Some do require some money upfront, they say it's for materials, but in all honesty I usually ask for around 10% up front just to make sure that after I have done some work they don't say something like "we've changed our minds" Though I'm more like your "handyman" and certainly I don't do big jobs like a GC.With respect to making sure they're reliable.

Price, reliability, etc???

Can anyone refer a reliable, real estate investor-friendly agent who can show me around? 

Or on items that I can pretty reliably predict to be long term expenditures, can I use that money as down payment on another property (eventually) which will build value, and then be available to finance against when it comes time to replace the roof of the original property?

I am seeking  for recommendation for reliable property management company in Springfield MA.

@Vince Lucas  one thing I can tell you also from experience first hand is contractors are much better and reliable in Cleveland than FLA.. they tend to be very transient in FLA and not so much.our guys know em out in 10 days or so in Cleveland lucky to rehab in 2 months in FLA.. with the contractor base there..

From what I've seen, many new wholesalers make the mistake of inflating ARV values out of inexperience, greed, etc. what are some reliable sources for pulling comps so that I can get a more realistic ARV.

My concern is the neighborhood and the going rate as Zillow gives a ballpark not 100% reliable.

"Rent to own" is not a reliable & viable exit plan for a property.

Yes I am sure about the 25% down, as I have investors with reliable equity.Thanks Austin, I will keep that in mind.