For those who've used bridge loans before, how did they impact your ability to capitalize on time-sensitive investment opportunities?

I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, tax planning and financial planning. 

Salesforce when I have the budget and SugarCRM when I have no budget.For real estate, best is to probably get something that syncs easily with gmail and then includes that email trail in your CRM.  

Streeteasy allows NYC agents & landlords to advertise "no fee" rentals which many like to take advantage of to receive more inquiries, applications, and fill vacancies sooner.Right now, Streeteasy has 4,567 Brooklyn rentals listed and 3,196 are marketed as "no fee".In addition to this, section 8, cityfheps, and other rental assistance programs usually pay the broker fee instead of the landlord or tenant paying.Hope this helps!

I’m curious to hear how others got started in real estate and If you were to start over, how would you first begin investing in real estate?

., Then 1031 exchange can only be used to purchase investment real estate. 

Unlike holding real estate, where you can take advantage of depreciation to lower your taxable income, fix and flips don't offer those same tax perks.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

A real estate agent has no vested interest in your business; they just want to sell you a property and move on to the next client.

@Susie Lowe it is difficult to find real opportunities unless you have boots on the ground or a close relationship with a commercial broker or wholesaler.