Same reason people ask criminal record. 

Currently they have average finishings for the area.I have an idea on the rents but would like to hear what other people are currently renting their units for.

Most people wont go that extra step.Oh, and by the way, don't send beautiful well designed post cards.

Just keep in mind that the people here are human, make mistakes, and do things "their way," and you should always do your own diligence on whatever questions you ask.

@Travis AndresIf you do not have other assets to secure against - your best bet would be a private lender willing to take risk of essentially providing an unsecured loan.There are people out there that do this - expect very high interest rates.

I would be happy to help you out if you need any assistance. 

In addition to the workmanship, you want to work with someone who is good at managing time, people and his relationship with you, his client :-)    We are actually building out a network of approved contractors because one of the biggest pain points investors and landlords face in Philly is finding reliable solutions. 

I won't be moving in just yet and I'm wary of people just stopping by the property.

Feel free to reach out you need any assistance!

Well besides the hard costs (construction, materials) and soft costs (permitting, architecture, fees, engineering) people often forget holding costs.