The vast majority of contractors won't want to give bids on properties while under contract unless they have a relationship with that person from prior jobs.

I also have personal W2 income, if that matters.Is there a loan out there for a set-up like this at 15% down? 

There are many here in my local area and your area is likely to have the same type of meetings.Most of the deals that I fund are by meeting investors in person at these groups and creating strong relationships. 

There is an amount that you can distribute from an IRA account to purchase a personal residence.You then might be able to turn the personal residence into an investment property.Best of luck.

I do have an agent I know personally but she's only in the area at certain times of the year.Section 8 would be better than nothing.

I personally don’t see LP syndication investors as Real Estate investors.  

My personal goal is to build a rental protfolio, but I'm open to anything.Thanks in advance. 

@Jerry Chilimidos I am not a CPA owever my understanding is any loans to your IRA can not be personally guaranteed.

Have met him personally a couple times and he is just a great guy all around. 

The interest rate on a HELOC or Heloan may be better than the personal loan.