Officers all too often think the know the law simply because they wear a badge, when they actually know a lot less than most folks. 

Thanks folks.

Some of the folks that I've received inquiries from are VERY far from meeting criteria - income, credit score or both.And @Matthew Becker, I lived in Moscow in the early 90s - went to UofI for undergrad! 

It tough to compete with you experiences folks!

It helps being willing to talk to sellers/get on the phone and talk to folks in the real estate space in general but the most important thing in my opinion is being an honest and true person.

it may get worse though as folks get out and check things out.

Federal programs will require you to use GC/licensed folks for a lot of the work and they will get reimbursed by the institution that your loan is with; many GCs don't want to wait on the float time of requesting funds and getting them.Depending on the program and rehab/condition of the home, you may not be required to live in the home (think black mold remediation...bank isn't going to put you in a compromised position) however they may have min/max of when you need to move in.

The best way to develop a solid SOW is this - you start off with what you are visualizing in your head, send drawings, pictures and products that you like.

These folks do not need to be licensed but there are limits on what they can and can't do, and they have to be salaried employees of the owner or report to a licensed property manager.

I've seen folks charge as high as $5,000 to $10,000 for tax planning and tax preparation, But i also know high quality folks that have fees are around $1,200 to 2k.