However, after years of jumping into things without looking, I've learned to slow down, research and ask questions first. 

@Sarah HartsteinThe way you spoke so highly of your success embodies what investing is all about.The more I research investors who are successfully investing outside the country, the more I feel inclined to shift my goals toward international real estate investments rather than focusing solely on opportunities within the U.S.I will most certainly keep you in mind once I am ready to expand my portfolio! 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

Through our network and market research, we identified this off-market opportunity.

Of course, do your due diligence, listen to podcasts, read, research, etc.

As mentioned by @Chris Mason, Bridge Loans: These short-term loans can provide immediate financing until more traditional financing becomes available or until the property stabilizes and becomes more attractive to lenders.Interest rates and stipulations may be a pain.Out of the box here and requires a few more research, SBA Loans: Small Business Administration loans can be an option, especially the SBA 7(a) loan program, which can be used for hotel acquisitions.I heard someone  mention - Mezzanine Financing: it involves a combination of debt and equity financing, which might appeal to some investors looking for higher returns.

We’re currently using it for multi-family properties in a few core markets.While redIQ is a much more sophisticated tool that focuses on properties with over 50 units, our system is perfect for properties up to 50 units, providing an efficient solution for managing lead intake and financial analysis without the complexity of larger systems.Here’s how it works:Lead Intake & Processing: Automatically processes broker emails and key documents (OMs, Rent Rolls, T12s, etc.).Quick Review: Evaluates leads based on key metrics like IRR, price per unit, and more.Detailed Analysis: Extracts data from documents, evaluates financials, and identifies additional income sources.Market Research Integration: Automates checks on flood zones, demographics, school quality, etc.Deal Tracking: Uses Google Sheets to visually organize lead data—while not a full database system, it provides a simple and efficient way to store and track deals without the need for a full-fledged database like MongoDB.Financial Analysis: Built-in underwriting and financial modeling with automated reports.In addition to ZCG, I also own a portfolio of properties.

Focus on market research by exploring neighborhood rent trends and property values while considering your financing strategy (house hacking, BRRRR, or buy and hold).

Another lesson is to research companies online and in forums like this before you do business with them and if you decide to do business with someone, dip your toe in the water slowly and continue to research the company after you start working with them, because things can change quickly.I have some questions:1. 

After some research online, I am reading that the cost per square foot on a gut renovation of this nature in Stamford CT is anywhere from $150-$350, which is ultimately not very helpful, because at $150 per sq ft, this is a very appealing project with a total profit of ~$175K (46% ROI) and at $350 per sq ft, it very much isn't, because it would be a net loss of 83K (haha).QUESTIONS:What can I do refine my estimate a bit given that I am not allowed to a formal inspection on the property?