Finding the right contractors to renovate at a reasonable price and time frame is another very important factor, as well.

Are there any 203k contractors and inspectors that any of you recommend.

The frustrating part came in when I lowered my number to $185K based on the reaction of a contractor who walked the property with me.

Can work actually be completed in 2 months with the right contractor?

Contractors and developers where building spec homes left and right and not waiting for someone to buy them first before building because they would get sold the second they where finished.

In the past year, we started a renovation to add the second bathroom but ran out of funds (this is an attic conversion and our contractor was way low in his estimate).

With my first inspector I learned about bathroom vents, electric codes and GFCI outlets, termite damage, wood rot, how to check for leaks, etc.

I'm looking for a contractor to give me an estimate on the property. 

What steps does my contractor need to take to ensure water damage is properly addressed to avoid future problems, and how do I follow up from out of state to ensure these steps are being implemented?

I am pretty handy and plan on doing a lot of the easier work myself, and I may try to get my contractor’s license (apparently very easy to get in NJ) to make things a bit easier as far as permits are concerned.