Hello, everyone.I am a new member to the BP community and am looking for some advice on how to best align my actions now with my REI goals. 

This is because our rental rates and purchase prices don't align in such a way to allow that you maximize on your investment.I am not familiar with many other markets, however, I have heard from colleagues that the Texas market (specifically San Antonio) has a lower price point for purchase but also great rental rates.

The most successful people know their time away from their life is worth money and worth more than an employee coming in and just trying to help.Not saying this dude wouldn't help you, but if you are writing a check and him receiving a check the interests are far more aligned.

He said he could cut a piece of flooring (pic below) -baseboard gaps in different rooms/part of the house -door closets don't seem aligned. 

The monthly salary evens out his cash flow and the commissions ensure that his incentives are aligned with mine (we both want to make as much profit as possible).

Interest rates are fixed 30 year amortized and aligned closely with the market.

Selling now and investing in REI will give you less cashflow out of the gate but much greater wealth building potential due to the multiple wealth building avenues that REI provides (debt paydown, appreciation, depreciation, and.... cashflow)All depends on what strategy aligns with your goals. 

@Juan Zamora the offer needs to align with your goals on the property.

After deciding your strategy when walking a house, what are you looking for to see if that house aligns with your goal?

On finding a partner, my suggestion is that you find a partner with aligned goals.