It sounds like you are looking to scale and get into flips!

Sounds like you're asking for a private lender to go into second position to convert equity into cash behind an existing loan on these properties. 

You can buy a SFR to live in for 12 months & then convert into a rental.

I'm shopping and ordering online given that my apartment is out of state and I'm flying in to set everything up.

There have been complaints filed by multiple parties. having been a broker for many decades and owning 3 brokerages over the years.. at least out this way when complaints come into the DRE and they are numerous they will most certainly send an investigator to this companies office and request the books.

New entrants into the housing market may face higher property tax rates compared to existing homeowners, which could affect the fluidity and accessibility of the real estate market.

I'd advise you to dive deep into the forums, there's plenty to learn! 

Look into a DSCR, Debt Service Coverage Ratio, loan where the rental income can be used to qualify the cash out refinance instead of your personal income.To Your Success! 

Jumping into real estate investing is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at first.

Have you looked into the markets you want to be in?