I am actually looking at a house that is not a Victorian but needs part of the home bulldozed and a ton of work done.

BP forums are a great place to learn. 

Asking in the correct forum will get a better response.Read the RULES!

Do a search for Background Checks on the Passive Pockets site.

I bought from a primary homeowner in Indianapolis metro area who took really good care of this home (I did live in this house and rented it out when I moved back to California) and from a flipper in Indy more recently.As far as primary homeowners, they can range from taking really good care of the house to someone who has a lot of deferred maintenance - I renovated a local property that had a lot of issues.  

Sounds like you might have been a little uninformed.

I know many folks that started a business with just a business card, telephone, a vehicle and ambition. 

Is there a way for us to exchange information?

Quote from @Dani Murai: You can send me a DM and I can provide a couple GCs 

But in terms of being able to grow a portfolio with a ton of equity and solid cash flow, being a builder in this area really works.I think the STR part of it also helps as well.