There is quite a bit of reliance on the appraiser for the estimated future value to determine how much loan we’d qualify for.

My understanding is that lenders typically just examine one applicant's finances when determining whether to approve loans. 

The type of job people have doesn't determine if they will pay.

Are you trying to determine if you should increase an offer on a house you're considering acquiring?

When I use the investment calculator to determine cash flow, what approximate percentage should I be using for the closing costs?

If you're going to hire them for a job, settle on a price up front rather than leave it open.I would look at each job, determine how much time it should have taken, and tell him what you'll pay him.

If you can get an arborist out to look at it, even from a distance, and they determine that it might be dying that is better. 

.#1  Determining how you will pay for the property....cash or financing as @Lucia Rushton mentioned.   

Long story short, I am looking to connect with investors, agents, lenders, and property managers in the area to learn more about the Corpus Christi market, and, in doing so, determine what criteria to focus on as I begin my search for a home. 

Meaning, in order to build a home i would have to get an easement from one of the land owners surrounding the property.I am wondering how to determine whether the plot of land is worth purchasing.