I can but I have to go with smaller local banks, and they typically want you to have more skin in the game.

Up to this point, it's all about "skin in the game."  

Also thought it was no skin off my tail by making a low ball offer.

That said - I also rehab them knowing they will be harder on the property - so every bit of material I use takes that into consideration (vinyl floor instead of carpet, semigloss paint everwhere (one color), etc)

There is no cap on costs, the contractor has no "skin" in the project, and it usually leads to poor project control due to the contractor knowing he cant lose any money so he doesnt care to track or manage it.

For pharmacies that go dark they are easily re-tenanted if location and demographics are strong.I have seen Chase banks, battery plus stores, dollar stores, etc. go in those for second generation tenants.Where I believe people get in trouble is buying low cap rates in what I call weak suburban to rural communities at low cap rates.

They also have skin in the game to make sure that my investment is protected.

Especially since the color and pattern of granite is a very personal style choice.Are there any other countertops you're seeing used in rehabs that are more style neutral (white/wood), appealing and affordable?

Brock, There are "many ways to skin a cat" and so there are many ways to do direct mail.

Better to lose what sounded like a fairly small deal in the scope of things and find out their true colors at a low cost, than to have wasted any time building a relationship with someone who is not trustworthy.But definitely let your friend know so they stop recommending this person.