Can anyone refer me to a good online credit/background check.

Laying laminate flooring is a job that you could do yourself easily as it typically clicks together and you just lay it down.

I would imagine he could at least refer you to someone who works in your area.

HILender's don't typically ask for a business plan.  

They typically need to get off the contract during their inspection period and offer no inspection period or very little to buyers. 

In my market typically property management is about 5% ( I actually manage a couple properties now) - with that said should I factor in about half that for other costs?  

Does anyone have a reference to a contractor or advance on the best way to proceed?

You should also select a local and experienced Team full of professionals that will help on doing things that you need help on or do not know.The primary Team members are typically Attornies, real estate Agents, CPA's ( or accountants), Inspectors, General Contractors, and Handymen.  

A pre-liminary Team typically include an Attorny, a real estate Agent, a CPA (or accountants), Inspectors, General Contractors, and Handymen.  

If you want someone to hang on to your info for future reference, give them something of value that has your info on it (bottle opener, magnetic sports calendar, pen, etc.).