The problem is that you are using a Handyman for work they may not be legally able to do - regardless of their experience or how nice a guy they are.Doing a panel upgrade requires a permit - in every state I checked.

The contractor's name is on the permit so they could get sued or lose their license.Remember... if the project is riskier... the bids will usually be higher.

We have our own construction company with 2 construction supervisors and we are training 4 project managers now to manage the estimates, contract documents, w-9, scheduling, Gantt charts, detailed scope of work, contractor verifications and contracts, coordination with designer on material specs, invitation to bid to subs, lien releases, permits, etc.

If your market does not permit you to buy with this criteria then look at other markets.  

Ah, then go for it, I'd begin at building regs as to the permits, if the town is looking for tax revenue they might push back changing it to residential, who knows, but it should be a very simple process.

Any issues within the unit during their stay, PM acts as my agent, this also includes pickup and drop of keys, as well as supplying parking permits for our lots.

My permits for my duplex in Columbus are almost at the finish line of being approved, except the reviewer requested that I get a design professional to add the language "UL 263" to the drawing of my fire wall. 

Tracking pulled permits will lead you to the path of progress. 

You also inherited their leases so the terms were set. does the lease permit you to collect partial payments.. check that out.. 

"B closing with A using C's funds" is not permitted any more due to excessive abuse by short-sale flippers.