Hey @Tyler Speelman- 2 options to consider:1.

Research the area's nuances, understand BRRRR financing strategy, network with local investors, analyze potential deals, use VA loans wisely, explore financing options, and network through investor groups.

With no direction from an Engineer (or Architect) Contractors have no idea and will price out the scope of work they think is best even if it's not the best option. 

If you do not qualify for a conventional loan, DSCR and HML are the two commercial options available.

If you are using a third-party site to conduct the background checks, sometimes they have the option to send a person, a denial letter, and due to the fair credit act it may be required to send them a notice, informing them that you checked their credit and background so that they have a receipt that it was completed.

Turbotenant, Avail and Buildium are other great options too. 

You can find cheaper options on some other stuff, but I hope this gives you some Insite as to what money can buy these days. 

So my understanding is it's still one of my best options for a loan. 

I think there’s some sort of option of to do a little refi on both house 1 and 2 and get the money needed to wipe out the line of credit(allowing for bigger flip opportunities, especially if I partner up with someone) and also renovating that garage space with the private investor as long as it is under 1000/month.

To Chris' point, you can find lower options if you handle some of the management responsibilities.