When you first start out you will likely be less sophisticated regarding deals that you will actually pursue so my best advice is to not become a tire kicker who looks at everything and then never closes deals.

I found this deal while working as the escrow officer for a closing where the wholesaler was unable to find an end buyer.

I found this deal while working as the escrow officer for a closing where the wholesaler was unable to find an end buyer.

I've had success with 2 short-term rentals, and wanted one more in relative close range to work and life.

Is there a lender who will lender who will give the construction budget right at the closing (when I purchase the property)?

I don't think refinancing will make sense here at all, Assuming your property does appraise for $166k, and you take out a loan at 75% LTV, that will give you a loan amount of $124,500Assuming your loan fees are the following: Origination: $2,490Underwriting: $1395Processing: $500Title/Escrow/Other Closing Fees: $1800Prepaids: $1,300Subtracting the payoff + loan fees that would leave you with $17,015 at closing.

She is very old school, she mentioned that the seller would only contribute to the “traditional” closing costs, around 2k 

There are so many people involved in a real estate transaction and it's important for everyone to work together so that the transaction actually closes, and closes on time.

Once you have closed a couple of deals, start thinking about developing your own playbook.

Don't tell anyone but before I was able to close on the thing I decided to move on in.