I know its not necessary to buy and sell properties but do you think that is more beneficial than finding and working along side a trusted realtor? 

It's also a give to get environment here on the site, so whatever you can offer even if it's just minor advice can go a long way.I think alongside that, it's very important to combine this online networking with real in-person networking.

Your mission should be to engage a younger generation to spread the word of Jesus.

(b) A foreclosure consultant does not include any of the following:(1) A person licensed to practice law in this state when the person renders service in the course of his or her practice as an attorney at law.(2) A person licensed under Division 3 (commencing with Section 12000) of the Financial Code when the person is acting as a prorater as defined therein.(3) A person licensed under Part 1 (commencing with Section 10000) of Division 4 of the Business and Professions Code when the person is acting under the authority of that license, as described in Section 10131 or 10131.1 of the Business and Professions Code.(4) A person licensed under Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 5000) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code when the person is acting in any capacity for which the person is licensed under those provisions.(5) A person or his or her authorized agent acting under the express authority or written approval of the Department of Housing and Urban Development or other department or agency of the United States or this state to provide services.(6) A person who holds or is owed an obligation secured by a lien on any residence in foreclosure when the person performs services in connection with this obligation or lien.(7) Any person licensed to make loans pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 22000) of the Financial Code when the person is acting under the authority of that license.(8) Any person or entity doing business under any law of this state, or of the United States relating to banks, trust companies, savings and loan associations, industrial loan companies, pension trusts, credit unions, insurance companies, or any person or entity authorized under the laws of this state to conduct a title or escrow business, or a mortgagee which is a United States Department of Housing and Urban Development approved mortgagee and any subsidiary or affiliate of the above, and any agent or employee of the above while engaged in the business of these persons or entities.(9) A person licensed as a residential mortgage lender or servicer pursuant to Division 20 (commencing with Section 50000) of the Financial Code, when acting under the authority of that license.

I am new to real estate investment (here in Texas) and had a question about when is the right time to locate and engage a contractor. 

You should have multiple exit strategies BEFORE you even think about engaging a HML.

I've been a regular member of BP for a while but never engaged the community.

I am finding that my current realtor is not really engaging with me.

Pay him the base salary that keeps him engaged. 

No getting locked out, and you can change the code if you don't trust a recent move-out.The thing with latches is you have to make sure the strike is properly installed to engage the anti-jimmy plunger in the latch, that half-moon shaped piece behind the latch itself.