Small world.As far as real estate goes, I’ve been buying property professionally for 27 years, I own a small portfolio of property between Jacksonville, FL and New York City, I’m a Class A commercial developer in Maryland where I live, and I serve as President of America’s oldest school for real estate investment which was founded by my father, Charles.

Or vice versa?

Do I need to be approved or preapproved first, or do I need to talk to the agent/seller first ( Like, do I need any information from them and take that info to the lender/bank, or vice versa... basically, what to do first when closing a deal. ) Now, I got the loan, agent/seller is setting up the closing date, I got the inspector ready, anything else I need before I sign the deal and close it?

Why turn to happy hour and use other vices as band-aids but rather share them with others so advice can be given and a weight can be lifted from your chest.My stories range from trying to appease all 8 heirs to a probate acquisition... to showing up in the early morning to a Buckhead rehab with the back door kicked in and all tools stolen... to having no contractors show up for a week due to a myriad of excuses... to finding a lien on the property due to a previous owner... to the joys of dealing with historic district supposed guidelines... to listing a property in 2016 and finding out 80% of the "cash offers" are from wholesalers and digging to figure out who is a real cash buyer.At the same time, the highs of listing and receiving a dozen cash offers within the first 48 hours is a rush that is hard to compare.  

Oil prices seem to always take a significant dip every 7 to 8 years right around the final term of the presidency and then after the election it mysteriously goes through the sky...so by 2017 you will see that crude elevation.... at least that's been the case since the Clinton Admin...which is when I've first noticed the trend. my coin.Kudos,Mary

Do they have an office and wear suits or are they virtual and casual (or vice-versa).Don't just take someone's recommendation, interview as many places as you need to until you find the right fit.

Its possible that these properties will get filled up last minute, but as an investor I would imagine it to be a lot easier if I was fully booked for the busy season months before it starts.2) Management can make a not-so-good property great and vice-versa.

My son is 10 years old and the president at his school.

Ask the community manager or HOA President for a 5 year (or even 10 year) history of HOA dues and assessments.  

I live 30 minutes out side of Baltimore and I guarantee the schools in our district wouldn't agree to teach the curriculum that the schools in Baltimore City teach (and vice versa).