Two cars will fit comfortably in this space.

With lead laws and the various issues that come with an “older” property, I felt a “newer” unit would fit my comfort level and criteria better for my first deal.

As others have said, it will probably mean you end up paying the 40K, but if you are comfortable at the price and are considering 40K as your "Best and final" anyway, then I don't see a big downside to try the escalator bid.

What if the worker partner decides that physical labor and being outside in the cold is more valuable than your managing the project from your comfortable office and begins resenting you or money guy?

In my experience, you should expect 2-4 weeks for issuance of permits if it's a typical large rehab that doesn't need to get reviewed for zoning, storm water management or environmental concerns.In terms of how many bids you should get, I'd suggest getting as many as necessary to ensure that you're comfortable that you're hiring someone you trust and that you're not paying too much.

There is a physiological comfort they find in "having a real job".

As a person in similar shoes, it is invigorating to see you and so many others with the determination to make it happen.

Of course I qualify everything but while I'm talking about their pet, kids and nearby schools, I'm looking for repairs and the added value.Then when I'm ready to submit my "Ultra-Conservative" offer, I meet them again and now they will be much more at ease and comfortable and it works magic.

Do you feel comfortable giving us the address so we can analyze the deal for you?

I still would not be comfortable at full-price offer though.