The exceptions would be things that I can't fit in my car such as drywall, doors, etc.This allows me to buy things on sale and clearance instead of the contractor picking any retail priced item off the shelf.

These last 2 items will mean you will still have to have flood insurance, but because your finished floor is above BFE, your flood risk is much lower, so you will have to carry insurance, just not as much as it could be.

Illinois is a medical marijuana state but we do not have dispensaries yet.  

I highly recommend that you follow @Paul Timmins advice for the different items to check out, BP is a wealth of knowledge that will prepare you for everything.I wish you the best of luck and hope to see you at some of the meetups!

(You don't have to actually remove the money from the bank account)Send them a notice itemizing the amount deductedIn the notice state the remaining balance of their security depositState that they have 30-60 days to replenish the required security deposit balance or they will be in violation of their lease.  

Also if he tries to throw extra big ticket items at you in the middle of it, don't be afraid to simply say that you want to get a second opinion before saying yes. 

If they look at it that way, they will get a better idea.Though again, if you're buying historic homes, that are not in historic districts, and are okay if it is replaced with less than historic items, go functional value, that get's rid of coinsurance complete.  

When searching them, look for the number of reviews for a particular item.

Humidity of Supply and Returns (may be expressed as Wet Bulb)Amp Draw of Compressor (and what it is supposed to be)Temperature Difference of Supply/ReturnThere are many more items to check, but this should be the minimum on your report/invoice. 

What are the benefits of taking a GC and giving him maybe $100 to walk with me and spot items?