I would think a site like that would be ideal for all parties involved in real estate investing.

There is nothing wrong with charging a non refundable application fee.There is time and cost involved in processing a tenants application.

Can the courts get involved and force the owner to open the building for the appraisal?

I wanted to present a thorough and honest look at what is involved in acquiring and flipping a property in the condition this one is in.

I first became involved at around 11 or 12yrs old. 

It's an option to be considered, and it's big business for the many people involved in the process -- lenders, inspectors, real estate sales, the home improvement industry, construction, real estate attorneys, etc.  

I wouldn't deal at a 13% yield, too low, it takes 15/16% to get involved, sometimes a little less if it's a note that can be rolled over quickly, refinanced.

I'd guess that folks also involved in the various REI groups would also happen to attend this meetup, so folks would know at least one person when they attend their next local REI meeting.

My prior career involved project management, working with people, and problem solving.

I would love to call you sometime and tell you how I am involved in Real Estate currently!