As we have stated several times before, relationships are the things that will move you forward in this business. If you cannot or will not work effectively with people, do not expect to be successful over the long haul in business or in life. You will be surprised how many people you will come in contact with as you renovate homes, and you will be surprised how many of them can help you in significant ways if you are willing to invest a bit in building relationships with them.

We have mentioned at other points in this book the importance of having good relationships with contractors. They have the ability to do work more quickly, more cheaply and with more attention to detail if they are motivated to do so. And money is not the only...