@Marcus Everett,Welcome to REI and you have found the best place to learn in the BP community.  

After reading Rich dad poor dad when I was 16 and began reading more of his books it was clear that a duplex was the way to jump start my career as an investor and more superior than a single family when it came to cashflow.

I build to do what BEST and smartest.

Contrary to popular belief on these forums, a GOOD PM will save you money and headaches, not the other way around. 

If I refi cash out I can probably only get about $50k out of the investment property, any ideas on another way to get the amount I need that I may not be thinking of?

Is there any way to get a construction loan for a self build WITHOUT extensive building experience and references? 

Best of luck on your journey! 

(And then any state implications)Given this isn't pennies we're talking about- working with a qualified professional to help mitigate the tax would be your best bet. 

The passive way is searching online and connecting with others who can share their deals with you (wholesalers, other agents, investors, etc.).

A good way into it may be doing a house hack or live and flip then pulling the equity out in a refinance.Tons of ways to make money in this game!