The problem is, each city is unique in the amount of time they take to process for permits, some cities do in house others farm out plan checks, etc.

Seller will convey the Property to Buyer at Closing with marketable title in fee simple by transferable and recordable general warranty deed, with release of dower, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, conditions, easements, and restrictions, except for: (i) those of record which do not interfere with the intended use of the Property as a permitted use under the current zoning for the Property; (ii) those assumed by Buyer; or (iii) those which are open and notorious or which could be determined by a visual inspection or survey of the Property.

Many would say the only thing you're permitted to do is check your account periodically to make sure all the deposits are coming in.  

You will need to do more research on the property as some locations now will not even issue a building permit if the grade is not above the 100 year flood plain, which this being an AE then It is not.

Just because the statistical data says a home is worth $212M, doesn't mean the house hasn't been gutted or that the 2,000 square foot add on wasn't done with a permit or that there isn't a crackhead living in the place right now using the furniture as firewood. 

Does anyone have a recommendation for a software to create a layout/drawing for my contractor to use for his permit request?

This permits me to keep copies of all deposit items in the event something ever happens again.3.

Masonry is hard to work with especially moving walls or expanding -- ergo expensive.Today, there are issues with re-enforcement for earthquakes and permitting, so be careful.

I send out between 5k-7k letters a month..I have a bulk mailing permit from USPS..So it cost me roughly $300 per 1000 letters mailed...I print my own letters ( not yellow letters) I use simple white copy paper.

For new construction, the land must be owned free and clear and plans and permits drawn before we can fund.