Make sure your real estate agent isn't just about closing that one deal but understands the benefit of protecting you on each purchase to ensure that you keep buying because you are enjoying success.  2.

I used a private lendor to fund the re-hab (cash) and owner financed the purchase price (minus down payment) I have a bank account linked to Stessa and I see the cash deposit in the transaction tab. 

One was purchased a  few years ago by an out-of-state owner who has decided to sell and has doubled in value.

Most rehab loans offer 85 to 90 percent of the purchase price and 100 percent of the renovation costs.

My mother purchased a property on 2011 for 480000 in California.

Rates are going to start to fall in or aroud May/June of this year so by the time you have purchase the nest home you can do a "Rate & Term" refiance and lower the rate on the first home. 

I have not purchased property via their platform but I'd also note it's few and far between to try to find any deals that pencil in the current environment.  4-5 years ago one could find good cash flow with SFR properties.

You also mentioned you started pretty young, I am 18 and just purchased my first college rental, any tips? 

On a Fix and Flip Loan, Max LTC is 90%, 100%Rehab, 90% Property Purchase on Value. 

Usually it takes them weeks to respond and they come up with some crazy stuff like by business is paying for the trip and need to pay with a certified check outside the platform.