But if there is a way to start out slowly with a smaller amount of funds, I’m all ears.

Some of the best ones I know started as flippers or also flip themselves and/or have rentals so they understand the risks to buyers and all the aspects that go into it and aren't just locking up deals and renegotiating sellers. 

The seller actually paid less in fees to sell the property off-market. (6% of $2.8 million would be $168k) He also got a quick and easy sale, and the buyer locked in a solid discount on the deal as it had recently appraised at $3.75 million What was the outcome?

Then I saw that the individuals locking contracts were the liars.

I still have the 20% discount on paint (thanks to the agreement: "BIGGER"), but am locked out of Elite. 

Possibly locks, ensuring all the windows are closed, putting up no trespassing signs.

I would recommend you shop around, but since rates have skyrocketed the past 3 weeks, you are unlikely to find a better deal than what you locked your rate at in with your current lender. 

I am replacing the balances and pivot shoe locks. 

So you need to lock in Low rent at or under $12/sq foot if you want to survive in the coin laundry world.

If you don't like what you hear plug your ears and do as you wish.