As Jay mentioned they must be NMLS licensed if owner occupant of in several states even commercial needs licensing.The NMLS is like the database, each state has a division of banking that oversees lending requirements then you also on the federal level have CFPB as well as consumer protection laws.I want to add that I believe yesterday the CFPB is undergoing changes, but if it goes away that does not mean that many of the laws in place especially consumer protection laws would go away. 

And thats why Texas has such strong laws against LO  etc. 

They hold title, and the mortgage and promissory note were attorney drafted and filed at our local county. 

I’ve lived and invested in Texas and think it is great.But your local market anywhere in the U.S. is the best place to invest.  

I'd appreciate some insight from some local investors.

Also, I am a local Realtor, so if you have questions about the different areas of DFW, let me know..

This is the value of having someone who has local experience.The company you said, if they are some "remote" company, I guess they could provide the things that you need and save money, but I would hesitate to feel confident if they do not have regional experience and that you would be left vulnerable if issues arise with the design later on. 

I live in SW Montana where there is a strong STR market and am considering buying a lot locally (2.5 acre overlooking the river/valley/mountains) where I could set up 2-4 Tipi's and rent portable bathroom/washing station for the lot.

Often times if you work with a local bank or credit union, you could get lower fees and a fair rate.

Like law office, day spa, or some other small company space?