Close the sale by getting the customer to take action.I've been blinded by the light a few times. @ the end of the day I've found that alot of the text book real estate investing "education" i get on books and CD's from the seminar's Ive attended doesn't apply in real life.

I point out the water saving toilets, efficient radiators and row house configuration, the energy efficient windows and light bulbs.

.- In terms of materials prices, go spend an afternoon in Home Depot, and get a feel for how much things cost -- everything from lights to faucets, to sheetrock to bathtubs to doors to windows.

I'm sure a few people might jump on here and give you guiding light :)

Lighting?

This decision was not made lightly or hastily and we are prepared for a "No." answer, but expect a "Yes."

Nothing is ever easy" "Stop worrying about the problem and find a solution" "People would rather follow a torch that leads the way in life, then to light a candle and find the path themselves" "Vengence is mine say's the Lord"

I think the lens you have is fine, you should invest in an on off camera flash as well, lighting is what makes or breaks the image.

As far as permits, it's obviously not practical to pull permits on cosmetic upgrades including installing new air registers, plumbing fixtures, light switches/fixtures, etc, but any major MEP upgrades, additions or structural upgrades permits should be pulled, and I think obtaining permits can be a good selling point to lend your renovation credibility.

If you include utilities within the rent, be certain to set your rent high enough for the worst case as they will keep the thermostat high, lights on, and, perhaps, even open a window from time to time because it has gotten too warm.We never rent with utilities included, but we have a option which gives the tenant the convenience of not having to put utilities in their name, but still holds them accountable for their usage.