We have done it both ways where we fund purchase and they cover rehab but if the individual is less experienced we do not do it that way, we have them put more money into the deal from the start and fund the draws, reason why is we also had a deal where the person said they would do this and never did anything and property sat and loan matured and it was a pain.Just recognize you will still not get 100% financing for the purchase, so you are putting money in up front. 

Another work around that isn’t discussed much is working on a strategy with your insurance company to protect your other assets in the event of a claim.But also, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to consider getting the financing into your LLc name with a community bank and pulling cash out if you have substantial equity.Right now, since the loan is in your name, it shows up on your personal credit report.  

I would recommend considering conventional financing until you reach Fannie Mae's limit of 10 properties, then consider either a portfolio loan, and start your race to 10 again, or look at DSCR at that time. 

If it were me, I would buy cash flowing, seller finance deals, keeping my debt to income low, low down payments and negotiate competitive terms.

I'd need to finance with hard money.

Simple answer - yes you can alter your funding source after putting it under agreement if you chose to use a hard money lender instead - i would just communicate with seller that hey I was going to use cash (assuming you have it from your heloc) and instead will finance some of it but let them know its not contingent on financing.

You can theoretically have a higher rate from one lender with lower origination fees and total finance charges may come in lower.  

Keep in mind, there are scenarios where you can use creative financing or OPM to get that duplex in the future.

I love creative financing, who doesn't?

Thanks for the tips!