@Victor G.Rather than purchasing your solar system outright, you can also go solar for nothing out of pocket and you'll still have a significantly lower monthly payment than if you were solely relying on SDGE.By going the PPA or lease route, most distributors will also provide a kwh production guarantee & maintenance of the system for the length of the term (typically between 20-30 years)If you purchase, you're usually relying solely on the manufacturers warranties for the panels & inverter. 

State residency questions are a matter of facts, circumstances, and intent.With proper planning, and bona fide action and intent, an expat can change their state of residency.However, if all of your friends and family reside in MD, that's where you primarily visit when you come back to the states, you maintain a MD driver's license, and/or are registered to vote in MD, a (current) argument that you're not a MD resident for MD income tax purposes would fall flat based on face value.You'll want to work with your tax advisor to explore this issue as (1) there is nuance, and (2) every state's rules are slightly different. 

I am looking to buy my first property as a two or three flat in Chicago, IL.

The agent said the roof needs replaced and my knowledge of commercial flat roofs is pretty minimal. 

Redfin local agents are paid a flat fee per door they open. 

I don't understand why us, consumer, just agree (in most cases) to a flat 6% as if that's like some an acceptable "rule".As consumers, we should ask for more.

Is everyone still buying and figuring market will at least stay flat??

If you persist, however, I recommend doing a flat fee listing.

@Ryan Breen removing old plaster / panelling and doing some skim coat + new paint is some of the most rewarding / transformational stuff you can do!

@Rene Smith The management fee is usually a percentage of the gross collected rent, but you’ll also find rental property managers who charge a monthly flat fee.You can also check this link from one BP blogpost : https://www.biggerpockets.com/...