I'm shopping insurance again this year because my first renewal is in May and Farmers is raising the cost by 30%.

Rents have not and cannot go up to offset the increased cost of financing.  

Our lease said no holes in the walls. 

They needed a new roof and the guy quoted my friend over 4x what it should cost. 

One additional item is that I am planning to move out of my current residence no matter what, so will need to rent/buy for that.

Our experience in assessing renovation costs and market conditions gave us the confidence to negotiate a deal that promised a solid return on investment.

Other leaded surfaces has to be intact, it means no pealing or flaking paint.

The costs of a QI are also often relatively minimal in comparison to the interest and penalties you would pay if it is blown up.You are also parking significant sums of money with the QI - that alone is worth using a reputable QI to ensure your funds don't disappear. 

If you never intend on selling, no problem, but if you do my recommendation is to have your exit option very clearly laid out and a good lawyer to draft it up. 

The seller has no agreement with the end buyer therefore cannot take any action to make them pay.