I can speak to the student related items.

The system is still charging me for PRO covered items.

I imagine that depending on the market you are in there will be some differences to what I write below based upon that market's economy and weather.All houses are going to have the same 3 big ticket items that have a finite lifespan.RoofHot Water TankFurnaceEach of the following big ticket items is going to have a similar lifespan no matter what house it's on.

If you study items such as the schools, job market, improving/declining areas, etc. you will improve your chance of success.

Other items that will greatly change your quote is the zip code you are buying in.

Yes, as long as they are itemized as separate jobs, not merely 3 installment payments of the one lump-sum invoice.

I cannot stress the importance of getting comfortable with those items before you invest.  

You will get about 3 bids for each item involved. 

BUT what we do is if its vacant we post the door with 2 weeks to 30 days notice depending on if there are items in the house and we change the locks.

New item for your list.