Then, when a really good deal appears, you will be ready to take action.As my dad always said, "Measure twice and cut once."  

. $15,000 may be reasonable for a higher end retreat for wealthy travelers but obviously if you are targeting young professionals that would be way more than necessary.After you determine your target market,  put yourself in their shoes and understand what they need not necessarily what they want.

@Marcus Kennedy, yes it appears my Apple is having some issues tonight.

The amount of work to do is far greater than it appeared when I first looked at it.  

"Hey max- this big crack appeared overnight in one of the kitchen windows, possibile because of the extreme cold from outside and heat from inside.

In addition, there are separate legal requirements for handling a security deposit, the failure to satisfy any one of which subjects the landlord to TRIPLE damages if it is raised in court.I just did a quick check for NY, and it appears there is no statute in regard to prepaid rent:NY Rental LawsBUT, when it comes to landlord-tenant law, it pays not to assume anything, so I'd strongly recommend contacting an attorney for a definitive answer.

I realize that there are many more important aspects of completing due dilligence(referrals, background check, etc.) but how much weight does the appearance of the actual estimate they hand you carry in choosing a contractor?

Not really a solution to your situation but I wanted to share my thoughts on what I'd be thinking if I were in your shoes.  

Such knowledge can be useful in dealing with an appraiser from constructive point of view without appearing as if you are trying to unduly influence their opinion.

It might be very helpful to an individual investor wishing to use this strategy on a few deals since it appears that under certain conditions it would not be governed by the new rules.