How about doing a rebuild with SIPs (structured insulated panels)?

Check electrical, not just for knob & tube but also fuse boxes, FPE panels, anything less than 100A main, signs of arcing (black burns around an outlet or breaker), aluminum wiring, etc.

FYI too-- This is NOT a PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) and Leasing is not offered either-- these are Panels to be owned by you. 

I would need to live in the apartment throughout renovations, so not sure how that affects things.Looking for NYC specific advice and recommendations.I am looking to:- remove wood paneling from plaster walls- redo floors in whole apartment - wood floors and tile- redo kitchen- redo bathroom- remove drop ceiling in living room and kitchen- remove old fluorescent light fixture and add new fixture- add electric socket and/or gas for washer/dryer- repair saggy deck off back of apartment and add stairs to backyard- replace front door frame- paint whole apartmentI have been told on BP to assume $20,000 per unit for renovations like this... does this seem accurate?

Until the electrician is paid, all the wires and panel in your house belong to him . 

This is a very old house with wood paneling.

I have a duplex with 100A panels.

Anyways, since purchasing 2 years ago we added a 2 BR addition and a 6.3 kW solar panel system on the roof. 

Like many of you, I had some great take-ways from the discussion panels, seminars and social hour conversations.

However if you’re okay with pit toilets, septic systems, solar panels and generators, flying to Houston or going up to Mexico for healthcare, and don’t care about shopping then these obstacles are easily overcome.