I have a lot more questions but i'm sure they will be answered once i find some solid reading/listening material. thanks for your time!

I have also heard there were shortages in the materials so they used to be even cheaper.

Maybe a generalization on how much a kitchen costs or bathroom obviously it depends on the quality of material, but I’m just looking for a generalized estimate to get me to make an offer 

That's a question with no real answer because there's such a large swath of material covered in the last 7 years.

Despite ongoing material and labor shortages, apartment construction continued on pace this year, with more than 330,000 new rental units expected to be delivered coast to coast by year’s end.

I also recommend that YOU pay for the actual materials that will be needed. 

Since you are coming from San Fran, labor costs are definitely cheaper here, but material costs are about the same.It depends on what type of project that you are getting yourself into.

The value that I bring is that I am a real estate agent so from the sales perspective I know what buyers are looking for in a newly renovated home and can tell you what materials and paint colors to stay away from.

Check out the blogs, podcast and all the other wonderful education materials.  

Curious:- after so many local meet-ups you organized, what are the best practices for material to cover, what keeps guests coming back, # of sessions/mth, anything else that helps these become successful...- what type of financing and terms?