We had set up payments so that I paid 20% upfront and 20% after each predetermined milestone.

When I was talking to the bank, there were definite milestones that determined when each draw would be released.

You gotta start somewhere, so my first milestone is to replace my housing costs with passive income.So that's a bit of my what and why, but more importantly, how might I be valuable to the people with the knowledge I'm looking for?

For large projects (+40K), I have done contracts with 10% down upfront, then phased it out by milestones, paid the portion of the phase once is completed. 

Congratulations on the milestone.

I know flippers do have attorney but I guess that is more commercial in nature and this is personal work so far.Marshall, can you explain what you meant by “Have your subs all supply lien waivers (you can find templates online or at your title company if they are not readily available) upon progress payments”.James for focusing on contracts – so I guess each sub will have a standard contract – what specifics we need to put in will be scope, cost and payment milestones (and notifications that can change the scope) - anything more?

That's a great milestone.  

I have always been interested in real estate and now I believe it's time for me to actually set goals and milestones for myself. 

There are many milestones along the way as we build a real estate career.

 $100K in the bank is a milestone, not a toll gate.