I came to biggerpockets to learn and network, I had a co-worker that owned a few apartments and is financially independent but isn't part of the site.I'm a newbie, but in the near future I want to try using the BRRRR method.Should have rented out sooner.I've been doing some self study and searching for deals daily.Currently have a friend wanting to partner on flooded houses. 

I schedule it with them independently. 100% at my convenience.

Does anyone have any recommendations for an independent leasing agent or company in Kansas City, MO?  

@Elliot Vann I guess if your goal is to work at a large company for the rest of your life and never gain true independence (financial or otherwise) then absolutely you should go throw away a ton of money on a masters degree.

Independent individuals who are looking to build wealth with REI are pushed into marginal markets, while large REIT's and institutional investors are building and building large complexes with inflated rents, and driving up the price of everything.

As a 1099 independent contractor he should be responsible for himself on the job.

Do you see value in employing an independent agent, carefully vetted by an organisation, credible through feedback provided on previous engagements, and open about their skills and experience, to inspect, report and advise on a property that you have identified, in exchange for a small fee ($50-$150)?

(And again, and again, and again.)Hear how I parlayed this investment model into early Financial Independence on Episode 5 of BiggerPockets Money . 

An independent third party appraisal commissioned by Patch of Land, shows an After Repair Value (ARV) of $6,500,000 for 3206 Arden Rd.

It seems hard money has mostly been a number of smaller independent 'mom and pop' lenders but now it seems the big banks are getting in on the action.Reminds me a bit of how the big hedge funds started getting into the single family rental business during the crash , buying foreclosures and renting them out to homeowners.