Neighborhood Scout is not going to cover any shortfall you have if it doesn't materialize.you could try finding a bank or broker that will do 80% out on a refi, although probably not possible to close by the end of this month. 

Keep a close eye on the actual cost of rehabs and make sure your remodel stays in line with comps in the area to ensure profitability.

I was pushing to close on a property and had to borrow money just to make it happen.

No problem, though—I can get close to $100K saved by the end of the year, so I’ll be in a much stronger position.My question is, is there a specific number I should be striving for that would put me in a good position to invest in real estate?

I just closed on a new construction home through Rent To Retirement, and wanted to share my experience.

You also have to make sure what you are offering is able to close and in a timely manner.  

If you close with a conventional loan, it will need to be in your personal name.

Have any "students" or those saying positive things about the program closed any deals?

That is why it is hard to get regular real estate loans on assets valued so low, the cost of the refinance makes it so you are paying higher than they can legally charge you percentage wise.

At this point I can't fathom spending close to $100k in repairs and potentially being right back where I started.