Going direct instead of having a GC do the work will save you money too since that GC will put a percentage on top of work. 

David, Send us a Private Message and we can schedule a call to see if you fit the group. 

Some lenders offer creative solutions, like a cross-collateralized loan, where they use your existing equity as security without refinancing the duplex.Another idea is partnering with private lenders or exploring a second-position mortgage, depending on your lender's terms.

Two, you'll have a much easier time obtaining a mortgage product if you have a track record of W2 income.In the meantime, continue implementing the strategies you mentioned: save religiously, build your credit, pay any existing debt owed, etc.

It also saves you some costs, which is helpful when you’re just starting.

Do you save three months of vacancy for each unit and $50,000 for the roof replacement?

I’ve realized I need more passive options, and have moved to a syndication and private lending.

Also makes private lending easier.

I still have plenty time left saving but when the time comes I’ll either be looking into conventional  loans, or some type of remodel loan to pay for the repairs of the property I am looking to fix up, because as far as I’ve seen so far it’s hard to find a good deal starting out unless you buy it as discounted as possible and put some sweat equity into it, let me know your thoughts on that ur possible.

When my business partner and I were still flipping we bought a couple through Auction.com and we always used a private money lender to fund those and our other flips.