Plus, very important to understand the new layout and how the dig down will effect the existing stairs, plumbing, etc.Happy to connect and talk through your specific situation because @Bruce Woodruff mentioned every project is different and know one price fits all espeically with these complex jobs.Where at in Chicago is your building?

I now am more selective about loan officers as well as lenders. 

Additionally, working in a small-town market taught us how to effectively price properties for faster sales without compromising profit.

When you said it came as runnerup, what criteria have you used to select it.  

They have been very professional and effective so far.

The calculator that we use can factor in what the effect would be if you earned less.

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

The Retainer Fee is credited towards whatever they buy from us in the 90 days, so in effect, costs them nothing.Note: we're not doing this to make money, but to avoid the time-wasters.

Our end goal is to be in a position where we can be very selective and choose the clients and properties we work with so that doesn't happen.

I completely agree with @Ashish Acharya's points about the cost-effectiveness of a HELOC and the potential credit implications if it’s secured by your primary residence.