They ask for 50% upfront, material costs (or combination), and they prefer cash. 

Material Participation in a Real Estate Trade or Business.This is pretty straightforward but you must materially participate in a real property trade or business, such as development, redevelopment, construction, reconstruction, acquisition, conversion, rental, operation, management, leasing, or brokerage.2.

Fire rating, mechanical equipment and materials often change and are more expensive.

Try to soak up and understand all the materials you can find here.

That would be for a garage in a convenient location since these always get picked up by contractors for their tool and material storage.

I appreciate the suggestion to explore materials beyond cedar—I'll definitely consider other options that might suit the look I want to achieve.

You are already in the right place in the BP forums, but try to consume as much podcast and reading material as you can.

(Hopefully) If it was not top quality then he will have a point.Customers should NEVER buy any materials or products.

You've obviously read renting out properties is easy and profitable - but, have you looked at when the material was published? 

Did you find the material easy to understand and apply?