I'm particularly interested in what tactics people have implemented for sourcing quality deals (not the I need 100% financing bs)Would you:1.

Again, treating folks with housing support funds with the same dignity and respect as everyone else, usually nets quality clients that listen and do their best to follow the rules.

Are their listings detailed with good-quality photos?

They must provide quality service, or their clients won't want to pay the price.

The quality of the reports you receive also varies.

The two are almost entirely different markets in terms of price points, returns, tenant quality, and overall investing strategy.

Lots and lots of research.Price points also help, block quality, etc.

Contractors, unless you have a working relationship with them, normally do not want you bouncing ideas off them.Understand what their hourly rate is, have a discussion with them that you are okay with paying them an hourly rate if they walk the property with you and provide you a scope of work along with an explanation of what you can/can't get away with in regards to improvements.ask them if you go with them, if they can credit you the amount that you paid.Once you develop a working relationship with a few contractors, you can bounce ideas off them and expect quality responses.I do not invest in New York.Best of luck. 

As a licensed contractor, I can provide insights to make sure you’re getting the best value and quality for your project.

Goes back to that original thesis in a thread long time ago-- quality over quantity.