Wells Fargo took over a year or so ago and I have had perfect payment history with them, as well as everyone else for years.When I was bleeding money like someone with a leg cut off at the hip, and had no options other than Foreclosure or as Chase and Bank of America suggested to "request a short sale", I went and had a meeting with the Bank Manager at my local Wells Fargo (yes with a coat and tie on) and explaned the situition in full and I ask him, "Will, this affect my Heloc with Wells Fargo?

Best price today is in Morrison, CO at $2.99 - worst price is $5.96 in Death Valley, CA :).With this tool you can check some gas prices in your region.

Adding over 600sf of finished basementNew drywall basically everywhere Many, many coats of paint (former owner was a chain smoker.

Is it better to grind out all the caulk, repoint and seal it or just apply a thin coat of surface bonding cement to the entire chimney and seal it twice with a drylock masonry sealer?

Use a bunch (3-5) of light coats.

I would also consider going old school with plaster skim coat system about 3/8 thick. 

If the window is textured, it can be installed on the outside and a coat of polyeurathane added to further protect it from the westher.

I've been working on checking on other pricing as to not get too comfy with the labor I've been using.How much are you paying for hardwood refinishing and skim coating?

You show great tenacity to not go home and sulk, rather deflect it like you were coated in teflon.Next time you are told to &^%$ off, just remember not to engage, smile & leave, then jot down the address and send them a series of hand written letters & post cards every week for a couple months.

I would venture to say, like @Tom Gimer suggested, you should visit the neighborhoods where you'll be "lending" in the daylight and I would add, bring a big coat.