I am trying to figure out costs for my first house.I'm a Mechanical Engineer, but I specialize in design, so the bones of the house are very important to me.  

Double the maintenance, double the tenants, double the mechanicals ... ;).  

Hi All,Name: Arjay VergaraAge: 26Occupation: Mechanical EngineerLocation: Central JerseyI have recently gotten married back in August.  

I am college student, graduating in December with a mechanical engineering degree.  

(My thinking is if I find a potential buyer before the offer is accepted then perhaps I would feel more comfortable in the negotiation process, kind of knowing my financial "limit" based on what kind of response I'm getting from buyers.)Just curious and trying to learn the mechanics/logistics.Thanks,Austin-

That's what pays off.Any serious mechanical (elect, A/C heat, plumbing etc) or unforeseen major structural that I can't do well, safely or efficiently I hire lic contractors.

That's with any vocation or profession.Say you really want to be a great auto mechanic, but you read car books and magazines and learn what the look like and all the specifications.

As far as the mechanics behind the scenes (promissory notes / assurances on the obligation) - I don't know the specifics.  

I have to go thru the legal process, demand letter and filing a Mechanics lien.

OMG, I went to bed around 4am and was at the mechanic by 9:15am this morning.