The unglamorous side of owning rental properties — what we actually spent, what worked, and what we’d do differently. Covers everything from full unit renovations to small fixes between tenants.
We bought our Central District triplex in 2014 and lived in one unit for eight years. Here’s what we got wrong — from Airbnb cash flow gaps to skipping soundproofing in favor of trim.
What I wish I knew before buying my first triplex Read post →
2020 – 2021 were big years at our Union Hill property, mostly due to COVID. It was a forcing function – we spent much of
How much does it cost to remodel a triplex? Our $145,000 breakdown Read post →
We’ve had a problem with moths for years. First, it was pantry moths. We’d see them flying around our kitchen, and we’d find their webbing
Moths in Your House: Where They Hide and How to Get Rid of Them Read post →
We’ve started most renovations with the goal of enhancing the original features of the house. When we bought our CD triplex, we could not stand
LVP vs. hardwood floors in a rental: why we chose vinyl Read post →
Our Cherry Hill apartment has a bathroom under 30 square feet, and with no drawer and minimal counter space, it barely had any storage Prospective
Small bathroom storage ideas: how we added storage in under 30 square feet Read post →
There was a lot of noise transfer at Union Hill. It was so high that the lower neighbors wanted someone they knew to move in,
Union Hill – Easy apartment soundproofing Read post →
The upstairs apartment of our Bremerton triplex was the worst of the three apartments. When we purchased it, the ceilings were maybe 6’5″ high, and
Union Hill – From cramped to open and L-shaped kitchen Read post →
We did not have much of a plan for the closets, until I took down the paneling and saw what was once there – a
How to restore a craftsman closet: shaker pegs, chair rail, and hidden details Read post →
Although we maintained much of the original trim in the middle apartment on Union Hill, sometimes things go missing. That can happen during a four
Union Hill – How to recreate craftsman trim Read post →
[2025 Update] Once new tenants moved into our old apartment above the Airbnb, the noise complaints (ahem) got louder. We were considerate neighbors, and although
How to soundproof recessed can lights Read post →
