your loan amount.

This amount might be escrow account set up for the pay out of the funds for repair, meaning that when the repairs are made and an appraiser has verified that they are completed the escrow would release the funds for the completed work.

At the closing you would be given your HUD-1 final escrow closing cost.

I hope this has been of some benefit to you, good luck.

“FIGHT ON”

Lizzie asks…

Home inspector stated wrong size of AC unit in report?

We had a home inspection for a short sale property. Inspector stated in his report that air conditioner was a 5 ton unit. We moved in and didn’t feel like AC was working efficiently. We had an AC person come over. We now found out it’s a 3.5 ton unit.
Do we have grounds to take the inspector to court?

aplus answers:

Bluntly – as others have noted, an ‘inspection report’ not signed by a licensed/registered engineer or architect is often worse than useless. That being written:

As you have not given the size of your house, its construction or location it is impossible to determine whether 5 tons or 3.5 tons is adequate or not, whether there are other issues such as poor maintenance, failing parts, age, poor ductwork design, poor balancing or any of half-a-dozen other causes for discomfort having nothing to do with the unit size.

Further, AC units much as heating units run at their most efficient when they are running flat-out. And as AC is as much a matter of dehumification as it is of refrigeration an oversized unit will in reality be worse than an undersized unit as it will make you feel clammy before it makes you feel comfortable.

In rank order:

a) Have the unit serviced. Clean the both the condensing and evaporation coils, clean out the condensate pan, replace the filter and make sure that the refrigerant levels are correct.
B) Balance the system – that is adjust any duct dampers you may have to direct the air to where you want it. There is no use in cooling an empty room or a closed off room, or an entire floor when all you want is one room cool. This may be a matter of daytime settings and night-time settings.
C) Expect the unit to run most of the time if it is very hot out. This is _NOT_ a bad thing inasmuch as the seasonal efficiency of the unit (SEER) determines its cost to operate and to cool to a given temperature. A larger unit of two with the same SEER may get to a temperature faster but it used just as much energy to get there as the smaller one did – taking longer.

Consider that if the unit is more than about 5 years old the changes in technology even over that short a time may make it more cost-effective to simply replace it with a larger unit – assuming your ductwork and plenum are adequate.

Jenny asks…

Legally, can I file a claim for losses against my property owner for non-disclosure of conditions?

Last September I got a job with a City, and I rented out a house owned by the local school district that was leased to the City for their use in housing me. In February, I lit a fire in the fireplace, but a faulty chimney leaked heat into the rafters that caught the house on fire. I lost around $12,000 and did not have renters insurance.

Now I find out that the school district had received an inspection report when they bought the property that they did not give to me or the city, which stated the fireplace should not be used, but we never received this information. Do I have a case to file a claims to be compensated for my losses of contents? The school district received over $100,000 in insurance money for the lost home.

aplus answers:

They very well could be held liable. Normally I’d say no because you failed to get renters insurance, however, they neglected to tell you the fireplace was not in working condition..
Consult an attorney, you have a valid claim.

Ken asks…

Home Buying Inspection Question: “settlement of (building?/interior?) structure”?

There is an item on the termite report about the interiors that says “interior cracks were noted to the walls and ceiling in the structure and it appears that some settlement of the structure has occurred.”

What does it mean? Does “structure” refers to the building? Should I walk away from this property?
(I have not put in an offer yet and there is no other home inspection reports available.)

Thanks.

aplus answers:

Yes ‘Structure’ refers to the building.
Some ‘settling’ is common over time in an older wood frame structure.
It’s the amount and rate of the settling that should be evaluated.
If there’s been a serious termite problem a structural evaluation,
(not just a termite report), might be in order.

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Maria asks…

Home Inspection Report active sub termites!?

I just received my Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report. It doesn’t state that live insects were seen but active sub termite infestation in lumber below the rear deck and in the framing of the detached garage. Okay the wood garage is ready to go anyway. The home inspector did not see any damage from termites at all. It is a wood house 80 years old in the Northeast with asbestos shingle, a stone foundation, plaster walls and hardwood floors. There is an addition with wet insulation under it (crawlspace) that needs to be replaced – the insulation. And then there are so many places the termite inspector states were not accessible – what do y’all think?? I want to just go ahead and get property treated, with an annual inspection – garage is ready to fall down with the next big wind.

aplus answers:

Hey!! A magical inspector, he can tell there is activity without actually seeing live termites? It probably should of been reported as previous activity found, no activity seen, no evidence of treatment ever being done (if there was none). Hopefully he also didn’t hit you up with a “discounted price” for treatment since he now already knows the property. The only product I would use to treat the place, especially if there are non accessible areas, would be with Termidor. It is pretty much idiot proof and unlike the other liquid products, because of the nature of termites, you can still fully protect the home even if there are areas that did not get treated and unlike baits that are hit and miss to begin with, the labor cost for the future services will be a fraction of monitoring the baits stations. I have yet to have a call back on any home I have treated with it.

Daniel asks…

How soon must a real-estate agent provide a copy of home inspection report to the seller?

My wife’s family is selling a house that was owned by a deceased relative. The sales agent also is representing the buyer (bad move, we’ve discovered). Throughout the process he has been disinterested and slow to respond to questions from the selling family during the process.

There is a sales agreement, and the prospective buyer’s home inspector e-mailed a copy of the inspection report to our agent on April 13. The sales agent just forwarded it to the family today, May 13.

Now, with a signing date looming, the agent tells the family that the buyer won’t buy unless a termite problem that was discovered is addressed.

I bought a house two months ago and was under the impression that there are strict timelines as far as how soon a report must be provided, how long the would-be buyer has to request changes to conditions of the sales agreement and so on.

The property is in Pennsylvania, if that matters.

Can any real estate agents offer advice? Are there state/federal law that clearly establishes timelines for this sort of stuff?

Thanks.
Thanks for the answers …. one of the family members contacted the home inspector (we had his contact info because he bought some of the tools that were in the house) and asked him how — after telling two members of the family that the house looked good just after the inspection — all of sudden we were notified of termintes … esp. since a home inspection conducted three weeks earlier found no signs of termites. The inspector — who was recommended by the agent — said it must be a mistake and that he is heading back to the house tonight to look again.

Given that our agent has yet to actually show us the pest report, is representing both buyer & seller and already has recommended a home inspector (my realtor agent said she could not recommend inspectors) and has told the family “I know a pest guy who can take care of that,” we suspect, to put it mildly, he’s playing fast & loose.

aplus answers:

This would be dictated by your contract with the buyer. If their offer was contingent on a clean inspection and the have not yet passed the point of no return, then they can back out at any time before that contingency date.

Read your contract. It should CLEARLY state until what date they can back out based on contingencies.

Steven asks…

Can we get bond back without a property condition report?

When we moved into our last rental we failed to do a property condition report – this was very stupid of us. We had always rented privately before and never had a problem, we treated these landlords the same, the house was in reasonable disrepair and we walked through the house pointing out things wrong.

When it came to the bond inspection in the first 3 minutes our landlord pointed out 2 things she was going to have to have replaces – a crack in the shower screen and a hole in a door. Both were there when we moved in. We left after that as there was no point staying for the rest of the inspection. We informed her of our intent to dispute any costs.

With no property condition report do we have a leg to stand on if we take this to court?

I think our land lord knows she is in the wrong as as we were leaving she said we didn’t have any proof we’d even given her the bond (we do). I don’t think she lodged it with the Bond Institute.

aplus answers:

You can use pictures as proof. Sadly you are not likely to have a picture of your shower door. But the door with the hole is a possibility, look through your family pictures.

While she has to prove damages exists, you have to prove it is not your damage if this goes to court.

David asks…

Is stucco board same as eifs?

I have stucco board as my siding. My friends told me that systhesis stucco (eifs) is in big trouble and it hurts the property value. My inspection report has the stucco board as a different check box than eifs so I think these 2 are different. Can somebody tell me whether these 2 are the same or different for sure? And if they are different is there any complaints about stucco board as siding material? Thank you.

aplus answers:

Stucco board is a pre-textured siding product that is mechanically fastened to the house in sheets. EIFS or synthetic stucco is applied like traditional stucco in layers on the outside of the home.

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Charles asks…

I want to buy a home & an inspection was done on it monday, should I hire another to review it? In Houston,TX

I wanted to buy a home. It had an inspection done this monday and the person making an offer on the house bailed out based on it. I don’t see anything that couldn’t be fixed on the report but wonder if I should get another inspector to review it and get his thoughts. The inspection was done monday and an engineer reported on the property yesterday. Anyone know of a good inspector in Houston, TX. Thanks!

aplus answers:

I bought my present home eight months ago. It had a very recent inspection. The inspector told me that he would not talk to me about the inspection because it was not mine. There were questions I wanted answered so I hired another inspection done. I know it is a lot of money but so is the purchase price.

The two inspectors disagreed on several small items- nothing big. I bought the house with the seller giving me some money to buy a new furnace. I just really want to talk with the inspector so I wouldn’t depend on the old report.

Donald asks…

you conduct a inspection and find the house is quite tired and deteriorating, what action would you take?

You conduct an inspection and note that the tenants are caring for the property well. The property is becoming quite tired and you find evidence of leaking taps in the bathroom and deterioration of flywire screens to the point of being ineffective. The tenants have indicated they would be willing to re-enter into another tenancy agreement however are concerned about break ins in the area and the lack of security on the property. I complete the inspection report making note of these facts. WHAT ACTION WOULD I NEED TO TAKE TO ENDEAVOUR TO ACT IN THE PROPERTY OWNERS BEST INTERESTS AND MAXIMISE THEIR OVERALL RETURN ON THE PROPERTY?

aplus answers:

Is this a homework question or something?

If the screens are broken, fix them. If the taps are leaking, fix them. If the tenants have good reason to be concerned about the lack of security, then do something to fix that, too.

This isn’t exactly rocket science here.

William asks…

I am thinking of buying a REO property and need some advice?

My mortgage is FHA, so I will need the house to pass the inspection. There are some cosmetic issues, but nothing that I see to really be an issue. My realtor on the other hand, says that the house wont pass! So how can I have the bank that owns the house possibly repair it to get it to pass the FHA inspection ? The house has been vacant since 8/31/2010. It went on the market in October at 75000, they dropped the price 10000 in November, another 10000 in December, 5000 in January, and now its listed at 46500. I would think they would be motivated to get this house off their backs.. Plus once I do an inspection on the property and give them the inspection report, they are obligated to report the issues to any other potential buyers, correct? Please! Someone help me here!! I love this house, and I am willing to put the sweat equity into it, but first I need to get it financed!

aplus answers:

The lender-owner will never do repairs once it’s listed, which is just one reason (of many) that they list it “as is.” They’re losing enough money on the property as it is, let alone pumping additional funds into it for the sake of a sale. They would rather keep reducing it than to invest more capital. Sometimes, REO management companies repair certain homes, but only if it proves to be a profitable decision – but that would only happen PRIOR to the listing of the property.

FHA loans do not allow sellers to credit escrows at closing anymore. And no, they don’t have to disclose jack squat to anybody; REOs don’t follow the same rules and laws as typical home sellers. Since they didn’t live in it, they more than likely aren’t required by law to disclose anything to buyers. They have you sign documents that explain their position that they don’t know and it’s your problem if there’s mold, radon, lead based paint, etc.

If you need an FHA loan, you may possibly be allowed to go 203k (type of FHA loan), which allows negligible condition homes to pass FHA and to finance escrows for repairs up to $25,000 that could make the property habitable according to HUD standards. It’s the only FHA product that isn’t too strict on property condition. Otherwise, you will have to go conventional. Good luck!

Nancy asks…

Husband visa refused.Have to fill IAFT-3 but what does this means and whats happens next?

My husbands visa has been refused and we have been given 28days to appeal.
They have given 3reasons which don’t make sense.
1=you said you are electrical engineer but you have provided no evidence to show that
(my husband gave his degrees and all qualifications certified by the british embassy and also his employers letter confirming his position and how long he has been doing that for)

2=Your savings have been up and down that means you aren’t living comfortably.
(although i work and earn good money my husband use to send me half of his salary and we provided evidence of that)but his savings shouldn’t matter that much anyways as i had savings.

3=i live in a rented flat with the landlady.its a double bedroom, double bathroom and shared living room and kitchen flat.I have exclusive excess to my double bedroom and my bathroom and we provided a property inspection report and landlady’s letter to show she have no problem but they say it isnt sufficient.

I dont know what to do, i am devastated.they did write this at the bottom of the refusal letter.”If you have any additional documentation which address the reason for refusal, you are strongly advised to submit it with your notice of appeal as it may be possible to resolve the points at issue without the necessity of an appeal hearing”

Does that mean as long as i can clarify the refusal points i dont have to go through the long appeal process? If so how long it will take? Legally my accommodation is suitbale for all 3 of us but since my sister has just bought a big property and is happy to show them if nesary we can stay there.Does this mean i have too get another inspection report?what to do please someone help me how the next step works please.
Iaft-2 not 3

aplus answers:

I would give them a call
They usually review in detail on the phone and u can clarify
U can call till late at night when there is less traffic

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Donna asks…

How can I find out the max amount my rental property can be rented for?

Okay I am having this major issue, first of all I need to know what the max amount is that this house can be rented for, who does the inspections and determines the max amount depending on the value of the property. Can anyone please, please help me?

aplus answers:

There are a few methods to figuring out what you should ask for rent.

1) Ask around. Knock on doors of other rentals in the area. There is nothing wrong with asking a renter what they pay for their property, and they will usually share the information. This is a very informative method, since the unit is one that is actually being rented. You can also call about other rentals that are listed and find out about rates being asked for comparable units. This can be a little misleading, since the price isn’t necessarily one that people are willing to pay, but it is much easier than hoofing around door to door.

2) Call an appraiser in your area (If you don’t know one, call a real estate agent or mortgage broker/lender that you trust, and they should have a name). You will have to pay him for it, but the appraiser will do a rent schedule for you. If the property is one that you recently purchased or refinanced, you, or your loan officer, probably already have a copy of this document. Most lenders require it for investment properties. The rent schedule is basically an appraisal of rents in the area, and it is a professional statement of what the property could be rented for. This is another education tool, but I have found that creative advertising, unique features, and different types of leases usually lead to a rent that is different (often higher).

3) Trial and error. With every property this is going to be the tool that gets you to the “MAX RENT”. If you rented a place within a couple days of listing it, then you might want to raise you price. However, when you raise your price you might find a unit sitting a little too long. My experience has been that I’ve had to own a property for about two lease cycles in order to have an idea of whether my rent was accurate or not.

Note: Charging a higher rent can be a little nerve racking when trying to find a renter. You will always be the last to be looked at. You will notice other places filling up around you, and it is very difficult to tell how long you are going to have to wait. Take time to think about a break even point – how much your time is worth and how much of it you want to spend renting the place vs. How much extra money you will make from a higher rent. Renters tend to be very “shoppers” and very concerned about even a few extra dollars.

Scenario:
If you know you can rent a unit for $1500/month but decide to try for $1600/month don’t let yourself wait longer than one month. If you miss one month you lose one month’s rent (guaranteed $1500) in an effort to wait for someone who will pay you an extra $1200 over the year.

Good luck!

Maria asks…

What are the implications for the property manager to consider with respect to a tenant’s right to ‘quiet enj?

What are the implications for the property manager to consider with respect to a tenant’s right to ‘quiet enjoyment’ of the property when planning to conduct an inspection of a leased property?

aplus answers:

A tenants imagined “right to quiet” should not interfere with another tenant’s enjoyment of their own home for which they pay rent. Some tenants appear very arrogant, somehow imagining that there must be no noise whatsoever from adjoining apartments

Joseph asks…

I am purchasing a property that is a short sale. I need to have an inspection done on the property.?

The house doesn’t have any utilities turned on. Who is responsible to turn on power? The sellers agent refuses to do so. The property is located in florida.

aplus answers:

Talk to your attorney about Florida law regarding home inspections when utilities are not turned on. If you don’t have an attorney, call a couple of well-regarded home inspections to ask what they do in this case. The bank that owns the property, or has the mortgage may have to give permission for the expense of having them turned on, but all these months of having the house vacant may have caused severe mold damage.
Many years ago I almost bought a house that was in foreclosure. When the water was turned on the pipes leaked in practically every room. The former owners had stolen the furnace, so the bank was going to pay for a new one, but there were problems with the heating too. Snakes were found under the house in a crawl space, so that was the last straw. I backed out of the contract.

Mary asks…

I have the opportunity to do a final inspection on a property I brought?

If they have a lot of rubbish hanging around can I make it a condition that they have to remove it before settlement as it’s not a fitting or fixture?

aplus answers:

Don’t take occupation until it is cleared. Look at your sale agreement, see if there are any clauses that would force the sellers to clear their refuse. That would make your case stronger.

Helen asks…

Wat r the implications 4 the property manager to consider with respect 2 a tenants right 2 ‘quiet enjoyment’?

Of a property when planning to conduct an inspection of a leased property?

aplus answers:

There are laws in each state of Australia, but they are pretty much the same. In QLD the Landlord must give 7 Days Notice in writing of an “Inspection”. Then there are not to be more than 4 Inspections in any 12 Month Period. What State are you in? Check with your Local Tenancy Tribunal for the laws in your state.

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John asks…

How do you get tested for mold poisoning?

I had been living in my grandmothers house for about 8 yrs. The house is really old and has had an extensive amount of water damage done to it. For the last 5 of those 8 yrs I had experienced a lot of odd symptoms that doctors couldn’t diagnose the cause of. My tests proved that I was healthy. Recently I was notified that there was mold growing within the furnace system as well as the wall panel in the home. How do I ask my doctor to test me for mold poisoning and what can I expect?

aplus answers:

Hi Soul,
Sorry but dont expect too much from your Doctors. Unfortunately most Docs do not have any experience in treating toxic mold exposure and in my experience if they dont have experience its almost a waist of time and money talking to them. But please do try and find a doctor. I will provide a link so that you can search for Doctors with experience in this field below. Or you can also call BEFORE you arrive and shop for a Doctor so to speak. Are you starting to get headaches yet?? Hope not.
A word on toxic mold; Toxic mold grows in no sunlight conditions with a water source. For instance behind a wall with a leaking pipe, humid basements or crawlspaces etc. Toxic mold is very very very dangerous. And if ther is toxic mold in your home please get out while your still alive. God bless

Chris asks…

Is it possible for a home built in ’98 to have a mold problem? Is there any way to test w/out opening walls?

At work, on really warm and stagnant days, there was a gross odor coming from my boss’s room. After a while, a wall was ripped open and a pipe from the roof was running through the wall and it was leaking. It was a gross moldy smell.

I just came in the house (after a 100 degree day) and I had the air vent closed in my computer room and the door closed all day. As soon as I opened the door I smelt that same musty moldy smell. Our house was just built in ’98 – and we are starting to talk about selling the house in 2-3 years and building again.
Is there any chance of having that same type of mold in a wall here in a house this new? Is there any way to test for mold without ripping apart the walls?

I really really am scared because of that smell.
I opened the door and opened the air vent and its going away,
but I’m concerned about the bigger picture when we sell the house!

aplus answers:

It’s possible to have mold any where there is moisture, regardless of the houses age. I would advise you to get allergin removing air filtures for you a/c and heating units to clean as much as possible from the air you breathe. A dehumidifier on humid days may help too. They sell a powder in a self contained bucket at Home Depot the absorbs excess moisture . Perhaps you could place these in the areas( out of the way) where you smell it the strongest in your home.

David asks…

Testing for dangerous Mold?

I have had a continuous leak coming into my basement for a few months. At first we soaked it up using towels, then we left the sliding door open hoping it would dry out, but it has only gotten worse. Yesterday, I rented a rug doctor and decided to use it to soak up the moisture. Without adding any solution, or using the spray, I got up several gallons of water! I had no idea the problem was that bad. I ripped up the carpet, and the pad underneath it is drenched. No amount of sucking will get it all up.

My question is this, can I send in a sample of the water I sucked up to be tested for mold? If so, where should I send it? If not, who should I call?

I am very worried, and have two small children whose health I am concerned about.
Thanks, Christa

aplus answers:

Virtually everyone has one type or another of mold somewhere in their home. Although not all types are toxic, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish types without lab testing. Thus it is imperative to treat and remove all molds as if they’re potentially harmful.

Areas and substances where black mold can be found include water soaked wood, ceiling tiles, wall paneling, cardboard, even items made of cotton. Black mold can grow on drywall and insulation and can infest areas in the floors, walls and ceilings.

When you are contemplating clean up of black mold, you need to verify the extent of the problem. Many of the infested areas will be relatively small and be a result of small leaks or plumbing problems. After discovering the root of the problem and rectifying it, you can disinfect the area with bleach. A mixture of one cup bleach to a gallon of water is sufficient to disinfect the area. Apparently adding a touch of dish soap to the mixture will also aid in dissolving accumulated grease and dirt in the area.

You are to apply the bleach mixture to the moldy area and leave it to saturate the area for approximately fifteen minutes. After this you must take care to thoroughly dry the cleaned area.

Spores from dried mold are very dangerous and should be cleaned with caution. You should never scrape or scratch at dried mold as the spores would then be released into the air and pose an inhalation risk. A respiratory mask and eye protection are necessary and adequate clothing to prevent skin contact is recommended.

According to the CDC, there are some preventative measures you can personally take to battle black mold. The following are some of their suggestions; keep the humidity of the house down, make sure there is adequate ventilation inside the home(especially in the kitchen and bathroom), add mold inhibitors to new paint before painting, use mold killing products to clean and do not use carpet in the bathroom.
——————————————————————————-
You will need to throw away the padding just to make sure there isn’t any black mold (its the spores that’s the nasty stuff)

You would be best off to look in the yellow book under mold, and you should be able to find a professional close to you. But be aware..they are not cheap

If money is on the tight side go to http://moldtestkit.com/ and you can get your own mold kit. I have no idea how good that kit is.

If I was you. I would look at the damaged area, if you don’t see any black mold then you should be fine. But I would go ahead and bleach the area just to be safe. And I would call an home inspector because sounds like the water got into the beams as well, if that is the case that will be to be fixed as well.

Ken asks…

what is the best way to ge rid of mold in only one A/c vent? it has been tested and found to be common.San An

Large vacant house has developed mold in one a/c vent in an upstairs bedroom. The mold has been tested and found to be common, the estimates to remediate are wide range and very expensive. The house was vacated in December and the mold showed up in mid January.When first detected I thought it was dirt from not changing the A/C filter, a few weeks later small spores were visible. We have had a very warm winter, Any suggestions and ideas would be appreciated. Thanks

aplus answers:

I would have the A.C. Set so you always have some air circulating through the system this way the moisture won’t form or build and create a friendly environment for the mold. Without air movement it would be natural for the condensation to form with the big temperature variance hot and cold in your region of the country. Good luck

Betty asks…

Who do i go to so i can have my home tested for mold?

We live in a 1969 mobile home, a family of 5. My husband found that the whole back wall in the kids room was full of mold. It scared me so we left and went to stay with my mother. My husband went back and washed the wall but it still smells of mold when u walk in the house. I would like to get it tested so we can go home.

aplus answers:

Call our office to schedule a mold inspection.

Phone:  1-888-239-6969

Richard asks…

How do I fix a rotting floor?

I bought my house about a year and a half ago, it used to be a on a slab, but a previous owner lifted it up and put a crawlspace under it. I noticeda few months later there was a soft spot in one of the bedrooms and I went into the crawlspace to check it out. I was able to pull the subfloor apart with my hand. I had a home inspection and somehow the inspector missed this.(I did not notice any mold, and have inspected it every few months and have seen none). The plywood on top of the subfloor is not that thick, and when you walk on it it bends. I do not plan to stay in this house for more than 4-5 years and would like to avoid spending thousands of dollars to fix it, but I am afraid that the next owner will hire a better home inspector who will catch this and I will have difficulty selling the house. I am open to any and all suggestions. Thanks

aplus answers:

Sorry to tell you this, but you are going to have to rip out the floor and replace that subflooring. Since you say you will be in the house for about 4 to 5 years, its only going to get worse. Even if you only live there for 2 years. You’re going to have to replace it. Unfortunately since it the wood is rotted, there are no ways of fixing it. It just has to be replaced.

Also, if you try to sell the place knowing that the rot was there and their inspector does find it, you wont pass inspection, you’ll be out a ton of dough, and you still wont sell the house. If I was you, replace the subflooring, if need be take your time doing it, so its not such a financial burden.

George asks…

mold issue in a house that i had to move out of?

I moved out of a house that i was renting due to mold and health issues. the landlord is refusing to give all the deposit back. i even had a inspection done and found a hole lot of mold and all the outlets were not grounded and there was a gas leak, who knows how long that was going on. I have two kids under 13 of age living with me and my husband and my daughter in law was over almost every day and she is pregnant. i am extremely allergic to mold and my son ever since we moved in there was throwing up constintly. what would you advise i do

aplus answers:

You can try suing him, but expect a counter suit.

Your allergies give you no special rights. A large portion of the population has allergies to mold, grasses, etc. They take meds, they do not move.

Ruth asks…

How liable is a home inspector?

We have lived in our house for a month and a half now and discovered a mold problem in our basement. At the time of the inspection this was never noticed or written in our report. Since this is a preexiting issue are the old homeowners liable or even the home inspector?
Our neighbors were the ones who told us about the problem. Supposedly they had a mold specialist come in and check it out a couple months before we closed.

aplus answers:

The old homeowners are only liable if you can prove that they knew about a pre-existing condition. You would probably need to find out if they ever had a mold inspection done and what the report says, otherwise it is your word versus their word.

Typically home inspectors are not mold inspectors and it is your responsibility to hire a mold inspector for this type of inspection.  As for the inspector, check the contract you signed with him – there is probably a hold-harmless clause that absolves the inspector of any harm done by oversight. If this is the case, at best, you could get the fee you paid the inspector back.

Chris asks…

Discovered mold in rented house …. do I have any recourse?

Moved in to a house in Fresno, CA last year – our lease stated that the house would be under construciton for 3 mos but the construction has been going on for the entire lease 11mos. In that time ppl have been in and out of my yard, once letting my dogs out. I came home one day to find the driveway cement ripped apart (that went on for a month). The landlord always says it’ll be done next week and promises the men entering my yard/house will call before to notify me but that never happens.

My daughter got really sick with chromic asthma 4 mos in to our lease and lastnite she called me to say her head was wet. Turns out the roof in her room was soaked and leaking. Upon further inspection I discovered tons of water spots and mold that had been conveniently painted over before we moved in. I believe this has caused my daughters illness.

I’m not paying rent this month – I’ll use the money to find another place but can I take any legal actions? Is it okay to rent a house with mold?

aplus answers:

You can not paint the harmful varieties of mold. They live on raw wood and are puffy, not flat. It sounds like mildew spots, I would not worry about it.

You can pay to have it tested if you want, it has to test as one of the 2 harmful strains to get you out of your lease.

I do not live very far from you and can tell you that harmful mold has NEVER been found around here. It does not mean it never will, just that it never has.

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Ken asks…

Things to put on my home inspection check sheet?

I’d like to do my own amateur home inspection of a house I am interested in purchasing. And, yes, I would plan on having it inspected by a professional IF I like what I see…..so: What are some of the main things I need to look for or ask about other than the obvious?

aplus answers:

I am glad you plan to also have the house inspected by a professional. For your own home inspection I recommend:

-Turning on and off all light switches
-Turn on and off all faucets
-Look for signs of water damage on the ceilings which indicate a leaky roof
-Ask if the basement or roof leaks
-Look for large cracks around the foundation and also on the walls inside the house
-Make sure rain water leads away from the house
-Check the condition of the gutters and shingles. Look for missing shingles.

I didn’t even mention mold but that should be obvious. In my experience, water can really do a lot of damage to a house.

John asks…

Want to have home inspected for mold?

I am gettign ready to have my home inspected. what should i look for in an inspection company.

aplus answers:

The best inspectors out there will have a IAC2 or RESNET certification.

James asks…

Is it OK to use the home inspector what the realtor has recommended ?

I am a first time home buyer
I had looked at a home and I have got the contract .

Now I need a home inspection done for that property, now my realtor had suggested one.

1) Is it OK to use the home inspector what my realtor has suggested ?

2) what should I ask the inspector or check with him to make sure he is good,qualified and worth the penny I am paying ?

3) Any other things I should be asking or looking at during the home inspection ? ( the house is built in 2004) ?

aplus answers:

All kinds of businesses leave their cards with the real estate broker. He leaves the cards out for his agents to use. Sometimes those businesses will give $25 to $100 to the realtor who uses them (depending on what the cost of their service is, it’s a percentage anyway) so that’s why the real estate agent suggested them to you. They all do the same thing, have to abide by the same rules and state laws. There are things regarding led paint, radon, sink holes, termites and carpenter ants, main structure strength, mold, and leaks that need to be looked for. FHA does the inspection for poor wiring, code violations, poor sewage and pipes, and things like rugs hiding problems or wires under rugs or live wires (fire hazards), gas leaks and such. Some things have to be listed on a document with the real estate agent that those things have been checked, that there’s no problem and that you agree that there’s no problem (then you sign in agreement). So ask that inspector anything you like or anything that concerns you.

Carol asks…

How to get started in home inspections?

About 6 months ago I met with an individual doing a crane inspection at my plant, and he did home inspections on the side to make some extra cash. Can someone give me the specifics on doing this on the side? He was certified to do this, liscensed-bonded-and insured. I would like to know more about this as a side project to put more bank in my pocket…I am a Safety professional by trade, so I already know a good deal of what to look for, since I audit my plant on a daily basis.
I’m looking at doing this in Arkansas and Oklahoma

aplus answers:

It is possible that both states regulate this field; AZ [where i am, does]

call a real estate broker to see if your state regulates such
professionals.

Http://www.homeinspectioninstitute.com/state_regulations.php?statecode=’AR’

http://www.nahi.org/ok-oklahoma-home-inspector.asp

ASHI : Homebuyers/Sellers : State Regulations
Download ASHI’s official position on the regulation of the home inspection profession.
Existing State Home Inspector Regulatory Legislation

Alabama Licensure (Act 2002-517 enacted in 2002) Requires individuals performing home inspections to become licensed by the Alabama Building Commission. The Alabama Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics (see Home Inspectors Rules and Applications) is adopted from the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The Alabama Building Commission gratefully acknowledges ASHI’s consent. The Building Commission adopted the National Home Inspection Examination to assess minimum competence. The bill also outlines educational and experiential requirements to become licensed, sets license fees and insurance requirements, and defines penalties under which licensure may be suspended or revoked. This law replaces Act 96-574.

For more information or a copy of the statute contact the Alabama Building Commission, (334) 242-4082, (334) 242-4182 fax, e-mail buildcom@bc.state.al.us.

Alaska Licensure (Chapter 134 SLA enacted in 2003). In Alaska, home inspectors and associate home inspectors will be issued a certificate of registration by the Department of Community and Economic Development. To be a registered home inspector, an individual must: 1) pass the National Home Inspector Examination, 2) meet the educational and experience requirements as determined by the Department, 3) submit a complete application for registration within one year of passing the exam, 4) not have been convicted of specific crimes in the past seven years of the date of the application, 5) not have had the authority to perform home inspections revoked in the state or another jurisdiction, 6) not be the subject of an unresolved criminal complaint or unresolved disciplinary action in the state and 7) pay the appropriate fees. For the renewal of certificates, the Department will require at least eight hours of continuing competency activity in each licensing period. The Department will set the registration fees for home inspectors and associate home inspectors and determine the disciplinary actions and penalties for violating the terms of the certificate of registration. The law also sets home inspection requirements for residential loans purchased or approved by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation. The law requires that a written report fulfilling certain requirements be submitted to the person requesting the inspection upon completion of an inspection that will remain valid for 180 days after the inspection and allows for civil action to be taken against home inspectors for one year after performing the inspection. The law requires the home inspector to carry insurance and a bond of $5,000. The law went into effect in 2003 and all home inspectors are required to have a license by July 1, 2004.

For more information contact the home inspector licensing examiner at the The Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development at (907) 465-5470 phone, (907) 465-2974 fax or e-mail brenda_Donohue@commerce.state.ak.us .

Arizona Certification (Title 32, Chapter 1 enacted in 2002). The Arizona State Board of Technical Registration (BTR) certifies and regulates the practice of home inspectors. The law requires 80 hours of education, successful completion of the National Home Inspector Examination, and evidence of successfully completed home inspections. In addition, the law requires that certified home inspectors have one of the following financial assurances: 1) Errors and Omissions Insurance in the amount of $200,000 in the aggregate and $100,000 per occurrence, 2) a $25,000 bond or proof of assets in that amount, or 3) an alternate financial assurance mechanism approved by the BTR with a value of at least $25,000. The law states that loss of or failure to obtain financial assurance is grounds for revocation of certification.

For more specific information regarding certification requirements, please go to the BTR website and, under Regulations on the Table of Contents panel, click on “Applicable Statutes” (see A.R.S.§ 32-122.02 or “Applicable Rules” (see A.A.C. R4-30-247).

For further information, contact Manual Maltos, Home Inspector Certification Program administrator.

Arkansas Registration (Act 1328 of 2003) repealed and replaced (Act 791 of 1997). Unde r the “Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Act,” all home inspectors in the state must register with the Sec retary of State. Applicants must pass the National Home Inspector Examination. In addition, home inspectors must conduct all inspections in adherence to the Standards of

Betty asks…

Whats the best type of home inspector?

I am buying a home and I’m in the stage of getting my new home inspected. The house is a new build and is framed and ready for drywall. I am looking for a home inspector to do the pre-drywall and the pre-close inspection. Some of the inspectors I’ve researched are certified building only, while others are certified combination, certified residential, and certified plumbing. I’ve also seen some inspectors that are certified master inspectors. What is the difference between these home inspectors?

aplus answers:

Get the home inspection for the general construction. Make sure that you hire them. That way, they have your interests in mind (not the builder’s).

Also have the specialty areas (plumbing, electrical, and HVAC) inspected by professionals in this area (not the ones who are doing the work).

The local city/county may have their own required inspections. The problem with that is they are only looking to see if the building meets code requirements. Remember, ‘code’ is just a set of MINIMUM standards. There is often a HUGE difference between “meeting code” and “doing a good job”.

Make sure that anyone you hire to inspect is looking at the quality of the work and the quality of the materials being used.

I am a service electrician. I see all of the cheap crap that other electricians throw into these homes because the builder is squeezing every last penny of profit out of them. They have to cut every corner possible to stay in business. The builder won’t care. His family is never going to live there. Don’t get me wrong, the devices, material, and workmanship will probably ‘meet code’ and be deemed as ‘safe’. It just won’t be a good job.

Sorry if I have ‘ranted’ a little. I do love my job. But, the one part that I really hate is when I have to explain to a customer that someone else screwed them.

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