I got a deal on labor as I know the contractor personally and helped out a bit with the project.

Who is personally going to be liable if the guarantees aren't met?

I have not done it personally but have some insight, maybe my reply may boost your post to someone with more experience in it. 

I started my jouney here in 2011 and I am still learning everyday - especially from others on this forum.My personal portfolio is located within Stamford and Bridgeport.

I would recommend anyone lending in this environment to fix and flippers or any type of investment to be careful and get a personal guaranty and make sure person has a long track record.

We will shop for used appliances where we can when we need one… or pick up used cabinets if we can, or search eBay for something smaller,  but going to the extreme of personally shipping something big in internationally for one-off renovation needs seems like a stretch of reasonable.Just like you mention, the number of unknowns would not seem to be worth it to me.Just my 2 cents.Randy  

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

I had hoped to set this up with PNC since I bank with them but an in-person visit to the branch is required for set up and this is not possible since I now live in Washington state.

This will allow you to remove the person and do the financing on your own.Home Equity Loan/Line of Credit: Since you're looking to access equity, a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC) can be a good option.

I have found ChatGPT to be particularly useful for testing new Book Covers for BiggerPockets, such as our foray into the personal fitness category with upcoming title "Sweat for Life":