Here in Colorado, you need to have a real estate license, and in order to get your license you need to go through what basically amounts to an apprenticeship for two years (associate), before you can have your own firm.  

And I hear you on not doing the work yourself again, time is just as valuable as money in this business.I like how you sourced this deal through networking instead of waiting for the MLS.

Bureau of Labor Statistics and Texas Workforce Commission, Texas was reported to have the highest rate of job creation through 2024. 

If, through the process of renovating the property, the market shifts, do you have an alternate plan for the property, whether it be to live in it until the market improves, or convert it to a rental property, etc. 

Otherwise, just go through all the local/regional banks.   

I've walked through a property with a wholesaler and when I walked in I told him the ceiling height here is a big factor for resale and I can't use the comps he sent me.

Of course, I have to go through and double check it's work.

Plus, very important to understand the new layout and how the dig down will effect the existing stairs, plumbing, etc.Happy to connect and talk through your specific situation because @Bruce Woodruff mentioned every project is different and know one price fits all espeically with these complex jobs.Where at in Chicago is your building?

Over this time I have acquired my contractor team and have vetted them through my job as a property manager, figured out my strategy(Off Market/Deep buying) and location.

I will still use alt. lenders from time to time depending on the circumstances but I will also achieve similar LTC financing through traditional banks and when I go to my capital partners with a term sheet for 85% LTC through a traditional bank with a fully capitalized interest reserve, healthy contingency funds and soft costs built in and the real estate great, its far easier to raise capital because far less equity is required to fund the deal but this all starts with the quality of the real estate.