The plan was to pay my contractor in stages over four phases of the project until it was complete and here is where my question comes up.

I've talked to dozens of MHP investors who are in various stages of doing the same thing with respect to MHP database development. 

Does anyone in northwest NJ stage their flips prior to listing?

At this early stage (not even begun yet) I want to avoid the pressure/anxiety of having to worry about making any type of rental payments if my LO tenant buyer can't pay.

First at the offer stage.  

This is my latest rehab that is in the refinance stage of BRRRR.

(Some agents my call this a "net Listing", it is not since you are representing yourself).Always get right of possession or right to show if it is occupiedRight of signage - you want to be able to put a sign on the buildingRight to list the buildingAlways build in a seller financing clauseItems you can give up - these are items you can give up when negotiating -- Settlement cost to be split, contingent on building inspection (what do you care - if you are really in for a discount deal, subject to assumption or subject to mortgage.Some clauses leaves the door open to "Second Stage Negotiation" do it right and you can renegotiate the price to your favor.

If your property is staged well it would be really easy to have that conversation with them and have them share the listing. 

Whole thing seemed very staged to me so I told the seller I was not closing until the tenant was out and I could see for myself.

Speaking of referrals, I think once I hit the later stage of some of my deals, my few current investors may open me up to their friends and networks.