daimo

my guess, let's say it indeed cost you $100 + the renovation guy's fee (ask him to give you the receipt now) ... say it's $250.  so what he will most likely get is $500-$250=$250.  

that's the argument.   he will have to eat the $130.  and, don't worry about if down the road he spends thousands into lawyer's fees.  it's 99% not going to be awarded.

so ... $30+2 hours to get $250 back in  a worst case scenario?  i'll still do it.

FiChai

I agree. Life is like that. Sometimes it's not about you are right or wrong, but it's about how much time and effort you need to prove yourself is right! Referring to the original contract of purchase and sale, I am pretty sure the righteous is on your side. However, if you go to court, it's very likely you can keep the held back $500 but may still need to pay for the needed administration fee (the hundred something), that judges by the arbitrator. You may also need to take a day off or so, to attend court. See which thing you rank is more important, righteous or time.

cunningchu

hey guys - we WON the trial

Even we didn't counterclaim but at least we won't be bothering anymore.  

thanks everyone inputted and support.