One thing to point out (at least based in Los Angeles county) is that if you permitted the work (guessing you didn’t), that would have caused a increase in taxes, so depending on the amount and type or work it may be a wash.

Unless permitting requires it, using a GC will add cost. 

I recently purchased a property that I want to renovate and I am wondering if anyone is willing to talk to me about their experience going through the permitting process with the City of Grand Rapids.

Would love thoughts on what some of you are seeing in your markets.So far things are moving in the right direction as far as permitting and initial construction.

After filling out a permit wrong we triggered a city of Boston ordinance of having to require a sprinkler system put in.

Also put up "permit parking only" signs and "non permitted vehicles will be towed" signs.  

I am renting out a comercial unit this year, potential tenant who wants to open a take out place says want to change electric outlet from 110v to 220v because will use comercial oven and also need to install 3 sink as is required by city)Both job need a general contractor and apply permit.

Thanks for the mention @Jonathan Bombaci @Seth W Trudeau, while I haven’t specifically looked at portfolio loan options, for refinancing out of my FHA into a conventional loan for my primary residence I found competitive interest rates, and negotiable loan costs, with Cardinal Financial.I also did considerable research into high LTV HELOCs that would permit up to 90-100% CLTV for owner-occupied 3-4 families.

What is the property currently, and what uses are permitted.  

Was the conversion permitted?