Knockdown or Renovate? 👀

@sandrachristensen7282

6 ай бұрын

knockdown

@BenMarton

6 ай бұрын

Honestly... I would NOT knock it down. If you didn't feel comfortable using it as living space, It has the potential to be used in so many ways. It could be a huge outdoor/indoor entertainment space, maybe remove some.exterior walls and make it into a screened in space etc. Or a massive workshop/maker space... If you want to build something new, maybe build elsewhere, and leave the cabin up. Maybe consider shipping container home(s) somewhere else?

@jizelf633

6 ай бұрын

As soon as heard the asbestos I thought you were gonna knock it down. But i see the dilemma. Still leaning on Knockdown

@herenow6953

6 ай бұрын

Knockdown and sue the building inspector - what a travesty of justice if you are deterred from pursuing a perfectly valid claim due to 'costs' - he is wrong - a building inspector SHOULD NOT MISS ASBESTOS!!

@vampireslayer1989

6 ай бұрын

Fumigation and renovation.

Brace the roof, and take the walls out. Once you have that done you can use and add to the foot print as you see fit. This way you save all the money spent.

@sallymowbray4611

6 ай бұрын

Best idea so far. It would be a shame to waste that roof now you've sorted that out, but you could build a completely new layout underneath it to suit what you want. That is what I'd do, as well as leave some dire reviews for the inspector, to save other people the same pain. Looking forward to knowing the outcome and seeing how it develops.

@marciadarby3

6 ай бұрын

My thoughts exactly

@susantrayler1338

6 ай бұрын

I agree with this plan..

@l.b.3148

6 ай бұрын

Exactly. That roof is done. Noone wants to redo that. Support it up like a pole barn underneath. Rip the rot. I'd make the layout wide open, honestly. Cheaper, easier for you. I'd cement the ground. Keep it cooler. You can add cool finishes to cement to make them look nice. Cement will not rot in the future. Look up barndominium. Something like that.

@OdetteC-1

6 ай бұрын

Couldn't you ask small claims tribunal to look into your issues with the inspection that was done.

Oh Maxy- we don't watch for your perfected building expertise! We watch for your generosity with your time, your spirit, and your inspiring strength as you face life's challenges, big and small. Keep up the good work!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

You're so kind, thank you! 💛💛

@georgeattig8088

6 ай бұрын

1000% agree. We watch for you and Occy. Renovate this “house”, build a new one, or convert a shipping container. It’s your choice and we will support you.

@palominojoy1899

6 ай бұрын

Hear, hear !❤

Hi Max. You may remember us, we met walking the mall Alice Springs. I am a retired builder. I watch a lot of KZread but hardly ever comment, but your situation called out to me. There are a lot of traps for new property owners / builders. First of all, your property is spectacular. Second judging by your videos your existing cabin is not worth renovating and should be mostly pulled down. Notice I did not say demolished. Demolished means everything gets crunched up. Pulled down means deconstructing carefully, with the aim on recycling any materials worth saving. All you new metal roofing can be reused say in a granny flat (or similar dwelling) constructed as an addition to your deck (where your van is parked). Any worthwhile timber from the existing house could also be used to construct the granny flat. Third. Do not use an Architect. Architects are costly, make building more difficult (to justify fees) and yes, they could design a spectacular home to suit your block, the cost will be enormous. By the time you get you plans approved by council you could be 40k in and not even hammered a nail. Also be aware with a new build council will often want an upgraded septic system which costs $$$ Option 1: Pull down the worst affected of the house and keep a room or 2 and rebuild the rest and call it an extension to existing. Using this method you may dodge redoing the septic. Option 2: new build, but consider looking at kit homes as the design & plans are already done and with your skills you can erect it yourself. Option 3: Cast around local volume builders that should have off the shelf plans that can be made to work for your block, get the builder to build to lock up and you finish off. In my opinion you do not want to spend big $$$ on an architect to design a very expensive to build dwelling when you have the skills and thought to grab an existing design and make it yours. All the money saved can be put into energy saving and off grid principles. Your decision, but tread warily young man and feel free to contact me if anything I have said here makes sense. Cheers Mark D

Our inspector “missed” major problems, as well. 🙄 VERY expensive lesson to learn. You’ve got this, Max!!!

As a building and pest inspector in nsw myself, I can tell you things like asbestos and termites do not get missed, especially not extensive damage such as that. Feel free to reach out but I might be able to offer some advice. Far too often there is ‘multiple fingers in the pies’ if you will when it comes to inspectors and real estate agents, and there may be cause for a significant claim on the inspectors indemnity insurance.. pains me to see people getting done over due to not having the right knowledge and trusting the ‘professional’ lands them in trouble.

@CaliMel184

6 ай бұрын

This! The inspector was probably a friend of the owner and they were in on it together. The reason the guy was so "picky" about who was buying it was probably because he wanted to make sure it was someone who would have no idea

@NS8KEN

6 ай бұрын

As much as I see Max trying to accept this and move on (and yes I think its the right thing to do because I get 2nd hand angry for even hearing this), examples like this shouldn't happen so often. Especially when your livelihood goes into it.... Do you see legislation as being needed to avoid this? Legal action is costly and time/energy draining - which is something in short supply when you've got to rebuild your house.

@robinwilliams3420

6 ай бұрын

Please listen to this fella. Max ... This is not the sort of thing you can flog off on this building inspector being a good guy ! Have a nice Christmas with Occy ... And celebrate your great health .... It'll work out mate .

@NATALIE_W_

6 ай бұрын

YES This!!! Gross neglegance on inspectors part. Especial when you are talking MILLION DOLLAR real estate. That inspector has lost you $$$$ off the values of the property straight off the bat, not to mention the physical toll on you! . Talk to a solicitor please!! your vlogs provide the clear evidence!! You can do this Max!

@mcphee224

6 ай бұрын

I understand you want to move on and maybe that is the best move. It makes me wonder why we bother having building inspections at all. I had the same type of thing happen to me with a car and car inspection. In the end just chose to let it go. Part of me knows that was best for me but the other part knows that that person is continuing to rip people off. I feel a bit bad about that. Best of luck with that decision. 😊

No no no, Christmas present please, say goodbye to the mullet 🙏🙏🙏

Max just because you are a utube creator. You are learning and there is nothing to Apologize for.. You are on a life adventure with this property. I appreciate bringing all of us along! Much love ❤️

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

💛💛

So sorry Max that you've run into a streak of bad luck. We're all out here pullin' for ya.

You have years YEARS of content ahead…..potential of 1 to 2 million followers is most likely to follow. Just plug along and we’ll be right here viewing. You are an amazing young man.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛💛

Sometimes starting over is the only way to move forward. Knock it down, reclaim what you can (like the roof, and any framing that is still salvageable), and rebuild your dream cabin not held back by the layout someone else came up with years ago. I noticed the termite damage a few videos ago and wondered what you were going to do with that. I would really consider taking this as an opportunity to build something better.

@LauraG1

6 ай бұрын

Yup! Absolutely!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for the advice! 💛

I'd keep the roof, replace the supporting beams and walls, make it doubly sound then fit it out how you want. I really is just as much a blank canvas as it is, as if you were to knock it down and start again. It seems to be in a nice position on the block. You can always add the tiny home in the other field as well!

Max, as Ive said elsewhere in this thread, my dad died of asbestos cancer..........but in life, he was a master builder and I can hear him in my head saying "mate, reno for now so you have a roof over your head, but then start building the dream"......because the spot the cabin is on has termites already and theyre NOT GOING ANYWHERE. You have too much standing timber on the property to ever properly eliminate termites, they will always be an issue with any timber you use and you are better off building with steel for your main support structures for long term stability (and dad specialized in building with timber in the Perth hills.....the termite capital of Australia lol). Yes, this is a set back, but its only a minor one. The existing cabin can, as youre discovering, be brought up to liveable standards pretty quickly.....please get it sprayed for those termites as soon as your baby birds have flown the nest though, the termites will make a quick snack of all the new timber youre adding if you dont.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Firstly, Heather, I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Thank you for taking the time to write. All good advice and duly noted. Thank you again for your support 💛

That inspector should be held liable! There isn't much left at this point. It is always about the journey.

@tyroga

6 ай бұрын

The inspector will be well covered by their contract. Pre-sale building and pest inspections are typically visual only. If the termites were killed then the thermal cameras they use wouldn’t have shown an infestation even if there is extensive damage in the walls. Though getting to the bit where Max says the asbestos was clearly visible then he might have somewhere to go with that. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

@feliciar2773

6 ай бұрын

Russia's awful if I had been a building inspector and gave him the okay and he bought it and found all this stuff I would feel like a complete butt. I just don't understand how people don't feel bad about stuff like that. Maybe he doesn't realize it whoever with the building inspector was but still. Like there should be more to it then like I mean what more could he have done to make sure he realized what he needed to realize? I don't understand. It doesn't matter somebody would have been screwed over no matter who bought it. It just sounds like you need to figure out a way to completely redo every bit of would you possibly can from underneath the roof on. You just redid the roof so it would be really but awful if you had to just tear it all down. At the same time you would have wasted the money on the roof and then put all the money on fixing everything else into it and then it might not still be okay. So losing out on the money on just the roof instead of everything else as well it would be better. It's definitely not a win-win situation it's a lose-lose. At least you got some good property from it just sucks if you've wasted any money on the house. And obviously you have with roof and other stuff if you have to pull it all down. I hope you can come up with a good solution though. I hate seeing anybody whether I know them or I don't know them lose out on money and time😮 as well as hard work that you and your dad and other people put into it❤

@Suprachiasmatic

6 ай бұрын

@@feliciar2773Russia?

@heatherrowles9930

6 ай бұрын

@@tyroga mate what a load of bull. All it takes to find termite damage is a quick poke with a screwdriver.......and Ive never, ever seen an inspector miss that kind of damage when theyre doing their job properly. As for my qualifications to know youre talking bull, my father was a master builder who, besides owning his own building company, also worked for the shire as a building inspector for many years....and added to that my husband is a licensed pest control operator. Hell, I spotted termite damage in the first walk through video Max did of the property. The ONLY reason for the inspector not noticing the termite damage or asbestos is that he CHOSE not to see it.

Never ever let anyone cut your hair again! Good luck with that big project. Merry Christmas safe holiday travels

Just when I thought Occy couldn't get any cuter he goes and rolls around on the floor in the most adorable way ever!! Love to you Occy!! ❤

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

He's quite the character! 🐾💛

Thanks for sharing the details about the issue with your home. However, another option is to hold the building inspector accountable. They are licensed and bound by law to give a full inspection and disclosure. If they failed to find those issues that you have found their insurance company should give you full restoration to pay for the damages that weren't disclosed. Plus the former owner would also be liable for allit of those cost also. As you move forward with construction start by planting lots of plants that repeal termites. Garlic, mint, sage, and lilac are just a couple of options. Most townships have probono attorneys especially with these types of cases since inspections was not done as required. Your bank can even get involved if you have a mortgage on the property

You are such a loveable human. Don't despair. Perfect or not perfect. We all love you! God bless you, Max. 💕

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

You're so kind, thank you 💛

“A lot of people don’t have their 💩 figured out even if it looks like they do”. Oh Max, that’s the sermon I needed this morning 🙏🏻

@ztebazile

6 ай бұрын

came here to drop the same quote 👐👐 Love you much Max

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

💛💛💛

@kimmetcalfe6408

6 ай бұрын

Totally agree!!love you Max and Occie❤️❤️ be safe🙏❤️🦋

@pageroo9644

6 ай бұрын

Sure ok, but those people don't feel the need to share it to the world and live off of KZread! Putting your life on KZread is a narcissistic move. You have an incessant need to let the world know how and what you are doing all the time! He didn't learn from the first experience with Lee that living your life on YT WILL conjure up some type of depression or other mental health situation because you willingly open up YOUR life to get OTHER PEOPLE'S opinions about your life. The good and the bad. As a content creator you chase your next meal ticket publicly when many others chase theirs in private. Social media has been one of Satan's greatest accomplishments!

@AH-qo5bn

6 ай бұрын

​@@pageroo9644My Mother always said if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing. Why are you even watching Max if you feel that way? Please feel free to exit stage left 👋

Contact the inspector and ask for the reports he did, then Fair trading and report the inspector. Rebuild is an issue because that brings in council planning and permits. Good luck with your choices Max

@sashacat53

6 ай бұрын

I agree

@MKSouthernStar

6 ай бұрын

Agreed

@epicwinguyz

6 ай бұрын

Yea pretty sure you would be able to sue them. Unreal

@erink4685

6 ай бұрын

@@epicwinguyzproblem is you have to have a lot of money to even start challenging them let alone suing them. I was in the exact same boat for a different issue and in the end, I couldn’t take the risk of using my last amounts of renovation cash to sue for something that was definitely their fault but which a court may not fully cover in their decision (ie some compensation but not court costs etc) and it cost so much to even start suing (ie $10K minimum at least) that I just had to suck it up and move on. You have to be wealthy to sue and also be ok with probably losing $15K in the process, even if you win, but building inspectors have loads of caveats in their contracts that mean they’re basically So protected. It totally sucks but I’ve even had it happen twice and generally you are financially better off or safer just sucking it up unless you’re rich. It’s so bad.

@epicwinguyz

6 ай бұрын

@@erink4685 then why pay for a fkn building inspection in the first place? Saying 'suck it up' is the most infuriating garbage ive ever heard after someone has been screwed over. That house was rotten to the core. The building inspector deserves to be held accountable

Max you've got a beautiful property. Good decision on making the house livable. That gives you time to plan your forever house. You don't have to do it all today. Remain present and teachable. You've got this. Thanks for sharing your life. I appreciate you and Occy. Love you guys.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Wow, thanks for the kind words, and for joining the adventure 💛

@suebean3873

5 ай бұрын

If you had an inspector come over and give his okay on the building before buying it, is there any recourse for you, since you probably wouldn’t have bought it if you had known. Or at least, you could have brought the price down I imagine. Just wondering if you’re reimbursed at all for having gone through that. I mean, that’s why a person gets an inspector in to check out the building. You probably love the acreage you’re on but I’m sure if you had known about the termites, etc.

Don't beat yourself up Max. It's the inspector's fault no doubt. At the very least get his name on the "DO NOT USE" list somehow. Great job so far on the renovations!! I say let it all grow out long again. 🥰 Happy belated birthday! 🥳

@Syl-Vee

6 ай бұрын

Ditto on every sentence @ssadvweld1. Here in the U.S. we're big on torts but I also feel the stress is a huge drawback. You have to weigh how much this has cost you vs. how much you are likely to recover. (If your inspector is just scraping by and doesn't have any assets you would be out of luck. Even if you win you would still have an expense to chase down the payoff.) And yeah, you can probably recover from this setback on your own within a year, whereas a law suit would likely take much longer. Maybe drop some scathing reviews instead to protect other unsuspecting home buyers.

@Watcher1852

6 ай бұрын

Yes, I would put his name on a list It is a shame that these people get away with doing that. Put his name up there. Put his name up there.

@joanhall3718

6 ай бұрын

My girlfriend got exactly the same advice as you on suing a building inspector. She house is in Oregon in USA. Even though he missed/ignored obvious issues she was told that the laws protect the inspectors. Her lawyer told her that suits against the inspectors rarely result in recovering money.

@pageroo9644

6 ай бұрын

The blame game doesn't go with Max's business model to "Be Kind. Always." 😂

@kathyannk

6 ай бұрын

@@pageroo9644I just read back a bunch of your comments. You are fooling yourself if you think you yourself are being kind. You can’t just go around criticizing every little thing and then call it constructive criticism. As far as Max goes, he is always kind. Being kind does NOT mean letting people walk all over him, or not being allowed to disclose the actions of unscrupulous people. Your constant negativity says more about you than it does about Max.

Oh no, not 2nd furniture. I know you’re close to Lismore, please do not get anything from there or with suspected water damage to the furniture. I have been through mould illness and water damaged furniture can be just as bad as visible mould in bathroom, etc. especially mattresses, never get 2nds for mould or dust mites. Loved watching you guys for past few years

@elvira4962

6 ай бұрын

Also idk how bad there but here we U.S. have such problems with bed bugs. Once you have one you will have many and need to throw everything away or heat all to 120 degrees to kill them. They hurt hurt hurt. Oww. How come no insulation Max? Love renovation idea you will feel good about it. You are young you have so much time to build your dreamhouse. Hugs to Ocy and a very Merry Christmas and many happy blessings for New Years.❤❤

My son builds custom homes with a company that has been in the area for over thirty years. They run into unexpected issues all the time, so take heart, Max. It's the nature of custom builds, and exponentially so for renos. Recognizing when something is a problem and being willing to backtrack to do it over properly is a skill in itself. Thanks for taking us along on your journey.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

You're welcome. Thank you for your support! 💛💛💛

I'm just making this shit up as I go..... and this is why I love watching you! You're authentic, get frustrated, funny, and a creative problem solver! Besides, I hope to own a piece of land one day, with a fixer-upper cabin on it.

I think it's a good decision to cut your losses, knock it down and build something structurally sound, energy efficient and capitalise on your views, for example with energy efficient, large window and door designs and ideal room orientation. Lastly, build a structure that is designed for your weather, such as a wrap around verandah, to protect the house and windows from the weather in winter and summer and keep the house cooler. You may have to wait until you're more financially sound, which is fine as you have your van, deck and outdoor shower set up. Secondly, Max, you do what YOU want to do with your hair. The only reason I would cut the mullet off is because it's Summer and hot.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for your support!

Is so sad that when people lie about the thing your buying, there is no consequence to them😌

You're so honest, and humble. Thanks for being just the right combination of serious and optimistic! I got a real kick out of watching the "speed" that Occy was running. Precious! 😊

Fantastic for facing up to the problems with your subscribers. Moving forward is a brilliant character trait, and not letting anxiety overwhelm you. You are one cool dude!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛

After Irma and Maria, I built a little shack from the debri they left. I was 60, but I did it. I lived in it for 7 months, I never took it down, once my home was livable. It is a reminder that I live on borrowed time!

@staciespur8293

6 ай бұрын

Good for you! Yes, our time on this earth is definitely small and should be appreciated every day!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

I'm impressed! Good on you; and thank you for joining my adventures too 💛

I think I’d at least request and expect a formal, written response from the building inspector to explain how and why such huge issues were missed. You deserve this as you will have paid them. You may not get compensation but you could save the same thing happening to someone else by alerting their organisation and telling them you will also contact their professional body. The latter ‘threat’ should get a response from the inspector / inspector’s organisation.

@mandrews1245

6 ай бұрын

There is no way a professional, especially one associated with an organization, will write a letter explaining how they screwed up. To do so would mean without question everything was their fault. No they will argue till the cows come home it was not there when they inspected. Otherwise they would be liable for all costs and damages. Making threats could very well have his (union) or inspectors organization issue you a Court summons for the threat... That is how many Court rooms and Judges work. When I first was about to go to court, I had a lawyer tell me: "You seem to think the legal system represents Justice". In the end, I understood what he meant.

@DeeFay-fl1hs

6 ай бұрын

@@mandrews1245 I can only speak from personal experience. In a similar situation, telling the organisation I would inform their professional body (which I did) yielded a response.

@shraddashradda

6 ай бұрын

@@mandrews1245that comes only from the higher law

@SheilaAllenAvelin

6 ай бұрын

I agree. I would feel the same way Max does about the prospect of a court case, but this is another avenue that might not get money back but would at least bring some professional consequences for the inspector, because this is gross negligence, if not outright corruption, and he shouldn't be allowed to . An email to the inspector listing the problems and how unusable the building is, *and* CC whatever oversight agency and/or licensing board is responsible for building inspectors in Australia. And YT means the failures have already been documented.

I've never met a person that has it all together. And the humble ones that admit it, are the best kind. Do your best, that's all we can do. Give yourself some grace.

I love the fact that you are challenging yourself on the perfectionism side! "Good enough" or "better done than perfect" are my mottos nowadays too!!! It's tough but necessary when you're "suffering" from perfectionism...

It’s a shame that the inspector didn’t catch the issues. I’m sorry you’re going through all of this. I’m really glad that you have your van and your property is so beautiful and you’ve got the main man Occy. Good luck. I know it will be great when it’s complete. I’m not a mullet fan, but it’s your hair. Do whatever you want mate.

@ppo2424

6 ай бұрын

It's more than a shame it's completely incompetent

@l.b.3148

6 ай бұрын

I think the previous owner and inspector were both shady, and took advantage. And it's very sad there is no tangible compensation.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛

Keep it and build your dream home elsewhere on the property…you can fix it up and keep it as guest cottage

@ckl5801

6 ай бұрын

I can’t imagine not having termites in this setting. You can tent it and put in termite repellent and these stakes around the home. I used to live in a log cabin. Yep, termites. If you know there are termites there you might want to build a house with insulated concrete forms. And metal beams. Just a humble suggestion. You could also get a tiny home that you could trailer in and immediately live in. 🎉

I say, keep the house for now, get it treated, pull down all the walls, but keep the structural stuff and brace it, keep it as a nice relaxation space and put a house up somewhere else on the property. You'll appreciate having an inside area during the build..

It’s amazing to me what you’re capable of! I would be frustrated with all the “issues” myself, and glad you’re opening up about it. Big hugs! 🤗

I think pulling it down is best. You’ll start fresh and you’ll be able to pick a floor plan that you like without fighting termites forever.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

It's looking that way! Thanks Brittney 💛

In that heat, it really helps not having hair on your neck. It's like wearing a wool scarf all day. My vote is for losing the mullet, and grow it all out at once.

I love how real and honest you are! Don't ever change that. Love your channel

Wow! That’s a hard decision. May you have wisdom and calm to think through the advice you receive. And may you have peace with your decisions once you make them.

Sounds like the previous owner AND inspector took advantage of your niceness... I would keep the cabin and use it as a studio, workshop and guesthouse for a few years anyways

@AriesAdams-rb5lh

6 ай бұрын

Don’t know about Australia law.. but this was not a sold as seen property, here you have to state the flaws it has when selling etc etc

@mandrews1245

6 ай бұрын

My advice... have your architect do a site plan laying out what your dreams are for the property. Don't you decide where things will go; give suggestions to the architect. Let them draw out, if there is a better place for your permanent home, and where 'small homes', work sheds, vehicle storage locations, visitor parking, etc will be located. They are trained in space planning and the angles of the sun. On a slope (considering the soil composition) you may even considered a home built into the ground rather on top of it....

@joypower3199

6 ай бұрын

Smart! I'd bet my bottom dollar there's an architect in the area who would offer a substantial discount for the P.R. they would receive. You have a lot interest in your project. Good Luck, Max!!!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Good advice!! Thank you 💛

@YAYA-bv7po

6 ай бұрын

@@MaxandOccy PS mullet or no mullet either way you are one sexy dude.... you would even look good bald...lol

at the end of the day ask yourself what was the majority of the value of the property, the cabin? or the beyond amazing plot of land? that land is priceless, if you have the time and the future funds a new home designed for you is the absolute smartest choice you could ever make! Lets goooo Max

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

💛💛

Hi Max - I am a kiwi lawyer living in HK. I don't know anything about the Aussie legal system so my advice is not lawyer advice, just my thoughts. I have been enjoying your videos for the past 6 months - well done! The building inspector will probably refer any claim about his/her inspection work to his/her insurance company and, as I often say to my clients, insurance companies do not make money paying out claims! They will probably not immediately make a pay out. I think the suggestion from a commenter that you should seek the views and opinions of other inspectors and experts in the field is a good one. I suggest you do this first. I am a court lawyer and having their views first will help in any settlement discussions or litigation. If it is no cost, ask that they look at the property and provide their written views. If you go ahead, an Aussie lawyer will rightly suggest you seek a full written (and paid) opinion from a recognised expert but an initial view is good to start with. Dependent on what they say, you will probably have a choice: court or the equivalent of the NZ Disputes Tribunal (a lower maximum claim amount with no lawyers involved) or stop now. Given what you have said in your video, I would be surprised if they say stop now. the two positive pathways might lead to settlement offers from the insurance company (as they might not want to invest money into this case) too - no litigation or going to court is likely a win for everyone. I think you should speak with an Australian lawyer friend (I am sure you will know one) - a non-cost approach first - after you have the views of the experts. Just my thoughts. Keep up the fantastic videos. My view (as a completely non-builder) :knock-down and build what is right for you!

I had the same thing with our building and pest in QLD. They didn't see that our compliance certification for our smoke alarms was fraudulent. We seeked legal advise and we would have had to had notified our solicitors prior to settlement of property. Completely stupid, so we ended having to have all smoke alarms replaceds.

I hope people appreciate what a good friend (& just good guy in general) Max is! Not a lot of people lift up their friends like he does. Nice hat😉

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛💛 I'm so lucky to be surrounded by amazing people too

It sucks to have to rip it down but it gives you a chance to build your home the way you want

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

You're right Jennifer, thank you! 💛

To keep the roof you could build with steel or brick to just stabilise and knock down the old structure. That would leave you with some restrictions but latgely allow you to change a lot. Also you might be able to do this through energy grants.

You can be frustrated with yourself at times but you push thru!! Keep moving forward, Max. Merry Christmas!! 🎄

We are all figuring it out as we go Max. No matter what we’re trying to do. I’m 59 and still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up. What I know so far is that life’s an adventure and I’m exactly where I am today due to the choices I’ve made. And those choices have also shaped me into who I am. And I feel like I’m a pretty good person so onward with this adventure!!

@lucystrider728

6 ай бұрын

Lovely comment! Life is for learning!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Absolutely love that perspective Renee, thank you for sharing! 💛

It's shocking that the surveyor didn't notice those things. I hope you do get help to some compensation. Tiny house site is amazing. I think the mullet needs to go mate. You look much better without it. Xx

It is real hard making all the decisions on a big, perhaps once in a life time, project, decision fatigue is real. I know that you often enjoy the process, when it’s tough just breathe, go slow. I’m in a similar boat and once I started to see myself camping everything seemed great. I.e. my tent (cottage) didn’t blow down in the wind storm, I too had my ‘this is amazing I can cool down my tent (one room with A/C)’, celebrating the ‘make do’ moments in my little cottage perched in a beautiful land as I chip away at the big picture…now its just one ‘door’ at a time. Much better❤Thanks for being authentically you❤

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for your wise words and support 💛

At the end of the day you have a beautiful part of NSW to take care of and these challenges come along to many of us. At the end you will still be living in paradise.

I think making that cabin semi habitable is a good idea. build the tiny and make the cabin/forever housepad a later project.

Please don't be so hard on yourself. Take it one day at a time. Where you are right now is perfect. Follow your motto and be kind to yourself dear Max 🙏

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛💛

My vote on the mullet : please get rid of it 😂 haha Love you Max and Occy! Xx

@fern8003

6 ай бұрын

Agree!

You're welcome. Sticking with you all the way!

Jake and Occy had me smiling the whole video. Gotta love the doggos! And you’re so right, we never know what’s going on behind the scenes so let’s all give each other some grace. Max, you are so incredibly hard working and tenacious. It’s a joy watching you transform whatever project you’re working on. I hope you are able to find a way to recoup some of the money you lost due to the inspector.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thanks so much 💛💛

My suggestion would be to use the existing cabin. I would divide it in half and create a bed/bath/kitchenette. Open up the other half and make it a large screen room. Once your new home is complete you have a guest cabin with a large screened in lounge area.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Great idea! 💛

@jeffreynelson2946

6 ай бұрын

I had another idea. Have you considered building a "kit" home? Since getting materials can be a problem, with a kit home all the materials are included. @@MaxandOccy

Max, I also watch Laura Kamf's vlogs: she bought a 100 year old house in Germany, near her workshop etc and discovered a host of issues including asbestos, rot, termites. After stripping it down to the framework in order to remove the contaminants, she decided she wanted to honour the history and integrity of the building, and made the brave decision to rebuild, adding all the eco-friendly features needed to make her dream home. I sensed her quandry as I do yours, but figured you will find your way as you go, and do it well. What ever your decision, I will find it inspiring and travel with you. But thank you for sharing your disappointment and learnings. BTW the view from that platform is absolutely stunning, and sounds wonderful!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for your kind words, joanna 💛

Got the hoodie I ordered, Max. Great quality! The words 'BE KIND. ALWAYS' are powerful. I've not worn it yet as I'm layered up with fleeces to keep warm (UK).... but I've taken these words to heart & live them every day. When I get to wear 'them', I'll have to be the living example. Without fail. Amazing how powerful the ripples are, from a stone you threw, Max. Loved the vid. Starting over is tough but it'll all be worth it, in the long run....

“I literally had it written as 1750 and I cut it at 1700. That doesn’t even make sense”

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

😆

I loved your long hair. But don't worry about what others think. Do whatever works best for you. And you can always change it as it grows.

It's a giant panda snail. Often you'll find their shells with a large hole in them and the snail missing...if that's the case you have found the crime scene left over by a Noisy Pitta. Sorry to hear about how extensive the termite damage is, as someone who has been going through something similar for nearly 2 years it's heartening and motivating to see the way you're dealing with it.

So sorry to hear the news about your home. Silver lining is, you’ve got the land to work with still. Whether to rebuild or go ahead with renovating, is the question. As I’ve noticed with other people that do renovations, it’s always a win for you to design things the way you want them. There’s also the idea of purchasing a shed and turning it into home. I’ve just been watching the girls in Canada, Vanwives, they’ve done a excellent job in renovating their home with your help. That hot-tub would be an excellent idea for you to relax in after a hard day of work. Take care max and have a great Christmas…. Sending you blessings from The Hunter Valley.

if u want the shelves in the storage room to be stronger to hold more weight, turn the 2x4s on its side. They are weaker and can bend if laying flat.

The tiny home location is a dreamers dream!! You’ve got this Max, we’re all cheering from the sidelines sending only the most positive energy. You’re so right in saying it’s easy to look from the outside and think people have their shit together but walk a mile in their shoes and you’ll soon come to see this most always isn’t the case. We hope you don’t feel alone in this and it sounds like Emma is a good egg who’s got your back 💛 In the meantime a cool/warm space out of the van will feel like a palace 😜 Curious… are you looking at container style homes at all?

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for the support, virginia 💛

I say knock it down and rebuild with special attention to what materials will tolerate the humidity, moisture and bugs in that area. In such lush and wet environment the right building materials are key. Maybe wood isn't the best for the build. Areas that get a lot of rain often don't do well with wood. But, more importantly, we love and support you and whatever you decide.

I agree with the comment about saving the roof and rebuilding underneath.

I would look at how many videos you have made about the cabin, and how much you have learned! That’s a win! Onward.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Great perspective! Thank you! 💛

Just wanted to let you know your channel has gotten me through some pretty rough times. Whatever your decision is, we're all here for it. I will proudly wear my "Be kind. Always" hoodie, thank you for putting those good vibes out into the universe.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for supporting us and wearing our merch! 💛💛

Earthship! Keep the cabin roof/footprint maybe for a new garage/workshop. Original cabin: Knock it down 👍🏾

Keep the roof and electricals. Support where necessary. Rip out the walls.

No one has everything figured out. Sorry about the continued issues, sometimes it’s better to cut our losses but it’ll probably be more clear when you talk with some experts about potential to build. Occy just wants to be near you, especially as I imagine he feels your stress. Be kind to yourself!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thanks Debbie 💛

Smart thinking Max, I’ve been really hoping you would end up doing that. possible mold and definite termite damage are big factor in doing it from scratch . Plus you can create something with good bones and much better and efficient layout

Max, at the beginning of the video when you were sharing about the need to potentially start from scratch by taking down the relief from sharing that news was visibly obvious on your face. Though it's an extremely large group of people you shared the news with it was great to see the weight of that thought/decision be released and the burden of what you were carrying be set free.

As much as I don't want you to have to start over from scratch... I can definitely see you coming up with an amazing design for an indoor/outdoor oasis! I don't feel the current cabin is doing the property and its views justice! ❤

The way you handle life's challenges with such grace is so beautiful it's touching 💖 whatever you do, you put your whole heart in to it.

@donnam5891

6 ай бұрын

Couldn't have said it better ❤

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

💛💛

Hi Max. Advertise to find any recyclable materials for free. There is probably someone living near there that is renovating and they may have wood and supplies that will suit your property. I think working room to room is your best option. Kitchen and bathroom first. Then the living and main bedroom and so forth. You've come a long way so don't beat yourself up for this. The building inspector didn't do his job right. You could report him so that others don't have the same issue. Your property is fantastic and it's going to look great once you've made it your home. Much love to Occy and look after yourself. ❤

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Good idea, veronica. Thank you for your support. Occy and I both appreciate it! 🐾💛

Perhaps you can reuse the roof material. If there is a better site for your house, I would renovate the structure and use it as a guest house and build a new structure later

I just want to say, I really like my “Be kind. Always.” shirt😊

It makes me wonder if the former home owner and the building inspector knew each other? As in: is this more than simple incompetence? As you said though, it would be a costly enterprise with no guaranteed outcome. If you have the means, I'd knock that beast down, salvage the material you can, and start over; rather than have to keep addressing someone else's mistakes/tastes.

Bummer Max but agree with others not to blame yourself. You did the right things. What about another inspection now that more of the structure is visible? Keep your chin up mate, you got this!

Lots of love and support here in Maryland USA. Do what makes you happy Max.

To be honest if this is going to be your long term home then I would pull the place down and rebuild. If you remove the roof carefully you can reuse it. Yes it has been time consuming and costly but that happens, we live and learn!. You will work out the answer that best suits you. Can you build the new place in a different location so you can continue to use the shack and pull it down later?

I love that you’re doing this “quick” reno, it gives you some time to actually enjoy your space 💛 Take a breath, spend some time in there, and who knows maybe there’s a third option lurking around!

Belated Happy Birthday Max. Hope you had a day. 🎂🍺💙

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you! I had a great day 💛

Lots of great ideas in the comments. Putting a little money into it, as you are, and using it as a temporary dwelling is smart!! 👍 after you build your tiny house (or before) you can convert it into a luxury ‘gazebo’, with an outdoor kitchen and entertainment area!! The roof will work great! and you can reuse a lot of the electrical….

What is your dream Max? Do you want a sustainable cabin? Can you build a structure that is free of potential termite damage? can you build a site specific cabin, do you want too? Can you do geo thermal? Solar generation? Insulation. Can you have an architect help design a space that is inspiring? Or can a builder comeover and give you sound advice on how to save what you have? It is always good to get professional advice. On one of the properties we have we were not ready to tear down the existing 100 year old cottage so we built a cabin on another spot. We had an architect design it. We love it! Our family and friend s can use the old cottage when they visit. Good luck with problem solving a wonderful project no mater what way you turn. You are so fortunate to have such a dilema.

I must admit I was wondering a few episodes ago if it would be easier to pull it down … it full of costly problems and is almost a rebuild … you can build it from stretch to withstand weather and termites and last 50 years and more etc

It’s a huge accomplishment to know when it’s better to let something go that you’ve already invested in. Great idea to make the space a functional shelter while you build your dream home! Congratulations!

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you 💛

First you look extra cute in this video .. the tan or legs or blue eyes or curly hair.. sweet man just take your time. Enjoy the the absolute beautiful spot you found. It’s like a garden of Eden. Part of the beauty of watching you & Oc is your transparency. Just the part when you find the baby birds .. lol.. you’re so sweet. Don’t beat yourself up.. just breathe and I think maybe it’s pulling it down and build your dream. Can you save the roof for another building on the property? I am rooting for you to find peace and knowing whatever you choose to do it will be great. Sending so much love and cheers to easy decisions.. hugs from California

Good luck Max!

You are doing awesome. Be kind to yourself young man.

Max, I think a lot of the viewers are being polite about your hair.

@Angie-fe8yd

6 ай бұрын

😂

Max you are not stupid. You have just joined a group of millions who have also learned the hard way. Good news is you have 5 acres to do whatever you want. Hi Occy 😊

It's so nice to hear that you're keeping in touch with a therapist to help with this renovation. You've been faced with a lot. It looks like they are keeping you on a healthy path forward to get through this renovation. Whatever you choose, reno/build, I am putting out positive juju in the universe that you will complete it all, and it will be amazing!!

Max honey, don't be so hard on yourself it's not your fault the inspector should have done a better job. Now you can bulid your new house the way you want it. Love you Occy and Jake! Love from Texas. I am cold while you are hot! It's winter here

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Aw, thank you Karen. Occy and Jake send their love to you in chilly Texas 💛🐾

Max, you might want to look into whether there is a law that a home seller in Australia have to disclose past termite activity and treatment to the buyer shortly after accepting the offer. Also, do you know if there is an active and unresolved termite infestation currently? You may want a termite control expert out to inspect your property and who could provide solutions on how to shore up your home’s defences to future termites infestation. I think building your dream home, on the new site, is the way to go long term however this process will take more time than you may think so making your existing structure comfortable in the meantime is a sound decision.

@MaxandOccy

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for the suggestions, Kathleen 💛. It has certainly been a learning curve!

You got this...life is a learning process. Merry Christmas ❤❤❤❤