I personally chose to seek after a firm that was doing deals but not offering a coaching program.

Plus, the fully finished walkout basement offers endless possibilities.

Alternatively, set aside one or two boxes of things that family might want that you can offer for anyone to go through....believe me, it will save you some grief in the long term with your family.  

Someone will eventually come along and offer a better product for a better price.

Ask more specific questions on here.

Here is a brief look at what is on offer out there:➡️ Agency loans as mentioned, such as by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.

Being $15,000 over budget is not great, but also not specific to you.

You may want to approach the contractors and let them know you plan on putting in a claim and see if that prompts them to offer a compromise. 

It's been 10+ years since I've gone through the City of Chicago permit review process, and I'm told things have changed.In particular, I'm told that I need not only an architect that has Chicago experience, but also a specific sustainability certification, otherwise I run the risk of having a very long review process.Thanks in advance for your help!

If you have cash, know that 99% of wholesalers will have low repair values and high ARVs that don't match the actual data or upkeep of the house.Also, ask if this is being daisy-chained, meaning are there other wholesalers or investors in the line between the person offering you the deal and the seller.