Every broker will ask for your criteria, and every broker has access to the MLS.

I don't want anyone to have access to my level.

I have to get a lawyer just to have access to see my son.My question is this: If I have a renter (my ex-gf, who has kids) who is not on any bills, or mortgage, and there's no lease or any other sort of written or signed agreement, and I am now in financial dire straights and need to sell the house to pay for lawyers fees, how does this shake out?

For a rental property they take 60% LTV of the TAX ACCESSED VALUE of the property minus the remain loan amount.

Decide how much money you have access to, & the zip codes, city or state you want to focus on.

I don't know your particular situation, but I think you understand the gist of what I'm saying.Also, @James Stewart might be correct in going through someone that has access to these lenders.

I am excited to learn with BP how higher price markets are still accessible. 

The market for that type of apt is at least 1600 a month and they have backyard access.

Funds ( who you can afford a down payment or have the cash to offer to lower to price or a good reserves for the repairs opposed to someone with no capital or access to capital.With that being said what makes a good deal for you?

Most real estate investors already have or have the option to release our original equity through mortgages and then defer capital gains for the rest of our life through a 1031.The only advantages I see for OZ's are if you have access to amazing development or value add opportunities that fall within all the guidelines and the ability to execute within the designated timeline.