Furthermore I feel that the profit margins in REI are very slim for beginners not only due to the market being very competitive, but because we are going to make some mistakes that more experienced investors will be able to avoid.  

Also the 2nd buyers offer sheet was signed on the sellers line instead of the buyers line (a mistake?).

Also the 2nd buyers offer sheet was signed on the sellers line instead of the buyers line (a mistake?).

I have made many mistakes in my life and if I or others on the site can help you avoid our mistakes our time will be well spent.

I made lots of mistakes with the rehab and chalked it up to a learning experience i.e. paying for pipes to be fixed that I decided to scrap after plans changed, following a relators recommendation for contractors without seeking out multiple bids + many more.  

They then go from 5 million to 1.5 and run with their tail between their legs for awhile to lick their wounds before they jump on the next cycle again.Another mistake is to tell yourself you have some good properties throwing off cash and then it makes sense to gamble on a marginal deal that might work out.

They have made mistakes.

And help you make fewer n00b mistakes.  

I just emailed a few mystery shop companies, so I'll find out how much it all costs next week, but I'd like to hear if anyone has had any experience in dealing with mystery shopping companies or has any tips for me so that I don't make any mistakes.

Time is money.3 - If you are not a pro at this, and you make mistakes (and you will), how does that impact your bottom line?