I apologize for starting a frivolous thread, but I must say that I’m more pumped about the prospect of rehabbing after having started the painting stage in our fixer-upper house.
After the walls, trim and doors have been painted the transformation is impressive. My attitude has moved from “I can’t believe I live in this house” to “I can’t believe I live in THIS house!” 
I consider myself a level-headed man. I never thought that a fresh coat of paint would work such wonders for me. Now, if it does this for me, what will it do for a potential buyer?
Anyways, just wanted to tell you guys that I have fresh wind in my sails. I plan to get into REI in the summer, after we’ve sold this house and moved back to the city where my wife and I grew up. I’ll have the advantage of being able to lean on friends and family if I have to, as well as being networked with reliable contractors through church, etc.