I always start with 50% of the material cost up front and 1/3rd labor costs up front as well.

That could be tough in this sellers market however.

at least in my areas Mechanics liens or material men liens are from licensed contractors who have followed the lien protocol. 

I'll definitely have a look at the guide and anything else you and the rest of the folks on here recommend as good reading material for someone new.Appreciate the response and guidance!

Jeff would likely know some in London.As far as using an out of town lawyer to sign docs, you can do that all through fax or docusign in most cases.Most lawyers will give you a tough time about answering questions and working with cleaning up drafts, as it is their business and they deal with tons of tire kickers.

Other than that, it's tough to stop.

It would be tough to find a bank loan that would be used for a flip that would also need to include the reno.

As a realtor,  I know it's tough to find on the  MLS. 

It will not tell you exactly what to do but its GREAT foundation material especially since it takes you through all different facets of the real estate "agame".Good luck finding your in!

Maybe in a year or two I can start on my own, but in the meantime I want to learn the business now while time is tough to come by and use my money wisely.The question is how does someone who is looking to finance, invest with or partner up with a real estate investor vet that person?