We are now looking to get serious about funding our retirement.

If your goal is to replace an active income, have you looked into debt funds? 

My Hard Money Lenders held the money in escrow and would not release the funds until the work was done, inspected, and they knew it was properly done. 

I don't have experience with the Detroit Land Bank, but generally land banks are pretty reliable, but...they are low money buys (from $1 to $1,000) that require you to show proof of funds for the rehab.

When I run the numbers it just doesn't make sense if you consider a 75% LTV.  

If financing is part of your strategy, consider exploring fix-and-flip loans, which are tailored to help investors like you fund both the purchase and the rehab of properties.Lastly, start small with your first project, ideally in a neighborhood where you understand the market dynamics.

With a cash out refi, your rate is fixed, but you’re also paying interest on all of those funds instead of only what you draw.

I'll post updates here in case anyone wants to follow along.We syndicated in the states to fundraise enough for architectural renders, entitlement, legal, and to pay off the land. 1/4 of total funds required have been deposited in our bank account.Convinced a world-class architect to do luxury design for us.

I can't help feeling like he's been stockpiling funds to eventually file bankruptcy even while he swears he's trying to straighten everyone out.

There are lenders out there who will fund Canadian investor.