I once bought a house that had been on the MLS for over a year.

That's how I started, with a company called Flip More Deals (currently called the Growth Collective) they were very hands on and helped me through the entire process and connected me with a lender and gap funder, very hands on you should check them out.

Quote from @Robin Cloud: It's hard to make a decision based on this.

I have refinanced (rarely mind you as there are costs that take years to recoup on a refi) and am happy to see equity build as the mortgage shrinks.

It's what you paid, minus the value of the land, plus what you spent on long term repairs (roof, furnace, etc.

For on-market properties, sure use your current broker. 

@Phil SheltonYou would need a civil engineer to provide a drawing to get submitted to zoning and get a permit if it passes zoning is most common This also depends on the road - if it’s a state road forget it as it will take a year to get approved and cost a fortune - if it’s a local road process not as cumbersome but don’t expect this to happen quicklyIn some instances you may have to prepare sight distances etc to make sure it’s safe to add a curb cut

I couldn't find the BP app on my iphone either, and I have been getting on the site less than before, for sure. 

I wanted to see if there were any recommendations on good management companies, and ones to avoid.Did a bit of research on my own and came across R&L property management.

You can cover the wire mesh with drywall patches (they tape on wall and across the wire, white/paintable, different sizes) as the wire mesh is what will prevent the rats from eating their way into the property (the covering material is cosmetic only).