Back to the point, cost of goods sold will rise with rising demand for raw materials.

Do as the Buddha says and "Believe nothing", take in as much material as needed in order for you to achieve success.

Each property, each market, each investor may have a different "right" answer, but in my experience, in many different socioeconomic areas, it has always been more beneficial over the long run to do the rehab.IF done properly, with appropriate materials, at a sensible cost, AND with a "normal" useable floorplan, AND with a final appearance that is pleasing to the masses, you will be able to get the best tenants for the price range, at or near the top of the market range, and, properly screened, they will take better care of the property and stay longer, reducing expenses.

So basically you know he's in $140 for materials (minimum) meaning he's charging you $190 for labor... what's that, 3 or 4 hours?

Keep in mind you potentially have material costs, labor costs, back hoe prices and dump fees.

I would guess a lot of dust particles from drywall dust and construction materials would affect the air quality for the new homeowners.

I also try to leave some small samples tile and wood flooring, with the brand written on the back, so they can take them to match paint, furniture, etc.Chris,That's a great idea to leave attic stock for materials used on the project, such as carpets, floor tiling and paint in case they need it.

Since I had experience with installing/moving this type of pipe, I had no problem telling him that I'd go to Lowe's and pick up the material for $20 and that it wouldn't take more than 2-3 hours to do the work.

I'm looking for a book that gives examples of investments, explains things like how brick vs another material is sturdier, etc - the real technicals with no fluff. 

I got a price of $7500 for the job, that includes labor and materials.