In my experience I have had some builders/manufacturers push back against this process but if they want the business then they will typically play ball. 

And it does not work every single time, life throws you curve balls.

Usually after walking through the property he is able to give me a good ball park figure of what the renovation should cost barring unforeseen issues.

Step 1 in marketing is getting as MANY eye-balls as possible to see that listing.

I know or know of people in your same position (executive level tech experience + capital) who have done well in this business, and also ones that have imploded in a spectacular ball of flames. 

Id love to connect it anyone willing to share some advice or guidance to help me get this ball rolling. 

Yeah, house hacking is a great way to get the ball rolling.

Seller carry is a whole different ball game and with that, your options are much better.

We did two loans with them and they majorly dropped the ball on both almost costing us the deal.

I know you play ball in the field Engelo, so you need primetime ammo and artillery.