Keep in constant contact with the other agent.  

Are you and your wife applying jointly or just by yourself?

I was an aerospace engineer and gained a huge appreciation for the software engineers working around me, mostly because I'm fairly computer-stupid and bugged them constantly to help me :)I live down in LA, so I only buy out-of-states as well, and almost all of my properties are turnkey.

If your IRA owns 100% of one LLC and you are the sole member of a completely separate LLC, those two LLC’s can jointly pursue transactions.

I'm also hoping to joint venture, but it is so tough trying to find individuals that are willing to share their profits.

If we were to make the purchase under our LLC, how would our previous short sale affect our joint credit?

I realize if I'm constantly changing my mind about some of the cosmetics or constantly adding additional work to the contract that things won't finish on time - but it's still good to know that penalties per day being late are somewhat common practice and I definitely plan to use them for our rehabs. 

Although I've also though about just biting the bullet and getting my own real estate license.I've listened to that podcast and have taken it to heart, which is why I'm on here constantly asking stupid questions, and I appreciate the patience from everyone.

Looking for Money and credit partners: these people either be a private lender and loan you enough money to buy a house like a bank, or a joint venture partner that will fund the entire project for a % of final profit. 

It is a great place to network with like minded individuals and constantly learn.