Also any helpful hints on what to look for in proposals from architects and engineers would be greatly appreciated.

Either you’ll end up with more money or they’ll take the hint and move.

A couple white neighborhood kids hinted they knew who it was but were afraid to tell me because they wanted no trouble with black kids.The solution is money: lights, and cameras.

I saw one for the MH Space recently and saw that it was a 7+2+2......when I inquired about it they were very, very much hinting that they STRONGLY prefer the investors be in for the entire 11 years. 

That would be the way the mediator is basically subtly implying that arbitration is likely to rule against the seller. 

I have gotten so much help from so many people and have given my help to others as I have gained experience; however, as @Joe S. has tried to subtly express to you, you should find your “mentor” organically  by attending meet ups or REI groups and connecting with someone, or reaching out to an individual who you notice posts ideas and thoughts you find interesting.

For a second appraisal, they removed all hints that a black couple lived in the home and they asked a white friend to meet the appraiser.We do this!

Thank you for the hint about lead based paint.

Any time you start asking for their subs you are subtly saying you don't want them to manage the subs anymore, which is actually what you hired them to do. 

Hint: not much has changed, real estate is about relationships, it always will be.