Quote from @Dani Murai: Any recommendations for a reputable general contractor that services the Torrance/Gardena area? 

However I wouldn't recommend this or wish ownership of these liabilities on my worst enemies. 

Do you guys recommend inspections on the fireplace every year?

Start by setting up a proper business structure—an LLC or S-Corp—and obtaining an EIN.

This is a two-way interview, so have a short list of questions to ask the mentor (What books do you recommend I read to gain a better understanding?

The strategy that I recommend is going to differ from the responses that I see at the time I'm writing my response.1.

I highly recommend using her!

Correspondent lending typically takes one of two forms: delegated or non-delegated.One approach is to obtain your loan purchaser’s criteria and documentation, (hopefully) adhere to them scrupulously, and originate the loans yourself.

I ultimately obtained a variance to build 12 townhomes and 18 condos reliant on my hardship case and by agreeing to take responsibility for replacing the retaining wall in a re-designed terrace approach that stepped the wall back from the most immediate neighbors which was a rounding error once applied to the overall project budget.

Sounds like you'll have to ride this out.Next time I recommend "cash for keys."