The contracto I used needed baby sitting and the attention to detail was lacking so half way through the reno I was more particular and communicated my expectations clearly and ofter Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If you are the lender and he is taking a loan with you, he is your problem. 

We typically recommend a 2% gap before a refi, so you might want to aim for a 5.375% rate before speaking with your lender. 

2) Our lender does not require a Phase 1 assessment.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

You'll have to determine how our prices compare but as one data point we do a complete gut/redo of a 7x5 bathroom for $12,500 and a complete kitchen for $24k.

Based on my personal experience, owners seems to evaluate two primary cost criteria when comparing PM's, the monthly fee and the placement / leasing fee.  

Hot tip: If you are an active homebuyer and have locked in a mortgage rate, don’t hesitate to ask your lender if you can re-lock that rate.

Do you have any recommendations on lenders or someone investing in real estate in the area?

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?