This is part of my loan process - a discovery and strategy session with the client to understand their scenario, future plans, and overall situation so I can structure the loan to fit into it. 

I have a rental property which cash flows, however on my last tax return I had reported the rehab costs for this property as a write off.

Quote from @Leo Alvarado: Hey guys, I am currently in the process of closing on a two unit duplex that I will be occupying while renting out the other unit.

A process is far more important. 

Enjoy the process, and may your journey lead you to a rewarding and successful outcome!

What tools or processes have you implemented to estimate rehab costs more accurately and avoid scope creep in BRRRR projects?

What are some standard process or contracts needed before the partnership to make sure both parties are protected?

I'm in the process of meeting and vetting two (for now) Cape Coral builders who might have the expertise and bandwidth to take over partially built projects like yours.

The borrower's experience is important, but what's more important is the "Hard Asset," Hard money lenders rely on their due diligence process to determine the potential future value, review the renovation plans to get to that value & sometimes even the contractor.  

Should I be prioritizing finding a local expert, or are there tools and strategies I can use to handle this process myself?