Exactly what I was thinking.Then add saturation in areas to the mix.You have to work much harder on finding a property that will make the numbers work.If you can find a deal where you have instant equity, you could get a HELOQ to use as a downpayment on the next property.

I’m focused on multi-family and creative financing deals in VA.

Yes, this is very common in probate deals. 

2️⃣ Any lessons learned or things you wish you had known before your first short sale deal?

How good of a deal would be needed to make this strategy work? 

., HVAC tune-up, plumbing fixes)Deep clean entire property pre-listingEstimated Cost: $5,000Total Estimated Renovation Cost: $145,000Project TimelineWeek 1-2: Planning and DemolitionFinalize design and materialsObtain necessary permitsBegin demolition (kitchen, bathrooms, floors)Week 3-5: Structural and Major InstallationsInstall new cabinets and countertops in kitchenComplete bathroom tiling and vanity installationRefinish or replace flooringWeek 6-7: Painting and FixturesPaint interior and exteriorInstall lighting, hardware, and plumbing fixturesWeek 8: Finishing TouchesLandscaping and curb appeal updatesDeep cleaning and stagingTotal Timeline: 8 Weeks*This link comes directly from our calculators, based on information input by the member who posted.

Although most such fund operators only deal with accredited investors directly, you may also be able to find some among the crowdfunding sites.  

But as of the last 6 or so months I seem to be losing direction.

@Malcolm Brown it is great that you are thinking of the money to fund the deals you are going to get started with but understanding what a deal is, I think, should be the starting point. 

It’s a great way to grow faster.HELOC or Equity Tapping: If you have equity in another property, using a HELOC or cash-out refinance could help cover the down payment without affecting your DTI as much.Seller Financing or Creative Deals: Look for sellers willing to finance directly, which bypasses traditional mortgage qualification hurdles.Scaling quickly often involves combining strategies—play around with what works best for your goals.