I have read a lot of personal finance books that talk a lot about reducing expenses, but I particularly like your philosophy of trying to eliminate big budget items for Americans like transportation and housing while spending more time on going out with friends.

The option doesn't have to be cheap , but should be less labor intensiveCurrent Pic :Longer version :Bathroom : Great condition , well built , but outdated , needs cosmetic update to make it look modernProblem statement : Feel bad to rip off everything , found some options online , but I feel the demo videos from these companies don't tell the whole story , so was looking for things that BP members practically used and have feedback on.Ideas researched so far :Luxury tile like wall panels - so you can install the panel in one go rather than tilingTile over Tile - of course with some important considerations such as condition of existing tileReglazing bath tubPainting existing tiles and grouting Updating all the fixtures , cabinets with high end items

Inspect the property yourself for big ticket items when you view the property, such as roof, foundation, HVAC.

Get what you need done itemized.

If the property is in Cook County, the original YELLOW open item bills must be brought to closing and presented to the title company so that they can pay the open item bills at Closing (or shortly thereafter)Assuming that the Buyer is on the hook for the payment: Same mechanics. 

Lets say you have to order 20 items and get them delivered.  

The three items above along with setbacks, landscaping and storm ponds if required dictate your footprint.Find out what the DOT's variance process is and follow that. 

OP couple other items:1. 

I don't have an itemized quote. 

Which is a simple questionnaire that has the tenant describe what they believe to be any current arrangements and outstanding maintenance items.