I wanted to ask the BP community in southern California if anyone knows of any good and trustworthy contractors, engineers, or architects that you could refer to help us with this attic conversion?

Multiple conversions from warehouses and office spaces to apartments.The new zoning should be taking place soon. 

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area:http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you:http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide:http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

I've spent quite a bit of money in it, but I am noticing it's getting a little more saturated with ads so conversion isn't as great as it used to be. 

Looking forward to strike some conversations ( maybe even find deals) and continue learning  from the BP community

Most provide an inbound-lead email address that dumps the emailed data into your database and then based on certain rules can automatically email them, text them, notify you or your team, etc.I don't remember the stats off the top of my head but for online lead conversion, you've got to contact that person within minutes.

As you said, "you made an initial verbal offer", which means, you've had a conversation, and nothing more.

If you're interested in real estate, connect with a local real estate agent and start a conversation.

Now when it comes to age based retirement that's a totally different conversation.