What qualities / information do you consider about the people to whom you consider lending money?

What are the pros/cons and speed of approval for each of these processes?

Looking for quality multi-family unit in Spokane area with good cash flow.

My experience is you can't get 1) on schedule, 2) competitive pricing, and 3) high quality (the triple constraint).

At that price point you will find condition of the property is key and quality of tenant is critical.

I do not see how even high quality RE would offer much liquidity in a tumultuous environment ... beautiful mansions in Beverly Hills could not easily be sold even at steep discounts in 2008. 

If you are currently in a position that you feel you can do a quick fix and flip, reduce your communication barrier (client), enhance your speed and efficiency, you will have no burden of "mutual decision making," as you are very well aware, if you are the sole point of contact and decision maker, the project goes much quicker.

Quality is more important than anything for me in this case.

See if there is a difference in the quality and price provided from these two groups as opposed to what's offered from your agent. 

Easier to leverage up after the fact than to leverage down if you don't hit your projected numbers and run into some speed bumps (or a brick wall) as is apt to happen out of state.