Update: Snow Storm, Podcast and New Project

Hi all! Hope you’re doing well.

Usually, I start off these posts with “Happy Friday!” Though, honestly — things haven’t been very “happy” with me lately. Here’s why:

Winter Snow Storm

Just in case you missed the news, there’s been a major snow storm in TX. And, guess what? I’m in it.

Millions of households in TX are without power…due to the storm. Unfortunately, the TX energy grid cannot handle this weather and the demand for power during this time.

Thankfully, I have power. I’m lucky to have it. Though, not everyone does.

Unfortunately, my pipes are frozen and I do not have any running water. I’ve had to work with bottled water. And most recently, I’ve been gathering snow to use as water for cleaning (using a strainer and heating up the snow using my crockpot and rice cooker) and storing in water jug containers.

Taking it a step further, I’ve used empty water bottles with holes on top to store heated water from the snow to use for washing my hands and any dishes to conserve water.

(Note: Though, I’ve recently switched to paper plates and products as washing dishes takes up a lot of water!)

Here are some pics:

So, I’ve been dealing with this right now. And I thought we had it bad with COVID-19. This is definitely worse. Not having basic living necessities can really make things hard. I’m not sure how much longer I’ll have access to power and/or the internet. Many of my neighbors have lost power already.

Thankfully, I’m OK with food. I stock up regularly on camping supplies (including food!), so it’s not an issue. The biggest issue is water and public sanitation (which has been the main cause of killing people in history). Here’s my snow storm dinner:

Mentally, I’m not doing very well. But, I’m trying to hang in there!

Mobile Home Fix Up

Other than that, here’s the latest update with my mobile home fix up (AKA the “rat house”).

After talking to several contractors, I finally picked a painter to work with.

(Note: Just in case you missed it, check out episode #16 of the podcast where I talk about how to hire contractors. Thanks for tuning in!)

So before the storm, I had my handyman contractor do some prep work for the home. Here are pics:

(Note: To save on time, I decided to have the back porch painted so I would not have to do it later. Turned out great!)

Most of the work done was carpentry work. Replacing bad wood with new wood and installing new trim to cover up deficiencies really makes a difference.

After my handyman contractor did the work, I removed all of the door knobs and hinges for the contractor leaving all of the doors off.

(Note: I could not get this door knob off. So, I’ll have my painter try to remove it before paint work is started.)

Replacing old hinges and doorknobs with new ones is something that I do with all of my mobile home fix ups now. It really makes a difference to prospective buyers and renters!

Painting Delayed

With the winter storm, I have to delay the painting project. Unfortunately, many homes do not have power. I would not be surprised if this home is without power.

Also, one day before the storm my painting contractor went to the home to check the water. And guess what? It was not working. Due to the temperature drop. And the cold.

I had just checked the water myself the day before. And the water was running.

So, I called up my plumber. And he told me there’s probably an issue with the main water line. He was working in the park on some other lines and told me we would have to wait for it to warm up for the water to start working again.

So now, it’s just a waiting game. This whole week is gone. Due to the storm and the state of TX unable to provide utility services to its residents. And, that’s all I’m going to say about that.

Podcast

Other than that, the podcast is doing really great. Thanks so much to everyone who has supported the show and left a review! It means a lot. 🙂

(Note: If you enjoy listening to the podcast, it would be great if you could share your thoughts when you get a chance. Thanks so much for your support!)

New Project

Lastly, my new project is up and running. And, I even talked about it on the last episode of the podcast. Let me know what you think!

Wrapping It Up

That’s about it for now. As you can see, it’s been a rollercoaster. Especially with the storm which threw me for a loop.

Before I go, I wanted to leave you with this gal’s YouTube channel that I’ve been watching lately as I’ve been learning about Korean cuisine:

Honestly, this is one of the the few things that’s helping me get through this storm. If you’re into cooking and would like to learn more, definitely check her out!

And if you have any mobile home investing related questions that you need help with, feel free to contact me.

Until next time, take care and stay safe! 🙂