I could explore a remodel / bridge loan of some sort, but not sure what my options are.

.- What sort of turnover can we expect?

Good luck getting that garage sorted – it's a pain now, but you'll laugh about it later!"

I have lots of extra time on my hands, am self motivated, and mostly have a desire to learn more about real estate.

So essentially you can only put half of the property into the LLC, which might work for tax purposes (sort of), but doesn't work for liability at all since you can't usually put half of a duplex into an LLC as a separate asset.I do recommend that you keep a separate checking account just for housing expenses because it will really help you come tax time.  

@Lucas Schlund there are logically, 3 options:1) Buy Cash: PROS: You can get better prices on houses because you can close faster with motivated sellers and buy houses that need repairs to qualify for a mortgage (less buyer competition)CONS: takes the longest to save the funds2) Use Rehab Loan:PROS: Same as #1CONS: more expensive loans:---FHA 203(k): not that expensive, but must live in the property for 12 months before renting---DSR Rehab loan: relatively expensive and may need experience to qualify3) Mortgage on Property with Cosmetic Repairs:PROS: easiest & cheapest to doCONS: lots of competition, so can be hard to find a "deal"PM us if you'd like to discuss these in more detail.

Sort on the oldest SFH listings of 6 months or more. 

A 1031 makes you a very motivated buyer, which is not ideal. 

I don't know your market, so I would not be able to advise you, but just consider the sellers motives and make the terms beneficial for both parties. 

We've noticed a very strong increase in out of state investor interest in Oregon motivated by Oregon 1031X Exchange transactions and wanted to share some insight into alternative income producing asset classes that are common, attainable and available in Oregon.