This site is full wonderful hands on real estate I formation and also has well seasoned investors willing to share knowledge.

phase 1 is usually a lender requirement.. on that small of project unless you have some knowledge that it was once a gas station or something..

If anyone knows something I don't about buying in Girdwood, I would much appreciate your help and knowledge. 

I am looking for an opportunity to learn and grow my knowledge. 

And yes it's absolutely vital to read a ton of books, blogs and listen to podcasts every day to continue to grow your knowledge foundation.

I would recommend you only buy inside your knowledge / comfort zone. 

I am visiting soon and will be starting my research but anyone who is familiar with the area that has any knowledge or contacts that could help would be much appreciated!

Currently I am interested in using rental properties (single or multi-family) to be the vehicle for that travel, but since we have little in the form of a cash cushion I am eager to learn more about other strategies.I look forward to interacting with y’all and if anyone is in Southern California and wants to meet up (be it fellow newbies trying to figure things out, or experienced real estate titans ready to pass on their knowledge) my wife and I would love it!

And would it increase financing difficulty as lender would probably prefer general deed instead as wellTIA for sharing your knowledge/experience on this

A salesperson does not actually enter into a listing agreement, nor a buyer agency agreement.