I have been finding my deals from MLS through analyzing lots of houses (I mean lots, almost every house), having my own data analysis tools, looking at lots of houses, finding out the sweet spot during negotiation with the owners and/or giving them some incentive during closing (faster closing, waivers etc. ).

Also other kind of loans are better to build credit faster but you have to get credit to get the other loans.

Although in my opinion, bandit signs are a much faster approach in regards to finding motivated sellers and/or cash buyers.

It does not require a consultant and will be a faster process so you shouldn't have to pay extension fees.  

Think of it as leverage and the ability to grow faster. :)

You are certainly on the right track.  98% of success happens in between the ears, the more and sooner you work on that aspect (the inner game) the faster you will succeed!! 

He even went out of the way to talk to the rehabber, who he had not worked with in the past to urge him to complete the unit faster on my behalf. 

Start paying it down faster. 

If not or he's not interested in partnering, etc.....plan B (which actually I like as Plan A) ....is that there are MF coaches out there that can get you up to speed and where you want to go faster.  

Are you looking to earn that $2500/mo as a passive investor, or to actively invest your funds and grow them faster with your time?