Today's the day we sign the contract for the property we're buying. I hope it goes smoothly and uneventfully. We are excited, but also nervous because of the possible costs in the near future. There are some major renovations needed for a good part of it, something we've never dealt with to such a degree. It's the only way we could even consider such a purchase.

My s-i-l is now discouraging us from using the services of a construction worker/friend. He is very good at what he does and much cheaper than most, but not always reliable. He owes her money/work, which is a little red flag. As is his occasional tendency to tell white lies. We wonder if he has debts and from what. I fear gambling. He asked for a big chunk of change in advance to buy supplies. Hubby and I decided to only offer 50% of what he requested and to closely monitor him the best we can, though he'll be further north where the property is. We learned a lesson from another project he did, but my husband was mainly at fault for various reasons. I'm the better project manager of us two, but here have the language barrier. Frustrating! I also told Hubby not to promise him all of the projects.