If you are an OOS investor who sees the value in buy-and-hold this could be very much worth it.Here's the link to the article Rental Arbitrage

Many times they will hold back the renovation costs in escrow and release once you’ve shown the renovated unit and leased it.  

Generally there are multiple units for each "zone" if you will when I've seen them installed.Regarding your problem at hand, I personally would simply adjust your plan to move and make your initial plan to get the current issues resolved, while costly now, in the long run holding onto the unit will likely pay off. 

BUT, I am sick living in construction and would like to move to a new home and then finish fliping and sell or hold the two homes asap.

Do you hold any financial advisor certifications?  

Court house steps was foreclosure purchases and sub to purchases to flip.. we hold now long term rentals..

Lenders broker out 90% of their deals and do not hold loans for more than 3 months in general.So does one want a "middle man" or do you want to go directly to the bank?

I want to go the buy-and-hold route, and I am interested in finding a duplex that will provide a steady cash flow, a high appreciation value and does not need renovations.

If you continue filing taxes jointly the income you realize from your separate property will still need to be explained and redacted, regardless of the type of entity holding the real estate.

I always have a "hold 1st" mentality - you might have to leave a few more dollars in the deal but at least you'll have it in your portfolio.