I am keen to know how private lenders rates usually compare vs banks.

They didn't shop around, and they didn't compare with other locations, and I think I'll have all the tenants lined up before escrow will close.But it does take your time to go to these places.

It sounds like it will be a lot, but maybe I'm wrong or the increased rates compared to longer term place offset the additional effort.

Last year (2014) returns had less rental income compared to this year's pending taxes because it was owner occupied until June of this year.

I'm trying to compare non-CA markets and trying to understand why the low cost builds.

Which that alone makes me want to get as many opinions as possible, compare options an information before making a decision.

Every Wholesaler should seek out 3-5 agents, brokers, or attorneys to run them comparable market analysis on potential deals. 

The taxes in this area run about $600 per roof annually but still are part of a decent school district (Grandview) compared to KCMO/Hickman.Hope everyone had a great 2015 and that you set your goals high for 2016.  

Does anyone have tips/resources on navigating this scenario; finding a good broker, questions to ask, key analysis to run to compare properties and gauging local economic health?

I always ask them before I buy in any area to get their opinions on the local demand and reasonable comparable rates.