@Jon Holdman Just got it fixed and cleaned from the plumber, actually the plumbing wasn't done right from the GC who installed the washer dryer hookups in the basement unit , he didn't put in a vent or a cleanout pipe and did a P-trap configuration wrong.  

BPers,Can anyone recommend a good pool installer in Los Angeles?

This ranged from the use of tools such as a drill to screw a couple screws in a cabinet to installing new pipes throughout an entire house.

Expected rent is approx $2500/month.Both are the same model- 5 bedrooms (4 up, 1 down), 2 1/2 baths (2 up, 1/2 down) and both are in very good shape, move in ready, etc.Differences:House 1:Finished Basement, but no bathroom in basement.Gas fireplace- selling point in COPaid-for solar installation (could save renter approx $50-$100/month on electricity)Small backyard with retaining wall and trees that make it look/feel even smaller (bad for small kids and dogs).Residential street but higher traffic since it's a "feeder" to the neighborhood.House 2:Better curb appeal from street Less traffic on street.Back yard is bigger, but feels a lot bigger due to layout (better for young kids and dogs (Everyone in CO has a dog)).VERY close to excellent Elementary schoolNo fireplace.Unfinished basement.My wife and I think House 1 would be better for families with teenagers (can go to basement) and House 2 would be better for families with small kids (can play in back yard).Any advice appreciated- thanks!

If you are doing electrical or plumbing, work that would require permits, towns typically will let you pull permits as a homeowner, but the work is not held to a lower standard. if you do not know "code" you could end up doing work that then has to be removed. this is why most people will subcontract those issues and then focus on things that do not require permits like painting flooring, maybe installing cabinets or tiles. these things do not cause fires or floods if you mess it up a little. that being said, if you are an experienced plumber or electrician you may be able to do the work. this will all come down to your comfort level and ability

Other than "splitting" the bill arbitrarily,  has anyone ever installed a time of use meter to bill the associated cost accordingly?

Also bring Cable and/or all phone service into that closet too.This is a prerequisite to creating a home of the 21st century.If you want to secure all doors and windows, now is the time to get the contractor to install that wiring.

There are good qualities of laminate that can compare to tile while not costing the same for the product and/or installation.  

Numerous tech companies are already installed in the city, including Uber.

As to utilities, AC is not needed (chicago in November lol) and HVAC is not installed till later so gas wont be needed for a while.