We have sold a few properties and experiencing this process from the seller's side double underlined that for me. 

They are doing their underwriting process.

However if you understand the process already and what you're trying to achieve and just looking for someone to do it for you, then I would search a bit more to price compare and then make your informed decision.

It just makes the whole process smoother and less stressful.What’s your experience been like?

Experience depends on who you deal with - the cleaner the loan file and more organized your paperwork the smoother the process with any private lender.

The process will obviously cost quite a bit more and Safeguard seems to have washed their hands of it completely. 

Inevitably there will be some "friction points" that you'll have to discuss/mediate, but ultimately if they are not willing to adopt a majority/all of your processes, then I think you mutually set up a date that works for them to move. e.g. 60 days, 90 days, etc...

Was the process smooth, and did the property meet your expectations?

I am in the process of vetting property managers and they are int he running.

- Are there other lenders you’d recommend for refinancing rental properties that might have a smoother process or better terms?