His answers/responses brought light to the matter, to me.

I need a free or cheap online application, where they fill it out and I can get the details. 

Longer projects I like to set up a percentage system with them and shorter repairs remodels the job should be done quick enough that it wouldn’t matter.

I know someone on here will know this: I'm trying to find siding online  to replace some old and rotting siding,  but I'm not sure exactly what it is.

@Claudio Romero, do what everyone else is doing nowadays:  When he confronts you again pull out your phone and start recording him, then name and shame online. 

the only metrics that matter in reality, vs just marketing noise... are DOM and list vs sell price...In Ca especially we are overrun with hobby realtors... 

Its really a matter of choice and if you have the time to do it or not....David Green have a great book about long distance investing. https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/long-distance-...

If it's a primary, it's a bit highif it's an investment, it's about right what type of loan it Is and how many points you're paying also matter.

If your intent right out of the gate is to develop and sell, the income wouldn't be short-term gain, it would be ordinary income with self-employment tax exposure.Holding for a year doesn't matter. 

Find a housekeeper, take good pics, put it on line, don’t over think.