This reduces exit options and affects the value. 10) Small number of small units is the most expensive residential development there is.

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.

And if that doesn't work, at least you have options.

Off-market property is the best option for fix and flip, but since you are planning to live and flip, some on-market properties would also work.

Don't have an attorney call me for some options.

Hey James,Ah, I see where you're coming from—given the Chicago winter, cutting off electric isn’t really an option without risking serious damage like frozen pipes.

In the mean time we're looking at other STR and BRRRR options in Oregon and Washington. 

Option 1: Seek out a portfolio lender and/or look at better asset types - commercial. 

There’d need to be a lot of rehab work/managing that would require you to put in that many hours.From a financial perspective, it seems like the highest leverage way to keep buying more properties is leveraging your W-2’s and then being work optional.