Even if it were possible to wait it out and do a "gotcha" at the end, that's just not how I want to treat anyone. 

there just aren’t many sold properties in the neighborhood in the last 3 months and even out to 6 months is limited.  

Even though the budget of the project will be about 4 times of where I was looking to start with a fix and flip, MF financing looks very encouraging and a silver lining.

The deal can make sense even if it doesn't meet some arbitrary "rule" 

They even sent someone from the city to the house to tell us to stop operating it as a STR. 

Even then, it's tough because that property is out there for the world to see. 

Would love any leads to help me solve this problem even if it means making some phone calls.

Best advice: don't get emotional about a deal.Found first deal on MLS, but have found stuff on FB, Nextdoor app, and even yard signs! 

i say that not to discourage you, but so that you have a realistic picture of what to expect.as @Travis Timmons alluded to, you need to be in a strong financial position to even think about starting to invest. 

Hmmm, such a thing has never even occurred to me.