Key lessons learned: use a cost-per-square-foot estimate from previous projects rather than relying solely on GC quotes, as they often underbid but end up costing more in the long run.The property is under a 2-year lease at $1,750/month.

In this situation should I accept the ex-husband as the guarantor and screen him normally like the rest of the applicants?

Less competition normally means higher prices.

I normally recommend using a Property Manager who works with the program regularly to help navigate the waters. 

There's certainly quite a few of us around but things have been kinda slow since the interest rates jumped up and BP is doing a revamp of their website and overhauling the different premium tier packages and I've noticed its been messing with notifications and keywords and such so some people are just missing posts they would normally see. 

It's a little more work to find someone willing to do this kind of scenario, and in my personal case I just charge my normal rent and I'm content with that because it cashflows.

I know that if I could get my foot in the door that long term profitability is relative, but entry point here is much higher.

I personally wont give a wholesaler a non refundable deposit.. if the deal cant close for some reason they will normally ghost you.. this is probably new western or one of those outfits.. who rely on FOMO high pressure to get the deposits up front and released like that.

I feel like you only get one shot at a first impression with a potential client and I want my best foot forward. 

There are no penalties for an incomplete exchange, You would then just pay the tax like normal.