There is also an option to have a contractor come assess your house and let you know what you're eligible for, but that's $50 and I think they're independent (energy star certified???)

I checked with two mortgage brokers I have worked with in the past and both of them are now employed with particular banks :) I was looking to get some advice from an independent mortgage broker for refinancing properties in the bay area (primary and rental).

We're wondering if it would be best to buy a home together or do it independently. 

I think if state filing was required then it would have been filed - the whole point of getting it done via PwC/Deloitte is to ensure full compliance with the law and zero chance of audit/penalty.

I also believed that the house was in a "B-class" neighborhood -- I've been informed by 3 independent RE pro's that it is "C-class".The moral of the story is "Trust but verify".   

@Gregg Fratto independent of good or bad idea, most hard money lenders won't let you borrow your down payment. 

They are trying to profit from you, so should not be trusted any more than any other seller.1) Qualify the area2) Qualify the company3) Qualify the propertyMake sure you independently validate any information they provide or that is important to your success.

If you want to use this guy to do your maintenance & repairs (not recommended), then draw up a separate contract/scope of work agreement in which you will pay him independent of the rent, and have him pay whatever your market price is for the unit.

Make sure they are independent, stay away from the big banks. 

You probably should look to an independent agent as they have access to multiple companies.