The best lender is usually not a large bank, due their own overlays and delays, and not just an independent mortgage broker, but somewhere in the middle....an actual lender that sells direct ot Fannie/Freddie and does FHA.  

Paolo, I have good independent contractors for tile and granite.

Preferably make sure they are independent and not working for a large realty company. 

any one know where i may get a good independent contract agreement and how important are they for me to use

A lot of people can live really comfortably on way less than they think, if they don't buy fancy cars etc...Have you read about FIRE (Financial independence, early retirement)?

My ultimate goal is to be financially independent and living in the mountains!

I screen very well also using an independent verification source.  

You might want to look for the particular location's independent school district.

Is there an independent path to educate oneself and still be successful?

Plus you have better asset protection by keeping your personal name out of it.Third, sign the other guy on with a independent contractor agreement.