EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

You will be surprised where plain ole grit will take you. 

A contingency in this case means setting aside extra funds to cover any unexpected cost increases during construction.

FollowingI've been surprised (disappointed?)

Maybe you run into surprises during the remodel and blow the renovation budget.

People look to Detroit for cash flow, and you can definitely find it there, but the median price has also doubled in the last 5 years.I would not be surprised to see it double again in the coming 5+ years too.

Most know to make those private but not all do and you would be surprised what shows up on those.The bottom line is dig, dig, dig.

I've tried everything and done everything "right" according to what everyone says (professional photos, changing rates, premier host, updating listing frequently)...well this was a surprise..."

For instance, I would be surprised if she hadn't been late on rent before this.

I was surprised by that because they read like they are 100% AI.