Essentially we would be looking to swap ownership in the property through the refinance, with me cashing out.

$1000 to swap two appliances is different than $1000 to swap half a dozen light fixtures, do some drywall patch and repair, etc.

And then taking the finished list ensuring proper upload, setting up 4-5 numbers in a swap out to match the area we are calling from “loop”.

I'll usually have them swapped out for the 3" cans or you can just swap out the trim and they will have the appearance of 3".Change all the light switch plates and electrical outlet plates to those without the visible screws.

I recently swapped out an AC capacitor and saved at least $150 in labor. 

Swapping parts should be the focus of the rehab.Never pay contractors in advance for labor.

I know I've made the right career swap when I get excited about analyzing different properties.

I have done lots or reno projects where we swap kitchens and baths, and even moved a wall or two without a GC, but if you are going from the ground up then you would be nuts not to have a fantastic GC on your team. 

If possible, swap them out one at a time for stainless steel.The best solution I've seen to your painting problem was wrapping the pressure-treated lumber in a very thin composite material.

In either case I'd strongly consider exchanging, as I like the idea of "swap till you drop" and the multiplier effect it can have, especially generationally.