I am working with a group that have been doing multifamily for several years and they are "watching over my shoulder" when it comes to purchase.

If seller insist on having the repairs done by a licensed and bonded contractor, seller will shoulder 25% of the contract.

An "I'm in charge" body position - shoulders back, head up, eye contact, but relaxed - tells the other person that you will not be trifled with, but is not necessarily confrontational.

There are also shoulder seasons to consider.

She's asking you, the customer, to financially shoulder some of the risk for her business. 

But, as @Chad Conrad said, someone needs to shoulder the risk as well as the coordination effort during construction.  

Sure there  are vibrant  communities but you have to look over your shoulder when you walk down the street.  

Best way to rub shoulders!

I have a question regarding 203K loans and the refinancing process:  the idea of financing a property like this is extremely appealing to avoid having to shoulder the entire cost of a remodel. 

The process though is making it feel like there will always be someone over my shoulder.