What is the typical payment schedule for a new duplex? How much should I give upfront, beginning demolition, starting construction and at the end of teh project?
It depends on how your contracts are written. To help in making sure that you aren’t underpaying or overpaying your contractors in each specific trade you want to set payments up on a job progression basis.
Each Contractor:
Deposit Money Should Cover all of your engineering and permitting fees & initial starting Labor & material for the project. Usually a good rule of thumb is one third of the total contract. However, If you are using special order product items more money may be legitimately required down by the contractor.
The remaining two thirds should be broken out over the performance of installation or worked performed of or for the contract.
On larger construction jobs 10% of the contract is withheld until all Punch list items and certifications have been granted and signed off on. This eliminates contractor call backs after full payment has been rendered.
I hope this aides you in your endeavors.
If you are working with a bank to finance a new construction loan, they usually provide a draw schedule for the contractor and homeowner based on percent complete.