First, you educate yourself.I know I’m being harsh and I’m sorry for the cynicism, Trevor.

Pittsburgh has multiple top tier universities, we have a booming technology center, lots of movies/shows being filmed and studios being built due to tax friendly policies, we have moderate weather due to being out of the Lake Erie snowbelt, we are low-to-medium cost of living, and still have a ton of industry.

 I wanted to add to clarify, and not to go off topic, that i'm getting an initial bid before the offer, an independent inspection during the due diligence/option period that may, once shared with the contractor, work to revise the initial bid into a final bid to reflect reasonable adjustments in case we missed something during the showing, negotiating and going under contract with the contractor at or before closing, then the team is out on site soon after closing, weather permitting, pursuant to the projected start date in the contract. then im paying out in phases as work is inspected/completed.

Everyone is in this industry for one reason and that is to create income to live on and to be self employed which has its benefits and has its harsh realities.

I'm sure there are other ways to do it but weather its right or wrong...

I have leases from membership in the CT REIA but those are a bit harsh and overkill. 

Also, we decided to spend a few months abroad to escape politics, covid and bad weather.

If you feel like the warm weather in Jacksonville is the place for you, then by all means continue your journey to move there. 

They recommend at least a 1/4 inch on all side to allow for the expansion during hot weather.

I lost lots of rental income and good weather.