Who pulls the permit?

[Christopher Andrews]

I just bought this house and it needs a ton of work. There was a major plumbing leak upstairs and its already been gutted. What remains; the studs, subflooring, etc; all look solid. Basically just need to put her back together. this is the third house I've remodeled, but the first that isn't my primary residence and also happens to be my first investment property.  The two contractors I've had come through have both suggested that I pull the permits instead of them, and even say that might save me 15 - 20%.  I am a full time w2 father of 2yr. old twins and have no time to be messing around trying to coordinate inspections, plus I'm kinda thinking I'm taking on schedule risk there that the contractors are trying to hand over. I dont mind trying to do this if its actually not that big a deal. I just have never messed around with permits and am feeling a little clueless. any advice? Thanks!