I have only been involved in a few deals myself, but was raised by a father who understood the term "Sweat Equity". 

Lucas,You will get multiple opinions on this I'm sure.

When you get more involved, and learn more, you can make the 'pro' decision much better.

I have been involved in the construction industry for my entire life, as my family owns a construction business. 

I am currently investing in Cape May and Atlantic county.There are tons of ways to get involved and surround yourself with other investors that are doing it and doing it well.Kurt Kwart is an amazing resource that hosts investor panels as well.

That way, you develop a more extensive list of all types of Buyers/Investors as well as find more Properties and their freshly-convinced Sellers in every niche - by giving those Sellers MULTIPLE options!

There are time requirements involved in that you will have to live in the other side of the duplex for a certain number of months, but I don't know what those are.

But quite frankly, I am sick and tired of the snake oil salesman and garbage this industry attracts.For starters, wholesaling a property can work to the benefit of all parties involved.  

@Kerry Baird  @Stephanie Potter  Fannie Mae just simplified their multiple financed properties guidelines to allow cash out on 5-10 properties.  

If you grew up here, you know the area - I own multiple rental properties in that area that have undergone big renovations and it's a favorite of mine for B&H.Even without a Contractor markup, the cost of labor and materials will not be insignificant (unless someone is subsidizing your labor costs).