Everyone has budgets and you are not in the luxury bracket where I would worry about young partiers etc.

How much can you budget for furnishings and all kitchen items and creature comforts for the ones you want to MTR.If you have a vacant 6-unit, you have great possibilities to try all strategies.

I know it seems like a tough task, but can you spend a few more months or a year while you continue to learn to really tighten the budget or find ways to earn a little extra to start from a stronger position?

This property, in particular, is in an area many local investors will not own, visit or even entertain as an investment.  

A partial renovation turned into a full-scale project, doubling my $10,000 budget to $20,000.

Even with my former partner (who was our 'PM / GC' on site for our projects), it was sometimes tough navigating the process, managing budgets and costs, and keeping everyone in line, including him. 

Eliminate debt, establish a budget, and save.

We went over budget in some areas and in others we were under.

This could save you money in the long run, but requires a bigger initial investment.To help you decide, consider these:What's your current budget?

I will consider taking this route though especially if I can’t find a duplex in my budget.