And, a seemingly obvious distinction that I've not totally considered (but...I will do immediately). 

AS they are lending their own money  either cash on hand or in their IRA.A Hard Money Lender is in the business of making loans and there is a distinct difference the HM will generally either have a Fund where they raised capital to loan to you.. 

For example:You add to your plan saving $20K a year toward retirement.That money is magically added every year without being deducted from your disposable income.There is no distinction between tax deductible contributions (IRA) and non-tax deductible (Roth).

It's a subtle terminology shift but made the distinction so much clearer for me when I was reading through posts like this providing info on how the guidance is implemented. 

There is no useful "average", and you are dealing with two distinct parts -- the rehab and the resale.

The valuation and market value of a multi family property differs from a single family and you want someone that understands the distinctions.

If you know those markets well you have a distinct advantage and don't need to invest out of state.As for a mentor...

For instance, in California the following ABC test is used to make the distinction: A) The hirer actually and contractually does not control or direct the person in the course of their work; B) The work performed is outside the hirer’s normal business; and C) The worker also normally and independently performs that work for others.

distinct.  

In SC, you can not be assessed more than a 15% increase YOY from the previous year's assessed value.Also, the only distinction in tax rates are 4% (owner occupied homes) and 6% (commercial rate).