Hey @Linda Weygant, @Nick Ciarniello, Account Closed -First off, thanks so much for the huge response rate and detailed feedback - I appreciate your time and expertise through this learning effort (I hope this helps me and others down the line!)

If anyone can recommend a great contractor that conveys professionalism, time management skills, building expertise, good prices, and great work that would be great.

I come from a finance background, but honestly have 0 real estate expertise.  

I am trying to find a reliable financial adviser that incorporates real estate holdings into his areas of expertise.  

The seller will rely on your "knowledge and expertise" as an agent to get the best price for their home.

It's a big jump going from one coast to the other, so we would love to hear your expertise on investing in San Diego! 

I am here on BP to offer advice and my expertise on real estate investments, alternative investments, and leveraging life insurance to enhance returns on real estate.

First off, I want to say thank you to both of you for providing your knowledge and expertise to a new investor. 

I'm trying to keep my properties in the same area, which makes it easier for having an assitant take care of them and for having neighborhood expertise for my guests, so I would prefer not to branch into other neighborhoods.What about hard money loans or private lenders?  

@Adam AkalinWelcome to BP, great community - tons of knowledge and expertise.