Our company is a LLC the lender wants a commercial endorsement (Is there a way around this??) 

That also helps your DTI to get more financing, and you can later refi/HELOC to get at the equity.I invest out of state and love it, so that would be my endorsement. $40k would still get a newer construction SFH (little to no CapEx for a bit), cashflowing place in a B neighborhood in Raleigh, NC, for instance.

Most companies offer an endorsement called "Building Ordinance & Law" or something similar.  

I have the checks made out to me and only endorse them when I have a winning bid.

Here is a great link to a blog post from a couple years ago but obviously this sort of stuff still hold true. http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/03/20...If you are willing to spend some money I know there are apps out now that help estimate construction costs, I just have never used them nor know anyone who has so I am hesitant to mention them and definitely not endorsing them until I find out more about them. 

If you're really worried, you could note on the check, below where you endorse it, something along the lines of "remaining balance $100."

Well said David, Thank you for the endorsement! 

If you are looking to learn about being an agent or flipping then I am the wrong person to give you advice in that direction as that is not what I do.Books:Millionaire Real Estate Investor: Gary KellerHold: Gary KellerRich DadPoor DadPodcasts:Get Rich Education by Keith WeinholdInvesting In Real Estate With Clayton Morris ( Great Podcast I do not endorse what he sells )Creating Wealth with Jason HartmanBigger Pockects PodcastStart from podcast # 1 on the first two and work your way to the most recent you can listen to 2-3 hours a day

I'd endorse itblank propertiespay to the order ofBrett Roth Then endorse with your signatureBrett RothDeposit in your accountThat should clear And yes, get your stuff together, LOL :)

is always on my mind.With that focus/bias, the only type of partnership I'll endorse is being each other's capital partner.