No skin in the game in CA. 

It wasn't particularly gross since they had long since mummified in the hot dry attic, but it was really unsettling. 

I can see the advantage of sheer cutting tool with the multiple angles, I think I will add these to my tool bag. https://www.idealtruevalue.com...I also recently bought the below wet/dry vacuum, the tool has the capability to be 120V or be battery powered if power isn't available.

But at the same time, I don’t want to leave myself high and dry when it’s time to move my family next year.

I don't know your REI experience level but you have a skin in the game problem.

Unless the agent is employed by your project (has skin in the game) it would not be wise for an agent to start throwing out numbers when that is such a subjective evaluation, in my opinion. 

We know there is no "cut and dry" answer but are looking for input to help us make the best decision.

Because they didn't have a predictable business with consistent lead flow (No lead flow = No Closings) For now keep your overhead low - keep doing what your doing and study your KPIs, keep track of what marketing works and what doesn't, gradually invest a bit more into your marketing channels and have reserves for yourself (expect dry weeks/months with no closings).

-------------------------Tl;dr I think I found a really good starter portfolio deal, but I'm not sure about how to "creatively finance" it or how to make it happen.

Paul Samuelson, Nobel Prize Winner in Economics, said, "Investing should be like watching paint dry or watching grass grow.