My recommendation is to try and do as much as you can on your own.  

Making sure that the property is in good condition and doing your own research (or having your agent look) for comps in both the home value and market rental value can help with expectations and save lots of time.POOR COMMUNICATION: This is a 2-way street for the lender/broker and the borrower.

Quote from @Mojgan Azar: I would prep the whole area, take off the old paint by scraping the ceiling and then prime it and then paint. 

Hello ,My name is Trassa and I am interested in becoming a New Real Estate Developer so I am looking to learn more about How to become a Developer.

There are some houses that have been renovated and some that are vacant and distressed.

I didn't really like that, and i understand that there's other factors such as ADT and certain requirements from franchises, but it kind of left a bad taste in my mouth. 

Your Lender My suggestion to find #2 & #4 would be to go to the top of this page and click on FIND AN AGENT & FIND A LENDER.

You're making sacrifices and stepping up the ladder.

Hi VeLora, Welcome to the community-There are many professionals and resources here on bigger pockets to learn and grow your business. 

Hello BP Community,   My name is Derek Peterson and I am a CPA that works heavily with real estate investors.