Do the Right Thing: Lessons Learned from a Staircase Repair

Do The Right Thing: A Lesson from a Staircase

Ever had one of those days where it hurts to do the “right thing?” Recently, I had an experience that underscored this principle in a way I hadn’t quite expected.

I own a rental property, and I noticed that the external stairs leading up to the entrance were looking a little worse for wear. Initially, I thought this was going to be a simple fix, something I could take care of with a modest $500 budget. We thought we could just cut off the damaged cement board, install a new piece of trim, and some metal flashing. Bam, done in a few hours and it would look as good as new.

Not so fast, Sparky. When I attempted to reattach one of the siding panels, the nail just went right through like there was nothing behind it. That’s because there WAS NOTHING BEHIND IT! The wood post had almost completely rotted. We decided to take a little bit of the siding off to have a look. The damage was far more extensive than I had anticipated. What looked like a few minor issues on the surface masked a deeper problem: water damage and rot had compromised the entire structure. The initial repair estimate quickly ballooned into a $7,700 week-long project.

I found myself at a crossroads. I could have opted for a quick fix, something that might hold up for another year, or I could do what I knew was right: replace the entire staircase. I sat there for a few minutes and went through all the emotions.

Choosing the latter wasn’t easy. I can definitely think of more enjoyable ways to spend $7,700. There was a temptation to put a band-aid on the problem and kick the can down the street. After all, it’s only a rental, right? But deep down, I knew that doing things the right way was the only option that made sense in the long run.

A mantra I like kept popping into my head, “The way you do anything is the way you do everything.” It was time to put my money where my mouth is.

Other realizations I had after the sticker shock wore off:

1. Safety First: As a property owner, the safety of my tenants is paramount. A compromised staircase is a hazard waiting to happen. I don’t even want to imagine someone trying to carry a couch down the stairs and the entire thing collapsing. That would be a major disaster.
2. Long-Term Savings: While the initial outlay was substantial, dealing with the problem now likely saved me from even more expensive repairs down the line. Water damage and rot tend to worsen over time, leading to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
3. Property Value: Maintaining the integrity of the property is crucial for preserving its value. Potential future buyers or renters can tell when corners have been cut. Investing in quality repairs enhances the property’s appeal and worth.
4. Peace of Mind: There’s something to be said for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve done the right thing. I can rest easy knowing that my property is in good shape and that my tenants are safe.

The Ron & Don Real Estate Philosophy

At Ron & Don Real Estate, we believe in doing things the right way, every time. This experience with the staircase is just one example of why that philosophy matters. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major renovation, our commitment to quality and integrity guides everything we do.

We bring this same dedication to every client we work with. Our deep roots in the Seattle area, our expertise in investment rental properties, and our network of trusted contractors mean that we’re not just helping you buy or sell a property; we’re helping you make the best decisions for your long-term success and peace of mind.

So, the next time you’re faced with a tough decision about a repair or renovation, remember my staircase. Doing things the right way might not always be the easiest or the cheapest option, but it’s almost always the best one.

If you need help navigating your real estate challenges, reach out to us at Ron & Don Real Estate. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

-Ron

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