Negative cash flow is not a deal breaker for me but as an investment I have to see a means to generate return that justified the effort and risk of residential RE.  

If so would that be leaning towards residential properties or commercial like with some type of business like the shops you mentioned?  

In Midwest you can get single family residential at 7%-10% cash flow.

I have the capital for a down payment and holding costs for a year but am struggling to find a lender who does not require a first-position lien on the home (the seller does not wish to subordinate his lien position).It has occurred to me to seek a partner-investor who would profit share with me if I was responsible for renovations, as I’m an experienced and licensed Residential Contractor.

Certain property types can be more difficult to finance than others, one of the more difficult to secure financing for is multi family or mixed use properties above four residential units. 

It’s not even being used as a residential property.

Definitely the good returns of residential syndications of a few years ago are largely a thing of the past. 

Purchase price: $177,000 Cash invested: $50,000 - Single-family home in a Residential area near the University of Rochester- Purchased flipped home without inspection, many costly hidden issues revealed after closing - Currently rented for $2,200.

I have participated in my fair share of residential syndications.  

Rafael   Welcome, IMHO one of the most important aspects to residential remodeling and construction is to be onsite all the time, especially when new.