They have market knowledge, experience, and expertise and many of them have some cool spreadsheets and processes they've developed for calculating an ARV that is realistic and VERY accurate for 90 DOM or less (critical!!).

While everyone criticizes Zillow, retail buyers do look at it, and I could see potential buyers being deterred by the apparent spread.

I would recommend them if you are planning on living in the property since they tend to be very critical of minor/major issues to give you the best negotiating power.

Listening well is one of the most critical.

Understand history is so critical to one's success in my opinion.

“The agencies will not subject a residential mortgage loan to safety-and-soundness criticism solely because of the loan’s status as a Qualified Mortgage or non-Qualified Mortgage loan.

Taking out equity is a critical part of it, but I need to know how often it can realistically be done.

You will be met with skepticism from critics who practice traditional financing usually real estate agents, attorneys, your friends family and the like.

My only criticism would be I think the powder room is in the wrong place but if I were to move in there I think I could make it into an office and add a powder room or bathroom in the finished basement but am not 100 percent on that.I refinanced out of the construction loan and into permanent financing last July.

I echo what's already been said - it's critical to set up your legal structure first - and have an excellent team on the ground in your chosen area.Marc Ramsay and Steven Huang, are also from Van and are investing in the US - have a look at their posts.