You could pay the contractors but if you can be a strong referral source I'm sure they'd be happy to give you estimates.

Sourcing of funds is 100% required, every time.

At the time I was active enough that I had a few sources of reliable money.

I recommend focusing your attention on sourcing great real estate rather than allowing the creative financing be the tail that wags the dog.

I have a suggest or 2 on sources if you want to PM me. 

@Kenny BaoTypically, larger properties are sourced through brokers.

That being said, your typical cost of capital is as follows:EquityAgency debtBalance Sheet local lenderDebt FundPrivate DebtPref EquityHard Money DebtBookie/Loan SharkOther things that will impact capital sources: are you wanting to finance the improvements, or will you pay for those from equity/cash flow?  

Unless you have a way to source off market deals or have a crew to provide labor for below market value, you're kind of relying on hope and luck to find a deal that works.

I am always looking for good sources of information, which I might share with our friends who are reading.

Once you get that ironed out, connect with some local investor focused realtors who also invest themselves who can help source deals for you to look at.