Initially, my goals were to design and construct the high dollar spaces within a home that have enthusiasts drooling over  portfolio pics.

The biggest downside for me is not having MLS access to gain a faster understanding of the market (fully examining sales in neighborhoods, quickly comping properties when they become available, etc).Based on both approaches, I'm biased toward having the license but also knowing when it's best to utilize an agent to achieve your goals.

And if you'e going to hire someone licensed and insured, make sure you get proof of their license and insurance.It sounds like the man you'e contemplating to have do this work also has some creative and design experience.

I think we are kind of saying the same thing which is that there is a huge variance in values under the umbrella of those city titles and that you should be careful which comps your using when approaching a flip opportunity in that area.As Trevor stated, the subject property is North of the Freeway... and therefore probably should stick to the reseda comparables to not get an unrealistic ARV...Now off to get that SFV 818 forehead tattoo so I can reclaim my valley boy status 

I've took zero classes, but been approached by new investors that have spent thousands on stuff like fortune builders and so on needing desperate help.

Second, what do should I do before approaching the homeowner to ensure I can legally acquire the property. 

You have target  to pay off early to create more equity so right approach will be lower interest rate.

.), I need to sell the property (approaches 10% to sell a property), and I take on all the risk of unexpected events. 

Their approach is "pressure tested"... it's been through all the market/economic changes. 

Most episodes of bigger pockets mention value adding But often with minimal advice Is there a book , podcast episode , different podcast that can be my guide for the best approach to value adding I’m about to buy my first live in rental property