I would say it's more of a scam to offer a seller <70% on a property that needs $5k in material repairs  and flip it for 125% without stepping foot in the property.

“MHey Vidit, congratulations on taking the leap and starting your small business—huge first step!

Also, if you want to take it a step further, what is the ending balance on each, assuming you make the minimum payment (and an interest only payment on the HELOC).

However, the last thing you need to do is step in and play mediator. 

As this approach uses very little documentation, it is the least reliable methodology in preparing a cost segregation study.To see all of the steps included within each method, refer to Chapter 3 of the IRS Cost Segregation Audit Techniques Guide.What methodology has your company utilized?

These larger projects are going to have a lot of steps.

What should my next step be?

But need a new realtor or at a minimum to have their broker step in for them in this case. 

Below are some actionable steps I plan to take after identifying a market:- find a rock star agent by referral and/or calling brokerages and asking to connect with their top producing agents- find a rock star contractor by referral and/or yelp- have control over construction by setting per diems to incentivize contractor to finish the project on time, within budget, and with good quality- leverage my rock star agent's time to check up on the construction process (checks and balances)- hire independent handymen/inspectors to check up on the construction process for a flat fee (checks and balances) There's competition everywhere, you won't escape that in any market. 

Congratulations on starting your real estate investing journey—that’s such an exciting step!