Quote from @Galant Ant: Permit delays in NY can derail timelines and budgets for developers and flippers.

Just the other day I saw someone had used black sheet rock screws in the hangers on a brand new deck (non-permitted obviously, and not a single lag or any flashing on the ledger board, and they painted it immediately before the pressure treated lumber had even dried out so that’s going to peal in the first year, at about the same time that those sheetrock screws start to rust lol). 

Only thing better would be initial deposit and then paid in full upon Certificate of Occupancy and punchlist complete.Of course, standard items should also be checked: licensed, insured, willing and able to pull all required permits, reference checks.I would also commonly avoid the cheapest bid you get.  

Are soft costs like permit and architectural fees drawable and when are they released?

We also learned that the house had failed or not received many of Baltimore city’s permits and inspections.

Yes, this can be very dangerous, we always use a licensed contractor that has pulled the permits.  

And I have below clause in the leaseRental Application: Only those people indicated on Tenant’s rental application are permitted to reside at the Premises, with the exception of any minor children born to, or adopted by, Tenant.

Currently, the contractor is demanding $44K upfront to resume work and complete the occupancy permit, promising to discuss the additional costs afterward.

Been getting nowhere with zoning laws found online and in the local library for Yonkers (in westchester county) as to whether any permits are needed in order to operate such a business. 

The main property will be my primary residence.My biggest question is, what kind of foundation would you use, (that is to code and will pass inspection/permits in Charlottesville) that is either relatively easy DIY or cheap to outsource.