I guess I could do some work-arounds -- maybe reserve one unit in the first purchase for use as an AirBnb, and reserve my own time in it when needed - instead of claiming it as a primary.Are either of you (or anyone) familiar with a finance product/loan that will allow me to purchase under $150,000 (w/ strong credit) and do much of my own work and live-in a portion as a primary residence?  

Steadily has their own product (with multiple writing companies) and then they offer policies through other carriers just as an independent agency would. 

What is the specific product you used, if you don't mind me asking?

Heya Ethan.I've completed 7 secondary suite renovations/developments now and it is extremely difficult to do a true BRRRR where you pull every dime back out again after you refinance.

I would love to talk with a lender to get a better handle on the products that help investors BUT in my strategy, I am leaning toward NOT using hard money at first(if I can avoid it).

I know enough about a lot of things to be dangerous, but lack detailed expertise and certifications.I will say that I was extremely disappointed with my last realtors lack of construction knowledge so you will have a leg up there for sure, and you should play up that as a selling point

A lot depends on the product.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history and income extremely important to find the “best of the worst”.Make sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.The City of Detroit has 183 Neighborhoods we’ve analyzed.DM us if you’d like to discuss this logical approach in greater detail!

Large down payments or extreme discounts from sellers would be needed to reach cash flow neutral stages. 

I don't want him to be my brokerage sponsor because he will want me to look at MF deals, which has extremely slowed down in the past few years.