I can't speak for contractors, but as a DIYer, I know even the most basic kitchen renovation may end up costing me 10k if I were to do it myself. 2-3k for cabinets. 1k for plumbing and fixtures1k for electrical and fixtures2-3k for granite countertops1k for tiling/flooring1k for miscellaneous like painting, etc. 

New sewer, electrical, electrical panel, mini split, tankless water heater, plumbing, flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, turf, driveway, hardscape, etc.

I cannot tell you after buying a property how many things come out of the woodwork like roof repairs, electrical repairs, new hot water heater etc. 

He was considering my house a remodel even though I stated everything in the home is original and that I was only repairing damage from the foundation and making some minor updatesHe required that I get an electrical permit for 5 new lights I had an electrician run for me.

Electric company put leans on the owner. 

Expense your electric, water, sewer, internet, shovel, water hose, etc. 

Is this just a cosmetic rehab or are are there problems you have to fix in electrical, plumbing, utilities, etc?

The issues seem to be Baltimore Gas and Electric takes forever to do an inspection - 3 months sometimes. 

Also for the area I reside in you don't even need a vehicle, you can walk to everything anyone could possibly think of and when I do need to go further I have my own electric scooter..

For example, my electrician walked through a house I'm closing on today a few days ago to see what was needed to get the electric up to code.