Just make sure to check their credentials and experience, and find someone who can explain things in simple terms.Also, keep an eye out for any red flags, like promises of huge refunds without a thorough review or pressure to pay a percentage of your refund.

The Gaines' boldness in renovating the heart of downtown Waco immediately aroused the attention of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors all over Texas and the country.

If you get a red card, you can not proceed.

As a lender it is a big red flag for me when I ask a potential borrower what the ARV and rehab budget is and have them say "well, the wholesaler says xyz".   

We did not use the appreciation rates and I like that you are bold in giving your opinion as an expert in the market after doing your research and presenting the data. 

This is my first purchase (don't want to do anything stupid) and the rents could swing 600/month depending on what I'm allowed to do in the basement - I'd be in the red from a cashflow perspective if I can't duplex them.Am I rolling the dice here / do you not typically find out for sure until you close and begin renovations?  

Being able to pick their brains is always helpful, both their successes, red flags, war stories, etc.And as Jonathan mentioned, the very first step of actually taking action is knowing how much money you have to allocate to buying a property, fixing up a property (if needed) and how much a bank will lend to you.  

I think going in to the deal guaranteeing 80% is a bit of a bold step, but it really depends on the address and the neighborhood characteristics. 

Also, if you have worked with house movers, any advice on things I should avoid or red flags with these guys?  

Was it on yellow paper with red ink?