Blog Posts in 2013

How Will the New Disability Access Law Affect Commercial Real Estate Properties?

There are two bills that will go into effect this year that will affect real estate. Last week we discussed the Energy Use Disclosure Program (AB 1103). This week I’ll take up the new Disability Access Law otherwise known as SB 1186. As I mentioned last week, AIR was kind enough to host a lunch I attended in Glendale on June 11th with Elizabeth Watson, a real estate attorney, presenting the ...

Repair and Upgrade Costs for Multi-Family and Commercial Properties

During almost every inspection, most buyers and many agents want to know how much this or that is going to cost to repair or replace. After more than 40 years in the construction trades doing everything from a small bathroom remodel, building houses, owning a decking company, owning one of the largest remodeling companies in the United States to working on an electrical power station and a 500 ...

Cool Roof Systems - What Are They?

One of the top concerns expressed by buyers of commercial real estate is always the roof. And rightfully so. The average flat commercial roof lasts approximately 15 – 20 years. That means if the building was built in 1994 the roof is nearing the end of its expected useful life. Handling a roof at the end of its life costs tens of thousands of dollars…or does it? We are always looking for cost ...

What are the Proper Grading and Drainage Requirements for Multi-Family and Commercial Properties?

How important is this for multi-family and commercial properties? What should I be looking for when I evaluate a building I am purchasing? What are the solutions? As I have mentioned previously, 80% of all issues with property revolve around moisture. When we talk about moisture issues many people think of areas such as the integrity of the roof or leaking windows. The fact is that the overall ...