Not sure how WI sees a CFD, but since the buyer is never in title, building permits can be an issue, contractors and material suppliers may be limited in their ability to place liens on a property with debts incurred by someone who is not in title.Your assumption that you must have 20% down for seller financing isn't correct, besides, the same equity argument could be made for any installment contract.The seller could finance 100%.

Things lenders look at: Value of the asset used as collateralLocation of the asset (Strong markets justify higher risk) Experience of the builder/flipper Track record in the business Other Things that can be done to help mitigate risk:Solid project in a strong market, with an appraisal (comps work if the lender is knowledgeable on market)Experienced builder or flipperThorough cost breakdown so that all costs are known, and there are no surprises.Have a plan in place to manage funding to insure subs/suppliers are paid on time, etc.Inspection or progress reports on a regular basis (with internet it's easy to document the progress of jobs with video, pictures, etc.) 

Other ways of reducing the LTV are to have the petroleum supplier make an equity contribution into the transaction or to have the seller hold a note.

I'm looking for a reliable carpet supplier/installer in the Youngstown, OH area - any leads here?

Witness Designs is a fairly good supplier.

Try finding a local supplier/wholesaler and ask for the "base contractor package".

You can always go to home depot and price materials until you feel comfortable and can start shopping at wholesale or discount suppliers. 

You may be better off contacting suppliers and subs rather than connecting with a general, but if you want a general contractor, I could recommend one. for flooring I would recommend Rocky Mountain flooringKitchen sinks you can have Lowe’s help with that or there is a local company called Ferguson who can come out and give you an estimate on a kitchen remodel. what are you needing for bathroom?

@Alvaro RodriguezHouston has several suppliers and the range is .11- .17 KWH.

Watch out for switches on the "currrent invoices" write two party checks to suppliers if needed, get your lien waivers, and ask for proof they have paid the invoice.