I have renovated with contractors and some DIY.

You still need some money to cover part of the rehab until you get your first draw, and if you're a brand new investor you might not qualify for 100% LTC on your first deal, but if you can partner with someone with experience on their track record or can prove significant past contractor experience then we might go that high on your first deal. 

My main goal with BiggerPockets is to connect with other investors and hopefully build a reliable network of lenders, property managers, contractors, and agents.

I suggest focusing on building your "Core 4" team—agent, lender (one who can finance both the purchase/rehab and refinance is ideal), contractor, and property manager.

My partner and I keep an excel spreadsheet of rent, our purchases, utilities, taxes, insurance, and money spent on contractors.

english is a little off  a company or a MLO is not a member of NMLS  NMLW is the federal registration for state licensed MLO's or lending companies.. 

And working for a contractor that does flips or rentals would be ideal.

My contractor brought me a house off the market.

I now have a full team with property management and contractors in place. 

@Brandon P.I use a mix of things and still struggling to find the best solution.All the solution requires to have a mechanical lockbox with backup key at location for lockout or contractor.