I'm hoping having codes to property I can  get n faster and get some money back as a listing agent 

Some are uncomfortable with it, some see it as a faster way to build net worth.You can explore refinancing, the higher value will help, but we have found that the fees eat up any benefits when the price point is that low.

If I am at any of those levels, that is just what I need to to do to get the business.

Concrete:  $75 a yard installedBrick:  $.50 per brick installedpainting:  $100-150 a room with trimexterior painting: $1800-$2500new hvac : $2300new window:  $100-$150 for standard sizes x 2 for installdrywall : $12-$18 a sheet finished (depends on finish level and size of sheets)tile: $5 a square foot installed (add material cost of between $2 and $10)basic stainless appliance package : $2500hardwood $2 a sq. foot installed $1 a sq foot to refinish (add material cost of $2 to $10)plumbing:  $100 per fixture to install and $100 per fixture rough-inelectrical: priced per outlet and per fixture for both rough-in and installTotal rewire of house:  $3K-$6Kupgrade electrical service:  $800Total replumb of house with pex (no slab): $2K - $5K10x10 set of cabinets no frills:  $2500, about 1 day for a capenter to installcountertops: $1500-2000new roof:  $5K (metal including materials)deck:  $2K-$5Kbulldozer/bocat:  $80 an hourdumptruck:  $1.50 per mileCarpenter:  $35 an hour low end + $10-$15 an hour for helpers. 2 carpenters can frame an entire house in less than a week.  

All about the numbers and keeping them in solid shape as they deteriorate and depreciate faster than stick built homes.

I would also look at the skill level you both bring to the table.

I was shocked on how much I didn't know (after being in the business for 15 years) that  would help me build my business to a big level.  

Perhaps someone will come along in the mean time that you are able to screen faster and they end up getting approved before all the first applicants references get back with you.While these folks are not super stable they are better than nothing IMO.

Lenders will expect a certain level of experience and expertise from the borrower(s). 

Currently I want to bring my knowledge to a whole new level and want to see if I can work for someone in the field so that I can improve and build upon my current foundation.