(We have an IRS lien that will be paid off in four years and I am pretty sure that could be worked around.)My wife is hell-bent on being able to "burn the mortgage" as soon as possible and is resisting refinancing with a $30K cash-out to drastically improve the functionality, curb appeal, and comfort of the home we've lived in for 35 years.I feel we should do the refi, make the house new again, and enjoy where we live. 

Redguard acts as a moisture resistant barrier on top of your cement board.

I'm seeing that there is a strong resistance in certain neighborhoods (maybe rightfully so if there have been poorly overseen party houses in the neighborhood). 

I'm resisting articulating all the reasons why their email was out of line and that the increase was justified, but I am sure that will come across and defensive.I am now thinking this might be a case of "keyboard cowboy" syndrome on their part. 

Looking for advice from people who have actually used either of these guys, don't really want to make this a flame war.

That means seven bazzilionty circuits in the kitchen, one outlet on every wall in the bedrooms that is at least 3' long and one every 6' on each wall, tamper-resistant outlets where needed, GCFI where needed, etc. 

Part of this is that someone told the PO that she should use the ultra low resistance HVAC filters as long as they're replaced monthly, which meant that there was dust build up on weird places.

I've hit some resistance finding the right team members as far as contractors, lenders, and home inspectors go.

My significant other is pretty resistant to 'downgrading' to another duplex/multi-unit for 12 months, which makes things a little more complex...

When you take out full height walls you reduce the structure's resistance to wind and earthquake forces.