At the end of the day, they have the benefit that they will continue to have a license in that municipality until a renewal is required.I do think it's fair to charge a reasonable fee to pull a permit.  

Funding renovations with your credit cards can hurt your credit score too.I'd recommend either using a broker who can do both loans, or talking about the scenario and getting pre-qualified with your refinance lender before you buy anything.

Right now you are just asking people to spend time talking to you because that is what you want, but where is the gain in it for them?

In most cases, it probably won't go that far (most people talk), but if it does, at least you know they are serious and you understand how they operate, which will help you decide whether to partner with them in the future.

Talk soon. 

When (if) I choose to move on to something else, I will continue using a property manager rather than do it myself.

Talk to a local lawyer to check everything and use extra forms for any special rules about the fee or deposit.

These are all questions that will narrow down which syndiacators to talk to.

I have spoken to a couple property managers so far, but really need to talk to a few more to feel confident in my choice.

Since l had to increase rent for a tenant, l first talked about it via phone and text message (it’s very difficult to communicate with them via email), then signed the new lease.