Listen to the numerous podcast that are available.  

I've heard the gripstrip doesn't hold up well in wet areas like bath/kitchen.

Otherwise in kitchens and baths where things get wet- vinyl.

We just wanted to get our feet wet with this first listing and see how much time and effort it will cost us.

That said, it sounds like you're asking whether you should go direct to lenders or use a commercial mortgage broker.First, I am biased since I am a commercial mortgage broker, so consider what I say with that in mind.Long story short, you can do it yourself and go direct if you have time to get familiar with the market and call numerous lenders. 

I really dislike charging numerous people and picking one.

1. if get surface below 17% and air below 50% rh  asap2. all must be dried within 12-24 hours from first leak mold starts activate growth on wet food surface within 24-48 hours if above these numbers any food source... think paper, cellulose, wood, drywall, carpet, cardboard, behind inside cavities, walls, water from ground, air, and or surfacesbuy or rent carpet fan, industrial desiccant dehumidifier, air scrubber like activtek system, ozone,  etc run heat as high as safely can, add more heat or double time. 3-5 days on most avg basements.contact for more specific or help. mold is my friend

I am looking to get a more sophisticated underwriting software so i can start breaking down deals to get comfortable with the numerous differences between smaller deals and the small to midsize MF.

Once it gets wet, those areas tend to go and need to be replaced with something better (usually plywood).

The time has come to get my feet wet and actually make something happen.