Additionally, they should be helping with taking video walkthroughs of the location and the property, estimating renovations/scope of work, helping you learn neighborhoods, building your real estate team, etc.

Because sometimes posters don't like the replies they get and want to take down their post after other members have invested time in replying.Further, once you make a post here or anywhere, its there forever.

It desn't take a lot for someone who knows a little to view someone who knows slightly more as an "authority".7.

All you can do then is just assume it is abandoned, take the risk, and take DIY possession like your Dad did. 

Don't take the contractors word for it.

Give sellers the space to make their decisions without rushing the process—trust takes time to build.Listen More, Talk Less: The best closers are the best listeners.

Take it easy i am still a rookie and trying to learn all things possible.

Just wondering can you ever catch a great deal on the market  and if so what’s stopping you from taking advantage?

I have them tell me how long a project will take to complete, and then I add buffer days or maybe up to 2 weeks, depending on how long / complex of a project it is and potentially accounting for weather if it is outside work.

Welcome and congrats on taking the first steps.