I come from the IT Consulting world as a Software Engineer, recently retired due to real estate.  

I've been in the Civil Engineering and Land Surveying consulting business for over 25 years and have recently relocated from Auburn to the Huntsville area (Madison) of Alabama.

I'm a first time buyer.I'm an engineer for a local startup with little real estate experience.Robert

If there are any structural changes, you'll also need a structural engineer to stamp ($600 or so in my experience).Or, if it's really just straightforward and aesthetic, just do it and don't get the county involved.

I'm no expert by any means but I think if you really want a even-toned dark floor you have to go with the prefinished engineered stuff

During a down-turn there is generally an increase for affordable housing while people abandon/burn out of high dollar assets.

Talk to a local civil engineer that does subdivisions .

Currently in FL but ultimate destination is Knoxville TN area.Currently working in IT as a performance test engineer for a major insurance operation in FL.

Keep in mind if they are engineered hard wood you have a thin layer to sand and they can't be sanded as many times as solid hardwood.

Thanks for the mention Vish.Denise, like you I am an engineer by background as well.