This is our first investment together so we're exploring financing options.Wondering if anyone has trusted contacts in private lending/hard money who are able to fund ~$400k in acquisition cost and ~$250-300k in repairs?

There's great advice in this thread already.

I am excited to meet other members on this platform. 

My plan is to fix this place up then STR.

The vast majority of your wealth gain in real estate will be by holding properties long term and the appreciation/principal paydown will slowly but surely help you become wealthy.For 90% plus of people out there who are looking to start, house hacking is the best way to go.

Neighborhood Scout is not going to cover any shortfall you have if it doesn't materialize.you could try finding a bank or broker that will do 80% out on a refi, although probably not possible to close by the end of this month. 

My question is this: before the am date of the auction 3 weeks from now, is there any way to find out if the mortgage has been paid and brought back to be in good standing, hence avoiding foreclosure and removed from the auction altogether?

We are sorry you feel this way however, we can still help you out.

Starting out can be overwhelming, but it’s great that you’re getting educated early.

What about Debit Cards attached to a checking account?