There are always other options-hard money lenders, private lenders; but they are riskier and will likely have higher rates.

I would have a house already but that is used as rental and I bought it using private lenders.

This being said, I don't believe we'll be able to meet the income requirements to qualify for a conventional.This leads me to believe hard money or private lender is more the only option to get my foot in the door, use my business to make repairs at very good rates, build some equity then refi once the balloon is due. 

For example, a private hot tub or pool can command a premium in most markets, which directly impacts ROI.Cost vs.

I'm presently a facilities engineer by trade, who does some construction and maintenance for landlords on the side, hoping to get back into the private real estate game.

Meet-ups via local groups or via zoom calls or private REI clubs/groups.Asking a seasoned agent in each city/county as well as a Banker/Loan officer will also help put a plan together.

Brandon Turner talked about it in his 2nd book, The book on real estate investing, he got a private money lender for one of his first deals from someone he went to church with.

After that, the lender may use a private auctioneer to auction off the property and try to recoup as much money as possible.

Taxes are private, 1099 are private.  

You will find like minded investors, vendors, private money…etc. good luck!