I ask where my money was and he said it was tied up in a third party and may take at least 60-days to get my money returned.

Some title insurance policies require a current survey, but if this is a re-insurance policy (with the seller's title insurance company) then you saved yourself (potentially) a lot of money.

I was lucky and I survived and flourished but there were lots of times during where I thought I was screwed.While the reward was pretty great, the risk was huge, and I would definitely not do it again unless for some reason I really, really needed the money. 

Trying to determine if it’s worth the time and money for the PMS software to help sync calendars and use their automated messaging.

I also would like to take advantage of Vendor Takebacks or other forms of using other peoples’ money.

Learning about money help and fixing up is key, more so with family needs.

I aim to refinance the loan under conventional investment terms to avoid the high interest rates associated with hard money loans.With an excellent credit score, securing a loan shouldn't be a challenge.

I currently have saved a lump sum of money...

It could take you six months to a year to get them out and/or tens of thousands of dollars to do a cash for keys agreement (basically give the tenant money to leave). 

My loan person said we might be able to do a escrow withholding where they keep the money for repairs until after closing.