I would raise the post above the new cement and even then avoid having wood touch the cement as the bottom will simply rot over time quicker if they are in direct contact. 

Having grown up in Willimantic (you'll laugh if you know the area), I wouldn't quite classify it a slum, but definitely not my ideal place to raise a family.My question is this: I am highly interested in the BRRRR method, and there are several multifamily properties in the "slums" that I am interested in.

You can also sell off other assets to raise the capital needed (if you have any).The most important thing here is that you do not over leverage to the point where you will not have enough at exit to pay off all the debt.

You can also check out rentometer to see how much rent you could potentially get from the property you may find they were under charging for rent in that location and could get a great deal provided you can raise the rent.

Builders often have an escalation clause built in that says something to the effect of “if material costs increase more than 10% during the time of construction, builder can raise the price to cover the difference”. 

The investors plan is to either raise the rents to market rates ($1200 - $1300) or give the tenant notice to vacate.

I recently got a notice from the city about Critical test exam report on a 3 storey porch, does anyone know a good structural engineer that can do this and how much does it cost?

Currently managing a building in Ukrainian Village and need to have something called a critical test exam performed on a 3 story steel porch.

He is coming in with the down payment but doesn't want his name on the loan so I am essentially raising the funds with the promise of the equity split when we do a cash out refi.

Take the course and then do the cram tests at the end and you will pass the state test with flying colors.