All the various consumer laws exist specifically to stop bad actors from doing stuff like this. 

I recently put together one myself specifically for beginners who want a structured guide from setup to first booking.

So what specific questions can we answer for you?

Some areas don't fall under my criteria - Yonkers, Mount Vernon, and areas of Bronx to name a few.

I'll be specifically looking to start in the Cincinnati, Ohio and lean towards targeting buy and hold single family and potentially multi family as well.Any advice is appreciated and I look forward to connecting. 

Take it FWIW.I will say my recommendation is to not use the agents that fit the criteria of my first & second points.

Plus, very important to understand the new layout and how the dig down will effect the existing stairs, plumbing, etc.Happy to connect and talk through your specific situation because @Bruce Woodruff mentioned every project is different and know one price fits all espeically with these complex jobs.Where at in Chicago is your building?

To get started with fix and flips, first define your criteria, including location, property type, and budget.

Your Lender My suggestion to find #2 & #4 would be to go to the top of this page and click on AGENTS & LENDERS.There you will be asked your criteria and then after answering a few questions you will be matched with 3-5 agents or loan officers in your area.

Scaling-  your question is both country and even town specific.