We've never used percentage-based criteria, like the 70% Rule, for purchases.

You owe two taxes:A. capital gain tax on $150k ($500k sale - $350k purchase)  PLUSB. depreciation recapture on $100k of depreciation taken.Now, let's assume that you messed up somewhere along the way, and you only took $70k worth of depreciation instead of $100k.

How to track potential growth in an area to see if a lot is viable for purchase and building spec homes on etc. 

The family purchased a lakefront property in a nice area three years ago but then ran into a series of issues, and have abandoned the place because of them.They are hoping the bank allows a short sale (asking for roughly $20,000 under what is owed)Here's what's made them so unhappy:Anytime they used the laundry it was dumping into a dry well, which would back up into the house forcing them to take their laundry to a laundromat instead!!

These low interest rates make financing property purchases more affordable and appealing, enabling investors to secure favorable mortgage terms.2.

For my clients, I like Easy Streets bridge purchase and STR DSCR programs. 

That was an excellent non-answer to my question, Skyler. hihi :)No they are not all the same. some are only interested in dealing with conventional purchases other are as you say better at handling assignments or double closes, some are commercial specialty, etc....A investor friendly one would be, at least from my point of view, one that understands there may need to be some last minute wheeling, dealing, and adjustment made to close a deal, understand what needs to be done and do not freak out about creative deals.Maybe my understanding or thoughts are wrong but that's what I meant by investor friendlyregards :) 

First, congratulations on purchasing your first property together.

However, I don't like the fact that properties they will show me, they will have a financial interest in, because it could affect my purchase negatively. what are the pros and cons of going with an agent that requires dual agency vs. not?

She has quite a bit of experience regarding investment real-estate purchases.