As for credibility, your best way to build that is with good communication(listen more than you talk), knowledge of larger economic factors, and knowledge of  your specific market or niche, being highly ethical, and being highly motivated.

Be prepared for anything, communicate well, and have empathy.

Keep communication logs in writing. 

She cost me a lot because she wouldn’t communicate, and I was also at fault for not being more assertive and replacing her.  

@Nick Farrell no matter what you do, make sure everything is clearly communicated, and written down in an operating agreement. 

I am interested in communicating with the owner before the property goes to auction.  

Communication! 

Despite entering into a contract to buy properties, he made up a series of ridiculous excuses, changed his financing source at the last minute without disclosure, refused to communicate at all simply ghosting the transaction.

I mean I guess it might be more work for you to communicate with two different companies, but that might be easier who knows!

What was important was Trust, good planning, good communication, honesty, integrity of all players, your prior due diligence, personal awareness & to just proceed w caution on each step yes... but move forward and Proceed on!