They can definitely add property value.I had to cut down a nice cherry blossom tree in my yard a while back.

Reason being is that it'll cut back on expenses for me slightly on a first deal.

@Mike Abramov  Ask alot of questions and do not cut your due diligience short. 

I dislike them period, as they are of ZERO value to me and just a waste of time and gas.So to answer your question, to organize a good one, they need to provide value to investors.Just a "hi I am Monkey Man and I am an investor" just won't cut it.Provide value to wholesalers, investors cash buyers in a way they can not provide without the meeting.For instance, some say.. ohh you can find cash buyers there (as a wholesaler).I can find 300% more cash buyers in 20 minutes than sitting there for 2 hours by going online to craigslist.

Difficult to have compassion for those looking to buy a short cut to success.

I agree that a 25% cut sounds outrageous! 

If you have to wait on draws or cuts from others, it can be a serious drag on progress.

For contracts, here is what I would do if I were you.I get it that you want to cut cost.. but cut cost where it is OK to do so.

You are just buying blind otherwise.Then I would go over each cost item and ask myself why it is that much and if I can cut  the amount..I would even go as far as interview renters and find out what their thoughts are about the location and the property.

You may also have the ability to add other money makers like laundry or cut expenses.If you think my numbers are off, and frankly they very well may be, download my spreadsheet and enter your numbers in.