It would be a tight budget but I do have money set aside for repairs.

Sounds like you are in a tight spot.

Hi Tio, I don't think hiring a professional designer is wise as it will cut into your margins and sounds like you have a tight budget. 

That is tight leverage for an investment 2nd position loan.A private investor might be willing to do it, it's not going to be cheap at all & will be short-term money & will not be a line of credit to take out at your liking.What is your rate on the 1st?

Metro Atlanta, generally speaking, respective markets 30 to 45 minutes from the City, will be tight on cash flow unless you implement a creative investment strategy, such as short-term rentals, medium-term rentals, or rent-by-the-room properties, or allocate at least 30% to 35% towards your downpayment if you intend to hold the property as a long-term rental. 

We are both out of state investors.

We are likely going to see a slow down in appreciation.

LC already had a tight inventory due to an instituted CAP.

I am newly married and have a hefty mortgage myself, but I manage to save a decent amount of money realistically 10-15k a year I have been working as a construction worker as long as I have been working I am a mason by trade and even though moneys tight I know I will be a successful investor even in the current market.

Hang tight.