The borello law & the ABC test are killing gig workers and the EDD is auditioning them at a voraciously pace.

I am not yet, I was in the stage of educating myself and have been networking at my local REI, but obviously they mostly work in Raleigh.

She is an REI coach, but happy to hop on a call, and she lives out there so would have the local knowledge and skillset to help.

local bank financing How did you add value to the deal?

Build relationships with local real estate agents, investors, and property managers. 

You'll give up some project but the value in that first deal is what you learn.Sometimes you can meet builders at local real estate meet ups

State-Specific Laws: What are some crucial state laws regarding tenants' rights and landlord responsibilities that I should be aware of?

I bought properties needing rehab for the last 24 years, had local contractors complete the necessary upgrades only to be able to max the rents, and sold them a few years later after the numbers stabilized using a 1031.  

First check your laws to see if you have to return the money within 30 days or send them an itemized bill with the balance of the deposit within 30 days.Stick to the facts in court because his temper and the changes in their story will work against them and land them in trouble as it will appear they are not being honest. 

@Michael L. typically, a GC will pull a general building permit for the project and then hire subs (foundation, concrete, electrician, etc.) that will pull task specific permits as the local municipality requires.So, the GC will need a builder's license, maybe something even "above" that.