For instance, buy MFR with $10k down, get a bridge/construction/rehab loan from HML or private lender or JV partner to fix it up.

That way you don't burn any bridges by wasting the contractors time.

Meanwhile, I would love to build bridges to other careers to transition out of my current W2 (only after I grab my 1st property I've been pre-approved for based on that W2).

We currently are developing that same model using:Example/Model1: New construction with apartments 70% LTV Bridge financing for construction.  

Investment Info:
Office Space hard money loan investment in Pontiac.

Cash invested: $600,000

12-month, I/O, Cash-out loan for renovation.

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?
...

Fannie and Freddie agency loans ($1 million+) and certain bridge loan products will not require a personal guarantee.

✔️Purchase Price: $1.36MM✔️All capex will be included in a bridge loan✔️Will refinance into FreddieHere’s our plan:✅ Pave the parking lot✅ Build 3 additional units to utilize unused space✅ Perform light interior upgrades and bring rents up to market✅ Implement a flat fee for utilities ✅ Improve outside landscaping✅ Engage a professional property management company team to improve inefficiencies “The path to success is to take massive, determined action.” - Tony Robbins 🔥

As a property manager, he seeks to bridge the gap between real estate investing and out-of-state owners and empower individuals to be financially free.He manages my rentals.

Perhaps I was thinking they are more similar than they are - I will make sure to dig into that before I cross the bridge. 

I'm not from New Jersey, but I'm from Elkton, MD which is about 20 mins from New Jersey (via the Memorial Bridge) and I'm looking at properties in New Jersey (Salem County, Gloucester County, Camden County, and Burlington County... so mainly South Jersey).