And if they are, and you have not sold your property interest, explore common strategies like 1031 exchanges.

Quote from @Shane Bishop: Software is a common question on BiggerPockets.

Fairly common.

Even in the 30ish states that did not require an agreement, it is still common practice for many agents to have a buyers agreement in place before showing homes.

Pitfalls to Avoid: What are the common mistakes new investors make that I should be aware of?

Purchase price: $163,400 Cash invested: $25,000 Sale price: $240,000A buy&flip project on a Single Family House10K - Flooring, Trims and baseboards8K - Interior Painting3k - Updated water heater, and gas permit2k - Other minor fix, ceiling fan, windows, light bulb, new fridge, and more2k - Holding cost, HOA, and other related utility feesTotal cost of repair - $25k

You may need to pay a broker to help consult with you through the deal process, but they commonly know lenders that will finance their type of deals, they clearly know the acquisition process from LOI to contract negotiations.  

Read the post above and use common sense.

Source: Boston Properties Rises to the OccasionSource: Major makeover planned for Reston Town Center's common areas — their first in 30-plus yearsSource: How Fannie Mae helped Boston Properties land Volkswagen's U.S. headquartersBoston Properties is not the only firm looking to massively develop the area, with the approval of Rivana at Innovation Station, which was approved last year for a 103 acre, 9 million square foot Urban Center, with first occupancy slated for 2027 right by the new Innovation Center Metro, just 4 miles from Reston Town Center.

I would think this is a common practice that lenders perform, but if not....message me.