The material is very cheap and durable.

.- Don't try to skip necessary repairs (it will ultimately cost you more)- Practice your negotiation skills- Buy your own finish materials- Stage (will save on holding costs and may get you a higher sale price)- Hire an inspector to inspect your house before you sell (cheaper to fix things BEFORE the new buyer finds them)

Don't leave until a contract is signed or a reasonable buying price is unreachable.After creating your simple plan then sit down and read all of the materials you might present to a seller, slide deck, bio, proforma, and sales agreement.

Travertine (in my opinion) is a very attractive material and provides that 'wow' factor when you go to sell. 

I really like the look and the style and colors lend themselves well to the area, but the prices are really high ($50+ SF for materials) based on the few calls I've made.  

Trust those contractors to define the scope of work, do a quality job quickly, and not gouge him on material or labor prices.

We discussed some work-abounds, like  me marking up the materials I buy and only earning min wage for the labor. 

I viewed it after all finished, and the work and materials were not as high quality, basement ceilings are less than 7 feet.

There are some exceptions to the rule if you "actively participate" or "materially participate" in the real estate investment. 

For the most part though,  they only have to approve exterior changes such as paint color, fences, roofing material.