Listings come from nurturing your database for years, so if you are new, you have to pick a niche or an area that you have a competitive advantage in.

We have an extremely competitive market, huge demand and low inventory.

I feel this gives me the flexibility to find the right solution for my client and not just sell what my bank offers.I'll also throw in my 2 cents on common differences I've seen in my career:CDFIs - Because of their subsidized financing structure, they have the ability to be a low cost lender (and sometimes provide grants).

The free marketing is not effective in a competitive market neither is the marketing strategy.

They are even working on getting me the evicted tenant's security deposit, the missing JANUARY rent since the place is still empty, and covering the cost of my own manager re-listing the property.

Centralize your back office / use remote employees / VA where appropriate to cut costs and improve service levels / responsiveness.  5.

I have deals needing funding and want to ensure I'm structuring them in a way that's competitive and appealing to private lenders.

Typlcally, a lender is going to lend 75% - 90% of the Cost of the project (property price plus rehab cost (scope of work)) or 70% - 75% of the ARV (As Repaired (as completed) Value).

Secondly, why would they create competition for themselves?

Quote from @Waruna Yapa: My goal is to find competitive rates and fees.