Skip the vacations, skip eating out with friends.  

I plan to hold this property towards retirement as it's in the area I grew up (obviously anything can change).I am receiving conflicting statements from contractors/friends/family on which roofing option to go with.

For me, I would, put together a prospectus for the STR and approach my friends and family to see if they would be interested in a partnership on it.

I am clueless when it comes to the economic development board, but I do know that Waco in general is extremely business friendly and has very little regulations compared to other Texas cities.

It's user friendly, with a modern design.

Local meetups. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521Explore Auctions and Foreclosures: Properties in your price range may be available through local auctions or bank foreclosures.Partner with an Investor-Friendly Agent: An agent familiar with BRRRR deals can help you find off-market listings or properties about to hit the MLS.

Quote from @Joanna Mendoza: Asking for a friend.

@Ian Miller, there is a reason almost everyone starts with people they know: friends, family, coworkers.  

I have spoken with some real estate friends and they have told me about how private money has helped their business grow massively.

I have a good friend in Stevensville Montana who does this nationwide.