Try and have them bid " apples for apples".1- Windows   , Vinyl, Low E.2- Six panel doors and no jambs but new trim.3- two tone paint, these two colors.4- New bathroom vanity, toilet, and remove old tile with new tile. 12' X 24".Etc , etc.Brent is smart and great article, I am just adding my point of view from a seasoned  Re- hab contractor!               

Would recommend simply referring your leads out to other, seasoned agents for a share of the commission. 

In summary, while I don't want to get stuck in analysis paralysis, I'd value any input from the seasoned folks here on where I may have made a mistake in my thinking or approach.  

I was thinking about buying that properties out right all cash then after seasoning refinance out of that and buy more and keep that ball rolling. my goal is to make enough renal income to cover my primary mortgage in time. 

Its currently owned by a non profit and they have indoor climate controlled storage units in place and rented, a store front with tenant in place, a vacant and gutted second floor that could be finished and rented (probably about 2000-2500sqft) and a banquet hall with full kitchen and bar that has a max cap.

He's a seasoned professional and an even better person.

I have taken a liking to Self Storage as an investment property and was hoping to get some recommendations on books for the basics when it comes to finding a good deal, properly insuring for any liabilities, mortgage loans etc. 

Had two other realtor's price it at about 460-465k right now. nearest comp (5 bed 3 bath, 2700-2800sf 3 car garage ranch) came in at 510k but had about a 200sqft front porch and .19 acres instead of .17 like mine. so since i have a 3 bed 2 bath, id finish the basement which DIY would cost no more than 15k if i finished 1000sqft of it to keep some for storage but to also add 2 bed and one bath. so if value now is at 465k and it would only get it to 490k, and i spent 15k to do it, that might mean a gain of 25k in valuie. worth it?

I'm sure that would be fine for a seasoned investor with more resources and a contractor ready to go, but as a new investor with no experience managing a rehab I feel like I could be getting too far ahead of myself. 

Yes, there are products out there that will allow you to refi after you complete your renovation with no seasoning requirements