What we've noticed is that the 2 most critical factors that determine default rates are experience (how many flips you've done in the last 2 or 3 years) and FICO score with the former being more dominant than the latter. 

^^^ Her Poker Face will be the ultimate deciding factor about how much of the truth is being revealed after all!!

And there are many socioeconomic factors that predispose someone at birth to be better positioned to own property. 

Rate varies from person to person due to risk factors.

I think some projects have likely been on hold due to many factors: will it add the value I thought, do I want people in my house?

.~ OR ~You could hire a Registered Architect who could provide you with a professional feasibility study and report regarding your modification proposal that would take the above factors into considerations and give you a sharper insight of what you can and cannot do.  

Now 50% of your net income for DTI will be factored using $10,700, instead of your original $10,000.

A flat rate here creates a "winner-loser" dynamic that always going to be unfair to one party.There are many factors internalized in a firm's fees as hinted by previous posters. 

This is really what I see as worst-case utility scenario in Old Town but it's what I use to conservatively estimate my actual cash flow.Thankfully, these are all factored into my cash-flow ahead of time, so it all works out, but I do have plans to upgrade windows, insulation, heat system, etc. eventually.

So many factors, thanks again for your input.