Yeah, because nothing builds a deep bond like discussing the weather for five minutes. Most small talk is a dead end. You stand there asking about someone's commute while both of you are just waiting for a reason to leave. It's a social filter, not a key. It usually just unlocks the door to more boring talk.

Smart move linking rates to your actual expenses (I review mine quarterly). It's the only way to keep up without losing clients.

I read about the Hoover Dam using a special concrete mix that's still solid after nearly 100 years. That's how critical the right materials are. Using the wrong sand can make concrete crumble in a few seasons. I've seen sidewalks and foundation pads crack all the way through because someone used soft masonry sand. That's why I'll always say something if I hear bad advice, it prevents a huge waste of time and money.

Hey, that's awesome! Which credit bureau site did you end up using?

What do you use to check for wires now? I got a cheap stud finder that senses live wires after I did almost the same thing, so I feel you @rayh20. It just makes you slow down and double check everything.