Where the SBA 7A can be used for all parts of the purchase and is generally Prime+ 2%, 10 years, the 504 (bricks & mortar only) is generally Prime -2%, 25 years. 

If you are looking to just calculate profitability, set how much profit you want to make then:ARV - Purchase Costs - Holding Costs - Selling Costs - Desired Profit - Rehab Budget (including contingency) = Maximum Allowable OfferIF you cannot calculate those numbers, a spreadsheet isn't going to help you. 

I may at somepoint consider utilities like energy and water, and how I can become more self sustaining, purchasing stocks is one way I can make my money back, or obtain ownership in what I am spending on in terms of utilities. 

You may get better results by purchasing a duplex, triplex, or fourplex.Here's a guide that describes what good cash flow looks like and how to analyze a property.

If this is your first real estate purchase I would stay away from auctions, there's too much risk involved especially with where price points are in your market.

I acquired a residential property when I purchased my business.

If there isn’t significant equity capture at this purchase price, and it’s not in a great location, this would be a pass for me.

I currrntly own a home and am renting it out, I am working on purchasing a duplex.

It is possible to get 90% of your purchase price and 100% rehab funded as a first timer in 1-4 units.  

Purchase price: $169,000 Cash invested: $35,000 Looking to put 70K into the separate garage to make a 730Sqft home.