Some people do fine without using a buyer's agent, but a lot of people also get burned in scams like this which are becoming more and more common. 

Here are some considerations:Pros of Using a Hard Money Lender:Speed: Compared to standard lenders, hard money lenders can provide quicker approval and financing processes, which lets you take advantage of time-sensitive possibilities.Flexibility: It may be simpler to obtain financing if HMLs are more accommodating when it comes to credit history and property condition standards.Access to Funds: You may take advantage of more investment opportunities by having quicker access to the equity in your property.Experience: For first-time investors in particular, certain hard money lenders offer invaluable experience and advice that can be helpful in navigating the fix and flip process.Cons of Using a Hard Money Lender:Greater Costs: Hard money loans might have interest rates and other costs that are greater than those associated with standard financing sources, which raises the project's total cost.Term Length: HMLs normally provide loan durations that are shorter, usually lasting between six months and a few years.

If you're using a professional PMC, then there shouldn't be anything you need to do.

@Matthew McNeil Check your documents and with your lawyer, but that is my understanding - beware of using a quit claim deed for property transfers.

Nah, it's not illegal to sell your Tax Deed using a quitclaim Deed.

So, with lots of potential FS customers following and viewing this thread to see if it's for them, what would be your advice on how to best win and be profitable using a system like this or just your advice in general on flipping currently? 

2) I was looking to represent myself on the buyer side to reduce some of these upfront hard money costs, but as a new investor I’m stuck between using a seasoned realtor or leveraging my current position.

Dodd Frank will apply...see below.Not More Than 3 Properties Exemption Any person or entity cannot provide seller financing to an owner occupant more than 3 times in a 12 month period without using a MLO (mortgage loan originator).

However, they have a valid point that two months use isn't enough time for them to create the clog unless they've really abused it by flushing things they shouldn't.When using a NNN lease, I recommend a full service before handing it over to the renter.

1) make the payment directly from my HELOC account2) transfer the money from HELOC to business checking account, and then make the payment from my business checking account. not an accountant, but from a tax perspective I see no benefit of one from the other, interest would not be deductible.if you are using a LLC, then money should go to the LLC but if you are buying it in your personal name and transferring then reality is there is no separation of LLC and person so you have fake asset protection.