Call it $200k with a $25k contingency included.If you're not pulling permits, using unlicensed workers and working in C-/D/F neighborhoods, you can probably cut that number in half.

Of course, the work can be tough.

I'm sorry your friend is having to go through this--it can be a very tough time.

Unless whoever you invested with made some sort of materially false or misleading statements, engaged in gross mismanagement or some sort of fraud, could be tough and probably wouldn't make much of a difference in a bankruptcy filing.Returns are generally not guaranteed and many firms did go bankrupt due to the wide reaching effects of COVID.

This market is tough, but investors are still flipping.  

It's called a Progressive Tax System for a reason.My opinion is that those investing money and taking the risk of losing it should be treated more 'special' than the common W-2 worker, who has no real skin in the game.

I passed $70,000 already and I did the used furniture, garage sales, Craigslist workers, etc as much as possible And not sure if your clientele expect "nice" if they are roughnecks off Craigslist. 

Investors are always looking for quality workers.4) Slash your living expenses.

It should only take you about a month or two to contact everyone on your list and then the tough part – you start all over again.Why the repetition?

If it is a home town you may already have a good idea the people who are good workers and who aren't if it is a small town.