I would have taken out all the equity they permitted without loan rate artificial increase because it would allow me to best leverage my investment.  

If you're looking to build at 1,600 square feet per floor, the project will get you to approximately 960K+ (factor in permits that need to be pulled and designs which will take another 50-100K in NYC depending on who you use).  

We scheduled the shutdown, and got the proper permits.

The money you save on the loan is chicken feed compared to what you'll spend in permitting zoning and construction costs to divide the property.

A new tenant decided to build a 300 sf patio there and we discovered that they did not apply for a permit.

I could do the work myself but cannot get around the permits as the power needs to be shut off at the street to accomplish the work.

I applied for the permit for bathroom and kitchen remodel, plus new furnace and water heatr.Here are my questions.1) is the tankless water heatsink needs be braced?

Does your 30k budget for permitting that space?

Yes, I had a rep from the Durable Slate Company come by, he said my slate was worth $150-200 per square, but that the roof was higher than they were permitted to work.

- Total cost to scrape, cap utilities, get permits/inspections/etc?