For the most part, most lenders are going to be relatively close in cost assuming we are talking about a straight forward loan product, we all borrower from the same pool of money to make these loans. 

My ultimate goal is not using my savings during this process, because I want to train myself from the onset to think creatively and not deplete my reserves instead of finding a better deal or more productive relationship.

@Bob Stevens I meant, you're pulling comps as part of your process to analyze a deal, right?

Kind of piggybacking off this same notion but I have a permitted shed in the back of my duplex that would make a great studio apt. 

Make sure it explicitly explains the process for termination if you are unhappy with their services, especially if they violate the terms of your agreement.3.

Hey Dean,1st What would you do, so you wouldn't make the same mistake a third time?

Don't be afraid of the process!

Often, owners beat up PMCs for a low price, but fail to understand the PMC will often cut corners to make sure they are still profitable. 

If you dont need the leases it can be nice because as soon as you get near completion on your rehabbing you can get your disclosures out, esigned, start your appraisal asap, and get the process moving quickly versus waiting around for tenants, lease ups, and all units to be rented.Best of Luck ~

They do this on purpose so new people get tripped up in the process and quit.