An electric dryer will run up the bill of that unit quickly , where a washing machine wont nearly as much . 

Now I am in the early stages of development.I am working with a consulting firm to help with a concept plan, engineering, and to get the city to sign off on everything.

I went to a public hearing on a red card that the town fabricated because a structural inspector decided to do an electrical inspection early.

Doing DIY on plumbing, electrical, or structural.

Based on the value of a property you can likely get away with a inexpensive desk top study such as condos and you will require a more comprehensive engineering study for larger properties like a 4plex.Desktop / modeling options are sometimes good for smaller residential like you mention. 

I have the land and am working through the process with the civil engineers and the city.

But I'm confused/curious as to why this Electrical Contr is so willing to burn bridges over couple of grand, is he just stupid?

Electric services.

A good HI will go over your house with a fine-toothed comb.If you can find an Ex (or Retired) HI that is also Certified, that would be even better, since they will understand the structure/electrical/plumbing systems in more detail than a regular HI...

If you are doing a BRRRR and leaving older items in place, not updating electrical and plumbing, I think you need $300 t0 $350 if you are just getting started.