It's a very fluid market.

With eXp he'll be able to sponsor both team member and solo agents, monetize his transaction management, and grow a more fluid and organic team. 

Would "Johnny" feel that same way about a mechanic who heard his brakes squealing and came by offering to fix it for a fee?

You always want to stay cash fluid for any issues that might pop-up like repairs, vacancy, lost jobs, etc...

That furnace is still in operation 4 years later with zero problems a/c and handler works like new.And do have a wall mount CO tester in the unit..it's code.Do you need a whole new system, that's a lot of money to rely on only one bid.Like with car repairs, unless you understand the system and know the (Lingo), there will always be those guys out there who will try to sell you "Blinker Fluid" and an engine rebuild when all you need are brake pads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

Life's circumstances are too unique and fluid to set arbitrary triggers.One thing  you may want to also put into the hopper for consideration is a partial exchange.  

I know that renting with dogs is rough, and I am willing to pay significantly more than many for a smaller apartment, simply because they a) allow dogs (multiples, and large), and b) have hardwoods that will hold up to the inescapable "messes" that come with having dogs (yeah, bodily fluids, but also mud, snowy paws, and lots of fluff....)

The great thing about house hacking and REI in general is that it's fluid (mostly) and if something changes and something brings you back to Chicago you can keep your Colorado rental, and pick up a new one when you move to Chicago.

As I'm sure you have heard partnerships are certainly great for moving further along in your wealth-building journey, but if partners are poorly selected they can also temporarily put the brakes on that journey.

Do not put more down if you can save it for renovations or to keep as an asset since its better to be cash fluid.