We are just getting started here in Billings. and looking for a good fix and flip opportunity.

I am open to other opportunities.

The kicker is none of the Zillow or Trulia photos of the house have been updated to reflect the tree being gone, so the property seems like an even better opportunity. 

It looks like a good opportunity to purchase multiples of these.

I let people know about an opportunity that I have.  

She's been doing it not only because she's a friend but also because she's interested in investing herself so it gives her the opportunity to check out and analyze deals in her market.

The other concern I have is that at least in California, it's important to do everything by the books that way a tenant doesn't have the opportunity to come back and say "but that's not what you did last month". 

What would be my best move to take advantage of the opportunity?

You very well can use your VA loan for investment opportunities.

Anyhow, it would be YEARS before I could get all of the licensing needed, and I am learning an incredible amount and would hate to give up this opportunity or have anything negative happen from this.