Capital - there is a limit to how much they can buy - there are a lot of big institutional players that are in these markets.

So, no issues with the quality, competence or work ethic of the contractor. 

Both Hall of Fame players.

I simply could not compete with cash buyers and my RE agent kept telling me that my renovation expectations were too unrealistic (she was thinking it would only take about $10-$12k to flip a house but when I crunched numbers I was coming up with $25k+ in reno costs).

You need to work hard/smart to be able to compete with investors with Bigger Pockets.Good luck

That space is for very well establish players, as the crowd funding platforms want to maintain their reputation by only listing properties run by strong and credible operators.

I know of at least one very large player who has shifted everything from CA to Florida.

Again it goes to proving your competence and willingness to do whatever it takes. 

Do something to ensure you have a competent person on your team. 2.

Using a competent and experienced real estate professional can accelerate your success.