The in-store, in-stock laminates are cheaper versions of the made to order, at least these days and at Lowes.

Maybe better to pay debt now and use capital later to buy assets when they are cheaper? 

There are many that rent their place out and then rent elsewhere cheaper too.  

If you're looking for cheaper properties, look outside to cities like KWC, Barrie, etc.

You could do a non-recourse loan with a 30-year amortization and come out cheaper than the $50k.  

if you get a break down and it shows you are paying $10,000 for cabinets, yet you know you can get cabinets for $5000, would you go back and ask for them to credit back and use the cheaper ones?

You dont have anything to lose and will ABSOLUTELY WALK AWAY,  if you continue looking and get a deal for even $5000 cheaper- YOU WILL. 

A virtual ssisstant who usually works for you out of this country and will typically be cheaper and good at what you need and you typically communicate with you by the computer.  

(I am not sure how much sod costs or how big your yard is but I would personally run the math on whether it is cheaper to give her the discount or maybe just let some sod die)

On a spreadsheet it's usually cheaper to go via hard money lender, if you can avoid their extension fees.