The contractor put in staples every 6 inches.  

All the responses greatly enhanced my understanding on a subject of interest.

I would not be willing to cut the rent if they have not cut their lifestyle.If they 'lost' their job and did not quit, they should be fine in paying rent with unemployment benefits at the enhanced level, free medical care, and food stamps/EBT benefits.

Future enhancement I’ll just hope they add I guess...

To the last square inch in their name.What your post fails to recognize is what real estate really is.

Some not so obvious causes for termite that should signal taking a closer look for termites is any wood to ground contact (pressure treated lumber is not safe from the threat of termites if installed directly in the ground), foliage, siding less than 6 inches from grade,high dirt, and subtle wood piles up against the house.

This adds I believe 1.5 inches from ceiling.Primary issue: Footfalls (just walking around would be hard for someone to focus downstairs)- 5/8" gyp rock affixed to the subfloor for footfall dampening w/green glue- Rockwool for high noise/voice attenuation- Sound channel clips for air separation- And to go further: double sheetrock with green glue.- Custom boxes around each of the light cans ($175 each) OR switching to wall sconcesThe primary cost is the sheetrocking labor itself, as It's not just the ceiling replacement, it's aligning the new ceiling texture with the walls.Given there is a stairwell from main floor downstairs, he recommended two solidcore doors, which parts + labor would be $2k each.What will we end up doing?

I heard good things on the Zinus 12 inch foam.Thanks, Jason

Brush up on building code requirements: in basements you're looking for egress windows that are 5.7 sq feet or more openable (3ft by 3ft casement style windows work best), and ceiling heights 6ft 8 inches or greater (as little as 6 ft 4 inches is ok under ductwork and beams though)2.

I agree that choosing a style that enhances the property's appeal is key.