I see the concern though...

Title changes or profit-sharing arrangements could raise concerns if they violate owner-occupancy or primary borrower rules.Financing in Your Name: Since the 203(k) loan will be in your name, you’ll be fully responsible for repayment.

My main concern is whether it's hard to meet their criteria for properties and secure funding.

Though the property and surrounding areas look nice in the pictures, the doors and windows has bars which concern me.I am just starting our my RE investment journey and all help is greatly appreciated.

Unfortunately, I tend to agree that they really are not concerned with whether or not you have to cancel bookings. 

Why I am leery of these "creative" things for people with little to no money One of the concerns of going to fast is over extending beyond their resources. 

My concern is whether the city could deny permits for these modifications, such as removing walls or converting a garage, or if they are mainly just concerned with safety and habitability.

Private money won’t take it because if I can’t refi it out they won’t get their $ back and I can’t ask my investors to do the same for the same concern.

I appreciate and welcome any thoughts, concerns, or ideas!

My concern with the home equity loan strategy is I'd still have the first home mortgage, the equity loan, and a new mortgage (albeit reduced from the down payment).