If you don't know a mortgage/financial professional (they don't charge for consulting), reach out to a handful of investors who have been successful (for more than 12-24 months) and ask them for a referral to their "money guy".  

So why are home owners being charged $350 on average to do what they are already paying for?

They will do everything and charge you a flat fee.

Greater flexibility in lease terms means I can charge a premium.

As you start this new endeavor, I would HIGHLY recommend sitting down with a mortgage/financial professional (there's no charge) and sharing with him your short- AND long-term goals in REI.

Insurance will pay water remediation up to a much higher number than for mold, and does a good job separating the two causes and associated charges.  

As you start this new endeavor, I would HIGHLY recommend sitting down with a mortgage/financial professional (there's no charge) and sharing with him your short- AND long-term goals in REI.  

Personally (not legally of course), I consider school more of a business expense, since having a degree will allow me to charge about 50% more for lessons.Ideally, I would like to purchase a duplex, triplex, or something similar in the Seattle area where I can live in one unit and rent out the other(s).

If difficult to find out what was paid for the property (not listed in the deed and sales history of assessor's site), divide the excise tax paid (which will be stamped on the deed) by the % the the town/city charges.  

The credit line has about ten months before interest is charged and thus allows time for investors to pay into an already existing investment.Should I meet with a lawyer and draw up terms of agreement for them to sign?