Our specialty is small business (1 - 10M in revenue), but quite a few of my clients own investment properties and we are quite knowledgeable about RE and partnership tax law.  

The differences really are in how much support you can get from them, none/email/phone.

They will happily throw you under the bus to make them look good, by turning you down.I have a client right now and Newport Beach, California, with $45,000,000 cash liquid in Wells Fargo bank and can't qualify for a $200 secured card with capital one because a series of incorrectly reported mortgage issues (that I will get deleted).

People keep telling me that around here that is really for "developers" and I guess I don't rate yet (though I'd like to someday :))The problem is the market is so hot up here, it seems like the only way I can find a deal that supports my goals is with fixing up more distressed properties that haven't sold right away, so I'm struggling with the best way to use my available capital.

Here’s the catch: because you’re implying that you’re a potential new client, each accountant will gladly spent 5-15 minutes with you on the phone for free.

Hi Megan,I have a lot of Bigger Pockets clients from all over the US and as far away as Singapore.  

If comparable homes support the value, yes.

To add to your first question about getting prequalified -- I can only speak for myself, I prequalify potential clients on a regular basis with the credit report they provide, if they have one. 

In order to take advantage of the rate, leverage and other perks they offer clients on their money.  

For me, there is so much to go off of, but I will list a few:1) A passion for real estate - I love learning about it, talking about it, and doing it.2) Be your own boss (B&I, not E&S)3) Financial Freedom for my wife and I (ability to pursue other interests without a need for financial support from those endeavors4) To help others reach goals (if that is financial or otherwise - we love supporting missionaries and hope to be mid-to-long-term missionaries ourselves someday)