Some lending attorneys now recommend interviewing your borrower in a recorded Zoom call, using scripted questions, to document their intentions.Your list and communication clause comments, @Jonathan Chan, appear to reflect a do-it-yourself approach.

I love the systematic approach you are taking with your real estate investors. 

My approach was to partner with a GC, so he handles the rehab estimates with his years of experience.Another option is to read J Scott’s book on estimating rehab costs.I've heard a lot about this book.

House hacking is definitely a great approach to get started in building your rental portfolio.

I’m still new to the industry and learning different ways to approach my goals, so hearing your experience is really helpful. 

So after a long and healthy Tech career I thought it was time for a change.

They are probably non-compliant arrangements or, at the least involved in risks they have no clue about, but as things go well at the time and they may money they are satisfied with their simplified approaches.

Since it did not work out to sell with agent, was thinking about trying the for sale by owner approach, but wanted to reach out to see if anyone had any advice on pros and cons, and any guidance. 

A more granular approach, in which you segment by city block or zip code, is likely going to be more helpful.I’ll use Birmingham, AL as an example since I’m most familiar with the market.

The flexibility, speed, and personalized approach make private money lending a go-to for real estate investors, especially for projects that require quick decisions or more creative solutions.