If you want to make money in real estate you don't cut special deals because of a sob story.

Some carriers may not even cut any checks until the entire scope of work is agreed to by both parties and signed off on. 

Critical Update: Waiting too long for the Fed to cut rates could significantly impact your approval chances.

So that is a question you have to evaluate.I think I would probably cut my losses and buy into a more affordable house for yourself. 

Finally a fixed fee could work, but same underlying issue exist which is getting an accurate estimate of their consumption.I understand they're perspective, but I just feel like the tenant is just trying to cut corners.

The city of Austin is trying to cut back on the supply of STR's. https://www.kvue.com/article/n... 1 out of every 4 is registered as a STR.

You’re on-site for maintenance issues or tenant concerns, which cuts down on the hassle of traveling to a separate location.Loan Accessibility: Getting a mortgage for a duplex can be easier than financing other types of investment properties because you can use the potential rental income from the second unit to help qualify for the loan.Tax Benefits: Owning a rental property can open up opportunities for various deductions like mortgage interest, property taxes, operating expenses, and depreciation.Disadvantages of Investing in DuplexesPrivacy Issues: Living so close to your tenants means less privacy.

Many lenders are requiring longer seasoning requirements, will ask for a second appraisal, and will cut value if the comps on the appraisal do not support the value of the property.

What investors don't understand is that their ignorant focus on the cheapest price, attracts either bozos or cut-rate companies to cater to them.

Add into the equation the cost of materials and it makes sense that builders are finding ways to cut overall build costs and one of those ways is to buy land cheaper.