To get back on point, there's a common element between this thread, and others where I have discussed various aspects of the house.

That common element is the haste with which various parties have tried to say 'no' when offered business. Imagine, had you called for a pizza, and the guy answered with 'you won't like it, it's dark outside, maybe you live too far away ..."

Well, that's what I'm hearing from contractors: "no" is the assumed answer, and it's uphill from there. These are the same guys who will complain about not having enough work, etc. Do you think there's a connection?