How Energy-Efficient Windows Can Save You Money" – Educate about long-term savings."

Keep spending money on it, and if it is not working.. 

Many would suggest against RE investing using retirement money but if you go into low risk opportunities it can be a powerful diversification method.

Just you own money?

It's all about how they are OWED this that or the other....

DSCR/hard money are non owner occupy loans.If you decide to do FHA203K for the first home - a 203K consultant/inspector will be required for the standard 203k loan, you will unlikely be able to serve as GC and you sign a 1 year occupany affidavit.

At minimum, stage the living room and primary bedroom to give it some warmth.That said, have you thought about cutting bait and putting your money into a market where the numbers actually work?

I am blowing a lot of money from W2 income between me and my spouse on taxes!

However, if you intend to work with a hard money lender or utilize a short-term loan product, you're on the clock for repayment, which can be stressful if things go sideways. 

Beyond real estate investing, BiggerPockets Money has great episodes on how to avoid the middle class trap with your investments - ie how to structure your investment best so that they're not all locked up in accounts with penalties until you're 65.